Tisdale considering new chances for Ogogo and Bennett
PAUL Tisdale has revealed he is considering reintegrating the likes of Abu Ogogo and Kyle Bennett into his Bristol Rovers squad.
Midfielder Ogogo’s loan at National League Dagenham & Redbridge is due to expire this month, while Rovers have a recall option on playmaker Bennett, who is midway through a season-long loan to League Two Grimsby Town.
The pair were exiled by former Gas boss Ben Garner in the summer, with neither named in Rovers’ 22-man playing squad.
With both in the final year of their contracts, their spells at the Memorial Stadium appeared over, but Rovers boss Tisdale admits he is mulling over his options.
Midfielders Tom Mehew and Lucas Tomlinson, both on loan at National League South side Bath City, are also of consideration for Tisdale as he plans for the second half of the season.
“It’s a very relevant conversation because my job is to get the best possible scenario I can for the next four or five months,” the manager told the Bristol Post.
“I have long-term plans, of course, but my immediate focus is making the best of it and making it a successful, safe season.
“The quicker I can get safe and in a good position in the league, the better.
“I’m looking at all options and that does include players that are
signed at Bristol Rovers who are out on loan.
“I’m looking at those players probably more than I’m looking at other club’s players at the moment, because that’s a tangible decision.
“There’s less players involved in this one. If we want to bring back a player who’s on loan, it’s out choice and he comes back.
“It’s a lot simpler if those options work than signing players elsewhere and going through the rigmarole of agents and other clubs.
“Whether it’s Abu or Kyle, or the boys at Bath, whoever it might be, I’m looking at all those options and considering the impact those players may have on the squad.”
Garner’s decision to move on from Ogogo proved divisive among the fanbase, and many would be delighted to see the hard-working midfielder return.
The former Coventry City and Shrewsbury Town man had established himself as an important member of the side across 49
appearances, but Garner believed Ogogo was incompatible with his desired brand of possession football.
However, the consensus was it was the right time for Bennett to leave after three difficult seasons with the Gas.
Bennett, 30, has two assists in 12 League Two appearances for the Mariners this term, while 31-yearold Ogogo has turned out 13 times for Dagenham & Redbridge in all competitions.