Ben Close


Ben Easton Close is an English professional footballer who plays as a central midfielder for Portsmouth.

Career

Portsmouth

Born in Portsmouth, Close signed a two-year scholarship deal after spending many years in Portsmouth's youth categories. He was an unused substitute for a first team game on 3 May 2014 for a league game against Plymouth Argyle.
On 9 May 2014, Close was offered a one-year professional contract with the club, alongside Bradley Tarbuck. On 12 September 2014, he made his professional debut, coming on as a 43rd minute substitute for Nigel Atangana in a 3–1 away win against Yeovil Town, for the campaign's Football League Trophy.
Close made his League Two debut on 16 September, again from the bench in a 3–0 home success against Dagenham & Redbridge. After playing only 4 games for Pompey in 2016–17, on 31 January 2017, he joined National League side Eastleigh on loan until the end of the season.
On 26 May 2017 Close signed a new one-year contract at Pompey, with the club holding an option for an additional year. On 17 December, after becoming a starter under new manager Kenny Jackett, he extended his contract until 2020.
On 2 March 2019, Close scored his first professional brace in a 5–1 home victory over Bradford City A.F.C,.

Career statistics

Honours

Club

Portsmouth