Source: PA
Bent central to Capello's plans
Fabio Capello expects Darren Bent to be a pivotal figure for England in the future.
Bent was overlooked for the World Cup, despite his 24 goals leaving him second only to Wayne Rooney amongst English-born players in the Premier League last season.
Sunderland boss Steve Bruce has never had any reservations about the 26-year-old's quality, yet it seemed Capello was not listening to frequent calls from the Stadium of Light for Bent to be given his chance.
The striker was selected for the friendly against Brazil in Doha last November but failed to shine in an injury-hit team and an equally disappointing display against Japan in May meant he spent the summer on holiday in the United States rather than terrorising defenders in South Africa.
However, ahead of his squad announcement for next Tuesday's Euro 2012 qualifier against Montenegro at Wembley, Capello has confirmed Bent - who has already scored eight times this season, including one for England against Switzerland last month when he collected his seventh cap - is now a key part of his plans.
"Bent is back," Capello told www.thefa.com. "In front of goal, he is really dangerous. He played 20 minutes against Switzerland and scored an important goal. Now he is training really well. He is probably one of the important players for the future."
