Morecambe manager Jim Bentley has wished striker Liam Mandeville well, despite the player turning down a two-year deal in the Football League to sign for Chesterfield.
The 22-year-old spent last season on loan with Morecambe, but agreed on the deal with the Spireites last week following the cessation of his Doncaster Rovers contract.
Bentley was philosophical about the decision, choosing not to blast the striker, but instead confirm they had offered him a good deal to remain in the Football League.
“We offered him a two-year deal but unfortunately for us he’s chosen to go to Chesterfield. Myself, and I’m sure all at Morecambe FC, wishes him well for the future.”
Mandeville made 46 league and cup appearances for Bentley’s side last season, bagging four goals. The Lincoln-born striker had previously netted 15 in 49 outings for Rovers, including seven in 21 in League Two back in 2016/17.
Our View
It’s a brave move by the striker, but it is closer to home and arguably, if the Spireites get out of the National League, they are a bigger club than Morecambe.
It could be a missed opportunity though. Bentley defies the odds every season by keeping the Shrimps in the Football League. That’s achieved by spirit, determination and will and that experience could only have been good for the forward.
