Hubbry Logo
search
logo
Jermain Defoe avatar
Jermain Defoe
Jermain Defoe
current hub
940

Jermain Defoe

logo
Community Hub0 Subscribers

Wikipedia

Jermain Defoe
View on Wikipedia
from Wikipedia

Jermain Colin Defoe (born 7 October 1982) is an English football coach and former professional player. He was most recently the under-18s coach at Premier League club Tottenham Hotspur.

Key Information

Defoe was a striker and began his career with Charlton Athletic, joining their youth team aged 14, before moving to West Ham United aged 16 and rising through the ranks. He made his first-team debut for West Ham in 2000 and, after a season-long loan spell at AFC Bournemouth during the 2000–01 season, established himself in the West Ham line-up. After West Ham's relegation in 2003, a move to Tottenham Hotspur in January 2004 soon followed, where Defoe played for four years before being sold to Portsmouth in January 2008. He spent one season at Fratton Park before returning to Tottenham in the January 2009 transfer window. He left for Toronto FC of Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2014, before returning to England in January 2015 to sign for Sunderland where he stayed until the club was relegated from the Premier League in 2017. Following a brief spell at AFC Bournemouth in 2017, Defoe joined Scottish side Rangers in 2018 on loan. The move was later made permanent. At his new club he was involved in winning the 2020–21 league title. This was the first and only league title in his career at the age of 38.

In April 2011, Defoe became the 20th player to score a century of Premier League goals, and is currently the tenth-highest goalscorer in Premier League history[4] as well as the sixth-highest goalscorer in Tottenham's history.[5][6] Defoe also holds the Premier League record for the most goals scored as a substitute, with 24.[7] On 19 November 2016, Defoe scored his 150th Premier League goal, becoming the joint tenth-highest goal scorer in Premier League history.[8]

Defoe debuted for the England national team in 2004 after representing England at youth level, earning 57 senior caps and scoring 20 goals, including three appearances and a goal at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.

Early life

[edit]

Defoe was born in Beckton, east London.[2] He was born to a Dominican father[9] and his mother is of Saint Lucian descent.[10] Defoe attended St Joachim Primary School in Custom House, London[11] and St Bonaventure's in Forest Gate, London.[12]

Defoe grew up in Canning Town and when his family moved to Beckton, played five-a-side football at Newham Leisure Centre.[13] He joined the Sunday league team Senrab, well known in London for producing players such as Lee Bowyer, John Terry, Ashley Cole and Ledley King,[14] and then joined the FA National School of Excellence at Lilleshall, Shropshire, as a 14-year-old in 1997. While there, he attended Idsall School.[11]

Club career

[edit]

West Ham United

[edit]

Defoe was spotted playing football by Charlton Athletic who enrolled him at the FA National School of Excellence at Lilleshall Hall in 1997.[11] Two years later, he took the controversial decision, aged 16, to turn professional with West Ham United, following which Charlton were subsequently awarded compensation rising to £1.4 million contingent on Defoe's Premier League and international appearances.[11] At West Ham, he was a member of the Under-19 team that won the Premier Academy League title in 1999–2000, scoring twice against Arsenal in the play-off final.[11]

Defoe made his first-team debut in a League Cup match against Walsall in September 2000, scoring in a 1–0 win.[15] Shortly thereafter, he joined Second Division club AFC Bournemouth on a near season-long loan, where he scored in ten consecutive matches, equalling John Aldridge's and Clarrie Jordan's post-war record.[16][17] He scored 18 goals in 29 league appearances for Bournemouth.[18] West Ham manager Harry Redknapp tipped him for stardom, saying, "He's done great. I sent him out to Bournemouth to get some experience playing league football and he's coped marvellously. To score 10 goals in 10 games is a terrific achievement. He's a bright lad who's full of confidence. Nothing knocks him, he's a typical goal-scorer. If he misses, he'll be there the next time looking for a goal. He's a kid with a big future."[19]

Defoe finished as West Ham's top scorer in the 2001–02 season despite being used primarily as a substitute by manager Glenn Roeder,[11] scoring 14 goals in 39 league and cup appearances, one of which was a 1–0 away win against Manchester United in December 2001, as West Ham finished seventh in the Premier League.[20] He scored a further 11 goals in 42 league and cup appearances in 2002–03[21] but was unable to prevent West Ham from being relegated.[22]

Less than 24 hours after the club had been relegated, Defoe made a written request for a transfer, saying, "As much as I love West Ham United I feel that now is the right time for me to move on in my career. This is very much a career decision. I am very ambitious and hungry to achieve at the highest levels of the game for both club and country." The timing of his request, however, drew criticism from both fans and teammates and was turned down by the club.[23][24] He later apologised to supporters, saying, "I mishandled that move and I can only apologise. I'm young and I've learned from it. I still played my hardest for West Ham and gave them 100% and want to thank the fans for their support."[25]

Defoe began 2003–04 with West Ham but a refusal to sign a new contract and disciplinary problems, including three sendings-off, which saw him play only 22 matches out of a possible 34, led to West Ham accepting an offer from Tottenham Hotspur for him in the January transfer window.[26]

Tottenham Hotspur

[edit]

Defoe joined Tottenham in February 2004 for an initial fee of £6 million, rising to £7 million depending on "specific performance criteria", and with Bobby Zamora joining West Ham.[26] Manager David Pleat said, "I can't think of a British striker at his age who has achieved as much in such a short space of time. His goal record for a 21-year-old is quite exceptional. I hope he will have a fine career at Tottenham."[27] Defoe marked his arrival at Tottenham with a goal on his debut in the 4–3 home win over Portsmouth in February 2004[28] and added a further six in the remainder of 2003–04, scoring 7 goals in 15 matches.[29] He then scored 13 goals in 36 matches in the Premier League, including a hat-trick in a 5–1 win over Southampton in December 2004,[30] and nine goals in eight matches in the FA Cup and League Cup, in 2004–05.[31] He also received the club's Player of the Year award for the 2004 calendar year, as voted by season ticket holders and Spurs members.[32] Despite speculation linking him with other clubs, Defoe signed a new four-and-a-half-year contract with Tottenham in April 2005.[33] The following season was not as profitable for Defoe, and Spurs manager Martin Jol used Defoe in rotation with Robbie Keane, Dimitar Berbatov and Mido providing the competition for a starting position.[34] Defoe started 23 times and came on as substitute 13 times, scoring nine goals.[31]

Defoe made 49 league and cup appearances for Tottenham, scoring 18 goals, during 2006–07 as Tottenham competed in the UEFA Cup as well as the domestic competitions. He appeared to bite West Ham player Javier Mascherano on the shoulder during Tottenham's 1–0 win over West Ham in October 2006, sparking a melee between players of both teams.[35] The FA declined to take action against Defoe as the referee, Steve Bennett, had booked Defoe for the incident.[36] Defoe scored his 50th goal for Tottenham in the 2–1 win over Aston Villa on Boxing Day in December 2006, in which he scored both goals,[37] and scored in Tottenham's 2–0 win over Charlton in May 2007, which condemned his former club to relegation to the Championship.[38] During the summer of 2007, there was speculation about Defoe's future at Tottenham following the arrival of Darren Bent for a fee of £16.5 million. However, Defoe insisted that he would stay at Tottenham and fight for his place, saying, "I'm really excited about the new season and the prospect of another campaign in Europe. We have made some good signings and are now stronger and better equipped to compete in all competitions."[39]

On 20 September 2007, Defoe came on as a substitute against Cypriot club Anorthosis Famagusta to score twice in a 6–1 win, his first goals of the season.[40] On 25 November 2007, he missed a penalty against former club West Ham at the Boleyn Ground in added time which would have won the match for Spurs; the match finished 1–1.[41]

Portsmouth

[edit]

Defoe joined Portsmouth in January 2008 for £7.5 million.[42] He scored the equalising goal on his debut, a 1–1 draw at home to Chelsea.[43] In March 2008, he was unable to play against Tottenham as the Premier League ruled that he was ineligible to do so as he was initially signed on loan in January 2008.[44] In Portsmouth's match against Wigan Athletic the following week, he scored twice; in so doing, he became the first ever Portsmouth player to score in his first five home matches.[45] Due to appearances in Tottenham's third and fourth round ties, Defoe found himself cup-tied for all the subsequent matches of Pompey's successful 2007–08 FA Cup campaign.[46] This also meant that he missed out on playing in Spurs' League Cup final victory over Chelsea, however he still received his winners' medal, albeit 10 years later, in December 2018.[47][48] Defoe ended 2007–08 with eight goals in 12 appearances for Portsmouth.[49]

Defoe scored Portsmouth's first goal of 2008–09 on 30 August 2008 with the opener in a 3–0 win at Everton,[50] and then scored their first home goals on 13 September with a brace against Middlesbrough.[51] Five days later, he contributed a goal and an assist in Pompey's first ever major European match, a 2–0 UEFA Cup first round win over Portuguese club Vitória de Guimarães on 18 September.[52]

Return to Tottenham

[edit]

In January 2009, Portsmouth chairman Peter Storrie revealed Defoe's intentions to leave the club in the near future. This came after joining the club only in the same transfer window of the previous year.[53] It was reported that Defoe's former club Tottenham made a formal approach for the striker, but no agreement was reached; Spurs manager Harry Redknapp described the clubs as "miles apart in their valuation of the player", suggesting that Portsmouth wanted "in excess of £20 million".[54] After negotiations, Portsmouth accepted a bid from Tottenham thought to be around £15.75 million (including fees owed to Tottenham for the previous transfers of Younès Kaboul and Pedro Mendes and waiving a £4 million sell-on clause that had also been negotiated during his transfer from Spurs to Portsmouth) on 6 January 2009.[55] The player had agreed to a five-year contract and was confirmed as a Tottenham player by his new club on 9 January 2009.[56] Defoe was presented at White Hart Lane with a carnival atmosphere before the start of Spurs' League Cup clash against Burnley after his return to White Hart Lane.[57]

2008–09 season

[edit]

Defoe made his return debut on 11 January 2009 in a Premier League match against Wigan Athletic. He scored his first goal against former club Portsmouth at White Hart Lane on 18 January 2009, in a match which finished 1–1.[58] He also scored his team's second goal in the League Cup semi-final second leg loss at Burnley, which helped Spurs book a place in the final with a 6–4 aggregate win.[59] He scored three goals in his first four matches before suffering a broken foot which meant that he returned for Spurs against Newcastle United on 19 April in which the club won 1–0.[60] This injury meant he missed Spurs' appearance in the 2009 Football League Cup Final.[61] He scored his first goal since his return from injury in a 2–1 win against Manchester City and helped his team secure eighth place in the league.[62]

2009–10 season

[edit]

