Through its official channels, West Ham has announced the departure of Anglo - Nigerian striker Carlton Cole from the club after nine years. <br /><br />To put it another way, the contract of the 31 - year - old will not be renewed when it expires on June 30, 2015.<br /><br />The former England international netted 68 goals in 293 appearances for The Hammers during his spell at The Boleyn Ground.<br /><br />A product of Chelsea, Carlton Cole starred for Wolverhampton Wanderers, Charlton Athletic and Aston Villa before his arrival in West Ham.<br /><br />Croydon - born Cole has appeared seven times for England&rsquo;s senior national team.<br /><br /><i>hoto Credit:&nbsp; fifa.neoseeker.com</i><br /><br /><br />