Lee Carsley gushes over West Ham defender Ben Johnson
England U21 boss Lee Carsley has held back no praise for West Ham defender Ben Johnson.
The Hammers defender was called up to the England youth setup for the first time in his career to face Andorra and Albania in their 2023 European U21 Championship qualification campaign.
Carsley hailed the 22-year-old’s versatility, saying his attributes are a real “bonus” to the team.
“It is really important that you’ve got players in the squad who can play in two or three positions, and Ben can do that,” Carsley told Evening Standard.
“He’s got all the attributes of a full-back with his athleticism, but he’s also got the stature of a centre-back.
“He’s tall and aggressive. The fact he can play left side is a bonus. He’s been really impressive on and off the pitch, all the staff have taken a shine to him and you can see why David Moyes and West Ham are so keen on him.”
Future star
It is a big surprise Johnson hasn’t been called up at an international level yet throughout his career.
It is likely to be due to his late burst onto the scene, only making waves in the Hammers squad this season.
Everyone at the club has been aware of his undeniable talent but now that he is showing it regularly in the first team, people are starting to take notice.
This season he has done brilliantly, showing all of the qualities a defender needs to go right to the very top of the game.
Not only has Johnson proved himself to have more than enough ability, but his mindset is also just as strong.
Standout performances against Sevilla in both legs and Liverpool and Manchester City show he isn’t shy of a challenge and can step up to the plate when West Ham need him.
Can you imagine the type of player he will become with more experience?
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