Exiting striker Darren Bent says leaving Town was difficult after seven years at Portman Road. The frontman completed his £2.5 million move to Charlton late this afternoon, signing a four-year contract.

Speaking at a press conference Bent said: "It feels great to be a Charlton player. I think it's the perfect club for me to join. There is a massive opportunity for me to play in the Premiership here and, similar to Ipswich, Charlton is very much a family club, so I'm looking forward to it and raring to go."

Bent asked two former Town team-mates for their advice regarding his move: "I spoke to Matty and I know Hermann is enjoying himself here. They both said it's a fantastic club to play for and when you hear those kind of things from players of that experience you take notice.

"It was difficult to leave Ipswich after seven years, but it was an opportunity I couldn't turn down.

"Obviously playing in the Premiership was a big attraction and Charlton have made the effort to sign me, so I'm delighted to be here."

"I'm confident in my own ability. I'm looking forward to the challenge and I think it's a case of getting off to a good start and taking from there.

"Curbs has told me that it's up to me to take my chance when it comes and I know that with the amount of strikers at this club I'm going to need to do that."

Bent's fee will rise to £3 million based on appearances for the Addicks and the full England side, while the Blues will take a percentage if and when Charlton sell the Town academy product.

Photo: Action Images

Ipswich Town Polls