Aston Villa captain Stiliyan Petrov has criticised the Sunderland supporters' abuse of former striker Darren Bent at the Stadium of Light at the weekend.
The England international, who left the Black Cats for the Midlands in January, made an unwelcome return to Wearside in the side's 2-2 draw with Sunderland on Saturday.
"When you come back to a club where you have had such a great time and you are on the end of a reception like that, it is really painful," said Petrov.
"Of course, he is hurt by it. Who wouldn't be? In fact, he was really surprised by just how loud the booing was.
"I don't think he thought it would be that bad. But whatever happens, he will still carry on scoring goals for us."
Despite the harsh atmosphere towards the 27-year-old, Petrov is adamant that the abuse will not play on his mind.
"It was a difficult situation," he added. "Darren had a great time here but the fans were on his back from the start, booing him and jeering him but luckily he is a strong boy and very strong mentally too."
Before making the switch to Villa Park, Bent racked up 32 goals for Sunderland in 58 league appearances.
Danielle Joynson
