Mark Bentley believes a Wembley final would be the pinnacle of his career.

Bentley (pictured right) has already achieved promotion through the League 2 play-offs as he starred in Southend’s 2-0 extra-time win over Lincoln at the Millennium Stadium in 2005.

It was a moment he cherishes and one he would love to emulate.

Bentley said: "I would tell the players here to just grab the opportunity because it’s the best feeling. They say if you can’t win the league then this is the best way if you can guarantee to go up. It’s an unbelievable experience.

"It was the best week of my life and I got married four days later. I’m getting on now and, although I still have a few more years left in me, to go to Wembley would finish it for me."

Bentley though faces a battle to be part of the team. He has recently been replaced at the heart of the defence by Garry Richards. Bentley was back in the team on Saturday but knows it may only be a brief stay.

He said: "It’s disappointing where I haven’t been playing the last few games but Garry has come in and done a good job."

Click below to listen to Mark Bentley's thoughts ahead of the play-offs.