Sam Long, who previously spent time on loan at teams like Boston United and Falkirk, has officially signed with Sky Bet League Two team Bromley.

At sixteen years old, the goalie came to Lincoln City as a scholar, and in 2020 he inked his first professional deal.

August 2021 saw him make his Papa Johns Trophy debut against Manchester United U21s. Later that season, he earned his league debut in a 2-1 victory at Plymouth Argyle.

During his tenure with the Imps, the 21-year-old has also been out on loan at Gainsborough Trinity, Drogheda United, Bromley, and Falkirk; however, he will now permanently move to Hayes Lane.

Director of Football Jez George said:“Sam is a very talented young man, but becoming a No. 1 custodian at such a young age is just so difficult to achieve.” Since we are unable to offer Sam this route, it is only right to let him look for that chance elsewhere.

“It demonstrates the patience and time required that we signed two goalkeepers, both 23 years old, this summer who are on that road. We still have hope for Sam’s future and think he will have a truly great career eventually. Simply put, we don’t believe Lincoln City offers first team football at this time, thus for him, the next steps must be at a different club.

“Our club is now in a situation where young players can come through our system and pursue a career as a professional football player, even if they are unable to establish themselves in our first team. These athletes are still products of our academy, in which we should be quite proud. We will all remain committed to Sam’s growth and wish him the best of luck in the future.

Sam’s time with Vital Lincoln City is greatly appreciated, and we at the club wish him further success in the future.