Few could argue with Darren Bent’s recall to the England squad after a blistering start to the season following his summer switch from Spurs to Sunderland.
Black Cats’ boss Steve Bruce is certainly delighted with Bent’s contribution so far – and the fact that Fabio Capello has also acknowledged his achievements.
Bent is the highest-scoring Englishman in the top flight summer and the 25-year-old has made an immediate impact with eight goals in the Premier League.
Bruce told the club's official website: "Darren is a top lad with an immaculate work-rate on and off the pitch and it's a testament to his record and attitude that Mr Capello has decided to add him to the squad.
"If you look at the number and type of goals he's scored this season, it shows what a well-rounded player he is.
"When we first signed him, I was amazed at his natural ability in front of goal and said to myself 'this lad's going to be a top player for this club, that's for sure'."
Bent has been overlooked for recent England internationals, despite his goalscoring record, but Bruce says the snub never affected his striker’s performances.
"The fact he's kept going after not making other squads shows the type of lad he is - I'm absolutely over the moon for him."
England squad:
Goalkeepers: Ben Foster (Manchester United), Robert Green (West Ham), Joe Hart (Manchester City)
Defenders: Wayne Bridge (Manchester City), Wes Brown (Manchester United), Gary Cahill (Bolton), Glen Johnson (Liverpool), Joleon Lescott (Manchester City), John Terry (Chelsea), Matthew Upson (West Ham), Stephen Warnock (Aston Villa).
Midfielders: Gareth Barry (Manchester City), Michael Carrick (Manchester United), Tom Huddlestone, Jermaine Jenas (both Tottenham), Frank Lampard (Chelsea), James Milner (Aston Villa), Shaun Wright-Phillips (Manchester City), Ashley Young (Aston Villa).
Strikers: Darren Bent (Sunderland), Peter Crouch, Jermain Defoe (both Tottenham), Wayne Rooney (Manchester United)
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