Darren Bent has admitted he is 'shattered' after being left out of England's final 23-man World Cup squad, despite scoring 25 goals for Sunderland this season. The striker failed to find the net in his two England starts against Brazil and Japan, leading Fabio Capello to omit him from the travelling party to South Africa.
Bent, speaking to the Sunderland website, expressed his disappointment: 'I feel really disappointed. I have always said to myself, if you play well and do your best for Sunderland, then there is a chance you can go to the biggest tournament in the world. But obviously on this occasion it has not worked out.'
The 26-year-old now plans to take a break before focusing on club matters ahead of next season. He said: 'Straight away from when Mr Capello spoke to me and told me I wouldn't be involved in the 23-man squad my thoughts turned to next season and how I can improve on what I have done for Sunderland this year. I am going to take some time off now and rest my bones after what has been a great season for me and get ready for next year.'
Despite his omission, Bent insists he will be supporting England in the tournament. 'Of course, I still want the boys to do well. I have got a lot of friends in the England set-up. They are a great bunch of lads and, even though I won't be there, I will be supporting them,' he added.
