David Bentley completes loan move to Birmingham City from Tottenham Hotspur

Posted Thursday, January 13, 2011 by Thisislondon.co.uk

The former Blackburn and Arsenal midfielder joined Tottenham in July 2008 for a fee of £15 million, but has struggled to make an impact at White Hart Lane.

The 26-year-old underwent a medical at Birmingham earlier this week and has now completed a deal to join Alex McLeish's side.

Subject to his registration being accepted by the Premier League and Football Association, Bentley will be available for Sunday's derby at home to Aston Villa.

Speaking about the deal on Monday, McLeish said: "It will be good to sign him because he has got a bit of quality and class as a footballer.

"His delivery at set-pieces is excellent as well. He is a natural footballer."

Bentley has won seven caps for England, the last of those coming against the Czech Republic in August 2008.

And he also has the honour of being the first Englishman to score at the new Wembley Stadium when he netted for the Under-21s against Italy in March 2007.

Speaking on Birmingham's official website after Bentley's loan signature was confirmed, McLeish said: "We're delighted to have David's services. He is a classy footballer and will enhance the quality of the squad.

"He is a natural footballer capable of top delivery at set-pieces. With the likes of him, Hleb and Larsson - who has had a great season consistency-wise - we have creative players. Bentley can provide more competition.

"He has had his moments at Spurs but there is fierce competition for places there.

"They have a glut of superstars at. With the introduction of people like (Rafael) van der Vaart, players of that ilk, and the rise of (Aaron) Lennon, it has become very difficult for him. The quality is amazing and maybe he can get his career back on track here."