James Collins hailed Aston Villa matchwinner Darren Bent after victory over Manchester City.
The defender admits the &poiund;24 million signing's arrival has lifted the squad.
Collins said: "It is great for the players to see someone of Darren's quality coming into Villa and it does show the intent of the club.
"He has given a lift to the players, the staff and the fans.
"It is not being disrespectful to anyone but we haven't scored enough goals this season as well as conceding too many.
"Darren has scored goals where ever he has been and I'm sure he will get a lot of Villa because we do create chances.
"People say he only had a handful of touches in the game but he can do that every week as long as he gets the winner."