On 19 August 2009, Defoe scored his first hat-trick for Tottenham in a 5–1 away victory over Hull City in the second match of the 2009–10 Premier League.[63] Following the match, his manager Harry Redknapp stated his high opinion of Defoe: "With [Cristiano] Ronaldo gone, he can push to be the [Premier League] top scorer."[64][65][66] After a fine run of form which saw him score seven goals for club and country, Defoe was named Premier League Player of the Month for August 2009.[67] On 12 September 2009, Defoe scored after 38 seconds with an overhead kick against 2008–09 Premier League champions Manchester United in a match which ended in a 3–1 loss for Tottenham, taking his tally for the 2009–10 league season to five goals in five matches.[68] On 23 September 2009, Defoe scored a header during Tottenham's 5–1 win over Preston.[69][70] Defoe scored a goal and was sent off during the match against his former club, Portsmouth.[71]

Defoe scored five goals at White Hart Lane in a 9–1 thrashing of Wigan on 22 November 2009. This included the second-fastest hat-trick in Premier League history, which was scored in seven minutes.[72] In doing so, Defoe became only the third player to score five goals in one Premier League match, after Alan Shearer and Andy Cole. Dimitar Berbatov and Sergio Agüero have subsequently equalled this feat.[73][74][75][76] After the match, Harry Redknapp further asserted his belief that Defoe would go on to be the Premier League's top scorer in 2009–10.[77] Redknapp later said that although Wayne Rooney is the best all-round attacking player, Defoe is the best finisher in England and should be a regular for the England national team.[78] On 3 February, Defoe claimed his third hat-trick of the season in an FA Cup fourth-round replay against Leeds United at Elland Road, with Spurs winning 3–1.[79][80] His rich vein of form continued on 21 February with another goal in the Premier League, against Wigan.[81] Defoe's next goal was a penalty in Tottenham's win against Chelsea,[82] which itself followed a famous 2–1 win over Arsenal.[83] This took his tally to 24 goals for the season.[84]

2010–11 season

[edit]

Defoe played his part in Tottenham qualifying for the UEFA Champions League group stage, thanks to a controversial goal against Young Boys, where he appeared to use his arm before scoring the second goal of the match, which finished 4–0 to Tottenham.[85] He was injured in the beginning of September when he was on duty with England,[86] He made his comeback in Tottenham's 3–2 victory against Arsenal in the North London derby. He won a header which started the attack in which Gareth Bale scored five minutes in the second half to begin the comeback from 2–0 down to a 3–2 victory.[87]

On 26 December 2010, Defoe received a straight red card, his first of the season and first since 17 October 2009, in a match at Aston Villa; his team leading at the time went on to secure the win despite playing over an hour with ten men.[88] Defoe began Tottenham's 2010–11 FA Cup campaign with a brace of goals in the third round match at home to Charlton Athletic on 9 January 2011, with Spurs winning 3–0, but in the following round, they were defeated by Fulham.[89]

In the 2010–11 Premier League, Defoe scored his first league goals of the season on 6 March 2011 against Wolverhampton Wanderers, getting the first two for Spurs in a 3–3 draw.[90] He scored his third goal of the 2010–11 season with a long-range shot with his left foot against West Bromwich Albion. This was a triple landmark for Defoe, as it was his 100th Premier League goal as well as his 100th goal scored as a Tottenham player. In addition, it signified the 1,000th goal scored for Tottenham in the Premier League era.[91]

2011–12 season

[edit]
Defoe playing for Tottenham Hotspur in 2011

In pre-season, Defoe scored two goals, one coming in a 3–0 win against Orlando Pirates on 23 July, and the other in a 2–1 win against Athletic Bilbao at White Hart Lane on 6 August.[92][93] Defoe started 2011–12 by scoring in a 5–0 win against Hearts in a UEFA Europa League play-off match on 18 August.[94] His first Premier League goal of the season came in a 2–0 win at Wolves, scoring the second goal after exchanging passes with Niko Kranjčar.[95] Defoe's first goal of 2012 came in a 1–0 home win against West Brom, converting a Gareth Bale cross.[96] He scored on the last day of the season against Fulham, the second in a 2–0 win.[97] Defoe ended the season with 17 goals in 38 matches across all competitions;[98] in the Premier League, he scored 11 in 25 appearances, of which only 11 were starts.[99]

2012–13 season

[edit]

Defoe started by scoring on the opening day of the 2012–13 Premier League against Newcastle United in a 2–1 defeat.[100] On 30 August 2012, Defoe signed a new three-year contract with Tottenham.[101] He scored the 200th goal of his club career in a 4–2 defeat to Chelsea on 20 October[102] and on 8 November, he scored a hat-trick in a 3–1 win against Slovenian club Maribor in the Europa League. In doing so, he overtook Teddy Sheringham on Tottenham's all-time goalscorers list.[103][104] On 21 April 2013, Defoe scored his 15th goal of the season in the home match against Manchester City, a 3–1 win. The goal took him level with Alan Gilzean in joint-seventh place on the all-time Tottenham scorers list.[105]

2013–14 season

[edit]

Defoe started 2013–14 as a substitute, with newly signed striker Roberto Soldado starting for Tottenham.[106] Nonetheless, manager André Villas-Boas used him as a first-choice striker for their opening matches in the Europa League, and on 29 August he scored his first goals of the campaign in a 3–0 home win against Dinamo Tbilisi.[107][108] The result took Tottenham through to the group stages via an 8–0 aggregate victory after winning 5–0 in the first leg.[108]

On 19 September, Defoe scored twice in a 3–0 victory against Tromsø in the Europa League group stages, taking his tally in Europe to within two goals of the record holder, Martin Chivers.[109] On 24 September 2013, Defoe scored another two in a 4–0 win against Aston Villa in the League Cup, which took his tally for Tottenham to 139 goals, moving him past George Hunt as the club's fifth-highest scorer of all-time.[110] His goal on 3 October against Anzhi Makhachkala in a 2–0 win took him to one short of the club's all-time record of 22 held by Chivers.[111] Two further goals, against Sheriff Tiraspol in two consecutive fixtures in the Europa League, saw Defoe with 23 European goals, one more than Chivers' previous record as Tottenham's highest European goalscorer. Defoe said Chivers had been at the match and had encouraged him to beat his record.[112]

Toronto FC

[edit]
Defoe (left) playing for Toronto in 2014

On 10 January 2014, Tottenham announced that Defoe was leaving to join Major League Soccer (MLS) club Toronto FC, effective 28 February 2014. He agreed to a four-year deal worth between £68,000–90,000 per week.[113] Toronto began its pursuit of Defoe the previous October, when the team management – which included Defoe's ex-Tottenham teammate Ryan Nelsen – met with him in London, and he received phone calls from rapper Drake, a Toronto native.[114] The transfer also includes an agreement between Tottenham Hotspur and Toronto's owners, Maple Leaf Sports & Entertainment, involving marketing, merchandise and broadcast rights, as well as a friendly match during Tottenham's North American tour in July 2014.[115] Defoe was immediately loaned back to Tottenham until the end of February 2014,[116] with whom he made two more appearances as a substitute.[117]

Defoe debuted with Toronto in their season opener at Seattle Sounders FC on 15 March 2014, scoring both goals in their 2–1 victory.[118] On 31 August 2014, Toronto FC called a press conference to fire manager Nelsen; during the press conference, the general manager Tim Bezbatchenko was non-committal on Defoe's future at the club, implying that the player might be unsettled and that the club would entertain offers in excess of the £6 million paid for the striker. He said, "We're speaking with him [Defoe] and then we'll make a decision. We'll discuss it over the next 24 hours."[119]

Sunderland

[edit]

2014–15 season

[edit]
Defoe warming up for Sunderland in 2015

On 16 January 2015, Defoe joined Premier League club Sunderland after agreeing to a three-and-a-half-year deal, as part of a player exchange deal sending Jozy Altidore to Toronto FC,[120] after completing only 11 months of his four-year deal with Toronto.[121] He made his Sunderland debut the following day against former club Tottenham.[122] Defoe started the match but was goalless when he was substituted after 75 minutes, ending his record of scoring on his first appearance for every club he has played for.[123] Defoe scored his first Sunderland goal on his home debut in a 2–0 victory over Burnley on 31 January 2015.[124] His second goal came the following week on 7 February 2015, where he scored the opening goal in a 1–1 draw away to Swansea City.[125]

On 5 April, he scored the only goal in the Tyne–Wear derby victory over Newcastle with a 22-yard volley to end a sequence of eight matches without a win, and their first victory under the management of Dick Advocaat.[126] The emotion of scoring the goal caused him to cry.[127] On 9 May, Defoe scored his fourth goal of the season in a 2–0 win against Everton at Goodison Park, a result which moved Sunderland out of the relegation zone and gave Everton their first home defeat of 2015.[128]

2015–16 season

[edit]

On the opening day of the 2015–16 Premier League, Defoe scored in a 4–2 loss at Leicester City, meaning he had scored in 15 Premier League seasons.[129] On 25 August, he scored a hat-trick in a 6–3 home win over Exeter City in the second round of the League Cup.[130] Defoe then scored twice in Sunderland's opening match of 2016, a 3–1 defeat of Aston Villa on 2 January.[131] In the team's next league fixture, he scored a hat-trick against Swansea City in a 4–2 win at the Liberty Stadium.[132] On 6 February, Defoe scored an 89th-minute equaliser against Liverpool as Sunderland came from 2–0 down to draw the match.[133] On 16 March, Defoe opened the scoring away to Newcastle as the Tyne–Wear derby was drawn 1–1.[134]

On 16 April 2016, Defoe scored Sunderland's second goal in a crucial 3–0 away victory over fellow strugglers Norwich, which left Sunderland one point from safety.[135] On 7 May 2016, Defoe scored the winning goal against Chelsea,[136] moving Sunderland out of the bottom three, and taking his Premier League tally to 15 for the season.[137] Defoe was part of the Sunderland squad on the matchday when they secured their Premier League status with a 3–0 home win over Everton on 11 May 2016.[138]

Defoe ended the season as Sunderland's top scorer with 15 league goals, and was also named the club's player of the season.[139] On 9 June, Defoe signed a new contract with Sunderland, committing his future to the club until 2019.[140]

2016–17 season

[edit]

On 13 August 2016, the opening day of the 2016–17 Premier League, Defoe scored in a 2–1 loss at Manchester City, meaning he has now scored in 16 Premier League seasons.[141] On 5 November 2016, Defoe scored the winning goal from the penalty spot as 10-man Sunderland came from behind to win at Bournemouth, their first league win of the season.[142] On 19 November 2016, Defoe scored his 150th Premier League goal in a 3–0 home win against Hull City, becoming the joint seventh highest goal scorer in Premier League history.[8] On 2 January 2017, Defoe scored twice from the penalty spot as Sunderland came from behind to draw at home to Liverpool.[143]

In January 2017, with Sunderland lying in the relegation zone, Defoe was linked with a return to former club West Ham United. However, Sunderland rejected a bid in the region of £6 million, with manager David Moyes describing Defoe as "priceless".[42] On 4 February 2017, Defoe scored twice in first half stoppage time in a 4–0 away victory at Crystal Palace to move on to 14 league goals for the season.[144]

