Despite having a squad size of nineteen players, Macclesfield FC have only just signed their first goalkeeper.

Englishman Ben Pierce has penned a contract with The Silkmen for an undisclosed length.

The keeper who is six foot and three inches tall has first team experience in Northern Ireland, playing for Portadown in the NIFL Premiership.

It was there where he linked up with manager Matthew Tipton, who played for Macclesfield Town FC across six years in the 2000s, and scored 45 goals.

Ben has come to the town of ex-gaffer, and is looking forward to playing for Macc in the North West Counties Football League Premier Division.

Off the pitch, Ben runs his own foundation to help and support children battling cancer along with other serious illnesses. You can learn more about this on The Ben Pierce Foundation website.

Ben, who has 600 followers on Twitter, is elated to come to Macc.

"Absolutely delighted to have officially joined this amazing club," he said.

"I have been made to feel very welcome by the club and my team mates. Excited for the season ahead and can't wait to get started".

The young goalie was was born in Manchester in September 1998.

Macclesfield FC had this to say about the new signing.

"Macclesfield FC are delighted to unveil the signing of 22-year-old goalkeeper Ben Pierce, who has joined the Club ahead of the 2021/22 campaign," the club said.

"Ben has recently enjoyed a trial period at the Club and has proved to be a commanding presence in the penalty area, whilst also being a brave and agile shot-stopper.

"Starting his career at Manchester City, Ben moved to Everton when he was seven and would spend two-years with The Toffees before heading over to Manchester United.

"Spending five-years at Old Trafford, Ben returned to Goodison Park before signing his first professional contract with West Bromwich Albion back in 2017.

"After being released by The Baggies, Ben then signed for Danske Bank Premiership side Portadown in February 2020.

Managed by Macclesfield Town legend Matthew Tipton, Ben impressed at Shamrock Park during the closing months of the 2020/21 season - before enjoying an extended spell in Northern Ireland during the last campaign.

"We would like to welcome Ben to Macclesfield FC and wish him every success during his time with us."

It is unknown if the right-footed goalie will be the first-choice keeper for Macclesfield FC.

Please note that Ben's transfer is subject to international clearance, as well as ratification from the Football Association and North West Counties Football League.

Ben's organisation is also on Twitter @TheBPFoundation.

Ben's signing follows winger Leon Arnasalam joining our town's new club on Wednesday.

Please consider signing up for Macclesfield Nub Voice, a platform which allows you to have your say on the issues in our town, and our country.

You can find more about Nub Voice here, and sign up here.

Please also follow Macc's online newspaper on your favourite social media platform.

You can find us on Facebook or Twitter.