England ace Bent thanks parents
DARREN Bent thanked his parents after becoming the first Sunderland player to score for England in 56 years.
The Black Cats hitman stepped off the bench to seal a 3-1 win for Fabio Capello's side against Switzerland in the Euro 2010 qualifier in Basle last night.
It was Bent's first goal for his country, and helped banish the heartache of missing out on a place in the World Cup squad in the summer.
Bent – who became the first Sunderland player to score for England since Len Shackleton – said his mother Shirley and father Mervyn have never lost faith in his ability.
The Sunderland striker said: "I never thought my England chances would fade.
"It's disappointing when you miss out on the World Cup. But at the same time you have to keep your head down and keep working hard for your club.
"As long as my Premier League form is good, international football will never be too far away.
"I started the season like I finished last season. It is frustrating sometimes (my England form), but I have to keep going and work hard.
"When the chances come, you have to take them. My mum and dad, from when I could kick a ball until now, were my driving force. Dad knows his stuff as he played football when younger. He always said never give up."
Bent came on as a 70th-minute substitute for Jermain Defoe, with his big moment coming three minutes from the end when he picked up an Ashley Cole pass and drilled a low left-footed effort home.
And now he is setting his sights on more goals in a Three Lions shirt.
"It was great to score my first goal for England," he added.
"I have had a few chances for England and been unable to put one away so I am delighted.
"Premier League-wise, I have a good record. It is nice to get one for your country. Hopefully now there are many more to come."
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Monday 21 May 2012
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