Ben Close

Ben Easton Close (born 8 August 1996) is an English professional footballer who plays as a central midfielder for Doncaster Rovers.

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.

Doncaster Rovers
Close signed for Doncaster Rovers on a three-year deal on 7 June 2021.

Honours
Portsmouth
 * EFL Trophy: 2018–19; runner-up: 2019–20