Harry Redknapp Impressed By Former Tottenham Outcast David Bentley

The manner in which David Bentley has knuckled down in training and responded to his previous omission from the first-team set-up at Tottenham Hotspur has pleased manager Harry Redknapp, who has lauded the winger's recent work-rate.

Bentley performed admirably during the club's recent 3-1 win over Leeds United in the FA Cup, and his effectiveness and delivery from midfield were fundamental to team-mate Jermain Defoe's ability to leave the turf with the match-ball in hand.

"David was out the picture but has trained well and has been fantastic," Redknapp explained in the Daily Mail. "I don't hold grudges, I don't work that way, and it's there for anybody.

"They're all here to play and he's responded really well. The work-rate and ability he showed the other night at Leeds was fantastic and was appreciated."

Chasing an elusive fourth-placed finish in the Premier League and consequent qualification into Europe's premier competition, the Champions League, Spurs now face a top-four rival in Aston Villa.

"I just look forward to every game I play now and don't take it for granted. I go out there and enjoy myself. I just want to stay in the team and play as many games as I can. I am taking it game by game at the minute because you never know in football.

"My time at Spurs has been hard but hopefully I can start enjoying it now."