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Adnan Januzaj relishing Jermain Defoe partnership at Sunderland

Sunderland's English striker Jermain Defoe (2R) embraces Sunderland's Belgian midfielder Adnan Januzaj (3R) as he celebrates scoring their first goal to eq
Image: Adnan Januzaj is enjoying playing alongside Jermain Defoe

Adnan Januzaj has backed "unbelievable" Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe to stay on the goal trail, even if it means he may get fewer chances to score himself.

The on-loan Manchester United midfielder has played in an advanced role in support of Defoe in recent weeks.

During Saturday's 4-0 demolition of Crystal Palace, the Belgium international set up both of Defoe's strikes at Selhurst Park.

Asked about the partnership, Januzaj told the club's website: "I really like playing with him - even though he always asks for the ball!

"He's an unbelievable striker and you can see that with his goals on Saturday because they weren't easy chances. He's someone I can learn a lot from.

LONDON, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 04:  Jermain Defoe (L) of Sunderland celebrates scoring his team's third goal with his team mate Adnan Januzaj (R) during the Pr
Image: Adnan Januzaj (R) set up both of Jermain Defoe's goals against Crystal Palace

"In the last few games, we've linked really well and I think we have a good relationship with each other. We're enjoying playing together and hopefully he can score many more goals."

While Defoe took his tally for the season to 14 goals at Palace, Sunderland have scored only 24 in total in as many league games and the 34-year-old represents the club's best hope of dragging themselves out of yet another relegation fight,

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Crystal Palace 0-4 Sunderland

Saturday's win was their first in seven games and although they remain at the bottom of the table, they are just two points from safety.

Manager David Moyes will hope Januzaj will be boosted by his own contribution after a patchy spell at the club to date.

Jermain Defoe of Sunderland celebrates after scoring
Image: Jermain Defoe (2nd R) has scored 14 of Sunderland's 24 league goals this season

The 22-year-old said: "I wouldn't say I'd played badly in the games before, but obviously people are talking because I got the assists and made a difference.

"It was a good game for me there is no doubt, and when there is more confidence in the team it's easier for me and JD to create because we're playing much better."