West Ham’s Ben Johnson is set to become the answer to the possible retirement of 34 year old Pablo Zabaleta and save the club a sizeable summer transfer fee into the bargain.
The right back/right sided midfielder turned 19 last month and could easily become the third Under 23 to burst on to the first team scene following a seriously impressive spell with the first team squad in Malaga.
A highly places source – told ClaretandHugh by text – that Manuel Pellegrini, the backroom staff and the first team squad were deeply impressed by the youngster’s showing on the training pitch.
Johnson signed his first professional contract with the club as he turned 18 and is currently on the books until next summer when it looks certain he will sign a new deal.
We were told: “He looks ready to become the next one to break through after a brilliant Malaga. Everybody – including the first team – have loved working with him.”
Great news – youngsters coming through is just what we need. With a name like his, bet he’s quick down the wing. Can he play left back as well, as another option?
Doesn’t surprise me. Johnson impressed Moyes last season. So much so that Moyes called him up to be with the first team. He was on the bench for the Man City game in December.
Also interesting is that he is related to Lesley King and Paul Parker. Both great defenders in their day.
Ledley King, not Lesley King.
And he is related to a sprinter called Neville Douglas, but not the American sprinter Ben Johnson.
has been impressing for some time, but I think an injury set him back a bit. Very powerful monster, just what we need to terrorize up and down our right flank.