Villans’ revival is down to Bent, says Houllier

WIGAN: Aston Villa manager Gerard Houllier believes the arrival of England striker Darren Bent has played a major role in his side’s resurgence.

Bent, who made a £24mil move to Villa Park from Sunderland last week, scored the winner on his debut against Manchester City on Saturday and was the main man again as Houllier’s side defeated Wigan 2-1 at the DW Stadium on Tuesday.

Although Bent didn’t get on the scoresheet against Wigan, his dynamic presence up front encouraged Villa to produce the kind of attacking display that has been missing too often for Houllier’s liking.

Goals from Gabriel Agbonlahor – his first of the season in the Premier League – and Ashley Young put Villa 2-0 up and although James McCarthy got one back for Wigan it was too late to salvage a draw.

“Sometimes when you recruit a player it takes five or six games before he settles or scores a goal,” said Houllier, whose team are now six points clear of the relegation zone.

“Darren scored a vital goal against Manchester City and today I think he was very important in the offensive front.

“His movement is very good but when he doesn’t score, it is good if the others score and today Gabby and Ashley did.”

Bent had two good opportunities in the first half but Wigan goalkeeper Ali Al Habsi, who also denied Stewart Downing, was again in fine form.

Wigan had good chances through Charles N’Zogbia and Hugo Rodallega but Villa took control as Agbonlahor nodded home in the 49th minute.

Young added a second from the penalty spot after being brought down by Hendry Thomas on the hour and Villa held on despite McCarthy striking in a rousing Wigan finish.