David Johnson is a performance scientist specialising in long-term athletic development, performance insights, research and innovation across elite sport. He is currently Head of Physical Development at West Ham United Academy, where he manages the academy’s physical development provision, including Sports Science, S&C, and Nutrition. Alongside his club role, David works as a consultant to national federations, supporting the design of sports science and data systems, education programmes and selection processes. His work focuses on ensuring performance intelligence is practical, consistent and used to support decision-making across different levels of the game. David also runs David Johnson Limited, where he provides performance science consultancy, mentorship and education to help organisations and practitioners solve real-world performance problems through research and data-informed practice. He holds a PhD in training load and maturation in youth football, with research that has influenced practice and reduced injury risk in academy players. He is an Honorary Research Fellow at the University of Bath, focusing on improving the translation and impact of applied research in performance environments.