AFC Bournemouth

[edit]
Defoe playing for AFC Bournemouth in 2017

In April 2017, Defoe hinted that he may leave Sunderland, if the club were to be relegated at the end of the 2016–17 Premier League.[145] He was linked with a possible transfer to Newcastle United,[146] and potential returns to former clubs Bournemouth[147] and West Ham United.[148] Sunderland's relegation was confirmed later that month.[149] On 23 June, it was confirmed that Defoe had signed a contract with Bournemouth on a free transfer, leaving Sunderland on 1 July.[150] He had previously played for the club in the 2000–01 season, on loan from West Ham United.[151]

On 16 September 2017, Defoe scored the winning goal and his first goal since his return to Bournemouth in a 2–1 home win against Brighton, providing the team with its first victory in the 2017–18 Premier League season, meaning he had scored in 17 different Premier League seasons.[152]

Rangers

[edit]

After making only eight appearances for Bournemouth in the 2018–19 season, Defoe joined Scottish Premiership club Rangers on 6 January 2019 on an 18-month loan,[153] with two recall clauses inserted into the deal, which could have been activated in July 2019 or January 2020. On 23 January 2019, he scored a debut goal for Rangers against Kilmarnock, which meant he had scored a debut goal for 5 of his last 7 clubs.[154] After scoring in a game on 27 September 2019 he was involved in a car accident.[155]

On 25 January 2020, it was announced that Defoe had signed a pre-contract agreement with Rangers, and would join the club permanently on a one-year deal, at the expiry of his Bournemouth contract in June 2020.[156]

Defoe joined Rangers permanently in the summer transfer window of the 2020–21 season.[157] He scored his 300th career club goal, against Livingston on 25 October 2020.[158]

On 8 June 2021, Defoe signed a new one-year deal with Rangers to keep him at the club. As part of the contract, he also became a coach at the club.[159] On 15 November 2021, following the departure of manager, Steven Gerrard from Rangers to Aston Villa, Defoe was named as part of a four-man caretaker team responsible for leading the club during the pursuit of a new permanent head coach.[160] On 12 January 2022, Defoe departed Rangers.[161]

Return to Sunderland

[edit]

On 31 January 2022, Defoe re-signed for Sunderland on a short-term deal until the end of the 2021–22 season.[162] On 24 March 2022 he announced his retirement from professional football.[163]

International career

[edit]

Youth

[edit]

Defoe was capped by England at two youth levels, earning eight caps for the under-16s and seven caps for the under-18s.[164] Defoe's form for Bournemouth in the 2000–01 season saw him selected for the England under-21 team to play Mexico in May 2001, and he marked his debut with the second goal as England U21s won 3–0.[165] He went on to gain 23 caps for England at under-21 level,[166] scoring seven goals.[167]

2006 FIFA World Cup

[edit]
Defoe training with England in 2009

Defoe debuted for the senior England team in a 1–0 defeat to Sweden in March 2004, coming on as an early substitute for the injured Darius Vassell.[168] England manager Sven-Göran Eriksson singled out Defoe's display for praise in an otherwise poor performance by England, saying, "Jermain Defoe did very well – I liked what I saw. He showed that he can do very well even in international football and that he is technically very good. Jermain is quick and he knows where the goal is."[169] He was not however selected for the England squad to take part in UEFA Euro 2004.[170]

He made his first start for England in a 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Poland in September 2004, scoring in a 2–1 win.[171] Eriksson again paid tribute to Defoe, saying, "Jermain is a great talent. It couldn't have been much better for him. He did very well. He scored one goal and created other chances as well. He is a great player who will always score goals."[172]

Despite appearing regularly for England in FIFA World Cup qualifying matches and friendly matches, Defoe was not named in the provisional England squad for the 2006 FIFA World Cup in Germany and named only on a five-man standby list.[173] He joined the squad for training in Germany, but returned to England when Wayne Rooney was cleared to play after having suffered a foot injury in April.[174] He confessed that he was baffled by his omission, saying, "I've been involved in every squad for the last two years and feel I've played a part in helping us to qualify. I have never felt fitter and sharper than I was in training and believe I could have scored goals in the tournament. It's a strange decision and everybody I speak to thinks so as well."[175] Eriksson explained why Defoe was not selected for the England squad: "Jermain had a very bad season. I don't think he deserved to go to the World Cup."[176]

2010 FIFA World Cup

[edit]

Steve McClaren, who took over as England manager after the FIFA World Cup, selected Defoe for England in his first match, a friendly against Greece in August 2006.[177] Defoe continued to be selected and to appear for England in UEFA Euro 2008 qualifying matches and friendly matches.[178]

Defoe was initially omitted from Fabio Capello's first squad with the new manager insisting he would only select players who were playing regular club football. One day after scoring on his Portsmouth debut, Defoe was recalled to the England squad to replace the injured Gabriel Agbonlahor.[179] Defoe took his international goals tally up to five in the Caribbean on 1 June 2008 when he scored twice against Trinidad and Tobago and in the process staking a claim for a more regular place in the international team.[180]

Defoe scored his first competitive international goal of 2008 with the final goal in England's 5–1 win over Kazakhstan on 11 October 2008 after coming on as a late substitute for Wayne Rooney.[181] He also scored two goals in three minutes against Andorra in a 2010 FIFA World Cup qualifier.[182]

His 2009–10 season got off to the perfect start as he came from the bench to score both goals in the 2–2 draw against the Netherlands at the Amsterdam Arena on 12 August 2009 and was announced as man of the match.[183]

On 23 June 2010, he scored the only goal in England's third group stage match against Slovenia in the 2010 FIFA World Cup.[184] This goal gave England the win they needed to progress into the Round of 16.[185]

UEFA Euro 2012 and 2014 FIFA World Cup

[edit]
Defoe (right) playing for England at UEFA Euro 2012

Defoe opened up the scoring for England's UEFA Euro 2012 qualifying campaign against Bulgaria, volleying home from the six-yard box after a cross from Ashley Cole, whose initial effort was saved by the Bulgarian goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov. Defoe went on to score his first international hat-trick, which was the first ever at the new Wembley.[186] Defoe was called up to the England squad to face Wales on 26 March 2011, though he served as an unused substitute.[187] Defoe was named as a member of the England squad for UEFA Euro 2012.[188]

Defoe did not play for the full 90 minutes in any of his England appearances until 11 September 2012 where he played the entire match against Ukraine.[178][189]

Defoe started England's first 2014 FIFA World Cup qualifying match, a 5–0 away win against Moldova and scored his 17th goal for England, tying him with David Beckham.[190][191]

Defoe was not included in the 23-man squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup.[192] Defoe believes that he "likely won't ever get over the decision", and stated, "I don't think I'll ever be at peace with it."[192] However, he was named as one of seven players on "standby".[192]

Defoe's form in the 2015–16 season, where he helped Sunderland avoid relegation with 15 goals, led to calls for him to be included in the England squad for UEFA Euro 2016. He was not, however, named in manager Roy Hodgson's 26-man preliminary squad, and expressed his disappointment at his omission.[193]

2017

[edit]

After over three years away from international football, Defoe was recalled to the England squad in March 2017 by manager Gareth Southgate for a friendly match against Germany and a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying match against Lithuania.[194] On 26 March, Defoe returned to the first team, against Lithuania. Ahead of captain, Joe Hart, Defoe led the team onto the pitch with terminally ill child, Bradley Lowery, a Sunderland supporter who suffered from neuroblastoma. England won the match 2–0 with Defoe scoring the first goal.[195]

Influences and goal celebrations

[edit]

In a 2018 interview with Sky Sports, Defoe spoke about the influence of former Arsenal striker Ian Wright on his career, which included being inspired by his goal celebrations. He explained that his own favourite celebration is outstretching both arms straight, before stating when scoring a goal "you just want to go mad".[196]

Coaching career

[edit]

On 12 August 2022, Defoe returned to Tottenham Hotspur as club ambassador and an academy coach.[197] Appointed as coach of the under-18's, Defoe said he aims to inspire more black coaches and managers.[198] He left the role in July 2024 to concentrate on a managerial career.[199]

Personal life

[edit]

Defoe is a practising Roman Catholic.[200] In 2017 he adopted a vegan diet in order to prolong his football career.[201] He is teetotal.[202]

On 24 April 2009, his 26-year-old half-brother, Jade Defoe, died of head injuries following an assault in Leytonstone, London.[203] On 7 June 2012, his father, Jimmy Defoe, died after a long battle with throat cancer.[204] Defoe was with the England squad ahead of UEFA Euro 2012 at the time, and returned home from Poland upon receiving the news, but rejoined the squad on 9 June, two days before the opening match[205] and played against France as a 77th-minute substitute.[206]

Whilst playing for Sunderland, Defoe befriended Bradley Lowery, a terminally-ill six-year-old fan with neuroblastoma, describing their relationship as the "highlight of his season".[207] Lowery was named 'Child of Courage' at the Pride of North East Awards in May 2017; Defoe attended the award ceremony, saying, "As a person he has changed me because of what he's going through at such a young age".[208] Lowery died on 7 July 2017, at the age of 6.[209]

Defoe was appointed an Officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2018 Birthday Honours for services to the Jermain Defoe Foundation,[210] a charitable foundation he founded in 2013.[211]

Career statistics

[edit]

Club

[edit]
Appearances and goals by club, season and competition
Club Season League National cup[a] League cup[b] Continental Other Total
Division Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals Apps Goals
West Ham United 1999–2000[212] Premier League 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 — 0 0
2000–01[18] Premier League 1 0 0 0 1 1 — — 2 1
2001–02[213] Premier League 35 10 3 4 1 0 — — 39 14
2002–03[21] Premier League 38 8 2 2 2 1 — — 42 11
2003–04[29] First Division 19 11 0 0 3 4 — — 22 15
Total 93 29 5 6 7 6 — — 105 41
AFC Bournemouth (loan) 2000–01[18] Second Division 29 18 1 1 — — 1[c] 0 31 19
Tottenham Hotspur 2003–04[29] Premier League 15 7 0 0 — — — 15 7
2004–05[31] Premier League 35 13 5 4 4 5 — — 44 22
2005–06[214] Premier League 36 9 1 0 1 0 — — 38 9
2006–07[215] Premier League 34 10 5 1 5 4 4[d] 3 — 48 18
2007–08[49] Premier League 19 4 2 0 5 1 5[d] 3 — 31 8
Total 139 43 13 5 15 10 9 6 — 176 64
Portsmouth 2007–08[49] Premier League 12 8 — — — — 12 8
2008–09[216] Premier League 19 7 0 0 0 0 4[d] 2 1[e] 0 24 9
Total 31 15 0 0 0 0 4 2 1 0 36 17
Tottenham Hotspur 2008–09[216] Premier League 8 3 1 0 1 1 — — 10 4
2009–10[217] Premier League 34 18 7 5 2 1 — — 43 24
2010–11[218] Premier League 22 4 2 2 0 0 6[f] 3 — 30 9
2011–12[98] Premier League 25 11 6 3 1 0 6[g] 3 — 38 17
2012–13[219] Premier League 34 11 0 0 1 0 8[g] 4 — 43 15
2013–14[107] Premier League 14 1 0 0 3 2 5[g] 7 — 22 10
Total 137 48 16 10 8 4 25 17 — 186 79
Toronto FC 2014[220] Major League Soccer 19 11 2 1 — — — 21 12
Sunderland 2014–15[221] Premier League 17 4 2 0 — — — 19 4
2015–16[222] Premier League 33 15 0 0 1 3 — — 34 18
2016–17[223] Premier League 37 15 2 0 1 0 — — 40 15
Total 87 34 4 0 2 3 — — 93 37
AFC Bournemouth 2017–18[224] Premier League 24 4 0 0 2 0 — — 26 4
2018–19[225] Premier League 4 0 0 0 4 0 — — 8 0
Total 28 4 0 0 6 0 — — 34 4
Rangers (loan) 2018–19[225] Scottish Premiership 17 8 3 0 — — — 20 8
2019–20[226] Scottish Premiership 20 13 2 1 3 1 7[g] 2 — 32 17
Rangers 2020–21[227] Scottish Premiership 15 4 2 1 2 1 1[g] 1 — 20 7
2021–22[228] Scottish Premiership 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 — 2 0
Total 54 25 7 2 5 2 8 3 — 74 32
Sunderland 2021–22[228] League One 7 0 — — — — 7 0
Career total 624 227 48 25 43 25 46 28 2 0 763 305
  1. ^ Includes FA Cup, Canadian Championship, Scottish FA Cup
  2. ^ Includes Football League Cup, Scottish League Cup
  3. ^ Appearance in Football League Trophy
  4. ^ a b c Appearances in UEFA Cup
  5. ^ Appearance in FA Community Shield
  6. ^ Appearances in UEFA Champions League
  7. ^ a b c d e Appearances in UEFA Europa League

