MALVIND BENNING is hoping to extend his stay at York City.

The left-back’s initial month-long loan period expires after tomorrow’s trip to Northampton but the Walsall defender is keen to remain with the Minstermen - having started every game since his arrival.

City boss Russ Wilcox believes an extension will be granted by Saddlers boss Dean Smith and Benning, who says he has enjoyed his time at the club, reckons he can still improve on his performances.

“The team has performed well except for the game against Dagenham and I feel that I’ve done all right in the games I have played,” the 21-year-old said. “I still think I can improve yet and, hopefully, keep improving each game.

“It has been enjoyable and that’s what I came here for - to play first team football.

“It is up to me to keep my place in the team. Hopefully, I have done that and I am enjoying it here.

“I would like to stay here and I think the gaffer has already had a word with my gaffer at Walsall.

“We will have to see where it goes after (Saturday) but I am enjoying it here and I would like to stay.”

He continued: “When you are not playing it is very frustrating. I started off the season playing at Walsall and the injured lads came back and I found it hard to get back in the team.

“It feels good to be playing football regularly but I have got to maintain my standards each week and stay in the team and keep playing.”

Benning celebrated his first three points as a York player with the 2-0 victory over Tranmere last weekend and is enjoying his role in Wilcox’s 4-2-3-1 formation which has allowed him, and Marvin McCoy on the opposite side, more freedom to get forward.

He said: “The whole dressing room has been lifted now. We should have won a couple more games than just the one last Saturday - Southend and Burton - but that is the way it goes.

“Hopefully, from now, we can kick on and win a couple more.

“I am enjoying it. I like getting forward but I still have to be disciplined at the back. It’s working well so far and, hopefully, it can continue to work.”

Asked about a loan extension for Benning, Wilcox said: “I think that will happen.

“I have spoken to Dean Smith at Walsall and that will be good to go. It is just a matter of doing the paperwork.

“Obviously, Walsall become more in charge because, after the first 28 days, they have an instant call-back.  think he has done really well. It is important to have cover and balance in every position.

“Even though, at the moment, the squad is quite small - because we have let a few out - if you look around there are good options. I have got two right-backs and left- backs, three centre-halves and one out on loan.

“The midfield is looking a little bit stronger and I have got loads of options at the top of the pitch.

Balance-wise, I am really happy with the squad. We are a little short on numbers so it will make a lot of sense to keep Mal with us.”