Curbs quits as Hammers boss

Curbishley becomes term's first top-flight managerial departure

By James Dall   Last updated: 3rd September 2008

Alan Curbishley

Curbishley: Former West Ham boss

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Alan Curbishley has resigned as manager of West Ham United.

Curbishley took over at Upton Park in December 2006, and recorded 28 victories in his 71 matches in charge.

His final game at the helm saw the club claim a 4-1 triumph over Blackburn Rovers at the weekend.

A statement on the club's official website read: "We can confirm that we have accepted Alan Curbishley's resignation as we feel it is in the best interests of both parties.

"We wish Alan all the success in the future. A shortlist of candidates is being drawn up and an announcement will be made in due course about the new West Ham United manager."

Curbishley was believed to be unhappy at the transfer of George McCartney to Sunderland on the final day of the transfer window after he previously declared that Anton Ferdinand would be the club's final departure of the summer.

Transfer policy

A statement released prior to the announcement read: "The transfers of Anton Ferdinand and George McCartney along with the release of Freddie Ljungberg were right for the club and decisions had to be taken based on our best long-term interests.

"In the past week, agreement could not be reached with Ferdinand on a new contract to replace his original deal that had just two years left to run while McCartney handed in a formal written transfer request after failing to resolve his personal reasons for wanting a move away."

West Ham chairman and owner Bjorgolfur Gudmundsson added: "In my first full season as chairman of this great football club, I can assure our loyal supporters that we are working hard to bring sustained success to West Ham United.

"Everyone, including the chief executive and board, is committed to this common goal.

"We have a long-term strategy that takes into account all aspects of West Ham United's past, present and future and we will not be deterred.

"Our fans can look forward to many positive years on and off the pitch."

The club have confirmed reserve-team coach Kevin Keen will take over as caretaker manager until Curbishley's successor is appointed.