‘Darren Bent is the best finisher in the country’ – former Aston Villa hero Peter McParland

EPL : Darren Bent, Aston Villa v Stoke City

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Aston Villa‘s £24 million striker Darren Bent has been hailed as the “best finisher in the country” by one of the club’s FA Cup heroes.

Peter McParland, who scored both goals in the 1957 final as Villa overcame Manchester United’s Busby Babes 2-1, has been extremely impressed by Bent since his January arrival from Sunderland.

And the former Northern Ireland international fully expects Bent to play a big role in the future at Villa Park.

“I think we’ve got the best finisher in the country with Darren,” McParland told the club’s official website.

“If the ball drops in the box, he puts the chances away. He’s always looking to get his name on the scoresheet.

“You can see he lives for goals.

“I was really impressed with his goal against Stoke especially. It was a normal cross into the box but he turned into a goal. It was a great headed finish and he made that all for himself.

“If you get the right delivery and you give him chances, he’ll put them away. He really is a top-class finisher.

“He is a terrific striker. I have been delighted with how he’s done since he’s been at Villa.”

Bent has scored three times for England this season and has silenced many of his critics, with McParland admitting that the forward has exceeded his expectations.

“I must give him credit. I have been surprised,” he added.

“I’ve seen a fair bit of him since he’s been at Villa and he’s a better player than I’ve given him credit for in the past.

“He scores goals for fun. I am sure he will prove to be a superb player for Villa.

“If the lads continue providing for him and giving him service, he’ll score. He can even turn half chances into goals.”