West Ham United homegrown star Ben Johnson has admitted to his disappointment at not playing in the Conference League final.

The Hammers won the Europa Conference League, beating Fiorentina in the final to lift their first trophy since 1980.

While Johnson was cheering on his teammates and celebrating at the final whistle, he admits to his personal heartache.

“I was gutted not to play in the semi-finals or final," Johnson told the Evening Standard.

“But I contributed in the early stages in some crucial games which got us there. I really did feel part of the team.

“I still can't believe the parade. The support from the fans was unbelievable and just didn't seem real. To be a part of that history, all my hard work since the age of seven has paid off.

“We had a private party with our families. The beers are always flowing, you can't blame anyone. I don't drink — I'm a Christian, it's in my DNA not to — but I got a properly bad headache from constant partying.

“A trophy is only a dream for our fans, the odds are so stacked against us. To be in the same breath as legends that have gone before is a feeling that will last forever."