Hughes backing for Bentley
01 Feb 2008 - 14:02:48
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- Hughes backing for Bentley
Blackburn Rovers manager Mark Hughes believes David Bentley can now make the right-hand side of England's midfield his own.
The former England Under-21 international has been named in Fabio Capello's inaugural 30-man squad for next Wednesday's friendly meeting with Switzerland at Wembley.
Bentley's starting options have been assisted by the omission of former captain and right-sided midfielder David Beckham and Hughes believes his player is now ready to make an impact on the international stage.
"We're delighted for David and we feel it's been the result of consistent performances over an 18 to 24-month period," said Hughes on Bentley's call-up.
"He's consistently hit a level that's enabled him to shine in games for us and when he's been involved with England squads before.
"What we hope now is that he's going to get an opportunity to start games and, if that's the case, we have great confidence that David will be able to make the right-hand side of England's midfield his own.
"He just needs that opportunity and if he starts games then people will see the quality that he can offer."