Ben Chapman says Ebbsfleet United are the people’s club and positive vibes from terraces to boardroom make life at Stonebridge Road special

Ben Chapman reckons it’s the people who make Ebbsfleet United a special club to play for.

The 26-year-old has made 208 appearances for the Fleet and is the club’s longest-serving player after joining from Dulwich in July 2020.

“I love it here - the fans, people, staff, everyone,” said Chapman. “There’s a reason I’ve been here for so long.

“It feels like home now so I really enjoy being here.

“It’s everyone from top to bottom. From Damian (Irvine, chief executive) down to Wendy, who does the kit. Everyone makes it a wonderful place to be part of.

“It’s not often you can say you look forward to coming into work. That’s something I can say, I thoroughly enjoy coming to work. The people, the banter, everything about it.

“Plus, now what the gaffer and the staff are trying to do with the club in terms of professionalism. It’s going in a good direction.

“I’ve always wanted to stay at the club. When I first joined, it was to get this club into the Football League and that is my aim, too.

“I love the club, but obviously I want to try and play at the highest level possible. But for now, I’m loving my time here, playing as many games as I can, and trying to score and assist as many goals as possible.”

That sense of settlement is reflected in Chapman’s play. Already a big favourite among Fleet followers, he’s taken his performances to another level this season.

He added: “If you’re happy and you’re comfortable, obviously it’s always a lot easier to play well.

“When you’re happy and you’re fit, and the training is so sharp, it is naturally going to take that to the next level so it’s been really good so far.”

After summer departures for the likes of Greg Cundle, Dominic Poleon and Rakish Bingham, Chapman is the only player that