Ricardo Gardner has rejected a move to West Ham United & wants to see out career with Bolton – agent

EPL: Ricardo Gardner, Bolton Wanderers – Newcastle United (PA)

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Ricardo Gardner has rejected the chance to be re-united with former manager Sam Allardyce, according to his agent.

The Jamaican was released from his contract at the club after only playing five times last season, but it is now expected to re-sign on a short-term deal.

The 32-year-old enjoyed success with Allardyce when he was in charge, but unlike former team-mate Kevin Nolan, he does not want to drop down a division to play under Allardyce’s new side, West Ham United.

“It was very tempting for Ricardo to go and play for Sam, as a former manager, and one he enjoyed a lot of success with,” agent Phil Graham told Bolton News.

“But he didn’t particularly want to relocate, and his family certainly didn’t want to relocate.

“He loves the club and the town, and wants to see his career out at Bolton, and more importantly in the Premier League.”

Gardner has played 344 times for the club after signing from Jamaican side Harbour View for £1 million in 1998, when Bolton were still in the old First Division.

Bolton boss Owen Coyle said a month ago that he was not going to offer Gardner a new deal at the club despite his long service, but it now appears that he has a slight change of heart.