‘A great signing’ – Hammers legend on Town target Johnson and the future for Downes

Former West Ham United legend Carlton Cole has expressed his disappointment at Ben Johnson’s departure from the club, but believes he would be a “great signing” for Ipswich Town.

Johnson, 24, is set to join Ipswich on a free transfer after turning down a new five-year deal at West Ham earlier this month.Cole, who spent nine years at West Ham, told (link unavailable) that he is “hurt” to see Johnson leave the club, but understands his decision. “Ben Johnson is from the youth team, a great academy product, but he probably feels that he’s not been valued fairly,” Cole said. “If a player starts to feel like that, it’s a bit of a dead-end relationship.”Cole praised Johnson’s versatility, saying he is a “great player who can play on the right, can play in central midfield, and he can go forward as well.” He also highlighted Johnson’s achievements, including his England Under-21 international caps. “I think Ipswich have got themselves a great signing there,” Cole added.

Cole also discussed former Ipswich Town player Flynn Downes, who spent last season on loan at Southampton from West Ham. Downes has been linked to a permanent move to Southampton, as well as a return to Ipswich. Cole hopes Downes stays at West Ham, saying: “Flynn is a massive West Ham fan first and foremost, so it really depends what he wants to do.”Cole believes Downes deserves another chance to prove himself at West Ham, but acknowledged that game time may be limited. “If he wants to stay at the club, we’ll all support him, and we’ll try to get him as close to the first team as possible,” Cole said.

In conclusion, Carlton Cole has expressed his admiration for Ben Johnson, who is set to join Ipswich Town on a free transfer. Cole believes Johnson would be a great addition to the Ipswich squad, praising his versatility and achievements. Additionally, Cole hopes Flynn Downes stays at West Ham, but understands the midfielder’s desire for regular game time.