Darren Bent signs four-year deal with Addicks

The 22-year-old was the leading English scorer in the Barclays Premiership last season with 18 goals in the league and 22 in total following his move from Coca-Cola Championship club Ipswich.

Bent, who was unfortunate not to be selected for England’s World Cup squad, had been the subject of intense speculation after being linked with the likes of Newcastle but he will start next season at The Valley where he will partner new signing Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink.

Bent told the club’s website, www.cafc.co.uk: “I am delighted to bring to an end all the press speculation about my future.

“(Chairman) Richard Murray knows I am committed to this club and although I am flattered to be linked with the biggest clubs in the country I owe Charlton a lot after they gave me my chance in the Premiership and the fans have been right behind me since I joined.

“I have also been hugely impressed with our new manager Iain Dowie and his ideas as well as Les Reed and Mark Robson.

“I have a good feeling about this season and if I can match what I achieved last season I will be delighted.”