Ex-England striker Darren Bent released by Aston Villa

Former England international Darren Bent has been released by Aston Villa alongside defender Enda Stephens.

Bent joined Villa for a club record £18m in 2011 but fell out of favour under Paul Lambert, and was shipped out on loan to Fulham, Brighton and Derby County.

Reports this morning suggest new Derby boss Paul Clement will make the striker his first permanent signing at Pride Park.