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Darren Bent flattered by link to Liverpool

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Darren Bent today admitted he was "flattered" by speculation of a move to Liverpool during the transfer window but insisted it was "laughable" to suggest he would leave Villa.

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Darren Bent today admitted he was "flattered" by speculation of a move to Liverpool during the transfer window but insisted it was "laughable" to suggest he would leave Villa.

The England international was persistently linked with a switch to Anfield throughout January but, speaking for the first time since the transfer window slammed shut, Bent revealed he never had his head turned at any stage.

Rumours about his future are likely to resurface again in the summer and the 27-year-old was also keen to nip them in the bud, as well, and pledge his future to the claret and blues.

He said: "The speculation? It was laughable. I always knew I was going to be at Villa. I have said before I would like to stay at Villa for years and really kick on in my career while playing for Villa.

"I always knew I was going to be here come February 1 and I am delighted to be here. You just laugh it off and get on with it.

"It is flattering. Liverpool are one of the biggest clubs in the world to be linked with but it never crossed my mind once to leave."

Bent, who has scored four goals in his last four matches and notched his 100th Premier League goal against QPR in midweek, has been encouraged by the arrival of former Tottenham team-mate Robbie Keane.

He added: "Robbie is doing fantastic for the team and for myself."