Bentley loaned to Norwich

Gallacher signs for Norwich

Arsenal striker David Bentley has joined Norwich on a season-long loan.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is keen for the England Under-21 international to gain first-team experience after just a handful of appearances last season.

Bentley, 19, is Norwich's second signing in the space of two days after Scotland goalkeeper Paul Gallacher's move from Dundee United.

"It's nice to get such a player from such a massive club," said Norwich boss Nigel Worthington.

"He needs the experience of playing in somebody's team on loan," said Arsenal reserve team coach Eddie Niedzwiecki.

He (Bentley) is in the Bergkamp-mould, but he's flexible Norwich boss Nigel Worthington

Worthington had been tracking the player for some time and was delighted to have finally got his man.

"Hopefully, this will send out a little message to one or two clubs that have been in the Premiership for a while now that Norwich City can compete with them - particularly if we sell ourselves in the right way," Worthington told the Norwich Evening News.

"That we are a nice, family club that looks after players."

Bentley's versatility made him an attractive capture as Worthington looks to build a side capable of avoiding an immediate return to the First Division.

"He is in the Bergkamp-mould, but he's flexible," added the Norwich manager.

"He can play wide out on the right, wide out on the left and behind the front two. To have that kind of flexibility in what's going to be not the biggest of squads will be very, very useful."