Defoe driven by WC spot

Spurs striker doesn't want a repeat of Germany 2006

By Richard Bailey   Last updated: 6th December 2009   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Defoe driven by WC spot

Defoe: England desire

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Jermain Defoe admits the fear of missing out on another World Cup is the reason behind his scintillating form this season.

The Tottenham striker was controversially left out of the squad for the World Cup in Germany in 2006 with manager Sven Goran Eriksson opting for the inexperienced Theo Walcott.

The 27-year-old is determined not to have to go through the same pain again and admits he is constantly looking to impress England boss Fabio Capello.

The former West Ham youngster already has 14 goals to his name this season for Spurs while he has also notched eight goals in his last 11 England games, making him almost a certainty to make the plane to South Africa.

"It (World Cup) has got me massively pumped," he told the Sunday Times.

"It's probably the main reason I'm playing so well and working so hard in training. You want to impress the manager and get on the plane."

Understanding

Defoe's recent form in an England shirt has got many fans calling for him to start alongside Wayne Rooney but the frontman understands the important job that Emile Heskey has been doing for the team.

"The reason I haven't always started is Emile has done well, simple as that." he added.

"Em holds up the ball and helps other players. But I'd like to think that if you're playing well for your club and scoring, then at some point you'll get a chance to be a starter."

However Defoe admits that even if he remains on the bench for his country he will still look to have an impact as a super-sub.

"I wouldn't look at it negatively. When I sit on the bench I always watch the game closely and ask 'where can I make an impact, what are the defenders doing?' he said.

"You're watching it. Coaches do, managers do, they watch it, so players should be the same. You've got to think 'right, if I come on, where can I make an impact? What are the defenders doing?"