Ex-Premier League ace Marcus Bent signs for NINTH-tier Southern Combination side Wick
FORMER Premier League star Marcus Bent has joined Wick FC - a club playing in the NINTH tier of English football.
Bent is swapping the glamour of the game for the grass roots after agreeing a new role with the Sussex side playing in the Southern Combination League.
Ex-Everton and Ipswich striker Bent is now waiting to make his debut for Wick as the club look to push through international clearance for the deal.
The 39-year-old is still registered to Indonesian Super League side Mitra Kukar having spent a season playing there in 2012.
Bent, who made two appearances for England under-21s, has played for 15 English clubs in his career including Brentford, Crystal Palace and Blackburn.
Wich chairman Rodney Lampton said: "Myself and Marcus grew up together in Hammersmith and we've remained great friends ever since.
"When I took over as chairman I had a chat with Marcus and he said he'd be interested in joining the club.
"He's got great pedigree in the game, I'm hoping his addition will be the first of many great things to come at Wick."
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Bent will also work with first team manager Lee Baldwin to help with the running of the side.
Baldwin said: "Marcus has played in the Premier League and it's brilliant to have him coming here.
"I met him at the club on Monday, he's a confident guy and has great plans here.
"He'll be a great help for the players, helping them on the pitch and for me as a young manager.
"Marcus will be reporting to Rodney and other committee members, who may not be able to get down to the club regularly."
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