Oakwood turn to Bentley for drive in Premier adventure

SOME OF you may recall when I broke the news about MSFL Player of the Year Daran Bern leaving Redbridge Jewish Care, just days after they had won the double.

Exactly 12 months later, another big story making the news is that Josh Bentley has left Hendon United Sports Club for Division One champions Oakwood.

I thought that Josh would stay at Hendon for life and indeed, had to investigate to ensure that this was no wind-up, especially as the champagne stains had only just dried on Hendon’s treble celebrations.

The midfielder remains one of the best in the business and is clearly relishing the new challenge.

Commenting on the move, Bentley told me: “I have had some great times at Hendon, which was capped by winning the treble.

“I am now looking for a new challenge and I believe Oakwood are a really strong team.

“They are a great bunch of lads and I’m hoping that I can help them achieve success in their first season in the Premier League.”

Oakwood joint-manager Ric Blank could not hide his delight at signing the former Player of the Year.

He said: “His ability, experience and leadership will be invaluable to us and we’re really looking forward to getting him involved.”

Paying tribute to Bentley, Hendon boss David Garbacz said: “Josh has been an unbelievable player for Hendon over the years .

“He has seen it all and won it all and enjoyed the pleasure of lifting three trophies last year as our captain.

“We are all going to miss him terribly - not only on the pitch but off the pitch as well.”

The acquisition of Bentley is Oakwood’s first piece of business as they look to bolster their squad before their Premier League adventure. Blank said: “We also have a couple of irons in the fire that we’re confident about.”

Redbridge Jewish Care will be dropping a team next season. Eilon Kennet will continue to run the side in the Premier Division, while Jon Jacobs has been installed as the new B team boss.

Jacobs is currently putting together a “dynamic” squad that will combine youth and experience, with several members of the club’s under-16 side making the step up into men’s football.

Adam Hakimi, Lee Silver and Richard Bronzite will assist him.

Another club who have lost a team are North West Neasden. It’s the end of an era for the club’s A-team, with London Maccabi Lions A rumoured to be in the market for star striker Lee Cash, while Bradley Sharp looks set to join Brady Maccabi.

Division One Chigwell Athletic have made a big statement of intent with Richard Baum, the former Wingate & Finchley player, close to signing. He could definitely be the missing link. See Danny Caro’s weekend round-up at thejc.com. Email dannycaro@thejc.com and/or follow Danny on Twitter:@dcaro