Defoe's transfer request from West Ham

West Ham’s worst fears began to be realised yesterday when Jermain Defoe became the first player to hand in a transfer request, less than 24 hours after the club were relegated from the Barclaycard Premiership.

The England Under-21 striker, who was an ever-present for the Hammers during the season and scored 11 goals, feels he must move on in order to further his career.