Boss Harry Redknapp today stunned football by quitting West Ham.

The veteran Hammers manager walked out of Upton Park following a disappointing season after seven years in charge.

Redknapp, 54, told the East End club's official website: "I've just had a chat with the chairman and just feel it's been a tough season.

"The last eight weeks or so of the season haven't been particularly enjoyable and I feel that, maybe, it's time for a change.

"I would like to thank the chairman and the Board for all the support they've given me since I've been at the club."

Redknapp's shock decision to go will stun Hammers fans.

The popular Cockney has been at Upton Park off and on since March 1964 when he joined as an apprentice player.

He played in the great West Ham side of Moore, Hurst and Peters until 1972.

Redknapp returned to Upton Park to become No2 to boss Billy Bonds before taking over himself in 1994.

His stunning decision to quit will throw huge doubt over the futures of England young guns Joe Cole, Frank Lampard and Michael Carrick.