Striker Darren Bent has signed a new four-year contract at Charlton. The 22-year-old was the leading English scorer in the Premiership last season with 18 goals in the league and 22 in total.

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.

"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."