Sunderland relegation could force Defoe’s hand

Newly-recalled England striker Jermain Defoe admitted he may have to leave current club Sunderland if they are relegated in order to keep his hopes of playing international football alive.

Defoe was called up to Gareth Southgate’s England squad for the first time since 2013, last week, and will be in contention to feature against Germany in a friendly and Lithuania in a World Cup Qualifier.

Defoe has scored 14 goals for the struggling Black Cats despite their relegation struggles and will hope to add to his 19 goals in 55 international appearances, if selected.

But Defoe – while delighted to be back with the Three Lions – admitted that he may have to look elsewhere to play his club football if Sunderland are relegated after admitting his lack of top flight football may have played a part in him missing out on Roy Hodgson’s 2014 World Cup squad.

(Photo by Chris Brunskill/Getty Images)

“You have to be realistic, to get into any squad is based on merit and to do that you have to be playing at the top level,” said Defoe.

“When I went to Toronto (in 2014) I missed out on the World Cup. When I got the call it was hard to accept but you had to be realistic.

“I was hoping one day I’ll get the opportunity and it’s come so I’m delighted.

“On a personal note if I’m feeling sharp I believe I can score goals. In this team I believe there will be a lot of chances to score goals.

“Nothing changes, if you get a chance you have to score. Simple as that.”