Jermain Defoe has started to lose his first team role over recent weeks, and with new changes in management, can the former England international make a return amidst speculation of him leaving in January?
Defoe has made it as far as the bench for the last 4 games, due to the philosophies of the late managerial reign of Dick Advocaat in the 4-3-3 system.
Reports earlier in the week would suggest that Defoe’s exit could very well be on the cards, with Sam Allardyce leaving the striker on the bench yet again in his first game in charge at West Brom.
Defoe has told his troubles to the media in recent days, saying he wants to be playing football at the age of 33.
“I read the papers and see my name and maybe it’s not a bad thing”, he said earlier this week.
“Maybe people think that if we’re going to do something special at this club, then you need the players who are going to score the goals.
“We’ll see what happens, but at the age of 33 you want to play football.”
If Defoe was to remain outside of the XI, would he consider leaving in January?
When the question was asked, he replied, “I don’t think like that to be honest.
“I just try to focus on the games, stay positive and if I play, do my best and hopefully score.
“If I don’t play, I’ll keep myself sharp, maybe work a bit harder in training and wait for a chance.”
The big question on everyone’s mind is will he get the chance against arch rivals Newcastle this Sunday, after the heroics of last season’s derby at the Stadium of Light.
“Yes, we’re searching for that first win, but Sunday is a different game.
“If we can get that first win, it will give everyone a different feeling and I think we’re good enough to do it.”
Sunderland continue to live under pressure at the bottom of the league, but let’s hope this man can make a change if he was to be part of the first team this Sunday.
