Ince receives Bentley backing

Blackburn keen to keep England star

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 24th June 2008

Bentley David France v England

Bentley: Prized asset

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Blackburn chairman John Williams has assured Paul Ince that the club will do all they can to keep David Bentley.

The new Rovers boss used his official unveiling on Tuesday as an opportunity to air his intention to keep the England international at Ewood Park.

The former Arsenal winger has already stated his desire to move on this summer, with Liverpool believed to be interested in taking him to Anfield.

However, Bentley's outburst came before Ince's appointment and the new coach may be able to persuade the talented playmaker to stay.

Ince revealed that he is hoping to hold talks with the members of his first-team squad once they return for pre-season training on 7th July, and will use that time to speak with Bentley.

Whatever the outcome of those discussions may be, the ex-Mk Dons boss can rest assured that he has the full support of his chairman.

Regime

"There is only one player who has publicly stated he would like to leave," said Williams.

"Mark Hughes has said beofe, with my support, 'no you can't' to David Bentley.

"We will have to see where Paul is. It is a new regime, a new man.

"He will want to sit down with David, I am sure. What he will get is the same support from me in that arena that Mark did."