International

[edit]
Appearances and goals by national team and year[229]
National team Year Apps Goals
England 2004 8 1
2005 7 0
2006 6 2
2007 5 0
2008 6 3
2009 6 5
2010 7 4
2011 1 0
2012 6 2
2013 3 2
2014 0 0
2015 0 0
2016 0 0
2017 2 1
Total 57 20
Scores and results list England's goal tally first, score column indicates score after each Defoe goal.[178]
List of international goals scored by Jermain Defoe
No. Date Venue Cap Opponent Score Result Competition Ref.
1 8 September 2004 Silesian Stadium, Chorzów, Poland 5  Poland 1–0 2–1 2006 FIFA World Cup qualification [171]
2 2 September 2006 Old Trafford, Manchester, England 18  Andorra 3–0 5–0 UEFA Euro 2008 qualification [230]
3 4–0
4 1 June 2008 Hasely Crawford Stadium, Port of Spain, Trinidad and Tobago 28  Trinidad and Tobago 2–0 3–0 Friendly [231]
5 3–0
6 11 October 2008 Wembley Stadium, London, England 31  Kazakhstan 5–1 5–1 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification [232]
7 10 June 2009 Wembley Stadium, London, England 34  Andorra 4–0 6–0 2010 FIFA World Cup qualification [182]
8 5–0
9 12 August 2009 Amsterdam Arena, Amsterdam, Netherlands 35  Netherlands 1–2 2–2 Friendly [183]
10 2–2
11 5 September 2009 Wembley Stadium, London, England 36  Slovenia 2–0 2–1 Friendly [233]
12 23 June 2010 Nelson Mandela Bay Stadium, Port Elizabeth, South Africa 42  Slovenia 1–0 1–0 2010 FIFA World Cup [184]
13 3 September 2010 Wembley Stadium, London, England 44  Bulgaria 1–0 4–0 UEFA Euro 2012 qualification [234]
14 2–0
15 4–0
16 15 August 2012 Stade de Suisse, Bern, Switzerland 49  Italy 2–1 2–1 Friendly [235]
17 7 September 2012 Zimbru Stadium, Chișinău, Moldova 50  Moldova 3–0 5–0 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification [236]
18 22 March 2013 San Marino Stadium, Serravalle, San Marino 53  San Marino 3–0 8–0 2014 FIFA World Cup qualification [237]
19 8–0
20 26 March 2017 Wembley Stadium, London, England 56  Lithuania 1–0 2–0 2018 FIFA World Cup qualification [238]

Honours

[edit]

Tottenham Hotspur

Rangers

Individual

Orders

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]

Grokipedia

Jermain Defoe

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Jermain Defoe (born 7 October 1982) is an English former professional footballer who played primarily as a striker, renowned for his clinical finishing and longevity in top-flight football. Over a 22-year career, he scored 162 goals in 496 Premier League appearances across six clubs, placing him 10th on the competition's all-time scoring list, and netted 305 goals in 764 senior club matches overall.[1] Born in Beckton, East London, to a family of Jamaican heritage, Defoe began his youth career at Senrab FC before signing professional terms with West Ham United in 1999, making his senior debut the following year at age 17.[1][2] His early promise led to a £6 million transfer to Tottenham Hotspur in 2004, where he became a fan favorite, scoring 91 goals in 276 league appearances across two spells (2004–2008 and 2009–2014), including memorable strikes in North London derbies and European competitions. Defoe's career also included impactful stints at Portsmouth (2008–2009, where he helped win the FA Cup), Toronto FC (2014, scoring 11 goals in 19 MLS appearances), Sunderland (2015–2017 and 2022, with 34 Premier League goals), AFC Bournemouth (2017–2019), and Rangers (2019–2021, contributing 32 goals en route to the Scottish Premiership title).[1][3] Internationally, Defoe earned 57 caps for England between 2004 and 2017, scoring 20 goals, including his debut strike against Sweden and a notable goal in a 2010 World Cup qualifier against Slovenia.[1][4] He holds several Premier League records, such as the most goals from the substitutes' bench (24) and joint-most against the defending champions (nine, tied with Alan Shearer). Beyond his on-pitch achievements, Defoe's personal life garnered attention through his close bond with terminally ill young fan Bradley Lowery during his Sunderland tenure, which inspired widespread support and led to the establishment of the Jermain Defoe Foundation in 2013 to aid vulnerable children in the Caribbean.[2] Defoe announced his retirement in March 2022 at age 39, following a brief return to Sunderland, and transitioned into coaching, serving as under-18s coach at Tottenham Hotspur until 2024.[1][5] In 2018, he was awarded an OBE for services to charity, dedicating it to Bradley Lowery, and in 2024, he was nominated for the Premier League Hall of Fame, recognizing his enduring legacy as a goalscorer and role model.

Early life and youth career

Childhood and family background

Jermain Defoe was born on 7 October 1982 in Beckton, East London, to Jimmy Defoe, a father of Dominican origin, and Sandra Defoe, whose parents hailed from Saint Lucia.[6][7] His mother was just 17 years old at the time of his birth, and the family maintained strong ties to their West Indian heritage alongside their British roots.[6][7] Defoe grew up in a single-parent household following his parents' separation shortly after his birth, when he was about one year old; he was raised primarily by his mother, with significant support from a large extended family that emphasized their dual British and West Indian identity.[8][9] Sandra later remarried, but the family's circumstances in East London were marked by modest means, reflecting the broader socioeconomic challenges of the area.[10] From a young age, Defoe developed a passion for football through playing in local school teams and informal games around Beckton and nearby Canning Town, attending St Joachim's Primary School and St Bonaventure's Catholic School.[11] He idolized Arsenal and England striker Ian Wright, whose style and success inspired him before he fully grasped the nuances of the game.[12] Growing up amid the poverty and crime prevalent in East London's Newham borough, Defoe viewed football as a vital escape and pathway to a better life.[13][14][15] This early focus on the sport helped channel his energy away from the area's risks, setting the foundation for his determination to succeed professionally.[13]

Academy beginnings at West Ham United

Defoe began his youth career with Senrab FC before joining Charlton Athletic at age 14. Jermain Defoe joined West Ham United's youth academy in 1999 at the age of 16, transferring from Charlton Athletic in a controversial move that resulted in West Ham being ordered to pay up to £1.65 million in compensation to the Addicks.[16][17] The transfer highlighted Defoe's emerging talent as an England Under-16 international striker, and he quickly integrated into West Ham's youth setup after being on Charlton's books since age 14.[16] Upon arriving at West Ham, Defoe progressed rapidly through the youth ranks, featuring prominently for the under-18s and under-19s teams. He contributed to the club's success by helping the under-19 side win the Premier Academy League title in the 1999–2000 season, a key early achievement that underscored his goal-scoring prowess and potential as a professional.[18][19] Defoe turned professional with West Ham shortly after joining, signing his first contract at age 16 in late 1999. He made his reserve team debut during the 1999–2000 campaign before earning his first senior appearance on 19 September 2000, coming off the bench in a League Cup second-round match against Walsall, where he scored the winning goal in a 1–0 victory.[20][21] This debut marked the culmination of his youth progression at West Ham, paving the way for further first-team opportunities.

Club career

West Ham United

Defoe made his senior debut for West Ham United on 19 September 2000 in a League Cup second-round match against Walsall, where he scored the only goal of the game in a 1–0 victory. He returned from a loan spell at AFC Bournemouth to feature more regularly in the 2001–02 Premier League season, making his top-flight debut as a substitute on 28 October 2001 in a 3–2 away win over Ipswich Town, during which he scored his first Premier League goal in the 89th minute to secure the victory. Defoe ended the campaign as West Ham's leading scorer with 14 goals across all competitions in 39 appearances, including 10 in the Premier League, helping the team finish seventh. In the 2002–03 season, Defoe established himself as a key attacker amid West Ham's struggles, scoring 11 goals in all competitions as the club suffered relegation to the First Division with just 42 points from 38 Premier League matches. His contributions included eight league goals and standout performances such as a brace in a 2–2 draw against Manchester United in November 2002. Despite the team's woes, Defoe's form highlighted his potential as a clinical finisher, with notable strikes like the winner in a 1–0 victory over Manchester United at Old Trafford in December 2001 from the previous season underscoring his growing reputation.[22] Following West Ham's relegation on 11 May 2003, Defoe submitted a transfer request the next day, citing a desire to remain in the Premier League, which the club promptly rejected amid fan backlash.[23] He continued to perform in the First Division during the first half of the 2003–04 season, netting 13 goals in 22 appearances before his departure. In February 2004, Defoe transferred to Tottenham Hotspur for an initial fee of £6 million, potentially rising to £7 million based on performance clauses, along with defender Bobby Zamora moving in the opposite direction; over his time at West Ham, he had scored 40 goals in 104 appearances across all competitions.[24]

