‘I didn’t do that’ – Darren Bent grovels to Sunderland fans after Newcastle accusation
Darren Bent does not exactly have the greatest reputation at Sunderland.
The former striker was one of the best goalscorers of recent times at the Stadium of Light and was part of a formidable side.
Perhaps his most memorable moment on the pitch was when Bent scored against Liverpool courtesy of a beach ball.
However, the Englishman sprinted towards the exit doors when Aston Villa came knocking midway through the season.
Now, he has been effectively begging Sunderland supporters after being accused of doing something shameful after a 5-1 loss to Newcastle United.
Darren Bent accused of celebrating after 5-1 defeat to Newcastle
Bent defended Sunderland supporters after they were accused of overcelebrating their play-off victory over Coventry City last season.
However, the former forward now has some explaining to do after what transpired on talkSPORT on 18 September.
Bent and Andy Goldstein were previewing Thursday’s Champions League fixtures, with a focus on Newcastle against Barcelona.
Then, the conversation took a turn when Goldstein asked Bent about the 5-1 defeat at St James’ Park.
- Bent scored in the 5-1 defeat
- He netted eight league goals that season
- Aston Villa signed him for £18million in January
Goldstein: “Yeah, you celebrated your goal bonus, though, didn’t you? You went out that night.”
Bent: “Honestly, you’re stitches, I told you that in confidence. I know it was a long time ago, but honestly. No, I didn’t, but I told you a lie. But I didn’t think you would blurt it out.”
Goldstein: “Celebrated.”
Bent: “Cha ching. No, Sunderland fans, I know we don’t get on anyway, but I didn’t do that.”
Why Sunderland have improved optimism ahead of Tyne-Wear derby
Sunderland and Newcastle will meet in the 157th Tyne-Wear derby in December at the Stadium of Light.
The last time the North East rivals met was in the FA Cup third round in 2024, with the Magpies running out 3-0 winners.
At the time, the gap in quality was immense, with Newcastle bullying the Black Cats like it was year 11s against year sevens on the school playground.
However, Sunderland are a different beast now and possesses a team full of talent that can hurt Eddie Howe’s side.
- Sunderland wins: 53
- Draws: 49
- Newcastle wins: 54
One of the key ingredients in the game will be Regis Le Bris’ captain Granit Xhaka, who has the leadership, grit, and experience to topple the Magpies.
However, perhaps the key factor will be the Wearside faithful, who are bound to transform the Stadium of Light into the colosseum.
Le Bris’ players will be only too wise to celebrate if they win, while supporters will hope that Bent’s remarks were a joke.
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