Elliot Long has committed to continuing his career with Billericay Town as the club prepares for its return to the National League South. The 25-year-old attacking midfielder, who played a key role in Billericay’s promotion from the Isthmian Premier League last season, said the timing felt ideal to step back into the higher division.

Long, who previously featured for Welling United in National League South, believes his experience over the past year has better prepared him for the demands of Step 2 football. Reflecting on his development, he noted that he has gained a clearer understanding of the league’s pace and physicality, making this advancement a natural progression.

During the 2025/26 campaign, Long scored 14 goals in 54 appearances across all competitions and earned three Player of the Month accolades. His contributions helped Billericay secure promotion through the play-offs, and his work both on and off the field was recognized by teammates and supporters alike when he was named Player of the Season.

Manager Danny Scopes has retained Long as part of a core group of 10 players ahead of the new season. Long highlighted the positive environment at Billericay, emphasizing the freedom to express his playing style provided by the management and the strong relationships formed with both staff and fans.

“The management and players have been brilliant with me. They give me the freedom to express myself because they understand the way I play,” he said. “The fans and everyone behind the scenes have been fantastic, and it has really started to feel like home, which makes it an easy decision to stay. Not to mention the excitement and buzz around the promotion.”

Looking back on the promotion season, Long described it as having two distinct phases. The first half was marked by inconsistency and a struggle to secure results despite having a capable squad. Around the turn of the year, however, the team experienced a notable shift in energy and momentum, which carried them successfully through the final stages of the campaign.

Long is now focused on maintaining his fitness and availability for the upcoming National League South season. “My main focus now is to stay fit, stay injury free, and be available to start every game if selected,” he said. “I am ready to work hard for the badge and carry on how we finished last season.”

With Long’s continued commitment and the squad largely intact, Billericay Town aims to establish themselves once again in the National League South.