Bent out for three months

Darren Bent’s Euro 2012 aspirations are in doubt after the Aston Villa striker was ruled out for up to three months with ruptured ankle ligaments.

The England international fell awkwardly during the 0-0 Premier League draw with Wigan Athletic on Saturday.

Villa confirmed on Monday that he is likely to be out until the end of May.

“Darren Bent has undergone scans and he has seen a top ankle specialist this afternoon in London,” Villa said in a statement.

“He faces up to 12 weeks on the sidelines having ruptured ankle ligaments in his left foot in the game against Wigan and he is unlikely to play again this season.”

“The Villa medical staff have been liaising with the England medical team about the extent of his injury.”

“Darren will undergo a further examination in seven days to determine the need for an operation.”

With Wayne Rooney suspended for England’s first two Euro 2012 games, the first of which is on June 11 against France, Bent was tipped to start in place of the Manchester United striker.

Villa sit 14th in the Premier League, eight points clear of third-bottom Blackburn.