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Derby County striker’s record proves just how good McClaren is

Darren Bent of Derby County and Dominic Vose of Grimsby Town in action (Reuters)
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Derby County stirker Darren Bent has been thriving since the return of Steve McClaren.

Since Steve McClaren’s return to Derby County, the Rams have endured a miraculous turn around in form, shifting themselves from just above the relegation zone to 6th in the league.

After struggling under Nigel Pearson, many eyebrows were raised when the former Rams boss, who departed for Newcastle United, returned to the club, but nobody can argue with the Rams’ incredible turnaround.

New Derby County manager Steve McClaren posesDerby County manager Steve McClaren

One player who has enjoyed an especially positive upturn in form under McClaren is Rams striker, Darren Bent. The former Spurs, Fulham and Sunderland man was struggling to get a kick under former Derby bosses such as Paul Clement and Nigel Pearson, but under McClaren, Bent has found his form again.

Derby's Darren Bent in action with Norwich's Wes HoolahanDerby’s Darren Bent in action

When Bent has featured for Derby County under other managers, the strikers scoring record stands at just 4 goals in 37 appearances. However, under Steve McClaren, Bent boasts an impressive 19 goals in 34 appearances. Pretty impressive for a 32-year-old!

Crucially, it is evidence how effective McClaren is as Derby boss, that he could get someone of Bent’s quality back in form and contributing in the way that he currently is.

Derby County's Darren Bent has an attempt on goalDerby County’s Darren Bent has an attempt on goal

With Derby County now fully back in the swing of things, and firmly back in with a chance of promotion, Darren Bent’s experience and natural goal-scoring instinct might be just what the Rams need to fire them to the Premier League.

Reading's Paul McShane in action with Derby County's Darren BentDerby County’s Darren Bent