Nathan Elder has told defender Alan Bennett Brentford need players like him if they are to challenge at the right end of the League One table next season.

The 26-year-old centre back is still mulling over an offer from boss Andy Scott to make his season long loan spell at Griffin Park a permanent one having been released by Reading.

Elder, back in training after suffering an horrific head injury last season, believes Bennett's heart is with the club having lifted the League Two trophy last season alongside club captain Kevin O'Connor.

Although he is confident that should the Irishman turn down Scott's advances, there will be quality replacements waiting in the wings.

“As far as I know he is happy here, I just hope they get it sorted because his leadership and ability on the ball is what we will need next year,” he said..

“Andy showed last season he has an eye for a signing and I've no doubt he has the ability to bring in someone in with the same quality if Alan doesn't stay.”

And manager Scott, who flew out to see Bennett in Ireland recently, believes the club has done everything it can to persuade him to put pen to paper.

“I am in no doubt we left Alan with no questions of our ambitions for the future of the club and the part he can play,” he added.