Without a doubt diminutive former England striker Jermain Defoe is a top finisher. However, he has reached the twilight of his career and as such may not be able to cope with the rigours of the Premier League anymore. The 36-year-old recently left Bournemouth to join Scottish giants Rangers on an 18-month loan deal, which could mean that the striker finishes his career in the SPL with the Gers.
The striker scored for his new side in a 2-1 defeat against Kilmarnock on Wednesday night. It is unlikely to be the last time he finds the net for the Glasgow giants.
Defoe had limited game time at Bournemouth
Jermain Defoe has struggled for game time at Bournemouth since his arrival in the summer of 2018. The fact that the Cherries already had the likes of Josh King and Callum Wilson in their squad hindered his chances of time on the pitch.
For Defoe to be at his best and sharpest he needs to be as fit as possible. He is likely to be slightly rusty after such inactivity. However, he has already got on the scoresheet for Rangers, so he is obviously not that rusty. No offence to the SPL, but the standard of football is inferior to that of its English counterpart. Defoe is a player with plenty still left to give and he will thrive in a league like the Premiership.
Defoe is still a quality striker and if Rangers create enough chances then the veteran could prove to be prolific in front of goal in the Scottish top-flight. During his spell in MLS earlier in his career, Defoe was highly prolific for Toronto FC. His good form prompted a return to the Premier League.
He may be a few years older now, but the striker still knows how to find the net. Rangers have produced something of a coup signing Defoe, as in a league like the SPL the little striker could prove to be a major asset. Defoe seems to love football and he seems to be in very good physical shape, so he may well shine for his new team for the next 18 months. Hopefully, he stays fit and injury free.
Defoe can help Rangers title challenge
Celtic have dominated the SPL for too long. No team has really looked like knocking the Hoops off the top of the perch. However, this season may just be different. Celtic are currently just a point clear of second place Kilmarnock and three points clear of Rangers.
The reigning champions do have a game in hand on their rivals, though. However, there is a feeling that the tide is changing slightly, as Celtic have not been as dominant in the SPL as in recent seasons.
Rangers are currently odds of 9/2 to win the Scottish title this season. Celtic remain favourites to retain their title. They blew their chance of moving level with their city rivals by suffering the aforementioned defeat at Kilmarnock on Wednesday night. However, signing Defoe will only help Steven Gerrard’s team in the fight for the SPL title.
It seems like the perfect move all around really. The move gives Defoe the chance to play and possibly win trophies before he retires, while Rangers get an experienced prolific striker who still has a lot to give.
It would be a big surprise if Defoe does not make a big impact at Rangers. If he does then he may just help to return the Gers to realistically challenging Celtic for the Scottish title, just as they have done for much of the history of the beautiful game in Scotland.
Will Jermain Defoe be a success in the SPL?
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