David Bentley says he wants to forget the jeers he received from some England fans after making his debut for his country.

The Blackburn midfielder is hoping to make his first start for his country in Wednesday's friendly against Switzerland.

Bentley was booed by a section of supporters after coming on against Israel last year for snubbing last summer's European Championship with England's Under 21s.

The 23-year-old says he is not worried about the reaction he received and he insists he has no regrets over the incident.

"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.

Bothered
"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 hopes to do his talking on the pitch by proving he deserves a spot in Fabio Capello's new-look England side.

"It's all about performances on the pitch. I want to show I can talk the talk and walk the walk," added Bentley.

Challenge
"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 is relishing the prospect of playing under Capello as everyone in the squad looks to impress the Italian.

"I've had a taste of it and I want more. It's very exciting with a new manager," noted Bentley. "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."