PAUL Benson has joined Cheltenham Town from Swindon Town on loan until the end of the season.
The 33-year-old striker initially turned down a move to the Abbey Business Stadium, but boss Mark Yates' persistence has paid off and he is set to make his debut in Saturday's home match against Torquay United.
Benson spent time on loan at League One Portsmouth earlier this season and he had been keen to remain at Fratton Park, but it is understood that the Robins are paying a significantly higher proportion of his weekly wage.
Mark Yates said that patience had paid off as he finally captured his primary loan target.
"Paul said no initially, but I fully respect people taking their time to make sure everything is right," Yates said.
"In an ideal world I'd have liked him here earlier, but I am delighted to have him for the rest of the season.
"His scoring record speaks for itself and he will bring a real presence too.
"Since Chris Zebroski left we've been a bit light in forward areas so it was imperative we got the best one we could and Paul will suit the way we play."
Yates described Benson as a "hard-working leader of the line" and said he was still mobile, despite being 33 years old.
Benson joined Swindon last January and played a major part in their League Two title success.
Yates said: "He dominated defences and we have to give him the ammunition to do that for us."
