Blackburn midfielder Bentley: McClaren was right to axe me

Bentley said: “I understand his decision. I made the decision and I knew there would be consequences.

“I pulled out of an international tournament and maybe it would not have looked right if I’d been called up for this senior squad.

“He called me to explain the reasons and I really respect and like that from a manager.

“Having said that, I think I would do the same again. I stand by my beliefs, whether they are right or wrong, and time will tell whether it was the right decision or not.

“It was just an honest decision. I feel refreshed because of it. I hope it lengthens my England career, not shortens it.”