WEYMOUTH have agreed a deal for goalkeeper Gerard Benfield to remain at the Bob Lucas Stadium for another season.

Benfield, 23, joined from Salisbury in the summer of 2020 but found match time limited,  playing just four games.

Weymouth manager Brian Stock preferred Southampton loanee Jack Bycroft and then Lincoln custodian Ethan Ross between the sticks.

However, Benfield showcased his ability when called upon - particularly with a string of excellent saves against Hartlepool - and has impressed sufficiently to earn a new deal.

Speaking to uptheterras.co.uk Stock said: “We’ve worked hard behind the scenes with Gez and he’s flourished towards the end of the season.

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"He’s been a great number two for the back end of the season and shown me what a great attitude he has when he applies himself in the right way. 

"It’s probably the most difficult position to be in, being a number two goalkeeper, so frustration does kick in but we’ve managed to channel that in the right direction and he’ll be battling it for the number one spot next season.

"Gez has had to be patient but when called upon he has put in assured displays, his distribution in particular is excellent and he’s a great character in and amongst the squad."

Echosport understands Weymouth were in talks with Ross before his release from Lincoln last week.