Aston Villa hit back at Sunderland's accusations of foul play in Darren Bent transfer

Posted Thursday, January 20, 2011 by Thisislondon.co.uk

Aston Villa have accused Sunderland of trying to bring the reputations of both Darren Bent and the club into disrepute in the wake of the England international’s £24 million move to the Midlands.

Aston Villa hit back at Sunderland's accusations of foul play in Darren Bent transfer
Bent deal: Aston Villa have hit back at Sunderland after being accused of tapping up Darren Bent

Sunderland manager Steve Bruce complained yesterday that the 26 year-old, who has scored one league goal in the last month, had been underperforming in training and suggested with hindsight it was because of interest from Villa.

He said: "Our supporters and the club as a whole have every right to feel massively let down. It's obvious he's not been himself in training and we've certainly not seen the best of him in games in recent weeks - and we now understand why."

His comments suggest malpractice by Aston Villa – clubs are not allowed to approach a player before being given permission by his club - and the Midlands club have felt compelled to defend themselves. They have rubbished the suggestion that they turned Bent’s head before making an official approach and criticised Sunderland for resorting to gutter tactics.

A statement on the club’s official website avfc.co.uk said: “We understand Sunderland Football Club’s need to explain to their naturally disappointed supporters why Darren has been allowed to leave their club. It is disappointing, however, that Sunderland should try to besmirch the reputation of the player and Aston Villa Football Club in the process.

“We wish to make clear that at no time did Aston Villa make an inappropriate approach to the player or unfairly compromise the business of Sunderland Football Club.

“Darren only became aware of his possible transfer AFTER Sunderland’s game against Newcastle on Sunday and AFTER we had agreed with Sunderland the essence of the deal which led quickly to Darren’s arrival at Villa Park on Tuesday. It is only because of some comments emanating from the Stadium of Light that we have felt compelled to respond and set the record straight.”