Norwich City have let Ryan Bennett go – but it would be no surprise if Paul Lambert was to target a reunion at Wolverhampton Wanderers.
Paul Lambert could hardly hide his glee as Norwich City completed the signing of Peterborough United’s England Under-21 international defender Ryan Bennett in the winter of 2012.
“I’m delighted we have signed Ryan. He’s got so much potential,” the Scot told the BBC. “He can play, he’s got great vision, he’s comfortable on the ball, and he’s a good age too.”
Norwich reportedly invested a hefty £3.2 million into the ball-playing centre-half, as reported by The Sun. However, thanks to a series of injuries, Bennett was never able to fulfil his potential at Carrow Road.
In six seasons, the 27-year-old managed just 83 league appearances, a quarter of which have come in the current campaign. Therefore, seven years after joining to such fanfare, Bennett has been released amid few complaints from Norwich supporters.
The question, however, is where now? Thankfully, Bennett has played more league games this season than any campaign since 2011/12, meaning potential suitors may not be put off by his previous injury problems.
And, furthermore, Bennett may benefit from his former boss aiming to secure a number of ‘vital’ signings to reinforce the gaps in his current squad, as reported by the Express and Star.
Lambert’s Wolves side have failed to put together any serious momentum this season thanks to a propensity for conceding soft goals, meaning a commanding centre-half may be at the top of his wish list – especially with Mike Williamson struggling with injuries and Richard Stearman only on loan from Fulham.
Bennett, then, could be an easy and obvious solution. He already has the trust of Lambert and has plenty of Championship experience under his belt – something many members of the current Wolves squad are lacking.
Furthermore, the fact he is now available on a free would make Bennett the kind of low-risk, affordable signing that would free up funds to spend elsewhere.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
