Darren Bent desperate to feature for England
Darren Bent has told of his burning desire to feature in England’s UEFA 2012 European Football Championship qualifying clash with Switzerland Tuesday night.
The 26-year-old Sunderland striker has not featured in a competitive match for England since a 3-2 defeat at home to Croatia in a Euro 2008 qualifying match. However, he is hoping that his excellent form at club level can help him to persuade national team coach Fabio Capello that he deserves a chance to prove himself on the international stage.
Bent’s hopes of playing some part in tonight’s match may be hampered by the fact that Wayne Rooney is Capello’s first-choice frontman while Jermain Defoe netted a hat-trick in the opening match of the qualifying campaign against Bulgaria on Friday. However, Bent said that he is giving his all in training to catch the manager’s eye and try to force his way into Capello’s plans.
'Focused on getting into team'
He told Goal.com that: "I can’t even remember the last time I got a chance in a qualifier. But I’m really focused on putting myself out there and getting into the team. I’ve started the season OK and if I just keep banging in the goals, then hopefully I’ll get the nod."
Bent has been in tremendous form since arriving at Sunderland for an initial fee of £10m last summer. His first season in the North East saw him score 25 goals from 40 appearances across all competitions. He has got the new season off to a flier as well, having netted four times in four games so far.
After playing for England at various youth levels, Bent made his debut for the senior national team in March 2006 in a friendly match against Uruguay. He has gone on to make six appearances for his country, but has not yet scored an international goal for the first team.
Tags: