BLACKBURN ROVERS midfielder David Bentley has told England boss Steve McClaren: 'Play me against Austria and I won't let you down'.

The 23-year-old wide-man, who has been in scintillating form for Rovers so far this season, is desperate for the chance to earn his second senior international cap in tomorrow's friendly in Vienna.

And although Bentley faces a potentially hostile reception from those England fans who have still to forgive him for withdrawing from the European Under 21 Championships in the summer, he has reassured McClaren he is mentally tough enough to handle the pressure.

"As a manager, you are bound to worry about how young players can handle the pressure and big occasions," said Bentley.

"There's so much riding on the next few days, so much hype and pressure because when it comes to England there are no friendlies or low-key games.

"But I believe my head is strong enough and come Friday I will handle it.

"I'm so up for this, it's not true. If I get the opportunity then I will definitely be ready to take it.

"I'm just hoping to get the chance to show what I can do.

"I feel I'm in the best form of my career but I don't feel I've reached my peak yet. I can improve a lot as a player.

"Playing for England and being involved in the squads has definitely helped me - it gives you extra belief."

England face the Austrians just 24 hours before Russia meet Israel in a crucial Euro 2008 qualifier that could go a long way to deciding McClaren's destiny.

A victory for the Russians in Tel Aviv would effectively kibosh England's hopes of qualifying, and leave McClaren facing the sack.

However, Bentley, whose only cap so far came as a late substitute in the 3-0 win against Israel at Wembley in September, is full of praise for the underfire England boss.

"I like the way he is as a manager," added the midfielder.

"Everyone enjoys what he has to say and everyone is behind him.

"He's given me my chance in the squad and now, for me, it's like a progression.

"It's almost like being back in the youth team working my way up.

"I've been in the squad, come on as a sub and now I want to push to start a game or at least be part of the game in Austria."