Darren Bent enjoys fresh start after transfer row

Darren Bent today admitted he is fully focused on matters on the pitch as relations between Villa and Sunderland turned sour over his record-breaking transfer.

Black Cats chairman Niall Quinn made allegations over Villa's conduct during the deal for Bent and said he knew "about two or three weeks ago" that "something was up with him".

But Villa released a statement which clarified that they had operated appropriately throughout his £24m move.

"We understand Sunderland's need to explain to their naturally-disappointed supporters why Darren Bent has been allowed to leave their club," said the Villa statement.

"It is disappointing, however, that Sunderland should try to besmirch the reputation of the player and Aston Villa in the process.

"We wish to make clear that at no time did Aston Villa make an inappropriate approach to the player or unfairly compromise the business of Sunderland. Darren only became aware of his possible transfer after Sunderland's game against Newcastle on Sunday and after we had agreed with Sunderland the essence of the deal."

But Bent is not concerning himself with the furore as he trains with his new team-mates in preparation for the visit of Manchester City.

"It's a fresh start for me and what's happened in the last 18 months doesn't matter now, it's forgotten about. It's all about Villa and I can't wait to start here," said Bent.

"I'm only 26 so I've still got a number of years left in the game. It's a fresh challenge and I can't wait to get going"

Villa are set to end their pursuit of Blackpool's Charlie Adam after the clubs failed to agree on a price for the Scottish midfielder, while young Austrian striker Andreas Weimann has been allowed to join Watford on loan until the end of the season.