WINCHESTER director of football Dave Malone is prepared to let goal machine Warren Bentley leave after the club’s season ended in play-off heartbreak.

Bentley was restricted to one half-chance as City lost their Southern One South & West play-off semi-final 1-0 at Banbury last night.

After two prolific seasons with Winchester it may well prove to be the former Alresford striker’s last game for the club.

Malone said: “We agreed to leave discussions till the end of the season so there’s a lot of talking to be done with Warren, he’s probably one that other clubs will covet.

“He loves the club, but he’s ambitious as well.

“You can’t blame him for wanting to try, but it has to be right for him. After more than 100 goals in two seasons, we won’t stand in his way.

“I had this with Forbesy (Andy Forbes). You have to respect players and he’s been an absolutely top lad.

“He’s been a credit to himself as a player and a man - but I’m hopeful no one will come in that suits him.”

Malone believes City’s limited resources contributed to a disappointing performance at Banbury, who were worthy winners - albeit that it took an 86th-minute goal to settle matters.

Malone added: “We’ve had a great season and started off like a train, but have a very small squad and that’s caught up with us.

“We tailed off and our key players, Warren in particular, looked tired.

"That’s not surprising because I think he’s played 54 games and scored even more goals.

“We didn’t have anyone on the bench to change the game, but to finish fifth is a credit to all the lads.

“Having said that, I’d rather not be in the play-offs than lose like that.

“It was a body blow to lose at that late stage.”

*Monday's play-off final will pit Banbury against Taunton Town, who hit back from behind to beat Swindon Supermarine 2-1 last night.