Bentley can replace Button at Brentford – Smith

Brentford head coach Dean Smith insists Dan Bentley and Jack Bonham have what it takes to replace David Button, after the goalkeeper opted to join Fulham.

Button, 27, crossed west London on Tuesday to sign a three-year deal with Bees’ rivals, after the two clubs agreed an undisclosed fee.

The goalkeeper had been Brentford’s first choice since signing from Charlton in 2013, making 141 appearances, but Smith believes new recruit Bentley and the promising Bonham will serve the club well.

Smith told Brentford’s official website: “I would personally like to wish David well and thank him for his contribution in both performances and attitude since myself and [assistant] Richard [O’Kelly] joined the club.

“His save in our win at Preston in January, as well as many others, will live long in the memory, but as is the way in football, things move on and David has chosen to further his career elsewhere.

“I have nothing but respect for the way he acquits himself to his profession and his departure will leave big gloves to fill.

“But I feel we have replacements in Daniel Bentley and Jack Bonham who are eager to fill the position that David had made his own.”

Button is the second Bees player to join a west London rival this summer after captain Jake Bidwell joined QPR.

But Brentford’s co-director of football, Phil Giles, moved to allay supporters’ fears about the club’s plans.

He said: “I understand if there are some fans who will be disappointed that we have sold a player to our local rivals.

“However, I’m confident that we’ve made a decision that is in the best long-term interests of the club.”