Blackburn

Bentley: I'm After Beckham's Starting Spot

David Bentley has proven that he is not afraid to step on toes by declaring outright that his aim is to reduce David Beckham to a bench role for England.

May 26, 2008 4:35:54 PM

Friendly: David Bentley and David Beckham, France - England (PA)

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Friendly: David Bentley and David Beckham, France - England (PA)

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The Blackburn winger was handed his first start for the national team in Fabio Capello's debut against Switzerland, but found himself as Beckham's understudy again during England's last friendly outing against France.

Now, the Liverpool target is hoping to use the two upcoming test matches against United States on Wednesday and Trinidad and Tobago the following Sunday to make the right midfield berth his.

"These are big games for me trying to establish myself as an international," said Bentley. "I've got to push on.

"I just have to keep performing. Every day I go to work I have to improve as a player. Improve as a person and keep getting better.

Directly on Beckham, he said: "The levels he's reached in his career are so high, I really respect that but I'm here to take his place so I have to work hard and be honest with myself and know each day I have to improve and that's what I'll be trying to do."

Bentley concluded by admitting that missing out on Euro 2008 is still painful, but tried to put a positive spin on things.

"It will be difficult watching it, but life goes on and you have to get on with it," he added. "I suppose it humbles you as a player.

"When you're watching those sort of games. It's up to us to be focused on the World Cup and make sure we get there."

Derek Wanner, Goal.com