Morecambe's new boss has registered himself as a player this year although he admits his appearances may be limited as he concentrates on his managerial duties.

The former inspirational skipper became a huge fans' favourite since signing from Telford in 2002.

Liverpool-born Jim learnt his trade as a trainee at Manchester City before moving to Telford United, where his dad was a legendary centre forward, at the start of the 1997/1998 season.

Bentley spent five seasons at Telford before moving to Morecambe and has been an influential figure on and off the field ever since. As well as being club captain he is now also player-coach and manages the club's Reserve team.

A solid centre half he is known to score a share of goals with seven goals in the Shrimps' first season in the Football League. He has now made more than 300 appearances for the club and was the first Morecambe player to reach 100 Football League appearances earlier this season.