David Bentley has vowed to make the most of his move to Birmingham from Tottenham after signing a six-month loan deal on Wednesday.
The winger, 26, who goes straight into the squad to face Aston Villa on Sunday, has made the temporary switch after falling out of favour at Spurs.
Bentley said: “It has been a difficult time for me the last couple of years.
“I found it hard not being involved as much as I wanted at Tottenham. The aim is to resurrect my career.”
Spurs paid Blackburn £15m for Bentley’s services in July 2008 but he has struggled to make an impact on the first team, appearing just three times this season.
“They have got some great players and you can find yourself the wrong side of the fence,” Bentley continued.
“But there was no fall-out with [Tottenham manager] Harry Redknapp and it is time to put things aside, move on – and hopefully I can have a positive effect on Birmingham.”
Blues boss Alex McLeish has challenged Bentley to prove himself on the pitch.
“He has great quality and he is at an age where he has taken stock and it is time for him to show the quality which led to him playing for England,” said the Scot.
“It is time for his boots to do the talking. Ron Atkinson always used to say ‘don’t tell me, show me’.”
By freelance writer Dan Leaton.
Tags: Alex McLeish, Barclays Premier League highlights, Birmingham, David Bentley, Tottenham
