Beckham enjoys Bentley battle

Duo continue fight to be first choice on the right

Last updated: 16th June 2008

david beckham england

Beckham: Enjoying Bentley fight

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David Beckham admits he is thriving on the competition that David Bentley is providing for a spot in the England team.

Former England captain Beckham is currently battling with Bentley to be coach Fabio Capello's first choice on the right of midfield.

Beckham has started the last three friendlies, but has been replaced by Bentley on each occasion as the duo state their respective cases to Capello.

Bentley has admitted that he wants to leave Blackburn Rovers for a bigger club in order to boost his claims to be a fixture in the England team.

But centurion Beckham will not give up his place without a fight and has praised Bentley for providing him with a challenge.

Great competition

"He's a great player and a great lad," Beckham told Sky Sports News.

"He makes me laugh when we're in the squad and he's got a great bit of banter. He's a London lad, so he's quite cocky with it, but as I say he's a great lad.

"He has had a great season and he deserves to be where he is in the team and in the squad.

"The competition is always good and it's great for me to have the competition, and it's great for him to have that competition as it obviously pushes you to up the level of play."