Long started his football career at Charlton Athletic in 1995 and progressed through the youth system, spending ten years on the club's books, and although a regular in the reserve side, he did not make a first-team appearance. Before the start of the 2005–06 season, Long joined Notts County after being released from Charlton. He spent one season at the club, before moving into non-league with Ebbsfleet United in July 2006. He played over 135 games in total for the club, helping them to FA Trophy success in the process.