Ben Johnson has left a heartfelt goodbye message for West Ham fans as he departs on a free transfer to Ipswich Town.

In a statement on the official West Ham website, Ben Johnson said:

“Hello everyone,

Thank you to everyone associated with West Ham United for supporting me over the last 17 years and developing me into a first-team player.

I have been blessed to have come through the Academy of Football and to play for the first team in the Premier League, domestic cups and in European competitions.

I just want to be known and remembered for my time at West Ham for having played with a smile on my face and having really enjoyed my football. That’s really important to me.

I would say the most special memory I have is winning the UEFA Europa Conference League. To be involved in a European trophy win doesn’t come around frequently, so to be around and be part of it, and to be able to achieve that with West Ham was incredible.

My dreams were exceeded by what happened two seasons ago and I’m just so, so pleased I did it as a West Ham player. I’ll never forget that night.

I wish West Ham every success for the upcoming season under the new head coach and of course I’m going to miss all my teammates and the staff, along with the supporters.

West Ham will always be a part of my life which I’ll remember with fondness and a lot of love. I’ve developed into a young man and better player because of West Ham, so finally a huge thank you to the Club!

See you all soon.

Johno”

The Hammers were keen on keeping hold of Johnson. who was seen as an important member of the squad for Julen Lopetetgui. However, he has chosen to join Premier League rivals Ipswich Town in the hope of more first-team football.

Johnson spent a grand total of seventeen years in claret and blue after joining as a 7-year-old schoolboy. He made 100 appearances for his boyhood club, scoring two goals. Including the goal that proceeded the iconic bhangra dance celebration against Aston Villa in 2021.

West Ham fans have nothing but good words to say about Johnson who knew what it meant to play for the club. His importance to our runs in both the Europa League and Conference League will never be forgotten by any member of the Claret and Blue Army.