Linfield announce contract extensions for Ben Hall and Chris Johns

Linfield defender Ben Hall

Linfield goalkeeper Chris Johns

Linfield have announced contract extensions for defender Ben Hall and goalkeeper Chris Johns.

The pair have signed two-year extensions onto their current deals that will take them up to the summer of 2026.

Hall joined Linfield in January 2022 from Falkirk and has established himself as a rock at the heart of the Blues’ defence, making 55 appearances and scoring four goals.

A former Dungannon United Youth prospect, the 27-year-old from Enniskillen has also been on the books of Motherwell and Brighton & Hove Albion during his career.

Johns, meanwhile, linked up with Linfield in 2020 after joining the club from Coleraine and has gone on to enhance his reputation as one of the best shot stoppers in the League.

In 174 games, the 28-year-old son of Ireland legend Paddy Johns has kept 79 clean sheets and won two Premiership titles, as well as an Irish Cup and a BetMcLean League Cup.

Elsewhere, 17-year-old prospect Charlie Chapman has signed his first professional deal with the club, which will come into effect in the summer, after two years with the elite player full-time scholarship.

“We’re very happy to offer Charlie his first professional contract at the club he’s supported his whole life,” said manager David Healy.

“I’m delighted with his development and has shown a lot of potential in his time playing for the Swifts. Charlie has already made his first team debut in the County Antrim Shield against Larne and we’re looking forward to welcoming him back into the first team set up.

"We look forward to see him improve further as he trains with senior players and hope he becomes an important player for Linfield in the future.”