Ben Hinchliffe


Ben Hinchliffe is an English association football goalkeeper who plays for Stockport County.

Footballing career

Preston North End

In April 2006, Hinchliffe was given a one-year professional contract with Preston North End after impression in the youth and reserve teams. Despite being given a squad number, he was loaned out to Northern Premier League Premier Division outfit Kendal Town at the start of the 2006–07 season. Hinchliffe made 10 appearances, giving some impressive performances before returning to Deepdale in October 2006, and needed knee surgery after picking an injury.

Tranmere Rovers

On recovery, in February 2007, Hinchliffe joined League One team Tranmere Rovers on loan originally for one month as cover after John Achterberg picked up a knee injury, though this was twice extended, initially for another month and then until the end of the season. Hinchliffe made his Tranmere and Football League début on 28 April 2007, as a 21st minute Substitute in the 1–1 draw versus Crewe Alexandra, following fellow goalkeeper Gavin Ward's dismissal for handling outside the box., Hinchliffe made his full a week later in a 3–1 victory versus Brentford., his last game at the club. Upon his return to Preston, Hinchliffe was released, along with five other players, on 8 May 2007.

Derby County

On 10 July 2007, Hinchliffe joined newly promoted Premier League side Derby County on a two-year contract, teaming up with former Preston North End manager Billy Davies. He was released from his contract at the end of the 2007/08 season by new manager Paul Jewell.

Move into Non-League

He subsequently joined Oxford United on non-contract terms. After leaving Oxford, Hinchliffe spent time playing for Worcester City and again for Kendal Town before joining Bamber Bridge. In June 2011 he joined Northwich Victoria. He moved on to AFC Fylde in May 2012. In May 2016, Hinchliffe joined Stockport County and kept 29 clean sheets in his first two seasons with the club.

Honours

Player

Team