Darren Bent has a massive opportunity tonight. In normal circumstances he probably wouldn’t get a look in, but with the players that are missing and the form he has been in of late, he could well start for England tonight against Germany. Capello has reportedly spoken with Bent regarding the way he wants him to play which points to him playing at least some part. Bent is quoted as saying “He told me why he picked me and how he wants me to play. I just listened. He told me to play my own game and not try to over complicate things.”
I know a number of people are of the opinion that the England stars that have pulled out of the squad either didn’t fancy it or have been told by their respective clubs not to play. I find it quite hard to believe that any player would not want to line up against the old enemy, especially with how well the side has been playing recently. Although saying that, a number of them looked like they couldn’t care less a few months ago but surely any player that can’t get motivated by representing England against Germany shouldn’t be playing the game full stop.
A good performance here would do Bent’s confidence the world of good and could also have a positive impact on the rest of Tottenham’s season. Even without Lampard, Gerrard, Rooney and the like, the likely starting line up looks solid enough. The majority of England games where Gareth Barry has played have ended positively so his inclusion is a good sign.
It could be the type of game that will suit Bent. England are likely to be under pressure for large periods and will have to play on the break. Bent’s pace and power are probably better suited to a game like this than maybe Theo Walcott or Michael Owen.
Frazier Campbell scored the only goal of the game for England’s Under-21′s last night against the Czech Republic, lets hope Darren Bent can continue the Spurs-England striker takeover!
