Wednesday Apr 02 2008 13:12
Blackburn Rovers chairman John Williams has issued a hands off warning to any clubs interested in luring David Bentley away from Ewood Park.
Speaking earlier in the week, the England midfielder dropped a major hint that he may look to leave the club next summer if they fail to qualify for European action.
That has led to speculation that Liverpool are monitoring the 23-year-old former Arsenal starlet's current situation.
Rovers officials have recently opened negotiations over a new contract with the player's representatives despite his present deal not expiring until 2011.
But Williams is adamant the club are not looking to cash in on the right-sided midfielder.
"David Bentley is under contract to Blackburn Rovers until 2011 and in recognition of the fantastic progress he has made this season, it is common knowledge that we are looking to extend it," Williams told the Lancashire Evening Telegraph.
"There's nothing more to say."
Previously, Bentley suggested his long-term future might not lie at Ewood Park.
He said: "My contract is getting negotiated at the minute, but you never know what is round the corner.
"We need to be in Europe but we are probably not going to make it, which is disappointing from a personal point of view.
"Time will tell over the next few months what will happen. It's a big decision in my life. You never know in football, sometimes you have to make strong decisions."
Have your say on this article