Sunderland striker Darren Bent has laughed off reports that he is seeing a hypnotist to help conquer his fear of spiders ahead of the World Cup.
The ten-goal Black Cats hitman is hoping to be part of Fabio Capello's final 23-man England squad for next summer's tournament.
However, he has dismissed claims that his arachnophobia could affect his confidence during the tournament in South Africa.
"It's nonsense," he told the club's official website.
"The World Cup is the pinnacle of any player's career and to suggest a slight fear of spiders would get in the way is complete rubbish, it's as simple as that.
"I will continue to keep my head down and work hard for Sunderland in order to give Fabio Capello a selection problem ahead of the tournament.
"I have read in the papers that I'm considering seeing a hypnotherapist, which is rubbish as well."
Source: DSG
