Ben Johnson tipped to spearhead Leeds promotion after source’s reveal – pundit
Leeds United’s January target Ben Johnson would “definitely” help the club get promoted back to the Premier League if he joins from West Ham.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Hammers and Celtic striker Frank McAvennie claimed that the full-back is a “good squad player” at the London Stadium, but could prove influential for the Whites’ second half of the season.
As revealed by Football Insider (13 January), Daniel Farke’s side, along with Rangers and Sheffield United, are in a race to sign the 23-year-old and he could leave on loan this month.
Johnson has entered the final six months of his West Ham contract and has refused to pen new terms amid his lack of game time.
He has made just two appearances in the Premier League this season, his first coming in December as a late substitute in their 2-0 win against Man United.
McAvennie insisted that Johnson needs a move away and that Elland Road would be a quality destination.
“We’ve not seen him as much as we should have, but he’s a good squad player,” he told Football Insider.
“If Leeds want to pay for him, they are getting a quality player and it might be better for him in the Championship.
“He could definitely help them promoted back into the Premier League.
“If he’s a bit part player at West Ham, he can’t just sit there, he needs to play.
“I can’t get my head around people not playing.”
In other news, Rangers expert reveals only one thing holding back 31-year-old’s move to Leeds.