Scott hopeful Bennett will stay

Bennett has been on loan at Brentford since March 2008

Brentford manager Andy Scott thinks that on-loan Reading centre-half Alan Bennett has a big decision to make about his future.

The 27-year-old was an integral part of the side that won the League Two title last season.

Scott told BBC London 94.9: "Alan has obviously got a big decision to make for his career.

"We've made it clear that it's all looking positive at the club and he's going to be a huge part of it."

Scott revealed he has recently travelled to Dublin to assure the Republic of Ireland international, who has been on loan at Griffin Park since March 2008, about the next stage of the club's development and to offer him a new contract.

He's a very sensible lad. He's looking at every aspect of it. He was concerned about my future and the club's future

Brentford manager Andy Scott on Alan Bennett

He said: "We've had some very positive talks. We've been over to Dublin to speak to him and let him know what our plans are for the football club, for him and for myself.

"He's a very sensible lad. He's looking at every aspect of it. He was concerned about my future and the club's future and him going forward as well."

Scott also revealed the thinking behind the recent signings of Dagenham and Redbridge trio Ben Strevens, Sam Saunders and Danny Foster.

"They come from a football club that's been renowned for producing players that have got the right attitude and the work-rate. That's something we pride ourselves on at Brentford," he said.

"They'll fit in with the general theme of the club and the way the lads are set up so far," he added.

With a tough challenge ahead in League One, Scott is characteristically looking forward to testing himself.

I don't want to manage in League One, I want to manage at the highest level. How quick that is depends on what teams I put out and what we do each year

Brentford manager Andy Scott

He said: "When I took over no one expected me to do anything and I was thrown into it but did very well as a caretaker. I'm positive and I believe in myself.

"I believe that the work that I do behind the scenes with my staff gives me a good opportunity to put a team on the pitch that will be successful.

"I don't want to manage in League One, I want to manage at the highest level. How quick that is depends on what teams I put out and what we do each year."