DANIEL Bentley is set to make his first start for Southend United in the first round of the Capital One Cup at Peterborough United tonight.

The 19-year-old shot-stopper is currently the only keeper on Blues’ books.

And he is determined to not make his display at London Road a one off appearance.

“I’m here to play, not sit on the bench and if I can do well this evening then hopefully more chances will come my way,” said Bentley, who came through the youth ranks at Roots Hall .

“I know I have to earn the right to play but I feel like I’ve done well in pre-season.

“I feel fit and strong and hopefully I can give a good account of myself against Peterborough.”

Southend boss Paul Sturrock trialled four different goalkeepers during the club’s pre-season campaign, with Rhys Taylor, Phil Smith, Mark Brown and Tony Warner all being given opportunities to impress.

However, Sturrock opted to not hand any of them a permanent contract and, after having a loan move for Millwall’s Steve Mildenhall turned down, Bentley remains Blues’ first choice goalkeeper.

“There have been a lot of goalkeepers being given trials and there have been a few other rumours flying around but nothing has come of any of them so it does look like I will get a chance,” said Bentley, a former Bromfords School pupil in Wickford .

“I feel like I’m ready for it but we know it will be hard because they’re a good Championship side but hopefully we can cause an upset.”

And Sturrock is also backing Bentley to put in a good performance against the Posh.

“Unless someone comes and slaps me in the face with something then Daniel will play and I have every confidence in him,” said the Scotsman.

“It’s going to be a big game for him but I’m sure he will stand up and be counted.”