ExWHUemployee has dropped a concerning update over West Ham United defender Ben Johnson following Saturday's Premier League victory over Chelsea.

What's the word?

In a recent post on The West Ham Way, the club insider revealed that the versatile 21-year-old is set for an extended spell on the sidelines after picking up a hamstring injury over the weekend.

Despite him going on to state that the 'initial feeling' was that Johnson didn't suffer a 'major tear,' he did suggest that the full-back could be out for up to four weeks with his latest fitness setback.

West Ham fans will be gutted

News that Johnson could miss a large chunk of the hectic festive schedule will leave the West Ham fans feeling gutted, given his importance to the side.

The academy graduate has made 13 appearances for his boyhood club in all competitions this season, starting their last eight Premier League games, putting in a string of impressive displays along the way.

As per WhoScored, Johnson has averaged 2.1 tackles and 1.4 interceptions in the top-flight this term, placing him second and third when compared to his teammates for these metrics.

In addition to those eye-catching returns, he has also produced 2.8 clearances, won 0.6 aerial duels and made 0.4 crosses, highlighting his hugely effective displays for West Ham throughout 2021/22.

With a whopping seven games still to come in December alone for the Hammers against the likes of Arsenal, Tottenham Hotspur and Southampton, Johnson's enforced absence will be a huge blow.

Moyes' charges are currently sitting in fourth place in the Premier League table and fighting for a Champions League qualification spot, they will be devastated to lose their first-choice right-back for an extended period of time.

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