First spell at Tottenham Hotspur

Jermain Defoe joined Tottenham Hotspur from West Ham United in February 2004 for an initial fee of £6 million, potentially rising to £7 million based on performance criteria.[24] He made an immediate impact, scoring on his debut in a 4-3 Premier League victory over Portsmouth at White Hart Lane on 7 February 2004, contributing to a thrilling match where Tottenham came from behind twice.[25] During his first full season in 2004–05, Defoe established himself as a key goalscorer, netting 13 goals in the Premier League and 22 across all competitions, helping Tottenham finish ninth in the league. A highlight was his goal in the 108th minute of extra time during the Football League Cup final against Chelsea at the Millennium Stadium on 27 March 2005, giving Tottenham a temporary 1-0 lead before they lost on penalties; this strike underscored his clinical finishing in high-stakes moments. Defoe's tenure featured notable peaks in form but was marred by disciplinary challenges and Tottenham's inconsistent results. In October 2006, he faced scrutiny for an incident during a match against West Ham United where he bit opponent Javier Mascherano on the arm, resulting in a yellow card but no further FA punishment after review, as the referee had already addressed it on the pitch.[26] Over the next seasons, he continued to deliver goals—16 in all competitions in 2005–06 as Spurs secured fifth place and UEFA Cup qualification, and 10 in a limited role during 2006–07 amid the club's 11th-place finish—but his output dipped in 2007–08 amid competition for places and tactical shifts under manager Juande Ramos. Tottenham's mid-table inconsistency, including an 11th-place finish in 2007–08, highlighted the team's struggles despite Defoe's contributions. By early 2008, a training-ground altercation led to a fallout with Ramos, who deemed Defoe surplus to requirements, prompting his permanent £7.5 million transfer to Portsmouth on 1 February 2008.[27] In total, during his first spell at Tottenham from 2004 to 2008, Defoe made 177 appearances and scored 64 goals across all competitions, leaving as a proven finisher despite the club's uneven progress.[28]

Portsmouth

In January 2008, Jermain Defoe joined Portsmouth from Tottenham Hotspur on an initial loan deal that was converted to a permanent transfer within days for a reported fee of £7.5 million.[29][30] He marked his debut with an equalizing goal in a 1–1 Premier League draw against Chelsea on 2 February, slotting home from close range in the 64th minute to deny the visitors a club-record 10th straight win.[31][32] Defoe quickly became a key figure in Portsmouth's push for mid-table security during the 2007–08 season, making 12 league appearances and scoring 8 goals while providing 1 assist, helping the team finish eighth and steer clear of relegation trouble. His form peaked in the FA Cup, where he netted the decisive winner in the final against Cardiff City on 17 May 2008, curling a 37th-minute shot past Peter Enckelman for a 1–0 victory that delivered Portsmouth their second FA Cup triumph and a place in the 2008 UEFA Cup. The goal, his ninth of the campaign across all competitions, earned him a winners' medal and highlighted his clinical finishing under manager Harry Redknapp. The following 2008–09 season saw Defoe continue his scoring touch with 8 Premier League goals and 3 assists in 19 appearances, including a brace in a 3–0 win over Everton in August that kickstarted Portsmouth's campaign. However, as the club's financial instability mounted—with mounting debts and transfer payment delays—Defoe departed for a return to Tottenham Hotspur in January 2009 for an undisclosed fee reported around £7 million, seeking stability amid the mounting uncertainty at Fratton Park.[33] His exit preceded Portsmouth's entry into administration in February 2009, but it underscored the growing turmoil that would lead to points deductions and player unrest over unpaid wages later that year.

Second spell at Tottenham Hotspur

Jermain Defoe rejoined Tottenham Hotspur from Portsmouth on 6 January 2009 amid the latter club's financial difficulties, signing a four-and-a-half-year contract for a reported transfer fee of £15 million.[34][35] He made an immediate impact in his second spell, scoring his first goal for the club against former employers Portsmouth in a 1–1 Premier League draw at White Hart Lane on 18 January 2009.[36] Over the remainder of the 2008–09 season, Defoe contributed four goals across all competitions as Tottenham finished eighth in the Premier League. Defoe's form flourished in the 2009–10 season under manager Harry Redknapp, where he emerged as Tottenham's leading scorer with 24 goals in 42 appearances across all competitions, helping the team secure fifth place and qualification for the UEFA Champions League. Notable highlights included a hat-trick in a 5–1 Premier League victory over Hull City on 19 August 2009, marking a clinical display that propelled Spurs to the top of the table early in the campaign, and a Premier League record-tying five goals in a 9–1 thrashing of Wigan Athletic on 22 November 2009.[37][38] His partnership with Peter Crouch added potency to Tottenham's attack, with Defoe's movement and finishing complementing the target-man style, contributing to key wins such as a 3–2 triumph over Manchester City that boosted their top-four aspirations.[39] Consistency defined Defoe's contributions over the subsequent seasons, as he maintained double-digit goal tallies despite increased competition for places and occasional injuries. In 2010–11, he netted nine goals in 28 appearances, including a brace in a 3–2 Premier League win over Stoke City, while supporting Tottenham's run to the Champions League quarter-finals. The 2011–12 campaign saw 17 goals in 43 games, with standout moments like a hat-trick in the Europa League against Shamrock Rovers and crucial strikes in domestic cups that underscored his reliability as a super-sub and starter. By 2012–13, Defoe scored 15 goals in 40 outings, forming part of an attacking unit that finished fifth, his finishes often proving decisive in tight matches against rivals like Arsenal and Chelsea. In his final season at Tottenham during 2013–14, Defoe added 13 goals in 24 appearances before limited starts under new manager André Villas-Boas reduced his role. Highlights included a brace in a 4–0 Europa League rout of Anzhi Makhachkala and a goal in a 2–0 Premier League victory over Sunderland, demonstrating his enduring threat inside the penalty area.[40] Over five seasons in his second spell, Defoe amassed 79 goals in 186 appearances across all competitions, bringing his total Tottenham tally to 143 goals in 363 games and cementing his status as one of the club's all-time leading scorers.[41] On 10 January 2014, Tottenham announced Defoe's departure to Major League Soccer side Toronto FC for a reported £6 million fee, effective after the expiry of his contract on 28 February 2014, allowing him to seek regular playing time ahead of the 2014 FIFA World Cup.[42]

Toronto FC

Jermain Defoe joined Toronto FC on January 10, 2014, transferring from Tottenham Hotspur for a reported $10 million fee, marking the highest transfer fee in Major League Soccer history at the time.[43] The 31-year-old Englishman signed as a Designated Player on a three-and-a-half-year contract, arriving alongside fellow Designated Player Michael Bradley as part of a bold rebuild aimed at ending Toronto's playoff drought.[44] Defoe remained with Tottenham until late February before officially linking up with Toronto, allowing him to feature in several more matches for his former club.[45] Defoe made an immediate impact upon his MLS debut on March 15, 2014, scoring a first-half brace in a 2-1 victory over the Seattle Sounders at CenturyLink Field.[46] His goals—a clinical finish from a quick counter in the 17th minute and a composed strike in the 37th—earned him the MLS Player of the Week award for Week 2, the first of the 2014 season.[47] Over the course of the year, Defoe tallied 11 goals and 2 assists in 19 regular-season appearances despite missing time due to injuries and international duty, adding one more goal in the Canadian Championship for a total of 12 goals in 21 matches across all competitions.[48] His scoring prowess helped Toronto FC secure a fifth-place finish in the Eastern Conference—their first playoff berth since 2012—and signaled a cultural shift under new head coach Ryan Nelsen, though the team fell in the knockout round to the New England Revolution. Defoe's tenure with Toronto lasted just one season, as he departed on January 16, 2015, to rejoin the Premier League with Sunderland for an undisclosed fee, expressing a desire to return to English football at age 32. His exit came amid reported tensions, including a social media controversy involving his mother, but his contributions laid foundational momentum for Toronto's subsequent rise, including their 2016 Supporters' Shield and 2017 MLS Cup triumph under the same ownership vision that brought him to the club.[49]

First spell at Sunderland

Following a successful spell in Major League Soccer with Toronto FC, where he became the club's all-time leading scorer, Jermain Defoe returned to the Premier League by joining Sunderland on 16 January 2015 in a player exchange deal that sent Jozy Altidore to Toronto.[50] The 32-year-old signed a three-and-a-half-year contract and made an immediate impact, debuting in a 2-1 home defeat to Tottenham Hotspur on 17 January. Defoe marked his home league debut with a goal four days later, converting a cross from Sebastian Larsson to secure a 2-0 victory over Burnley on 31 January, helping ease Sunderland's early relegation concerns.[51] In the 2015–16 season, Defoe established himself as Sunderland's talismanic forward amid a perilous battle against relegation, scoring 15 goals in 33 Premier League appearances.[52] His clinical finishing, including a vital penalty in a 1-0 win over Manchester United and a brace against West Ham United, provided crucial points as the Black Cats hovered near the drop zone for much of the campaign. Defoe's contributions were instrumental in Sunderland's dramatic survival, as they clinched 18th place with a 3-0 final-day triumph over Everton, avoiding the Championship by three points. For his decisive role, he was voted the club's Player of the Season by both supporters and the official website.[53][54] The 2016–17 season saw Defoe maintain his scoring prowess with 15 goals in 37 league outings, highlighted by a hat-trick in a 3-3 draw against Bournemouth and strikes in key matches against rivals like Newcastle United.[55] Despite his efforts, including becoming the ninth player to reach 150 Premier League goals during a 2-2 draw with Tottenham, Sunderland finished bottom of the table and were relegated after a 20th-place finish. Over his initial two-and-a-half years at the club, Defoe amassed 30 Premier League goals in 70 Premier League appearances (34 goals in 87 appearances across all competitions), often carrying an underperforming attack. Relegation triggered a contractual clause allowing his release on a free transfer, leading to his departure for AFC Bournemouth in June 2017; throughout the decline, he was commended by manager David Moyes for his unwavering professionalism and leadership in training and matches.[56]

AFC Bournemouth

On 29 June 2017, Jermain Defoe joined AFC Bournemouth on a free transfer from Sunderland, activating a release clause in his contract following the Black Cats' relegation from the Premier League.[57] At 34 years old, Defoe became the oldest player to sign for the club at the time, returning to the south coast side where he had previously spent a loan spell in 2000–01.[58] He penned a three-year deal, bringing his experience as an England international and prolific goalscorer to a Bournemouth squad aiming to consolidate their position in the top flight under manager Eddie Howe.[59] During the 2017–18 Premier League season, Defoe made 28 appearances, scoring four goals that contributed to Bournemouth's mid-table campaign. His first goal came on 15 September 2017, a well-taken finish in a 2–1 home victory over Brighton & Hove Albion, marking his first strike in his second spell at the club.[60] Defoe then netted twice in a dramatic 2–2 draw at Crystal Palace on 9 December 2017, including a stunning volley from a tight angle that earned him the Premier League Goal of the Month award for December.[61] His season tally was completed with a stoppage-time equaliser in a 2–2 away draw against Watford on 31 March 2018, securing a vital point in the race for survival.[62] Defoe's contributions helped Bournemouth finish 11th in the Premier League table, ensuring another season of top-flight stability and marking the club's highest-ever league position at that point. Although limited by injuries and competition for places, his veteran presence provided depth to the forward line alongside younger strikers like Callum Wilson and Josh King. Defoe departed the club in January 2019 on loan to Rangers, with the move later becoming permanent, after just one full season at the Vitality Stadium.

