Bruce Slams Cappello Over Bent

The English manager came out and said recently that 'I overlooked him (Bent) for the World Cup because he was not as good as he is at this moment.

'I have been twice to see Aston Villa. They are playing completely differently from Sunderland.

'For Sunderland, it was important for them to go straight for the goal.

'Before Bent was only playing for the box. Now, he is a player who can play for the team.

'This is important. When I choose the player, I choose him for the team.'

Bruce believes that his move from Spurs to Sunderland helped him add confidence and style to his play.

He bagged over 35 goals in only a season and a half for Steve Bruce but Cappello claims he is more suited to Villa.

The Black Cats boss said: 'That's a frustration for us all and it is hugely disrespectful if he has said those sort of things.

'Darren Bent scored 24 [Barclays Premier League] goals for us and played an unbelievable season, and yet didn't go to the World Cup, so I find that a harsh statement.

'The big problem with all of that is the geography of where we are. It's very difficult to come and watch any people at Sunderland, especially on their own patch.

'It doesn't happen very often. Usually managers of international teams are watching us away from home, and sometimes that's a bit difficult for the players as much as anything else.'

I guess it will be interesting to see where both teams end up this season.

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