BURNLEY boss Stan Ternent may cast a few envious glances in Marcus Bent's direction at Ewood tomorrow.

The former Sheffield United hit-man is believed to have been high on Ternent's wish-list during his search for a striker earlier this season.

But instead, however, it was Rovers boss Graeme Souness who was able to take a punt on the 22-year-old frontman.

And the Ewood chief has been richly rewarded in goals ever since with Bent having hit the back of the net 10 times from his first 18 starts after striking up a formidable partnership with Matt Jansen.

"I didn't have talks with Burnley but, basically, there was a number of clubs who were interested in buying me and they were rumoured to be one of them," said Bent.

"But, without being disrespectful to them, I wouldn't have joined Burnley anyway even if Rovers hadn't have come in for me at all."

The former Crystal Palace star ensured he became an instant hit with Rovers fans when he scored his first goal in the 2-0 derby win at Turf Moor.

And, since that memorable day back in December, he hasn't looked back.

"It was a great experience, not just because I scored, but just to play in that game," said Bent.

"I've played in the derby between Sheffield Wednesday and Sheffield United and that was a high-pressured game which meant a lot to the fans and the clubs.

"And it was, basically, the same at Turf Moor."

Now Bent and his strike-partner Matt Jansen have got the Clarets firmly in their sights as they look to fire the goals to lead Rovers into the Premiership.

And, though neither player grew up in East Lancashire, Bent insists he's still fully aware of exactly what's at stake on Sunday.

"Every derby game is a special game to a pro," said Bent.

"And, if you're not going into a game giving anything less than 100 per cent, then you shouldn't be there.

"So the boys know what it means to the fans and the club."