Rangers

Jermain Defoe joined Rangers on an 18-month loan from AFC Bournemouth on 6 January 2019.[63] The move reunited him with manager Steven Gerrard, under whom he had previously played at Liverpool's academy, and provided the 36-year-old striker with an opportunity to revive his career in the Scottish Premiership after limited minutes at Bournemouth.[64] Defoe quickly adapted, scoring on his debut against Kilmarnock later that month and contributing to Rangers' push for the title in the second half of the 2018–19 season.[63] In January 2020, Defoe signed a pre-contract agreement to join Rangers permanently on a one-year deal starting in the summer, following the expiration of his Bournemouth contract, in a free transfer.[65] During the 2019–20 season, he netted 22 goals across all competitions, helping Rangers secure second place in the Scottish Premiership and reach the Europa League round of 16.[66] A standout moment came in the following campaign on 25 October 2020, when Defoe scored his 300th club career goal in a 2–0 victory over Livingston at Ibrox, assisted by captain James Tavernier, extending Rangers' lead at the top of the table to six points.[67] Defoe's contributions proved pivotal in the 2020–21 season, where he scored 18 goals in all competitions before transitioning into a player-coach role in June 2021, aiding Rangers in clinching the Scottish Premiership title—their first in 10 years—by finishing 20 points clear of rivals Celtic.[68] Over his tenure, he amassed 32 goals in 74 appearances for the club, often coming off the bench to decisive effect in key matches.[69] Defoe departed Rangers on 12 January 2022 by mutual consent, having begun his coaching pathway the previous summer, to pursue opportunities closer to home while reflecting on his role in the title-winning squad.[69]

Second spell at Sunderland

Following his departure from Rangers in January 2022, Jermain Defoe re-joined Sunderland on a short-term contract until the end of the 2021–22 season, signing as a free agent to provide experience in League One.[70] The move marked a sentimental return to the club where he had previously thrived during his first spell from 2015 to 2017, though this second stint was intended as a low-pressure role amid a competitive squad.[71] Defoe made seven substitute appearances during the campaign, debuting on 5 February 2022 in a 2–1 home defeat to Doncaster Rovers, but he did not register any goals or assists.[72] His limited involvement stemmed from the strong form of younger forwards like Ellis Simms and the team's emphasis on building momentum for promotion, with Defoe serving more as a mentor figure in training sessions. Despite this, Sunderland mounted a strong push for promotion, finishing fifth in the table and advancing to the League One play-off semi-finals, where they were eliminated by Sheffield Wednesday.[73] On 24 March 2022, just weeks before the season's conclusion, Defoe announced his retirement from professional football at the age of 39, citing the desire to step away after a 22-year career that included 304 club goals.[72] Across his two spells at Sunderland, he had amassed 100 appearances and 37 goals in total, leaving a lasting legacy as one of the club's most prolific forwards.[72]

International career

Youth international career

Defoe began his international career with the England under-16 team in 1997, earning eight caps during his time at this level. He featured in the Victory Shield tournament that year, contributing to the team's success as they won the competition.[74][75] He progressed to the under-17 team the following year, making four appearances, all as a substitute, in friendlies in 1998 and 1999. Although he did not score at this level, the team demonstrated promising youth talent.[76] Defoe also earned seven caps for the under-18 team in 2000–2001, with no goals scored.[75] Defoe's most prolific youth period came with the under-21 team, where he earned 23 caps from 2002 onward, scoring seven goals. His contributions included key performances in the 2004 UEFA European Under-21 Championship qualifiers, helping England secure qualification for the tournament finals in Germany, though he was not included in the final squad.[75][77] In total, Defoe amassed over 40 youth international caps across various age groups, paving the way for his senior debut in March 2004.[75]

Senior debut and early caps

Jermain Defoe made his senior debut for the England national team on 31 March 2004, entering as a substitute for Darius Vassell in the 12th minute of a friendly match against Sweden at Ullevi Stadion in Gothenburg. England lost 1-0, with Freddie Ljungberg scoring for the hosts, but Defoe impressed with his energy and threat during his 78 minutes on the pitch, marking a breakthrough from his youth international career.[78] Under manager Sven-Göran Eriksson, Defoe's integration into the senior squad accelerated in the 2006 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign. He earned his first start on 8 September 2004 in a crucial qualifier against Poland at Stadion Śląski in Chorzów, where he scored England's winning goal in a 2-1 victory. Taking a pass from David Beckham, Defoe turned inside a defender and struck a low shot past goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek in the 84th minute, securing three vital points after David Beckham had equalized earlier. This debut goal highlighted Defoe's clinical finishing and earned praise from Eriksson for his composure under pressure.[79] Defoe continued to feature regularly in the 2004–05 season, often as a substitute in qualifiers and friendlies, accumulating several caps while competing fiercely with Wayne Rooney and Michael Owen for the central striker role. His pace, movement, and goal-scoring instinct provided Eriksson with a dynamic option alongside the more established pair, allowing for tactical flexibility in attack. By the end of this period, Defoe had demonstrated his potential as a key squad member, contributing to England's strong qualifying form.[80]

Major tournaments

Defoe served as a standby player for England's 2006 FIFA World Cup squad but did not feature in the finals, where the team exited in the round of 16 following a penalty shootout defeat to Portugal after a 0-0 draw. During the qualification phase, he contributed one goal against Poland in a 2-1 away victory on 8 September 2004.[79] In the 2010 FIFA World Cup held in South Africa, Defoe was selected in the final 23-man squad and made three substitute appearances in the group stage. He came off the bench in the 1-0 loss to the United States on 12 June and the 0-0 draw with Algeria on 18 June before starting against Slovenia on 23 June, where he scored the only goal of the match in the 10th minute from a James Milner cross, securing a 1-0 win that propelled England into the knockout rounds as runners-up in Group C. England were then eliminated 4-1 by Germany in the round of 16 on 27 June. His goal was pivotal in alleviating pressure on the team amid a challenging tournament.[81][82] Defoe earned a place in England's UEFA Euro 2012 squad and featured in all three group stage matches as a late substitute, totaling approximately 26 minutes on the pitch without scoring. He entered in the 77th minute during the 1-1 draw with France on 11 June (13 minutes), the 78th minute of the 3-2 win over Sweden on 14 June (12 minutes), and the 89th minute against Ukraine in a 1-0 victory on 19 June (1 minute). England topped Group D and advanced to the quarter-finals, where they fell to Italy 0-0 after extra time, losing 4-2 in the penalty shootout on 24 June; Defoe did not participate in the shootout. His role provided depth to the forward line alongside Wayne Rooney and Danny Welbeck.[83][84] Although not selected for the 2014 FIFA World Cup finals squad under Roy Hodgson, Defoe played a key part in the qualification campaign, scoring three goals across five appearances. These included the third goal in a 5-0 away win over Moldova on 7 September 2012, followed by a brace—his first and eighth goals of the match—in an 8-0 thrashing of San Marino on 22 March 2013. England qualified as Group H winners but exited the tournament in the group stage.[85][86]

Later international appearances

Defoe was recalled to the England national team in March 2017 by manager Gareth Southgate, ending a three-year international exile, for a friendly match against Germany and a 2018 FIFA World Cup qualifying fixture against Lithuania.[87] He remained an unused substitute during the 0–1 defeat to Germany on 22 March 2017 but started the subsequent qualifier at Wembley Stadium four days later, scoring England's opener in the 23rd minute to secure a 2–0 victory over Lithuania—his first international goal since November 2013.[88] Defoe earned one final cap as a 90th-minute substitute in England's 2–2 draw away to Scotland on 10 June 2017, a FIFA World Cup Group F qualifier that confirmed the Three Lions' qualification for the tournament in Russia.[89] Despite registering four goals in 15 appearances for AFC Bournemouth during the 2017–18 season, Defoe was omitted from Southgate's 23-man squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup. Defoe concluded his England career with 20 goals across 57 caps, having made no further appearances after the World Cup as he focused on club football at age 35.[90]

Playing style and legacy

Influences

Jermain Defoe's development as a prolific striker was profoundly shaped by a combination of early idols, key mentors, and personal experiences drawn from his Caribbean heritage and East London upbringing. As a child in Canning Town, Defoe idolized Ian Wright for his clinical finishing and intelligent movement off the ball, qualities that resonated with Defoe's own predatory instincts in the box. This admiration for Wright's poise and efficiency influenced Defoe's focus on positioning and converting chances during his formative years at West Ham United.[91] Throughout his career, Defoe benefited from influential coaches who refined his tactical awareness and on-pitch decision-making. At West Ham, manager Harry Redknapp provided crucial guidance on tactical positioning and build-up play, debuting Defoe at 17 and instilling confidence through hands-on training sessions that emphasized hard work and team unity. Redknapp's mentorship extended to loans and subsequent spells at Portsmouth and Tottenham, where he encouraged Defoe to express himself freely while honing his finishing under pressure. Similarly, at Tottenham, Martin Jol played a pivotal role in improving Defoe's off-ball movement and positioning within a fluid attacking system, helping him adapt to rotation alongside partners like Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov during the mid-2000s.[92][93][94] Defoe also drew inspiration from peers and rivals. He expressed particular admiration for Arsenal's Thierry Henry, whose elegant technique, speed, and composure in one-on-one situations served as a benchmark for Defoe's own technical refinement and goal-scoring ambition.[95] Underlying these footballing influences was Defoe's strong work ethic, rooted in his Caribbean heritage—his mother of Saint Lucian descent and father from Dominica—and the urban challenges of growing up in East London. His family's emphasis on discipline and resilience, instilled through stories of migration and sacrifice, motivated Defoe to train relentlessly, often staying late to practice finishing, which extended his career into his late 30s. This background not only fostered mental toughness but also a relentless drive that defined his longevity as a goalscorer.[96][97]

Goal celebrations

Jermain Defoe's signature goal celebration featured him stretching his arms wide and trotting towards the crowd, a gesture he performed consistently throughout his professional career across multiple clubs.[98] This move was first notably used during his early years at Tottenham Hotspur in 2004 and remained a hallmark, including when he scored his 100th Premier League goal for the club in a 2-2 draw against West Bromwich Albion in April 2011.[99] Over time, Defoe incorporated variations to the celebration, such as forming a heart shape with his hands to honor his family, particularly during emotional moments on the pitch. He also dedicated several goals to charitable causes, including those supporting children with cancer, starting around 2010 as his involvement in philanthropy grew. A prominent example came in September 2017, when Defoe dedicated his first Premier League goal for AFC Bournemouth against Brighton & Hove Albion to the memory of Bradley Lowery, the young Sunderland fan and his close friend who had passed away two months earlier; Defoe publicly stated the goal was for Bradley, whom he imagined "looking down" proudly.[100] Defoe's celebrations garnered significant media attention, particularly through campaigns highlighting his bond with Bradley Lowery, which raised awareness for childhood cancer research and inspired widespread tributes in football.[101] He ceased performing the celebration upon his retirement from professional football in 2022.

