LIVE
...

Follow us on

Soccer News

Can Mason Bennett still have Derby future after impressing for U23s?

Gary Rowett manager of Derby County gives his players instructions during the Sky Bet Championship match between Derby County and Aston Villa at iP...
Follow us on Google Discover

The attacker has found it difficult to get regular playing time for Derby.

Mason Bennett of Derby County tackles Rico Henry of Brentford  during the Sky Bet Championship match between Brentford and Derby County at Griffin Park on September 26, 2017 in Brentford,...

Mason Bennett has long been identified as a very exciting talent but, now aged 21, he has still yet to establish himself as a regular in the Derby County first-team.

Bennett made his senior debut for Derby aged just 15 but so far has been unable to start fulfilling his vast potential, with several loan spells not working out as expected, while injuries haven’t helped his cause.

The former England youth international has mustered just three goals in 50 senior appearances in his career so far when his loan spells at Chesterfield, Bradford City and Burton Albion as well as his first-team outings for Derby are taken into consideration.

Yassin Fortune of Arsenal shoots as Mason Bennett of Derby puts his under pressure during the Premier League 2 match between Arsenal and Derby County at Meadow Park on December 15, 2017 in...

Although he has worked hard, Bennett, who can play on either flank, up front or behind the striker, has found it very difficult to perform consistently.

He did, however, provide a reminder of the quality that he possesses by scoring for Derby in their enthralling 3-3 draw away to Arsenal on Friday.

Bennett produced an impressive overall display and will hope that he can now force his way back into the first-team setup at Derby.

A general view of iPro Stadium prior to the Sky Bet Championship match between Derby County and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Pride Park Stadium on October 18, 2015 in Derby, England.

Given his versatility, Bennett could be a useful asset for Derby, but his lack of ruthlessness in front of goal at senior level remains a major concern.

With Derby playing well at present and pushing to secure a place in the play-offs, it could prove difficult for Bennett to get into the starting lineup, but he remains a talented prospect and should at least be given an opportunity to prove his worth.