Bruce relief at getting Bent

05 August 2009 18:36
Sunderland manager Steve Bruce has told Sky Sports News of his joy at finally landing striker Darren Bent. After a protracted transfer saga, the Black Cats completed the £10million capture of Bent from Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday. Bruce is eagerly anticipating working with the England international and has predicted the attacker to shine at the Stadium of Light. He said: "We are very, very pleased of course. Good things come to those who wait. "I am delighted for everybody at the club, in particular the people who have worked extremely hard behind the scenes to try and pull it together. Quality "And of course for the supporters because it shows our intent, with the type of calibre that we are going for. "I think he has maybe never really been given a fair crack of the whip at Spurs. It has not quite happened for Darren at Spurs. "But he has around 50 goals in 100 Premier League starts and that speaks volumes about why we are bringing him to the club." Neill Asked why the deal had taken so long, Bruce replied: "The main thing was trying to agree a fee club-to-club. That took some time but I think we got there this morning. "It was a bit protracted, a bit tedious, but we got there in the end. We've been patient and finally got our man." Bruce also confirmed his interest in free agent Lucas Neill, whose contract at West Ham expired at the end of last season. He said: "We've had a little conversation to see where he is up to. We have just enquired to see what the situation is. "He is extremely experienced. The attraction is that he is available on a free transfer."

Source: SKY_Sports