Harry Redknapp has revealed he holds no grudges after giving David Bentley a second chance at Tottenham.
Spurs boss happy to give midfielder second chance
Harry Redknapp has revealed he holds no grudges after giving David Bentley a second chance at Tottenham and has backed Younes Kaboul to shine in his second spell at White Hart Lane.
Bentley looked set to leave Spurs earlier in the season when he angered Redknapp with his off-field behaviour and poor attitude in training, but the winger has been given another opportunity following a groin injury to Aaron Lennon.
Last month the Spurs boss dropped the 25-year-old from his 18-man matchday squad because he felt the former Blackburn midfielder did not warrant a place on the bench, only to recall him for the last three games and see him star in the midweek FA Cup win at Leeds.
Redknapp, impressed by Bentley's reaction, said: "David was out the picture but has trained well and has been fantastic. I don't hold grudges, I don't work that way, and it's there for anybody."
The good news for Bentley is that Lennon has not started training with the ball yet and is limited to running in straight lines and the former Arsenal man is keen to take advantage of his opportunity.
Different outlook
"I've just been looking to perform," said the England international. "It's been a difficult time since I came here and you can't help that when the team have been doing so well without you.
"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."
Another player with a second chance at Tottenham is Kaboul, who was bought back by the club after being sold to Portsmouth for the start of last season.
Despite winning the Carling Cup under Juande Ramos, his first spell at Spurs was characterised by high-profile blunders - but Redknapp now believes the 24-year-old could even force his way into France's squad if he continues his progress.
Matured
"Younes has the ability and potential to be a top player. If you're looking for a centre-half he has everything - marking, heading, pace and good on the ball," Redknapp said.
"The only problem was concentration - he could switch off. But he's matured with more games. He's gone to Portsmouth and become a better player.
"Now he's ready to push on and could have a chance of making the French squad for the World Cup."
Spurs centre-back Ledley King also has faith in Kaboul's ability.
"I've spent time with him before and we spoke about him becoming a better player and concentrating," King said.
"I'm sure that's going to happen. All young players make mistakes, especially in defence. But it's down to us as a team to nurture his talent because he has fantastic ability."
Kaboul's last-gasp equaliser to secure a 4-4 draw against Aston Villa was one of the few highlights during his previous year at Spurs and he could make his second debut at White Hart lane against the same club this weekend.
