Blackburn Rovers midfielder David Bentley credits his superb form to sitting out this summer's U21 European Championships.

Bentley, who claimed he needed rest after an exhausting season, said: "I'm feeling fit and that is what you want at this stage of the season - to be fresh and fit.

"The decision I made is history. I made a decision and I stuck by it. I believed it would be right and the only proof was going to be how I performed on the pitch. With the abilities I have got, it would be no good if I wasn't at my best."

Bentley, who scored a superb opener in a 2-1 win over Birmingham on Sunday, is enjoying a new central role for his club.

"I love playing football," he added, "so if I can get on the ball, have an effect and take responsibility, it's great. I feel I can be effective in the centre but I'm just as happy if I play wide on the right."