DANIEL Bentley’s dad has spoken of his pride after seeing his son star on his Premier League debut against Manchester United.

The former Southend United shot-stopper, who grew up in Wickford, produced an impressive performance between the sticks for Wolves at Old Trafford on Saturday.

And Bentley’s display delighted his father, Ian, who was among those watching from the stands. “It was amazing, just absolutely amazing,” said Ian.

“There were so many emotions.

“I was happy for him, nervous and just wanted him to give a good account of himself which he did.

“I felt like I was on the pitch with him for every kick and every save but it was brilliant.

“I had no doubt he was capable and he proved it on Saturday.

“I’m so chuffed for him.”

Daniel spent time with Arsenal before joining Blues as a youngster and working his way through the youth ranks at Roots Hall.

The former Bromfords School pupil went on to make 160 senior appearances for the Shrimpers before going on to play for Brentford and Bristol City.

And Ian feels his son has always made the most of the opportunities coming his way.

“He had an opportunity at Arsenal which didn’t work out but Southend gave him a chance and he took it with both hands ,pardon the pun,” said Ian, who is based in South Woodham.

“He’s gone from strength to strength since then and maybe he could’ve played in the Prem sooner.

“But the time is right now and he’s got a fantastic opportunity ahead of him.”

Daniel certainly looked right at home on Saturday and spent time talking the memorable match over with his family after the final whistle.

“He came out and saw us all after the game,” said Ian.

“We spoke for about 20 minutes and David De Gea came over.

“He gave Dan a big cuddle and said well played which was nice and Dan said he got his shirt too.”

But Ian also had his own links to Old Trafford, long before Saturday’s match.

“I was at Manchester United for six years and joined in 1982,” said Ian.

“It was lovely to see it but the stadium is so different now.”

“When I was there I think the capacity was probably around 35,000 but it’s more than double that now and it was an unbelievable atmosphere.”

Wolves take on Everton and England number one Jordan Pickford next time out.

And Ian also has an extra reason for monitoring Dan’s form “He’s in my dream team but I’m not sure how many points he’s got me yet,” laughed Ian.

“If it’s not enough I think I’ll have to drop him so he’s under pressure now!

But Daniel is not the only Bentley on the books of a Premier League club as his younger brother Joshua is now with West Ham United.

“Josh has been at West Ham now for two and a half months,” confirmed Ian.

“West Ham have agreed he can stay with Billericay for the rest of the season as they had a couple of cup finals they’ve won.

“Josh saved the winning penalty in one of them too.

“I was sat there saying come on son, save it and he did.

“Then I’m sat there saying the same at Old Trafford so it’s been a brilliant week.”