Bentley scored on his debut but has missed the last couple of Under-21 matches with a calf strain, though he is now set for a return to action on Tuesday night against Poland.

On-loan from Arsenal to Norwich City this season, Bentley has made a good start to the season and after his goalscoring performance against Holland in February, he will start the match in Rybnik as a withdrawn striker.

Bentley's form has been noticed by many, espcially when he cracked a fierce drive on to the woodwork in Norwich's 2-1 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford.

"[Being on loan] gives me the chance to play week in week out - it's all a matter of playing," he says.

"I've been wanting to go on loan for a couple of years and [Arsene Wenger] tries to protect you but he finally let me go because he knew I had to play football.

"I speak to him on a regular basis and he just wants me to express myself and enjoy my football."

Bentley was also full of praise as to the qualities that coach Peter Taylor possesses: "He loves to play football and really likes to get involved."

Though he has been playing in midfield for City, Tuesday night will see him play upfront for Peter Taylor's side as the Under-21s look to secure six points from their qualifying double header.

"I like playing there as you can create a lot in the final third. I can't wait to play - it's enjoyable playing for your country."

Click on the links below to watch a video of the full exclusive interview with David Bentley.

06 September 2004  
David Bentley Exclusive