Aaron Cresswell believes there’s a touch of fate about the fact he’s set to draw the curtain on his West Ham United career back at the club he signed from on Sunday afternoon.
The now 35-year-old joined the Hammers in summer 2014 after three seasons at Ipswich Town, who will play host to Graham Potter’s side on the final day of the 2024/25 Premier League campaign.
After eleven years, close to 370 appearances, a Hammer of the Year award and a UEFA Europa Conference League winner’s medal, Cresswell will move on to pastures new when his contract expires at the end of next month.
And with one more opportunity to perform in front of his beloved Claret and Blue Army, on the road at a venue close to his heart, he is determined to relish every second and sign off in style.
“The chances of me leaving Ipswich for West Ham eleven years ago and then playing my last West Ham game at Portman Road must’ve been pretty slim!” he said. “It’s mad!
“It’s a really special feeling going into it, and it’s an occasion I’m really looking forward to. I had some great times at Ipswich, and I haven’t been back for a competitive game since I left, so it is going to be special.
“It’s my last game for West Ham, and I have spent a lot of this last week reflecting. It’s gone so fast, but I never thought I’d be here for eleven years and I’m just so grateful for such a special time.
“My connection with the fans means so much to me, and I’ll be doing everything I can for them and the team to get the win this weekend.”
Having worked for six different managers (Sam Allardyce, Slaven Bilić, David Moyes, Manuel Pellegrini, Julen Lopetegui and Potter), played at two home stadiums (Boleyn Ground and London Stadium), featured in two European competitions (Europa League and Europa Conference League), been a stalwart in the Premier League for over a decade and won three caps for England since his arrival, Cresswell has had plenty to reflect on!
Among all of that, he has worked alongside a whole host of teammates, with whom he has formed professional and personal relationships, and made countless memories on and off the pitch.
Cresswell, who was presented with a special West Ham shirt before last week’s home clash against Nottingham Forest, added: “I think Nobes (Mark Noble) and Kev Nolan were the ones who really helped me settle when I first came in. They were my first two captains, and they helped me understand what it means to play for this Club, which I’ve tried to pass down as I’ve got older.
“I’ve played with some wonderful players. In terms of attributes, there’s Robert Snodgrass’ left foot, Michail Anotnio’s pace and power, Winston Reid’s defending, Dimitri Payet’s attacking and Nobes’ leadership.
“There have been so many good players and coaches during my time here, and I’ve loved every minute. We’ve got one more game now to try and go and win, and then I’ll be watching on away from the Club, for sure.”
