Marcus Bent says he is frustrated at the way his season has gone and the reaction he has got from some sections of the Portman Road crowd. Bent has received abuse throughout the season but feels he is strong enough to deal with it.

The striker faces one of his old clubs tonight and says: "This season is really doing my head in. I have just not played my best all season and then, when I looked to be getting back to something like myself, I get an injury again.

“It is really annoying and frustrating and I can hear the fans screaming and shouting at me. I try to ignore it but I'm human and of course it gets to you. It is only a few and I can understand their frustration but believe me they are not alone, I feel it too.

“I'm strong mentally and will get through it and I know getting back in among the goals will help. All forwards thrive on confidence and I need to get mine back up there. It is about finding the right balance.”

Bent is expecting to get booed by his old Palace fans tonight after receiving similar treatment last time he was in action against the Eagles. Then he scored a goal for Sheffield United, something he will be hoping to repeat this evening.

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