It is official now that Kevin Nolan has signed for West Ham a fee in the region of £4 million being mentioned after their first offer of £1.5 million was rejected out of hand.

It is a blow to Toon fans that they have lost their captain and influence behind the scenes but there is a sense that it was destined to happen but it was more at a later date.

Pardew commented earlier today, “This obviously happens in football and everybody needs to move on. I would like to thank Kevin for his sterling efforts as a player and captain of this club, especially since I took over last season. ”

“He displayed admirable leadership qualities, and I wish him every success at West Ham. It’s a great club and I’m sure he will thrive there.”

Newcastle fans will likely welcome him back with an applause unlike Andy Carroll. Nolan will be remembered for his hat trick against Sunderland and his chicken dance. He also helped pull the club together to launch our assault on instant promotion banging 18 goals in the process that season. Nolan then helped stabilise the club in the Premier League and even housed Andy Carroll at one stage to help the lad sort himself.

Good luck Kevin.

Now Newcastle United have to dust off and focus on bringing in new faces.