Bent to miss Barclays Asia Trophy

The England international dropped out of Tottenham Hotspur's pre-season flight to China at the last moment sparking speculation of an imminent move to the Stadium of Light.

Bent was with the rest of his team-mates on the flight which was awaiting departure to Beijing for the Barclays Asia Trophy.

But a phone call came through shortly before take-off informing Bent that he needed to leave the plane.

The former Charlton forward is now reportedly holding talks with the Black Cats over a proposed switch to Wearside.