Bent recovery on track

Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish has revealed Darren Bent has made a return to light training following a long-term injury absence.

The England international ruptured his ankle ligaments back in February against Wigan and was ruled out for three months following surgery on March 5.

With Bent missing for most the second part of the season, Aston Villa have been drawn into a relegation battle and now find themselves just six points clear of the drop zone.

“Darren is bang on course for a full recovery and we are all very pleased about this,” McLeish said.

“The player himself is obviously delighted and he has begun to do light running, which is good news.

“He will continue to work under the guidance of (Villa doctor) Dr Ian McGuinness and the medical team.”

Despite the encouraging nature of the 28-year-old’s steady recovery, he remains a major doubt for England’s Euro 2012 campaign.

Under former England boss Fabio Capello, Bent had established himself as a backup option to striker Wayne Rooney.

With the Manchester United star banned for two of England’s group games at the Euros, the Villa forward was expected to feature at the tournament, though this is now in doubt.