Following the news that Forest Green Rovers defender Dale Bennett’s contract has been mutually terminated, we take a look at three potential transfer destinations for the 28 year-old after 5 years and 196 appearances for the Gloucestershire-based club:
1.Colchester United
Having grown up in North London, Enfield, Bennett could be tempted in a return closer to home after a long time away from his London-based family. Colchester only have 8 defenders in their first-team and only have two experienced right-backs in their side.
With over 50 games in a Football League season including FA Cup, Capital One Cup and Checkatrade Trophy ties to play, squad depth is crucial in an elongated season like this one. This factor means a transfer to the Essex-based club would work well for both Bennett and Colchester United.
2. Stevenage FC
Similarly to Colchester United, Stevenage are also a comfortable League 2 club based towards the London area which would be a real appealing factor for the right-back. As explained before, Bennett grew up around London and actually came through the Watford academy so he would be well-suited to living in the Hertfordshire area with a lot of family more than likely still living in Enfield.
However, it should be noted that Stevenage do have much more squad depth than Colchester, so if Bennett is up for the challenge then a move to another London-way club could be tempting.
3. Swindon Town
A more local option for Bennett would be Swindon Town and a move more towards the Gloucestershire area could be of a more sensible choice. The Robins are also a more stable club in the division meaning that the right-back would be playing in the Football League for a little while longer as opposed to fighting for relegation like he has been in recent years with Rovers.
This does mean that Bennett would be a little further from home but he would be playing much more regularly with ex-Swindon Town captain and right-back Nathan Thompson departing for Portsmouth at the start of the season.
So three potential moves for the former Yeovil Town loanee, all of which would be very beneficial for the full-back and although he will be missed by many Forest Green Rovers’ fans, perhaps it’s best for both Bennett and the club that he moves on and seeks pastures new.
