PAUL Benson has branded his decision to swap Charlton for Swindon in January as “the best move” he has made in his footballing career.

The striker, who has netted 12 times in 26 appearances for the Robins since arriving in Wiltshire at the turn of the year, had found it tough to break into the Addicks’ first team prior to his switch to the County Ground.

With his career floundering, the 32-year-old needed an opportunity to showcase the talents that stood out during five prolific years with Dagenham and an impressive first term at the Valley.

Looking back now, Benson is relieved a proposed move to Bradford fell through just days before he finally agreed terms with the Robins.

“It’s probably the best move I’ve ever made,” he told the Advertiser. “Joining Dagenham was my first club as a professional and that will always stick with me, the times I had there.

“The Charlton move didn’t really come off. I had a good first season but the change of manager never really gave me a second chance of having a go.

“Moving here has been the best move I’ve made because I’ve come in an just hit the ground running straight away.

“I’ve got on really well with the boys and I’ve got to thank the boys for making me feel welcome straight away and I’m delighted I made the decision.

“There was a point I could have been going to Bradford a week or two weeks before and I’m just delighted that I ended up coming here.

“I always knew it was a good club but it’s not until you join you realise how big and how good a club it can be.”

Now Benson is looking forward to re-establishing himself as a League One striker, and he has told fans they can expect plenty of goals from their frontman next term.

“At Charlton when I went there I was a regular under Phil Parkinson and done well. I had 11 goals in 30-odd appearances, so I did okay,” he said.

“So if I can just get myself as a regular for next season, obviously I’ve got to play well to do that, but if I can do that I think I’ve got a good chance of getting a good goals return next year.”

“It’s important that I start the season well and I’m right at the forefront of the gaffer’s plans.”