Pardew says Bent is not for sale

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Charlton boss Alan Pardew has insisted star striker Darren Bent will be staying at the club this season.

Bent suffered a knee injury against Aston Villa, prompting Pardew to admit that he could be tempted listen to offers for the prolific 22-year-old.

But Bent has made a quicker than expected recovery, and Pardew says he has no intention of selling.

"The decision about selling Darren has gone away, and he will stay here until the end of the year," said Pardew.

"We think there is an outside chance that he could be ready for Manchester United, or West Ham the following week.

"It has been hard for him with all the speculation, and I opened the door to that - but I have said to him I have now closed that door firmly, so that he can focus on the rest of the season.

"Darren is a big player for this club - perhaps our biggest player.

"We will get him back as quickly as we can and then we will have a better chance to stay in the Premiership."

Bent is one of the most highly-prized assets in the top flight, having scored 22 goals in his first Premiership season last year.

He has added another 11 this term, despite Charlton struggling at the bottom end of the table.

A host of clubs including West Ham, Aston Villa and Tottenham have been linked with moves for the striker.