Shay Given admits Aston Villa striker Darren Bent is upset being left out of the team.

The club's £24m record signing has been left out by ruthless boss Paul Lambert for Villa's last two matches.

And Given revealed Lambert's cold shoulder is getting to the England striker.

"He is frustrated a little bit at the minute," said the keeper.

"We have Christian Benteke, who is a powerful young forward from Belgium who has done very well. So there is competition for places and that is something we need.

"When players are left out it is a bigger worry for me if they are happy with being left out.

"Darren is frustrated to not be playing but that shows he cares and he wants to be in the team."