Brentford centre-back Alan Bennett has been told he has nothing left to prove if he wants to land a permanent move to Griffin Park.

The 26-year-old on-loan Reading star has forged an impressive partnership - alongside fellow loanee James Wilson - that has helped secure four cleansheets so far this term.

Bennett, in his second spell in west London, recently signed an extension to his loan deal that will keep him at the club until January.

He pledged to boss Andy Scott he would ensure shut outs at the back when he arrived at the club and added another to his collection at Wycombe Wanderers on Saturday.

But the Bees manager has moved to take the pressure off the Irishman’s shoulder by insisting he is not playing for his future with the club.

“Making Alan’s stay here permanent is not something we have discussed with Alan or Reading at this stage,” he said.

“He has come here to concentrate on enjoying his football and get games under his belt. I don’t want to add any more pressure on him.

“Extending the deal is something we will re-assess further down the line. Alan is here until January and he knows he has nothing to prove to anyone at this club about his ability.”

Wilson, who received a Wales U21 call-up earlier this month, is not expected to be with the club beyond the end of his current deal - which expires in November.

But Scott is confident the form of left-back Brett Johnson could see the former Northampton Saint switch to a more central position without a problem.

“Gary Johnson has already told me he is keen to see James back involved with the Bristol City set-up as soon as possible and has been impressed with his performances here,” he added.

“We’re pleased for him. His long-term future is at Bristol or higher and I’m looking forward to seeing him improve.

“Brett has done tremendously well having come in at short notice. The more you play with a team the better you get and Brett has proved that.

“He is one my centre-back options and his size would suit that role. I’m sure we will see the beauty of that flexibility soon.”