West Ham news: Pundit issues ‘brilliant’ Mark Noble claim as ‘great’ talks reported
Kevin Phillips has claimed appointing Mark Noble in an executive role at West Ham “just makes sense”.
The former Sunderland striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 34-year-old could provide a much-needed “link” between the board and the Hammers players.
Noble is out of contract at the end of this season and is expected to hang up his boots after spending his whole career at West Ham.
According to the Daily Mail (15 February), the Hammers have opened talks with the veteran midfielder about taking up an executive role at the club after his retirement – with the Englishman said to be “keen” on the idea.
Noble is far and away the Premier League’s longest-serving player, having been with West Ham for over 18 years (as per Transfermarkt).
Phillips suggested the Irons would benefit from the veteran’s presence on match-day.
He told Football Insider‘s Dylan Childs: “Why wouldn’t you keep him around?
“It just makes sense. He’s West Ham through and through, and he knows the club inside out.
“He can be that link between the players and the board, or the manager.
“To have him around the place on match-days, in the boxes – it would be great and it’s just a no-brainer.
“For me, I think players who have given their service to the club should be looked after – and it’s brilliant to hear that they are going to do that with Mark.”
Noble has made 540 appearances for West Ham, scoring 62 goals.
The Irons club captain has made 13 appearances this term – six of which have come in the Europa League.
In other news, “incredible” claim issued by pundit after West Ham source’s contract update today.