Bentley left Ewood Park in the summer but struggled under Juande Ramos and has only started playing himself into good form since Redknapp's arriving.

With playmaker Modric out with a groin complaint, Bentley is expected to provide the attacking edge when Paul Ince's side arrive.

"He can deliver a great ball and we have to get him on the ball as much as possible because we've lost Modric," Redknapp said.

"David Bentley will be even more important now. He can open the door by hitting the pass or doing something special.

"Hopefully he will do the business here. You saw the goal at Arsenal, it was special."

Bentley lost his place in the England team during Spurs' dismal start to the season but Redknapp's appointment has seen him played back in his right-wing position and back in the frame for Fabio Capello.

"It's up to him, he has to work hard and get in the squad," Redknapp said.

"I'm sure we're going to qualify for the World Cup and they all want to go. It's an opportunity to give it a real go."

Bentley has been accused of being a difficult character to work with, but Redknapp said: "I think Capello would pick anyone if they were good enough.

"You don't have to like players to pick them. Some lads you wouldn't want to spend time with but you pick them every week.

"Other lads you love them but they don't get in the team."

Redknapp, meanwhile, has backed goalkeeping coach Tony Parks to bring the best out of Heurelho Gomes and return the Brazilian to top form.

Gomes has been guilty of a series of errors and Parks has been brought in to replace Hans Leitert, with his appointment set to be confirmed when his release is agreed from his Football Association coaching role.

Redknapp will keep faith with Gomes against Blackburn, then Parks, along with Perry Suckling, will work on rebuilding the confidence of the club's summer signing.

"You need people around here you know," Redknapp said. "The coach from Austria was a top coach but I felt I needed someone who knew the English game really well.

"Tony Parks is a terrific personality, he played for Tottenham and saved the penalty in the UEFA Cup final (in 1984).

"He has worked for the FA for the last seven years. I spoke to (FA football development director) Sir Trevor Brooking about him and he's a fantastic goalkeeper coach. Everyone I spoke to said he was world class."