Benn Heads To League Two Side On Loan

City have confirmed this evening that Jay Benn has joined League Two side Bradford City on a season-long loan.

You can discuss this news on the forum here!

He joined City from Halifax Town in 2022 before loan spells with Bohemians and Solihull Moors, the latter of which he helped get to two Wembley appearances, with Benn appearing in the FA Trophy Final against Gateshead which they lost on penalties after finishing 2-2 after 120 minutes.

Jez George said: “This is a really good next step for Jay’s development at a big club with aspirations to match.

“This gives us the opportunity to monitor Jay’s development at the next level over the next 12 months, and it’s a great opportunity for Jay.”

Jay Benn on the move (from their official site): “I am buzzing. It is late at night and quite dark out here at Valley Parade, but I am glad to get it over the line.

“This morning I got a sniff of it, but it has been back and forth waiting. As soon as you get the call, you come down, no matter what the time is, as long as it is before 11.00pm!

“I am an energetic right-back. I want to play forward and get balls into the box. I am hardworking and will leave everything out on that pitch.

“I have got mates who are big Bradford City fans. The stadium is huge, the fanbase is massive and I know this club wants to achieve big things. To be a part of that would be great.”

Bantams boss Graham Alexander on the move: “Jay has come in to add competition in the wing-back position.

“He has got great athleticism and pace, and we are delighted to bring him on board.

“I am sure he will add real value to our team, and enjoy his time with us.”

Reaction on the forum:

sedgleyimp: “Good level of loan for Jay.

I do wonder if this might be a chance for him to earn a permanent deal there. Jay is an example of a decent enough player, but one who’s arguably been left behind due to our increased expectations.

Best of luck to him.”

TrickyImps!: “Seen a few comments about how this leaves us short at RWB.

I know Ring likes to cut in, but he is right-footed.

I suspect we’ll see a rotation between Darwika, Ring and Jefferies.

It’s a really positive loan for Jay. He’s probably at a bit of a crossroads, so it’s his chance to show whether he’s either good enough or not.”

PortMacImp: “A good move for Jay Benn as he gets the opportunity to play games at a respectable level and get himself in the shop window for a future move. The club is doing the right thing by Benn.”

Luke Imp: “It’s a big opportunity and a good level loan in L2 after spending most of his time here in the LOI and NL.

Can’t imagine we’ll be seeing him again in a Lincoln shirt given that, I’m assuming, he’s out of contract in the summer and will be 24(?). It’d have to be a hell of a development this season to see him back here net year I suspect.”