Bent has been impressive for the Black Cats this season, but failed to make an impact for England in the recent friendly against Brazil.
“He has to go in my opinion,” Bruce told Sky Sports News. “He will always have to go and I hope he does, but there is still six months to go.
“If he keeps scoring and keeps playing the way he is, he must be in with a good chance.”
“I am sure he knows what he wants to do already,” Bent added. “He’s an intelligent guy he’s got a good footballing brain.
“I am sure he has got a rough idea of the squad and all I can do is keep scoring goals and playing well to try and influence that.”
