Final downfall of ex-Everton striker Marcus Bent as he’s declared bankrupt years after attacking cops while high on cocaine
A source said the debt ran “into seven figures” despite earning £10m in his playing career
EX-PREMIER League striker Marcus Bent has gone bankrupt “owing millions” in unpaid tax.
The former Everton star, 40, who earned an estimated £10million from football, was made bankrupt in the High Court after failing to pay HMRC several large tax bills.
A source said the debt ran “into seven figures” and was due to Bent’s involvement in a number of failed tax avoidance schemes.
Official documents show he invested in five film-based schemes. Bent’s two-decade career spanned 16 clubs and two appearances for England Under-21s.
During Bent’s time at Everton and Ipswich Town his wages were said to be around £20,000 a week — more than £1million a year.
In 2016 he was spared jail after admitting he attacked police officers with a meat cleaver and a kitchen knife while high on cocaine.
Bare-chested Bent had to be Tasered after charging at officers with the two weapons.
He was given a suspended sentence after admitting affray and possessing the Class A drug.
A year later he was fined for possession after getting caught with cocaine at Chessington World of Adventures.
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Bent ended his professional career playing in Indonesia.
In 2017 he signed for non-league side Wick.
The bankruptcy notice was granted on January 2. It confirms that Bent, who lives in Manchester and Surrey, is now retired from playing football professionally.
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