Player Watch - Daniel Bentley

Shot stopper Bentley (picture by Mattythewhite)

Southend United goalkeeper Daniel Bentley is currently making a name for himself in League Two. The commanding keeper stands at 6 foot 4, and has been touted by some to reach the highest levels.

At 20 years old, Bentley originally began his career at Arsenal, being snapped up by the Gunners when he was 8 years old. After being released in 2008, the Shrimpers were quick to sign Bentley up.

Playing for the Under 18's, Bentley started to receive plaudits from Southend's Youth Manager Ricky Duncan, who has a good eye when it comes to finding a decent young player.

In 2009 Bentley was handed a professional contract, subsequently making his professional debut in 2011. This season he has pushed Paul Smith onto the bench and has established himself as a first team regular.

Manager Phil Brown has stated that he believes Bentley can play for England one day. Not completely unbelievable if you take into account that the current England goalkeeper, Joe Hart, was playing for Shrewsbury from 2003 to 2006.

At such a young age, Bentley already has the characteristics of a great goalkeeper. He commands his box, can save penalties and is fantastic at shot-stopping. To be honest, it is surprising that he hasn't been snapped up by a club higher up the football ladder already. He is far too good to be playing in League Two, but at only 20 years old, he needs to be playing week-in week-out and that's what Southend can offer him.

There is not a doubt in my mind that Bentley is worth around £750,000 - £1 million at the moment. Southend have done well to tie him down to a long term contract which he signed not so long ago.

He seems to be enjoying life at Southend at the moment and he is definitely a fans favourite. However, Southend need to gain promotion this season, otherwise bigger clubs may come knocking and Bentley may want to go.

One thing's for sure, the lad will go far. 

Bentley saves a penalty in Southend's recent 2-0 win at home to Northampton.