Bent proud of England´s success

England and Aston Villa striker Darren Bent has hailed the Three Lions’ qualification from Group G as “a massive achievement for the country”.

Bent scored England’s second in the 2-2 draw with Montenegro and was keen not to play down the significance of the result.

“It’s a massive achievement for the country,” Bent said in an article on the FA’s official website.

“It’s been difficult at times, but I thought we played well in difficult circumstances, we got the job done and now we can look forward to the Euros.”

“It was hostile and the fans made it a good event. The stadium was tight, the pitch was quite tight so it made it difficult at times to play the way we like, but we got the job done. We played well enough on the night to get the result. Unfortunately it wasn’t all three points.”

Bent scored his goal following good-work from his former Aston Villa team-mate Ashley Young, and praised the unselfish work of the Manchester United man.

“It’s got a lot to do with him,” Bent said.

“Every time I make a run or get into the box, he seems to find me. Part of him probably wanted to shoot, but to be fair to him he made the pass.”

“Luckily enough I stuck it away and was happy to get a tap-in and even happier to be on the way to the Euros.”

Young himself had scored the first goal after good work from Theo Walcott. After originally struggling to cement a place in the England starting XI, Young has become an integral part of the side.

“It was a great ball from Theo, who did brilliantly all through the game,” he said.

“He got down the line and put in a great cross, and I just had to get my head on the ball and direct it towards goal. I was delighted.”

“I’ve really enjoyed the campaign, getting goals and assists, and playing from the start. I’m delighted that we are going to the Euros now.”

“We knew it was going to be tough today, but the main job was to get the point and we can look forward now.”

“There is always competition for places.”

“The team has changed throughout the campaign, but whenever the players are called upon to go out there and play for your country, you want to give it 110 percent.”

“It’s a proud moment to pull on the England shirt and that goes throughout the whole team.”