Ben Johnson’s departure from West Ham became official on the 30th of June, with it subsequently announced that the 24 year old has signed for newly promoted Ipswich Town on a four year contract.

The West Ham academy graduate penned a farewell message to Hammers fans via the club’s official website.

Johnson joined West Ham as a seven year old. Coming through the club’s academy, the fullback would make his Premier League debut for the Hammers against Manchester City in early 2019.

In his time in claret & blue, Johnson won two Young Hammer of the Year awards, made 109 appearances for the first team, 69 of those in the Premier League. He also played European football in recent seasons, featuring in the Europa League as well as being a part of the Hammers squad that lifted the Conference League trophy in the summer of 2023.

With his West Ham exit confirmed, having signed for newly promoted Ipswich, Johnson wrote this farewell letter to Hammers fans via the club’s official website:

“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.” wrote Johnson.

The 24 year old went on to say: “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.”

The fullback finished off his farewell letter by saying: “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 !”