Southend United new boy Mark Bentley has admitted his switch to the Shrimpers is a dream come true.
The versatile midfielder has joined the Blues for an undisclosed fee from Dagenham and Redbridge and will make his debut in tomorrow's clash with promotion-pushing Doncaster at Roots Hall.
"It's a chance to play League football and that's always been my dream," said Bentley who has agreed a two-and-a-half-year contract.
"I've been trying to make it professionally for about seven years now so to finally get the opportunity is fantastic.
"Southend are a local team for me as well so it's a great move and I can't wait for the games to start now."
Twenty-six-year-old Bentley has netted nine times in the Conference this season and is confident of making a good impression in Division Three.
"I've spoken to a few people and they all said the gap between this level and the Conference isn't as big as big it used to be," said Bentley, who has had trials with Southampton and Crewe.
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Published Friday January 16, 2004
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