MARK Bentley admits Canvey Island will be represented by a host of Benfleet youngsters in tonight’s Isthmian League Cup group stage tie at Basildon United.

The Gulls are unable to progress to the knockout stages of the revamped competition due to previous results.

And, as a result, Bentley is not willing to risk some of his regular starters.

“I’ve signed all of the Benfleet boys on first team forms,” said the Canvey boss.

“The Benfleet squad will probably take the game.

“We can’t win the group or competition and it’s the most pointless exercise for us.

“I can’t afford to play my lads because we have a massive game on Saturday.

“There may be one or two of our players that want minutes but it will be mainly made up of Benfleet boys.”

Basildon will be led by caretaker manager Lee Connor once again at the Cousins Car Wash Stadium.

The Bees will go into the contest knowing that they can still progress in the competition.

But, like the visitors, Basildon are set to make numerous changes after beating Tilbury at the weekend.

“We will make a few changes because some of the boys will need to be rested,” said Connor.

“Some of the players haven’t got many minutes into their legs recently and it’s important to keep everyone match-fit.

“We want to win every game and Canvey will be hard opponents for us.

“But we are doing well in this competition and we would like to continue that run.”