NPL goal machine earns A-Leagues chance at the Jets: ‘Eager to test myself’

Newcastle Jets have signed young forward Ben Gibson from NPLM NSW side APIA Leichhardt ahead of the 2024-25 Isuzu UTE A-League season.

Gibson has joined the Jets after scoring 18 goals in the NPLM NSW this season – the third-most of any player in the league.

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The 21-year-old revealed his intention to make his mark in the Jets’ senior squad this season having made the jump from the NPL to the Isuzu UTE A-League for the first time in his career.

“I’m eager to test myself in the A-League and can’t wait to rip in straight away with the Jets. I have loved everything I have seen of Newcastle so far and I’m determined to work incredibly hard and give it my absolute all with this opportunity,” he said.

“I’ll be looking to further improve myself as a player and make a big contribution to the
team’s success this year.”

Gibson in action for APIA Leichhardt against Olympic FC in the Australia Cup Round of 32.

Gibson is the 11th new addition to the Jets squad this off-season along with Ben van Dorssen, Eli Adams, Alex Nunes, Zac Bowling, Oscar Fryer, Aleksandar Šušnjar, Matthew Scarcella (on loan from Sydney FC), Will Dobson, Lachlan Rose and Will Dobson.

Jets head coach Rob Stanton says securing Gibson’s services has been a long-term objective for the club.

“Ben is a player who we have been looking at for quite some time now and I’m glad I can
bring him to the Jets,” Stanton said.

“I’m excited to see what he can achieve here and he is someone who I think will fit into our structure and add to our attacking depth. He is a player who can get in behind opposition defences as a nine but also play from out wide.”

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