Jermain Defoe has started the season like a man who’s got a point to prove. The Spurs striker has blasted four goals for his club and scored twice in England’s 2-2 draw with Holland last month and he looks determined to cement his place in Fabio Capello’s national football team.
And it’s easy to see why after the heartache the former Portsmouth star suffered back in 2006. Defoe was called up to the England World Cup squad as cover for Wayne Rooney, who was trying to recover from a broken metatarsal. He spent 10 days with Sven-Goran Eriksson’s men, only to be made to pack his bags and head home when Rooney declared his fitness.
“I get reminded by everyone,” said Defoe. “I will never forget it. It seems like yesterday. It is so clear in my mind.
“It was really hard because I actually travelled with the squad to Germany, then I had to go home.
“I suppose it made me stronger but I want to make sure I play this time round.”
The 25-year-old, who has netted 10 international goals, is in fine form and should get the nod from Capello – barring any injuries, to improve Englands international betting odds.
Defoe could even get a start alongside Wayne Rooney against Slovenia at the weekend ahead of next week’s crucial World Cup clash with Croatia. Capello could use the friendly to see the duo paired together, as so far none of Defoe’s England goals have come while Rooney has been on the pitch.
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