Colchester United’s young midfielder Alfie Bendle has joined Chelmsford City on loan, stepping in to support the National League South team’s midfield after an injury setback hit their squad.
The 19-year-old, who joined Colchester in the summer, made his debut for Chelmsford as a second-half substitute in their 2-1 victory over Salisbury City last Saturday. His arrival aims to bolster the Clarets’ lineup, especially after recent injuries left the midfield thin.
Bendle Brings Experience to Chelmsford Midfield
Chelmsford’s need for a capable midfielder grew urgent following an injury to former Colchester youth player Louis Dunne, who sustained an injury last week. Bendle’s signing offers the Clarets a short-term solution as they navigate injuries and suspensions among central players. Chelmsford’s manager, Robbie Simpson, expressed confidence in Bendle’s potential to contribute meaningfully and quickly adapt to the demands of their lineup.
“Obviously, with Louis (Dunne) going down injured on Monday night it added to our central midfield woes in terms of injuries and suspensions,” Simpson shared on the club’s website. “It just made total sense…we’re delighted to bring in Alfie, who is a highly thought of central midfield player from Colchester. He’s played at this level and we know he can easily cope and shine.”
Bendle joined Colchester earlier this season from AFC Wimbledon and has experience at the National League South level, having previously spent two loan spells with Eastbourne Borough. This experience provides him with a familiarity that Chelmsford believes will allow him to quickly find his footing.
Strengthening Competition and Depth
Adding Bendle to the squad is part of a broader effort by Chelmsford to maintain competitiveness and address gaps in the midfield. The team anticipates Bendle will enhance competition for places in their starting lineup, especially once injured players like Dunne return.
Bendle has made one substitute appearance for Colchester in a recent Bristol Street Motors Trophy group match against MK Dons. His loan move to Chelmsford presents him with valuable game time while Colchester benefits from his development through regular play.
Writer’s View
Bendle’s move to Chelmsford is an astute decision that serves both clubs’ needs. For Chelmsford, the young midfielder brings proven experience at this level, easing concerns in their depleted midfield. Meanwhile, Colchester can develop Bendle further without the need to guarantee him immediate playtime in League Two, offering him vital exposure that could benefit his parent club in the long term.
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