Darren Bent has been called up to the senior England squad for the forthcoming Euro 2008 qualifiers against Macedonia and Croatia.

The Charlton striker had been expected to play for the Under 21's side on Friday night but following Andrew Johnson's withdrawal from Steve McClarens squad with a hamstring inury, Bent has been called up to replace the Everton striker.

"Andy's out of the games against Macedonia and Croatia with a hamstring injury," England head coach Steve McClaren told the FA's official website.

"It's a real blow because he's made a massive impact already with Everton this season and I've been hugely impressed by him. He's got such a great attitude and is a constant threat to any defence.

"He was certainly knocking very hard on the door for a place in the team, so it's a disappointment to lose him.

"However, I've spoken to Peter Taylor and I can confirm that Darren Bent will now join the senior squad when we meet on Tuesday.

"We're fortunate that we're able to call Darren up from the Under-21's. He's already got experience of been involved in several senior squads and he's a player with excellent ability and a real goal threat."