McClaren Tells Bentley - Play Well and Silence the Boo Boys

Steve McClaren has warned David Bentley that he must learn to cope with the booing from certain sections of England's support which accompanied his brief debut as a substitute on Saturday, though the coach admitted the crowd's reaction had been "disappointing".

Bentley emerged from the bench to play the last seven minutes against Israel, with his introduction prompting jeers and catcalls from fans who have not forgiven him for his withdrawal from the England Under-21 squad which competed in the European Championships over the summer. The Blackburn Rovers midfielder had cited fatigue in making his decision.

McClaren effectively imposed a one-game ban on the 23-year-old, ignoring him for last month's friendly against Germany, though he was still dismayed that England supporters chose to voice their disapproval of Bentley's actions. "I can't do anything about it," said the national coach. "I don't want to be negative because the fans gave us a great platform at the beginning and kept it up all the way through, and we'll need them again on Wednesday.

"But it was disappointing. Players have to handle that. David Bentley has to handle that, and in the best way with his performances on the park. It's people's opinion. It's not fair or unfair, right or wrong. It happens. Deal with it. It's unfortunate, but he's got to handle it because these things do happen."

Bentley follows Frank Lampard - booed in the recent friendlies against Brazil and Germany - in suffering abuse from England fans. Bentley's team-mates were quick to rally in support. "Some people might say it was the wrong decision, what he did in the summer, but he's a young player going through a learning curve and I don't think he deserved to be booed," said Rio Ferdinand.

"I'm sure it wasn't everyone who was doing it," added Gareth Barry. "Everyone has their own opinion on what happened. He is a strong character and he will eventually win the fans over."