AFC Fylde boss relishes a keeper conundrum
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The Coasters’ manager has revealed that the experienced Chris Neal is doing all he can to regain the jersey from 20-year-old Bobby Jones.
Former Fleetwood Town and Salford City keeper Neal has not played since mid-November and was granted time away from the club to address family issues.
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Hide AdSince then the gloves have proved a comfortable fit for Jones, a summer signing from Wigan Athletic last year.
However, the battle between the pair has been joined in the friendliest possible way in recent weeks and Bentley admits he is facing a tough choice.
He told The Gazette: “Chris is training really well and challenging Bobby.
“We brought Bobby in to fulfil his potential and put pressure on Chris, and he has proved more than capable.
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Hide Ad“We had to manage Chris through a difficult period but now he’s back to full speed and pushing for a recall.
“We have two goalkeepers capable of being number one who are battling it out and who get on really well. It’s a real headache for me but the sort we want.”
Fifth-placed Fylde head to Tyneside seven points adrift of the leaders but have won all three games against Gateshead since Bentley took charge.
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