Shrewsbury defender reveals ‘rock’ during his football career

The former Port Vale man is closing in on becoming the last Shrewsbury player to make 100 appearances in blue and amber - he is just five games away from that landmark. 

Benning is from a South Asian background and he does lots of work in the community to try to improve the imbalance in representation for minority and ethnic groups in football. 

And he says family have played a huge part in his career, saying it is that network that has helped him to make more than 400 professional appearances. 

“It has been hard work and perseverance,” Benning said. "I think family support for me has been massive. My mum and dad from day one have been everywhere. 

“They have taken me to trials, to matches and training. 

“Their backing has been good, and my dad has been my rock to be honest. 

“Through the ups and downs, he is the person I go and talk to keep me motivated and to keep me going. 

“There are not many South Asians in the game at the moment, but there are more, so hopefully by acting as a role model, people will see it is achievable.”

Benning was part of the Town squad that got relegated from League One last season, and he is hopeful the team can respond after a difficult third-tier campaign. 

“It was a difficult season,” he said. “That is the life of a footballer. There are ups and downs. I have had a promotion in my career, but getting relegated is a big down moment. 

“It is all about bouncing back now."