DARREN BENT has told how his faith has helped him stay strong despite Aston Villa’s problems and England’s misery.
Bent’s late-season injury problems kept him out of the Claret and Blues’ survival fight and cost him a place with the Three Lions at Euro 2012.
It is disappointing for the 28-year-old striker, who moved to Villa to boost his career for club and country.
But Bent admits his Christianity helps him put his footballing setbacks into perspective and take positives out of difficult situations.
Villa’s record striker admits he reads the bible every day after being introduced to religion at an early age by his grandmother.
“My grandma got me into the whole religious thing because she used to carry me to church every Sunday,” he said.
“I read the bible every day before I get up. You’ve got to have faith.
“I’ve been through some hard times here at Villa and at Spurs and missing out on major tournaments with England.
“It has been difficult but I’m a believer that good things come to those who wait and I believe if I am patient and I have faith then more good things will happen to me in my life and in my career.”
Bent admits he still tries to attend church as often as possible and says his team-mates for Villa and England respect his religious beliefs.
“I still go to church when I can, although it can be hard with Sunday games,” he explained.
“But whenever my grandma needs me to do something for the church, to go along to an event or sign something for the church, then I’m more than happy to do that.
“I don’t get any stick for my faith in the dressing room.
‘‘I think the lads realise it is a personal choice of mine and they respect that.
