Josh Cullen confirmed that West Ham have triggered the ‘option year’ in his contract, meaning he’s tied to the Hammers until the end of next season.

It was thought the 23-year-old would break into the West Ham side this season after his influential season long loan at The Addicks last year, but having been allowed back out on loan to Lee Bowyer’s side this campaign it was presumed the Irons were willing to let his contract run down.

However, with just six-months left on his contract the Irish international confirmed that his parent club had triggered the extra year, meaning they’d command a fee if he were to leave beforehand.

“I have an option of a year that’s been triggered by the club,” he said.

Although the period to re-call the midfielder has expired this season, the West Ham Academy product still harbours ambitions of playing at the Olympic Stadium.

“I’ve always said with these loans is the long term plan, which is to improve as a player and go back and play at West Ham, and while I’m contracted at West Ham that’ll always be the aim.

“But what a great club to do it at, Charlton.

“It’s a great club and I’m loving it here.

“I’ve played a lot of games start of the season, got the injury which is unfortunate, but now I’m looking to kick on for the rest of the season and help this club out as well as improve myself.”

Cullen made a return from ankle ligament injury in the goalless draw with Fulham on Wednesday night, after over two months out.

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Earlier in the season, then West Ham manager Manuel Pellegrini hinted that Cullen’s contract would be extended, after stating that four of his players sent out on loan at the beginning of the campaign have a bright career ahead of them at the club.

“Nathan Holland, Conor Coventry, Grady Diangana and Josh Cullen are at different clubs, but I am absolutely sure all four of them will be the future of West Ham,” he said.

His departure in December however cast doubts over Cullen’s future but it seems new boss David Moyes has agreed with the club’s hierarchy of extending his deal.

READ:What fans are saying about Cullen's return