Tottenham midfielder David Bentley has revealed that personal problems are the reason behind his indifferent form this season.
After excelling at Blackburn over the past three seasons the 24-year-old managed to break into the England fold, with many predicting he would be David Beckham's long-term successor for the national team.
But, after being rewarded with a £15million move to Spurs in the summer, he has seen his form and confidence plummet in what has been an amazing fall from grace.
Manager Harry Redknapp publically criticised the former Arsenal youngster after he showboated in a game last month and subsequently dropped the right-sider from his line-up, resulting in Bentley playing just once in February.
"To be honest it's been really hard to stay single-minded about football," he told the Daily Star.
"There's been so much going on at the club and so much going on in my personal life, that's what made it really difficult.
"It's got nothing to do with being in London again, it's just been personal problems with the family.
"There are a lot of things the fans don't get to see, and these things have stopped me concentrating on my football."
Spurs face a busy week ahead and one that could effectively shape their season.
A crucial trip to fellow strugglers Hull City in the Premier League on Monday is followed by the second leg of their Uefa Cup clash with Shakhtar Donetsk on Thursday before they take on Manchester United in the Carling Cup final next Sunday.
Bentley insists he is now over the problems which have affected his performances in the first half of the season and is determined to win back his place in the side.
"I've got to find my place in the side, I've come through my problems and I'm probably a better person for it."
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