CHARLTON striker Darren Bent was beaten to the Professional Footballers' Association's Young Player of the Year award by Manchester United and England star Wayne Rooney.

The 22-year-old, signed from Ipswich in the summer, scored his 22nd goal of the season against Bolton on Saturday and is the top scoring English player in the Premiership.

He had been shortlisted for the award along with Cristiano Ronaldo, also of United, Spurs winger Aaron Lennon, Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas and West Ham defender Anton Ferdinand.

It is a much coveted award as it is voted for by fellow professionals.