West Ham news: Pundit issues ‘brilliant’ Ben Johnson claim after significant update
Noel Whelan has tipped Ben Johnson to prove why he deserves a bumper pay rise at West Ham by becoming a “first choice” option.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 22-year-old will “only get better with age”.
As per the Evening Standard (24 February), West Ham have fended off interest from Arsenal and Tottenham after triggering the two-year extension clause in the contract of full-back Johnson.
However, Hammers insider EXWHUEmployee has claimed (24 February) that there still is a worry about the starlet signing a fresh contract after negotiations over a “longer, new, improved deal” stalled.
Johnson’s contract was set to expire at the end of this season.
Whelan claimed the defender can prove his worth to West Ham by performing “week-in, week-out” when called upon.
“They’ll be looking for that consistency,” he told Football Insider‘s Russell Edge.
“If he can perform week-in, week-out, then a bumper new contract is just the next natural step for him. He will believe that he can be the first choice.
“And at the tender age of 22, showing that much quality, and ticking all the boxes – he will only get better with age.
“He’s got a brilliant stature about him, he’s calm and composed on the ball. When I’ve watched him this season, he’s looked like the finished article.
“Over these next two years on this extension, I’ve got no doubt that he will come through and prove why he deserves to be at West Ham even longer.”
Johnson could be set for a run in the team after Vladimir Coufal underwent surgery to correct a groin problem.
West Ham sit sixth in the Premier League ahead of tomorrow’s (27 February) clash against Wolves.
In other news, pundit shares ‘massive’ claim after ‘incredible’ West Ham development.