Defoe determined to shine

Striker does not want to be super-sub

Last updated: 12th November 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Defoe determined to shine

Defoe: Aiming to impress

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Jermain Defoe has admitted he needs to re-establish himself as one of England's premier strikers.

The Tottenham forward has been in fine form for his club this season, while he has also impressed off the substitutes' bench for the Three Lions.

However, he missed last month's World Cup qualifiers against Ukraine and Belarus with a broken hand and Peter Crouch took full advantage with a couple of goals.

Competition for places is fierce and Defoe realises he must remind Fabio Capello of what he can offer in Saturday's friendly against Brazil.

The 27-year-old could be handed a rare start and he is determined to prove he is more than just an impact player.

"Do I need to re-establish myself? I think so. Peter Crouch came in the last time and played well, and he is a fantastic player," said Defoe.

"It was frustrating to miss out through injury and when you get an opportunity, you have got to take it. You have to make an impact.

"I don't want to have the title of super-sub but when you don't start it is important you try and make an impression when you come off the bench.

"I haven't started a game for England in 2009 and if the first one was against Brazil it would be special because they are the side that everyone wants to play against."

Huddlestone praise

Tom Huddlestone is another Spurs player in the England squad to face Brazil and Defoe believes his team-mate can stake a late claim for a World Cup spot.

"Tom is a fantastic player and he deserves this call-up," said Defoe.

"He was in the squad last year against Trinidad and Tobago and did well in training and he is a natural footballer.

"If he gets the opportunity, he will be ready. He could force his way into contention for the World Cup and he scored a fantastic goal at the weekend, but ultimately it is up to the England manager."

Defoe insists it is important to look for victory over a Brazil side that will be among the favourites for World Cup glory.

"To win against Brazil would be brilliant. It is a good fixture for us and will give us a chance to see how far we have come," he explained.

"Of course, it is a friendly and there are players injured and missing, but it is important to get a winning mentality before the World Cup."