Bentley: England jeers in the past February 06 2008
David Bentley insists he is "none too bothered" about being targeted by the England boo-boys on his international debut.
The Blackburn star was jeered by a section of the England support every time he touched the ball after coming on as a late substitute in the Euro 2008 qualifier against Israel at Wembley in September.
This was as a direct result of Bentley's decision to withdraw from last summer's European Championships with the England Under 21s.
But the 23-year-old midfielder, who is hoping to make his first start for the seniors in Wednesday night's friendly against Switzerland at Wembley, says the incident is a thing of the past and is keen to move on.
"Look, you can get wound up by that stuff and let it kill you, or you can decide you're not going to take yourself too seriously," Bentley told The Mirror.
"I know people want me to be repentant about what happened when I pulled out of the Under 21s, but the fact is, it happened, and I can't do anything about it now. I got booed, and again I can't change that.
"If I'm honest, I'm none too bothered. I know that's not the politically correct answer, but my philosophy is simple; why beat myself up about things I can't change? Why take myself so seriously?
"I want to be successful, and I care about my football. But it isn't my whole life. I want to enjoy my life, all aspects of it."
Bentley is determined to prove that he warrants a regular place in new manager Fabio Capello's squad and is relishing the opportunity to show the Italian that he is ready for the international stage.
"It's all about performances on the pitch. I want to show I can talk the talk and walk the walk," he said.
"The challenge for me is to get into the team and stay there. I've got to prove myself on the international stage to a degree so I'm not going to get too carried away.
"But there's no point in going on England duty, joining up and being with the squad unless you believe in yourself.
"This is the path I've chosen, to be a professional footballer, and I want to succeed and reach the highest level. Playing for your country is the pinnacle of any player's career."
Bentley added: "I've had a taste of it and I want more. It's very exciting with a new manager.
"He wants to do it his way but it gives everyone a chance to start on a level playing field, show what you can do in training and prove you're ready.
"I'm so up for this. I'm really excited by the opportunity and I'm absolutely determined to prove I'm ready and I can take it."