SOUTHEND United goalkeeper Daniel Bentley is eager to shine against Shrewsbury Town tomorrow in a bid to improve his chances of an England under 21 call-up.

The young shot-stopper narrowly missed out on a place in Gareth Southgate’s squad at the start of the month.

And the Wickford based keeper now wants to remain in top form to get the nod for the next squad, which will be named at the start of October for two games in quick succession against Croatia.

“I was disappointed when I wasn’t called in to the last squad,” said the former Bromford School pupil.

“I think playing for England under 21 has got to be the aim of every young player and it’s certainly mine.

“But I think being disappointed at not being in the squad shows how far I’ve come.

“If you had told that would’ve been the case four or five years go then I wouldn’t have believed you.

“To even be considered is a massive privilege in itself but hopefully I can keep on doing well to try and get the call up, starting with tomorrow’s game.”

Bentley’s fine form has helped Blues win their last three games to move up to fourth in the League Two table.

He now wants the good run to continue when Phil Brown’s side take on Shrewsbury Town at Roots Hall this weekend.

And, having come through the ranks at the club, Bentley is also delighted that the work being done at academy level will be highlighted at the game this weekend.

“I think the Premier League teams could learn from what’s done in the youth set up here and I think the academy day is another great idea,” said Bentley “Ricky was the main man was when I was coming through and he was fantastic for me.

“He’s harsh but he’s making you realise what your job is and why you’re at the club.”

Bentley first joined Blues after being released by Arsenal when aged 15 and he has now gone on to make 76 appearances for the first team.

He will line up between the sticks against the Shrews this weekend and is desperate to come out on top.

“Things are going brilliantly at the moment and we want to keep it going,” said Bentley.

“Shrewsbury will be stern opposition after they came down from League One last season but if we continue with what we’ve been doing then we have more than enough about us to come out on top to keep our good run going.”