Darren Randolph has revealed that he had to leave West Ham in order to preserve his international career with the Republic of Ireland national team.
Though Randolph served as first choice for the Hammers for a large part of last season, he ended up losing his position to Adrian towards the end of last term.
Had he remained at the East London club, he would have probably been third choice keeper following the arrival of Joe Hart, who has been given the number one jersey.
Randolph will now be hoping to start for his country during the upcoming World Cup qualifiers and will be keen to possibly play in the World Cup next year.
Whilst talking about his transfer this summer, he said, “It was made clear that he was going to play, so when it’s put to you as bluntly as it was, there’s no point in me staying.
“I wanted to be playing games so I had to get out. I couldn’t expect to keep playing (for Ireland) if I’m not playing at club level, so that was definitely a factor.”
