Birmingham City striker Marcus Bent finds it hard to compete with a legend

Mar 11 2009 By Andy Walker

BLUES striker Marcus Bent admits that it’s hard to compete with Kevin Phillips’ ‘legendary’ status - but he’s prepared to take any criticism that comes his way on the chin.

The St Andrew’s faithful have been craving the return of 13-goal man Phillips since the prolific hit-man was sidelined with a hamstring injury just over three weeks ago.

Understandably the former Albion and Villa striker has become a crowd favourite with Bluenoses as his goals have helped the club pick up crucial Championship points this season. On the flip side, Bent has struggled to attract the same affection from Blues supporters and to discover the same red-hot scoring streak as Phillips.

Bent admits that Blues’ mis-firing forwards have lived in Phillips’ shadow for most of this season but the experienced goal-getter won’t let any flak get to him.