Back-in-favour Mal hopes for Wembley

The 21-year-old made his first start in nearly five months for the Saddlers in Tuesday's 1-1 draw with Sheffield United, having been recalled from his loan spell at League Two side York City.

And ongoing concerns over Andy Taylor's fitness means the academy product could be in line to start at left-back in Sunday's Johnstone's Paint Trophy final.

Taylor has undergone a scan on a calf injury and a decision on his participation is not likely before the weekend.

And Benning admits playing at Wembley, or even being involved in the squad, would be a dream come true.

"Wembley is a huge occasion for the club," he said. "If I end up playing there, then brilliant but if I don't I'll understand because I have only just come back.

"I have been there (to Wembley) for the Asian Football Awards. It would be the best moment of his career if I play or if I am involved.

"Hopefully I am.

"It is not an easy game to come into against Sheffield United who are up there in the promotion chase.

"I knew it was going to be a hard game but I did my best to be prepared."

Benning made nine appearances during his loan spell with the Minstermen but an overload of loanees saw him left out of their squad last weekend. That, coupled with Taylor's injury, prompted Saddlers boss Dean Smith to order the recall.

"I was enjoying it a lot at York but on Saturday I was bombed because they had six loan signings and only five are allowed in the matchday squad.

"I was the one to miss out.

"I was angry on Saturday and the next thing you know I go into training on Monday and find out I'm being called back.

"I thought it was just because I wasn't involved and I only found out on Monday afternoon I would be starting.

"It was a bit of a shock but I had to be ready for it."