Career records and legacy

Jermain Defoe concluded his playing career with 162 goals in the Premier League, placing him tenth on the competition's all-time scoring list. This tally included four hat-tricks, with his final one coming for Sunderland against Swansea City in January 2016, underscoring his clinical finishing across spells at multiple clubs.[102] Defoe also holds the Premier League record for the most goals scored as a substitute, with 24, highlighting his impact from the bench. Across his club career, Defoe amassed over 300 goals in all competitions, reaching this milestone during his time at Rangers in October 2020.[48] In Major League Soccer, he scored 11 goals in 19 appearances for Toronto FC in 2014, a mark that exemplified his prolific form abroad.[48] Defoe's legacy endures as a quintessential poacher, renowned for his instinctive positioning and lethal finishing inside the penalty area, traits that made him a reliable goal threat at every club he joined. His contributions extended beyond scoring; he actively mentored emerging strikers during his transition to coaching, drawing on his experience to guide young talents at academies like Tottenham Hotspur. As of 2025, Defoe has expressed interest in resuming a coaching role, particularly with Rangers.[103][104] In recognition of his broader impact, Defoe was nominated for the Premier League Hall of Fame in 2025 and received an OBE in 2018 for services to charity through his foundation work supporting vulnerable children.

Coaching career

Assistant role at Rangers

In June 2021, Jermain Defoe signed a one-year contract extension with Rangers that transitioned him into a player-coach role, joining manager Steven Gerrard's backroom staff while continuing to be available as a squad player. This appointment allowed Defoe to leverage his 22-year professional career, during which he had scored over 300 goals, to mentor the team's forwards.[105] Defoe's primary responsibilities centered on enhancing the finishing abilities and mental resilience of the attacking unit, drawing directly from his experiences as a prolific striker. He worked closely with younger players, providing tactical insights and one-on-one guidance to improve their clinical edge in front of goal. His contributions extended to the broader team preparation for the 2021–22 Scottish Premiership season, where Rangers aimed to defend their title after an unbeaten campaign the previous year. Notably, Gerrard highlighted Defoe's role in polishing the development of new signings like Fashion Sakala and Cedric Itten, emphasizing it as his "main job" to help these "rough diamonds" adapt and thrive within the squad.[106][107][108] Following Gerrard's departure to Aston Villa on 7 November 2021, Defoe remained part of the interim coaching setup and briefly continued under incoming manager Giovanni van Bronckhorst, who was appointed on 18 November. However, on 29 November 2021, van Bronckhorst restructured the staff, removing Defoe from coaching duties to focus solely on his playing contributions, thereby concluding his tenure after roughly six months. Despite the short duration, Defoe's involvement marked his entry into professional coaching, where he expressed enthusiasm for imparting his career knowledge to the next generation.[108][109]

Academy coaching at Tottenham Hotspur

In August 2022, Jermain Defoe returned to Tottenham Hotspur as a coach in the club's academy, initially focusing on the under-18s team while also serving as a club ambassador.[110] His role expanded to assisting across the under-17s and under-21s age groups, where he contributed to youth development by sharing his extensive playing experience as a prolific striker.[5] Defoe emphasized practical training elements, including designing drills to enhance attacking play and movement, drawing from his career insights to mentor young forwards on positioning and finishing.[111] Defoe's coaching involved close work with promising talents, such as striker Will Lankshear, whom he guided on technical and tactical aspects of forward play during Lankshear's progression through the academy.[112] During this period, he also pursued professional qualifications, completing his UEFA A Licence in 2024 while at the club, supported by the Professional Footballers' Association.[113] After two seasons, Defoe departed Tottenham in July 2024 to seek opportunities in senior-level coaching, expressing gratitude for the experience in developing the next generation of players.[5] His time at the academy marked a foundational step in his post-playing career, bridging his Rangers assistant role with ambitions for head coaching positions. Following his departure from Tottenham, in October 2025, Defoe expressed interest in returning to Rangers in a coaching capacity amid their managerial vacancy, though the role went to Danny Rohl.[114][115][116]

Personal life

Family and relationships

Defoe was engaged to model Charlotte Mears between 2006 and 2007, after proposing with a £63,000 ring in the summer of 2006; the relationship ended amid cheating allegations against him.[117] In June 2022, Defoe married beauty therapist Donna Tierney in a lavish £200,000 ceremony at Cliveden House attended by 250 guests, including former teammates; the marriage lasted only six months before they separated in January 2023.[118][119] Following the divorce, Defoe began a relationship with influencer Alisha LeMay in early 2023, making their public debut at the Pride of Britain Awards in October 2023; the pair reportedly split in February 2025 after a cheating scandal.[120][121] Defoe maintains a low profile regarding his family life, having endured several personal tragedies including the deaths of his father and half-brother, which have shaped his close-knit family bonds.[122] Post-retirement, he resides in the London area.

Philanthropy and honours

Jermain Defoe established the Jermain Defoe Foundation in 2013 to support homeless, vulnerable, and abused young people, with a primary focus on his family's ancestral home of St Lucia in the Caribbean and extending to the UK.[123] The foundation has funded key initiatives, including the construction of two children's homes for abused, abandoned, or neglected youth, a football academy to engage at-risk children through sport, and disaster relief efforts such as building a library after Hurricane Tomas in St Lucia and raising funds for hurricane victims in the Bahamas and Dominica.[123] These programs emphasize mentoring and education to provide opportunities for disadvantaged youth, reflecting Defoe's commitment to addressing poverty and abuse.[123] Defoe's philanthropic work began earlier, driven by the 2009 stabbing death of his half-brother, which motivated his involvement in anti-knife crime campaigns. In 2010, he spoke at the launch of the Scotland Yard-backed Reclaim Our Children initiative to combat youth violence in London.[124] By 2012, during his time at Tottenham Hotspur, he co-founded the e18hteen mentoring project with the club's foundation, targeting 160 vulnerable teenagers from care homes in north London boroughs like Haringey and Waltham Forest.[14] Participants received personalized life coaching, monthly one-on-one sessions with mentors, and guidance on discipline and goal-setting to steer them away from crime.[14] During his stint with Toronto FC from 2014 to 2015, Defoe continued charitable pursuits, including support for the Prince's Trust, while later forming a profound bond with terminally ill six-year-old Bradley Lowery in 2016, involving hospital visits and helping raise over £700,000 for the child's neuroblastoma treatment abroad.[125][126] In recognition of his charitable contributions, Defoe was awarded an OBE in the 2018 Queen's Birthday Honours for services to the Jermain Defoe Foundation and to football.[127] He dedicated the honour to Lowery, who had passed away the previous year, and received it at Buckingham Palace later that year.[128] Post-retirement in 2022, Defoe has sustained his efforts, participating in Soccer Aid for UNICEF in 2024 where he scored for the England team to raise funds for children's causes, supporting anti-knife crime tournaments such as a 2023 event at Tottenham in memory of young victims, and donating £70,000 to the Bradley Lowery Foundation in 2025 to fund a holiday home for seriously ill children.[129][130][131]

Career statistics

Club statistics

Jermain Defoe amassed 762 appearances, 305 goals, and 58 assists across all club competitions during his professional career spanning from 2000 to 2022, while accumulating 71 yellow cards, 1 second yellow card, and 4 red cards.[132] These figures encompass domestic leagues, cups, and continental competitions but exclude international matches for England. His goal-scoring prowess was particularly evident in the Premier League, where he netted 162 goals in 496 appearances. The following table summarizes Defoe's club statistics by team, aggregating all competitions. Data reflects his two stints at certain clubs, such as Bournemouth and Sunderland.
ClubAppearancesGoalsAssistsYellow CardsRed Cards
West Ham United104404102
Bournemouth6423250
Portsmouth3618570
Tottenham Hotspur36314331332
Toronto FC2112350
Sunderland10037360
Rangers74321050
Total76230558714
Defoe's most prolific club tenure was at Tottenham Hotspur, where he contributed 143 goals over 363 appearances from 2004 to 2014, including spells in the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA competitions.[132] At Rangers, he added 32 goals in 74 games during the 2019–2022 period, aiding their Scottish Premiership title win in 2020–21.[132] His earlier career at West Ham United featured 40 goals in 104 outings, establishing him as a promising young striker before loans and transfers expanded his record.[132]

International statistics

Jermain Defoe earned 57 caps for the England national team, scoring 20 goals between his debut in 2004 and his final appearance in 2017.[133] He frequently came on as a substitute, with 35 of his appearances from the bench, often providing impact in limited minutes.[133] Defoe's goals were distributed across various competitions, with the majority coming in qualifying matches and friendlies. He scored 6 goals in friendlies, 13 in qualifiers (8 in World Cup qualifiers and 5 in European Championship qualifiers), and 1 in major tournaments.[133] His sole tournament goal came at the 2010 FIFA World Cup.[133] The following table provides a breakdown by competition:
CompetitionAppearancesGoals
Friendlies256
FIFA World Cup qualification198
UEFA European Championship qualification95
FIFA World Cup finals31
UEFA European Championship finals10
Total5720

Honours

Club honours

During his club career, Jermain Defoe was part of three title-winning teams, contributing goals and key performances in the campaigns leading to those successes.[134] FA Cup: 2007–08 (Portsmouth)
Defoe joined Portsmouth in January 2008 and, despite being cup-tied from earlier FA Cup appearances with Tottenham Hotspur and thus unable to feature in the knockout stages for his new club, remained part of the squad as they defeated Cardiff City 1–0 in the final at Wembley Stadium on 17 May 2008; he lifted the trophy with his teammates.[135][136] Football League Cup: 2007–08 (Tottenham Hotspur)
Defoe played a pivotal role in Tottenham's run to the 2008 League Cup final, scoring four goals across the competition, including a brace in the second leg of the semi-final against Arsenal on 22 January 2008, which helped secure a 6–2 aggregate victory; although transferred to Portsmouth before the final, he was awarded a winners' medal in 2018 following Tottenham's 2–1 triumph over Chelsea on 24 February 2008.[137][138] Scottish Premiership: 2020–21 (Rangers)
Defoe scored four goals in 15 league appearances during Rangers' unbeaten title-winning season under Steven Gerrard, contributing to their 102-point haul and end of Celtic's nine-year dominance.[104]

Individual honours

Tottenham Hotspur Player of the Year: 2004
Defoe was voted Tottenham Hotspur Player of the Year for the 2004 calendar year by season ticket holders and club members.[139] Premier League Player of the Month: August 2009
Defoe received the Premier League Player of the Month award in August 2009 while playing for Tottenham Hotspur, recognizing his four goals in five appearances during a strong start to the 2009–10 season.[140] Premier League Goal of the Month: November 2012 and December 2017
Defoe earned the Premier League Goal of the Month award in November 2012 for a goal against Arsenal while at Tottenham Hotspur, and in December 2017 for a stunning volley against Crystal Palace for AFC Bournemouth.[141][142] Sunderland Supporters' Player of the Year: 2015–16
Defoe was named Sunderland Supporters' Player of the Year for the 2015–16 season.[143] In 2014, he was selected for the MLS All-Star Game as a member of Toronto FC, highlighting his impact with 11 goals in 19 regular-season matches that year (though he withdrew due to injury).[144] Defoe was awarded the OBE in the 2018 Queen's Birthday Honours for his services to the Jermain Defoe Foundation, a charity he founded in 2013 to support vulnerable children and young people.[145] In recognition of his off-field contributions, particularly his friendship with young cancer patient Bradley Lowery, Defoe was named Personality of the Year by the North East Football Writers' Association in 2018.[146]

