Darren Bent is on course for a return to The Amex - with Derby County.

The former Albion loan striker has been borrowed by Derby from Aston Villa for the rest of the season.

Bent scored twice in five outings for the Seagulls.

They were keen on retaining the services of the ex-England marksman but he has switched from the West Midlands to the East Midlands instead, with Derby well-placed to secure promotion to the Premier League.

Steve McClaren, the Rams' manager and former England boss, said: "I've worked with him in the past and he brings significant Premier League and international experience with him.

"He adds to our already excellent attacking options. Darren has scored goals wherever he has been during his career and we believe he can contribute on the field for us."

Derby visit The Amex on March 3. Bent is expected to make his debut for Derby against boyhood club and promotion rivals Ipswich Town on January 10.