Aston Villa manager Alex McLeish believes that Darren Bent has age on his side if he is to miss Euro 2012 this summer.

The Villa striker's participation for England has been thrown into doubt following the news that he has damaged ankle ligaments.

McLeish admits that Bent is unlikely to recover in time for the tournament, but feels that the 28-year-old is young enough to play in another major competition for England.

"He is suitably gutted," said McLeish. "It would appear to be the case that he may miss the European Championships, as the suggestions are he's going to have to possibly get an operation.

"This would definitely rule him out of the Euros, but he's still a young man and still has a big career ahead of him."

Earlier today Bent claimed that he could be fit in time for England selection.