Hughes Plays Down Bentley England Claims

Last updated : 16 October 2006 By Sam
Bentley has been in fine form so far this season which has aroused talk that he is good enough for a place in Steve McClaren's squad.

"David's doing exceptionally well," Hughes has said.

"This is the first time in his career that he's had a consistent run in the same position over a period of time at this level and he's benefiting.

"He was highly thought of at Arsenal and, for whatever reason, it didn't happen for him there.

"He didn't progress as much as he wanted to but we've been able to bring him on board and he's been continuing to progress.

"He spends a lot of time on his individual work, manipulating the ball, and once he's in wide areas he's exceptional at the moment.

"I don't know about Bentley for England yet. He's had a good game, no more, no less than that. It's premature to think he's going to be involved at senior level."