Ben Johnson (footballer, born 2000)


Benjamin Anthony Johnson is an English professional footballer who plays as a defender or midfielder for club West Ham United.

Early and personal life

Johnson was born in Waltham Forest, Greater London. He is the nephew of former Manchester United and England full-back Paul Parker and cousin of former England and Tottenham Hotspur defender Ledley King.

Career

Johnson joined West Ham United at the age of seven. Originally an attacking winger, Johnson was converted to a full-back as his youth career progressed. He was named on the bench for West Ham's 2–1 loss at Manchester City on 3 December 2017, and he signed his first professional contract when he turned 18 in January 2018.
On 27 February 2019, Johnson made his Premier League debut for West Ham, starting at left-back away at champions Manchester City in a 1–0 defeat at the City of Manchester Stadium. Two serious hamstring injuries and the form of fellow defender, Jeremy Ngakia prevented Johnson from making another appearance until 17 July 2020 when he played in West Ham’s 3-1 win against Watford.

Career statistics