A journalist has claimed a former West Ham star could be set to make a shocking return to the game after retiring.
Although many supporters felt the club should have kept him around to have as many players in the building who knew what it means to play for West Ham.
Now, though, Tomkins is risking damaging his reputation among the club’s supporters.
When West Ham were looking at the free agent centre-back market following the closure of the summer window, the likes of John Egan, Mats Hummels and Joel Matip were linked.
But Hammers News suggested Tomkins, who had been released by Palace – should be brought back as fourth choice back-up.
Tomkins had made 243 appearances for West Ham when he left – just two less than Declan Rice.
Now 35, the Basildon boy went on to make nearly 140 appearances for Palace until being released in the summer.
Fit and with no injury issues, Tomkins confirmed he had no intention to retire but would have to wait and see what offers were forthcoming.
Hammers News argued Tomkins would surely be a better choice as short-term fourth choice central defensive cover for his boyhood club.
Now, though, Tomkins could be lured to commit the ultimate sin by signing for West Ham’s arch rivals Millwall.
According to Scottish journalist Alan Nixon on Patreon, Millwall want to talk Tomkins out of retirement to join their squad.
Sun reporter Nixon says the Lions are happy to give Tomkins a final crack.
He states the former West Ham centre half has been sounded out about putting his boots on again but has yet to commit.
Before he does he should think long and hard about what he wants his West Ham legacy to look like.
Nobody would begrudge a man from earning a living.
But West Ham and Millwall share one of the oldest and fiercest rivalries in all of world football.
Deciding to sign for the other side of the divide is not something any player should do lightly.
Others have done it in the past.
Hammers goalscoring great Tony Cottee is still loved by fans – but he did tarnish his reputation by joining Millwall.
Tomkins has spent the majority of his career on Premier League wages. So it is debateable whether he really needs the money to make such a defection.
He may have left West Ham many years ago now, but ‘Tonks’ as he was affectionately known, needs to make this decision with his heart.
Joining Millwall will tarnish Tomkins in the eyes of Hammers fans.
Why taint your legacy for a few more months of football and a last pay day?
It’s just not worth it.
