Aston Villa striker Darren Bent isn't giving up on his World Cup dream.

The Mirror says he is desperately searching for a new club after moves to Fulham and Newcastle both fell down with the Midlands club demanding £6m.

Premier League new boys Crystal Palace are keen on taking 29-year-old Bent on a season-long loan but Villa boss Paul Lambert is keen on a permanent deal.

But Bent - who was England's No.9 as recently as last summer - still harbours hopes of forcing his way back in Roy Hodgson's plans even after a disastrous season at Villa.