Darren Bent's future has been plunged into fresh doubt at Tottenham.

The Independent says Bent's future at Tottenham was thrown into doubt last night after the striker pulled out of his club's Carling Cup semi-final second leg against Burnley. The player told manager Harry Redknapp's assistants that he was injured and did not get the team's flight to the North-west, prompting suggestions at the club that he is disillusioned.

Aston Villa have been interested in the England international, who signed for Spurs for £16.5m in 2007, although no formal approach has been made.