Former Birmingham goalkeeper under consideration for goalkeeping role
The vastly experienced veteran goalkeeper Ian Bennett is in the frame for the club’s goalkeeping/coaching role. Bennett has a wealth of experience from previous successful spells with the likes of Birmingham City, Sheffield United and his previous club Huddersfield Town.
Steve Davis says the 42-year-old stopper could make an ideal coach to help Ben Garratt continue his progression, whilst also offering competition for the number one spot.
The Worksop-born goalkeeper has made over 550 first-team games during his career and due to his influence on-and-off the pitch was offered a two-year deal by Huddersfield in 2012 at the age of 40.
Steve Davis told crewealex.net: “There is only a small group of goalkeepers out there who could be what we are looking for. We need a goalkeeper who is still fit enough to play and has an interest in coaching and taking their badges.
“It is a difficult one and it always is when it comes to bringing a goalkeeper in. That is usually the case if you want to bring one in on loan as well.
“It is very important that we bring the right goalkeeper in and the right person. I want him to push Ben for the number one spot and not be content to sit on the bench. I want Ben to have that challenge because I think that will bring him on.
“I want a goalkeeper who can challenge and if they do well and deserve to be in the team they can have a regular run in the side.
“We have had good reports about Ian (Bennett) and a couple of others. Ian is a character. He has the body of a 33 year-old and is highly-regarded and respected in the game. He has good ability and is a top lad.
“Ian could be a great influence around Ben and the other Academy goalkeepers but we are also talking to others.”
Steve Davis revealed that he hopes to continue talks with the former Everton and Glasgow Rangers goalkeeper Steve Simonsen and the former Coventry and Rotherham goalkeeper Scott Shearer, as the club step up their search for a replacement for Steve Phillips.