Report by John Edwards
Picture by Jonathan Moore

Phil Parkinson has significantly bolstered Altrincham's attacking options by securing the return of Aaron Bennett to The J.Davidson Stadium for a second spell on loan.

The Preston North End midfielder made a positive impact during an initial loan with Alty at the start of the season, and Robins boss Parkinson is delighted to welcome him back after the Championship club agreed to let him join us for the rest of this season, subject to FA, EFL and National League approval.

It is a welcome boost for Phil and Neil Sorvel as they consider selection permutations against third-placed Woking at The J.Davidson Stadium on Saturday and find they can now add Bennett's creativity to the mix, if need be.

When the Preston youngster, who turned 19 last month, arrived at Alty for his first loan spell at the start of August, he was asked about his style of play and answered by saying:

"I like to try and change a game if I can and score a goal or two. I can play anywhere across the front three, as a 10 or out wide or even as the number nine, if required. But my preference would be the number 10 role."

The Wales under-19 prospect wasted no time making his mark in his initial three-month loan stay with the Robins at the start of the season, winning the man-of-the-match award on his debut in a 1-1 home draw with Maidstone United and taking the accolade again with another eye-catching performance against Yeovil Town soon after.

He opened his goal-scoring account in impressive style with a step-over to glide past a defender and finish with the outside of his boot in a one-on-one with the keeper to give Alty a half-time lead away to Boreham Wood, who equalised in the second half for a 1-1 draw.

If anything, his goal at Solihull Moors was even better, a stunning strike into the top corner from 25 yards that provided a rare bright spot for the Robins in a 5-1 defeat at Solihull Moors.

In all, he scored three times in 10 games for Alty during a spell that also included three appearances for Wales under-19s during their European Championship qualifying campaign.

Great to have you back for the remaining two-and-a-half months of the season, Aaron, and all the best for your latest stint in Alty colours.