Nottingham Forest legend leaves Premier League job 'with a heavy heart'

Nottingham Forest legend Stuart Pearce has stepped down in his role as first team coach at West Ham United.

The former Forest defender has worked with the Hammers for the last two seasons, following the appointment of David Moyes. The 60-year-old also worked for the club during the Scotsman’s first spell in charge at the London Stadium.

Pearce's time at West Ham, where he also spent two years as a player, has been a successful one, with the club achieving European qualification in each season. However, despite the Hammers enjoying a run to the Europa League semi-finals this term, the ex-full-back has decided to leave his coaching role.

“It is with a heavy heart that I have made this decision to leave West Ham United,” Pearce told the club’s website. “It has been a pleasure and a privilege to work at the Club over the past two years, but I have decided that now is the right time to step away and pursue other opportunities and challenges.”

West Ham boss David Moyes also praised Pearce’s contributions during his time at the club. ”We thank Stuart for his hard work and dedication over the past two years,” he said. “He has been a great help to myself and the team, and a popular figure who we will miss around the training ground. On behalf of all of the players and staff, I wish him every success in the future.”

Pearce made over 500 appearances for Forest during his 12-year stint at the City Ground as a player. The Forest legend also had a brief spell as manager of the Reds during the 2014/15 season but was sacked after seven months in charge.

However, the former England international is still hopeful that Forest will finally return to the Premier League, ahead of the play-off final this weekend. Asked for his thoughts