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Bent unlikely to face Bulgaria

ESPNsoccernet staff
September 1, 2011
Darren Bent is struggling with a groin problem © Getty Images
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England striker Darren Bent is a major doubt for Friday's Euro 2012 qualifier in Bulgaria after he once again missed training.

Bent, who already had missed the previous two days' sessions with a groin problem, failed to participate in the final session on Thursday.

The Aston Villa player also missed last month's friendly international against Holland - subsequently postponed because of the London riots - with a shoulder setback.

The former Sunderland player had looked to be establishing himself as a regular member of Fabio Capello's attack after a spell of three goals in three matches. But his possible absence for the trip to Sofia could open the door for Jermain Defoe, who scored a hat-trick against Bulgaria at Wembley a year ago.

Another option for Capello would be to play the in-form Ashley Young behind Wayne Rooney.

Bent was the only absentee from training as England finalised their preparations for two games in four days, which will go a long way to determining whether they gain automatic qualification to next summer's finals.

They will follow up the trip to Bulgaria with a home encounter against Wales at Wembley on Tuesday.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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