Hughes backing for Bentley
09 Jun 2007 - 13:27:28
Blackburn Rovers boss Mark Hughes has defended David Bentley's controversial decision to withdraw from the England Under-21 squad for the European Championship through fatigue.
The Rovers wideman has come under fire from coach Stuart Pearce for deciding to pull out of the squad for the tournament in the Netherlands following a gruelling club season.
But Hughes believes the former Arsenal starlet is justified in his decision to put club before country and believes the withdrawal is in Bentley's long-term international interest.
He told the club's official website: "Although he takes representing his country very seriously indeed, David has barely had time to catch breath over the past ten months and he clearly needs a rest.
"Having spoken to him and heard how tired he feels, I don't think he would do himself justice by taking part in the trip.
"If England were to reach the final of the competition it would mean David having just six days holiday between the two seasons and that would be an unsatisfactory situation for everyone involved.
"He is very keen to make progress on the England senior scene and he does not want to compromise his chances for next season by failing to take the necessary break now.
"Having managed Wales for five years and then spent close on three seasons with Rovers, I appreciate the various dilemmas surrounding club and country issues.
"The bottom line is that David requires some much-needed rest time in order to recover from the rigours and demands of what has been a demanding schedule."
