“At the time, it almost broke my heart because I didn’t want to leave as I’d been there 19 or nearly 20 years, so it was a massive decision, but made easier by the fact I needed to go out and play ...

The former West Ham and Palace centre-back reflects on his career, his decision to retire and his breakthrough in east London ...

I was choked up to be honest because, you know, it's just an emotional time for me really," Tomkins said to Palace TV. I love playing at this football club, it just means everything to me.