Benni to bring extra bounce to Bridge's attack

Stalybridge Celtic have added some extra fire power to their attack with the signing of former England Under-17 international Benni Smales-Braithwaite.

The 22-year-old came through Manchester City and Southampton academies before making a pair of League Two appearances for Barrow after signing for them in the summer of 2022. 

He then had loan spells with Warrington Rylands, Guiseley and Curzon Ashton, where he scored once in four National League North games. 

The striker joined Danish 1st Division club, Vendsyssel, in July 2023, where he failed to find the net in 11 first team appearances.  

However, he had more joy with a loan in the Faroe Islands with Premier Division side 07 Vestur, scoring three times in 14 matches. 

“I’m happy to be here at Stalybridge,” Smales-Braithwaite told the club’s website. “I’ve been training for a while now and all the lads have made me feel very welcome.  

“I’m looking forward to finally start playing, showing the fans what I can do and help the team with our goals for the rest of the season.” 

His new manager, Jon Macken, is looking forward to seeing what his new striker can bring: “Benni is a highly talented striker who brings both quality and experience to our attacking lineup.  

“His powerful running and clinical finishing ability have the potential to change the course of a game.” 

Smales-Braithwaite made his debut on Saturday, coming on as a substitute in the second half in Stalybridge’s 3-1 home defeat against Atherton Collieries.