Sunderland striker Darren Bent is hoping to end the season by topping the Premier League scoring charts. The Black Cats hit-man has 24 top flight goals to his name this term, with an early effort against Hull City on Saturday keeping him in the hunt for the coveted Golden Boot.

He sits third in the standings at present, one behind Chelsea's Didier Drogba and two adrift of Manchester United's Wayne Rooney.

"It would be nice to finish top of the pile," he told the Sunderland Echo.

"I've given myself a chance and it's great to be in that company.

"With a couple of games left now, hopefully I can get one or two more goals and give myself a chance."

Bent's consistency has been a major plus point for Sunderland this season and has justified the £10million they splashed out to secure his signature last summer.

"I don't know if I thought I'd have so many," the 26 year old said on his impressive haul.

"I always knew I could do well and score goals for Sunderland, but I have to pinch myself sometimes with 25 goals (in all competitions).

"But you always have to believe in yourself and your ability and I do that 100 per cent."