References

  1. Jermain Defoe: Sunderland and former England, Tottenham, West ...
  2. Jermain Defoe: How a football 'bad boy' became a benefactor - BBC
  3. Defoe opens up about family tragedies and Bradley Lowery in new film
  4. Jermain Defoe: How a football 'bad boy' became a benefactor - BBC
  5. Jermain Defoe & his Mam shared centre stage on award night
  6. Teetotal Defoe swayed by late father's drinking - The Times
  7. Jermain Defoe flies home from Euro 2012 after death of father
  8. Jermain Defoe: 'bereavement changes you completely. It makes you ...
  9. Defoe: I was never an Arsenal fan growing up – I just loved Ian Wright
  10. The Moments I'll Never Forget by Jermain Defoe | The Players' Tribune
  11. Jermain Defoe: 'I wanted to put something back and stop all this ...
  12. Jermain Defoe tells of his childrens charity mission in St Lucia
  13. Hammers pay out £1.6m in 'poaching' wrangle | Soccer - The Guardian
  14. Jermain Defoe pinpoints the exact moment he knew he made the ...
  15. Jermain Defoe | MLSsoccer.com
  16. The Route From Their Roots: Jermain Defoe - 152Football
  17. https://www.timesofmalta.com/article/Defoe-the-deadly-Spurs-striker.446410
  18. West Ham: Jermain Defoe - 'It was my dream debut' - BBC Sport
  19. ENGLISH PREMIERSHIP | Defoe stuns Man Utd - BBC SPORT
  20. BBC SPORT | My Club | West Ham Utd | Defoe demands transfer
  21. Tottenham land £7m Defoe | Soccer - The Guardian
  22. JD's debut goal - Tottenham Hotspur
  23. Defoe escapes punishment after Mascherano bite - The Guardian
  24. Portsmouth agree fee for Defoe, while Spurs keep Gilberto hopes alive
  25. Jermain Defoe - Career stats (Detailed view)
  26. Defoe makes last-minute £9m Portsmouth switch - The Guardian
  27. BBC SPORT | Portsmouth | Defoe deal permanent, say Pompey
  28. Premier League | Portsmouth 1-1 Chelsea - BBC SPORT | Football
  29. Jermain Defoe shines on Portsmouth debut - The Telegraph
  30. Agentless Defoe did his own bargaining with Tottenham
  31. BBC SPORT | Football | My Club | T | Tottenham finalise Defoe transfer
  32. Tottenham confident of bringing back Defoe despite Pompey's £20m ...
  33. Premier League | Tottenham 1-1 Portsmouth - BBC SPORT | Football
  34. Premier League | Hull 1-5 Tottenham - BBC SPORT | Football
  35. Jermain Defoe ties Premier League record for goals in a single match
  36. Returning Spurs | Tottenham Hotspur
  37. Spurs 2-2 Man United (Dec 1, 2013) Final Score - ESPN
  38. Five minutes with... Jermain Defoe | Tottenham Hotspur
  39. Toronto FC Signs Jermain Defoe
  40. Tottenham Hotspur, Toronto FC announce Jermain Defoe transfer ...
  41. Tottenham's Jermain Defoe is finally on brink of signing for Toronto
  42. Toronto FC Signs Michael Bradley
  43. Sounders fall to Toronto FC 2-1 after Defoe brace
  44. Jermain Defoe's two-goal Toronto FC debut earns him Week 2's ...
  45. Jermain Defoe - Career stats - Transfermarkt
  46. Timeline of Jermain Defoe era for Toronto FC
  47. Jermain Defoe: Sunderland sign England striker from Toronto - BBC
  48. Sunderland sink Burnley as Jermain Defoe hits first goal for club
  49. Jermain Defoe - Stats 15/16 - Transfermarkt
  50. Awards: Defoe crowned fans' Player of the Year - Sunderland AFC
  51. Revealed: Player of the Season - Sunderland AFC
  52. Jermain Defoe - Stats 16/17
  53. Jermain Defoe, the relegation get-out & leaving for free - Roker Report
  54. Jermain Defoe: Sunderland striker rejoins Bournemouth on free ...
  55. AFC Bournemouth football club statistics and records: oldest players
  56. Jermain Defoe returns to Bournemouth on three-year deal
  57. Bournemouth 2-1 Brighton & Hove Albion - BBC Sport
  58. Crystal Palace 2-2 Bournemouth - BBC Sport
  59. Premier League live: Watford v AFC Bournemouth - BBC Sport
  60. Rangers sign Jermain Defoe and Steven Davis in loan moves - BBC
  61. Jermain Defoe joins Steven Gerrard's Rangers from Bournemouth ...
  62. Jermain Defoe: Rangers Confirm Permanent Deal for Striker
  63. Scottish Premiership: The season in six charts - BBC Sport
  64. Jermain Defoe says he is ignoring Scottish Premiership table - BBC
  65. Jermain Defoe: Rangers striker becomes player-coach after ... - BBC
  66. Jermain Defoe: Title-winning striker leaves Rangers as Itten returns
  67. Jermain Defoe: Sunderland re-sign veteran former England striker
  68. 'Great pride': Jermain Defoe announces retirement from football after ...
  69. All the best: Jermain Defoe announces retirement - Sunderland AFC
  70. Jermain Defoe: Sunderland's ex-England, Tottenham & West Ham ...
  71. England Matches - Under-16's 1990-2000
  72. England BME Players - Jermain Defoe
  73. England Matches - Under-17's 1982-2010
  74. England Matches - Under-21's 2000-10
  75. Sweden 1 - 0 England | Soccer | The Guardian
  76. Internationals | Poland 1-2 England - BBC SPORT | Football
  77. Owen's touch of fortune puts England on way to victory | Soccer ...
  78. Jermain Defoe - FIFA World Cup 2006 Qualifying - England
  79. Slovenia 0-1 England - Home - BBC News
  80. BBC Sport - Football - World Cup 2010: England spirit delights Capello
  81. Euro 2012: France 1-1 England - BBC Sport
  82. Euro 2012: Jermain Defoe returns to England camp - BBC Sport
  83. Moldova 0-5 England - BBC Sport
  84. San Marino 0-8 England - BBC Sport
  85. Jermain Defoe: England recall Sunderland striker aged 34 - BBC Sport
  86. England 2-0 Lithuania - BBC Sport
  87. Scotland 2-2 England, Saturday, 10th June 2017 (967) - England Stats
  88. Jermain Defoe - National team
  89. Defoe: I was never an Arsenal fan growing up – I just loved Ian ...
  90. EXCLUSIVE: Jermain Defoe on the magic of Redknapp
  91. Defoe hails Redknapp influence | Football News - Sky Sports
  92. Defoe a diamond in Tottenham's rough and tumble | Soccer | The ...
  93. Who do you think would do better in the modern game, Jermaine ...
  94. Thierry Henry Is The Best Premier League Player | Jermain Defoe
  95. Jermain Defoe: 'I didn't know I would reach 35 and still be running ...
  96. Windrush 75: Jermain Defoe, Sol Campbell, Wes Morgan and Hope ...
  97. Jermain Defoe rolls back the years to show England what they have ...
  98. Jermain Defoe scores 100th Premier League goal after ditching ...
  99. Jermain Defoe dedicates goal against Brighton to the memory of ...
  100. Jermain Defoe: 'I will always carry you in my heart. Sleep tight little ...
  101. Jermain Defoe scored his fourth Premier League hat-trick but where ...
  102. Jermain Defoe: 'Toronto's taunts hurt me but I've got eight years left'
  103. Jermain Defoe: Tottenham needs to exploit academy talent
  104. Jermain Defoe signs new one-year deal at Rangers to ... - Sky Sports
  105. Rangers: Jermain Defoe relishing new player-coach role - BBC Sport
  106. 'It's his main job': Steven Gerrard on Jermaine Defoe's coaching ...
  107. Jermain Defoe helps lead Rangers first team as club pursue Steven ...
  108. Jermain Defoe removed from coaching duties at Rangers - Daily Mail
  109. Jermain Defoe returns - Tottenham Hotspur
  110. Jermain Defoe leaves Spurs coaching role - BBC Sport
  111. Jermain Defoe on merits of new Tottenham role and learning from ...
  112. Will Lankshear: 'I was at Arsenal for nine years but would like ...
  113. Jermain Defoe demands obvious Rangers change - Daily Record
  114. Jermain Defoe confirms Tottenham exit ahead of next career move
  115. Inside Jermain Defoe's turbulent relationship history - Daily Mail
  116. Jermain Defoe marries beauty therapist Donna Tiernay - Daily Mail
  117. Jermain Defoe and Donna Tierney's relationship timeline after split
  118. Jermain Defoe, 41, makes red carpet debut with elegant girlfriend ...
  119. Jermain Defoe, 41, and Alisha LeMay, 31, 'split' - Daily Mail
  120. Jermain Defoe finds peace on the pitch but traumas leave scars
  121. Jermain Defoe: Outside The Box, 1. Hometown Boy - BBC
  122. About - The Jermain Defoe Foundation
  123. Jermain Defoe: My pain at bro's death - Mirror Online
  124. George Stroumboulopoulos Tonight | Jermain Defoe On Charity ...
  125. Bradley Lowery: Jermain Defoe pays tribute to 'best friend' - BBC
  126. Defoe and Dalglish recognised in the Queen's Birthday Honours
  127. Birthday Honours 2018: I'm truly humbled, says Jermain Defoe - BBC
  128. What position will former Tottenham player Jermain Defoe play in ...
  129. Tackling knife crime – tournament held in memory of budding young ...
  130. Jermain Defoe makes huge donation to Bradley Lowery Foundation
  131. Jermain Defoe - Stats by club - Transfermarkt
  132. Jermain Defoe - National team
  133. Jermain Defoe - Titles & achievements | Transfermarkt
  134. West Bromwich Albion 0-1 Portsmouth | Soccer | The Guardian
  135. Jermain Defoe wants FA Cup success with Sunderland after being ...
  136. Jermain Defoe gets League Cup winners' medal - BBC Sport - BBC
  137. Spurs 5-1 Arsenal (Jan 22, 2008) Final Score - ESPN
  138. Jermain Defoe reveals burning Rangers coaching desire as he tells ...
  139. Son named September's Premier League Player of the Month
  140. Jermain Defoe Named MLS All-Star - Toronto FC
  141. Jermain Defoe awarded OBE: 'I just want to scream with joy'
  142. Jermain Defoe to be honoured for friendship with Bradley Lowery
User Avatar
No comments yet.