Howe: Defoe must fight for his place in Cherries starting XI

Jermain Defoe cannot afford to expect to waltz straight into the Bournemouth starting XI, according to Cherries boss Eddie Howe, who insists the competition for places is as fierce as ever since the striker’s arrival.

England international Defoe completed a free transfer to the Vitality Stadium from Sunderland last week, and will join up with Howe’s squad on Friday for the start of their pre-season training camp in Marbella.

It is the second time Defoe, the Premier League’s all-time seventh highest goalscorer, has enjoyed a spell on the south coast, scoring 18 goals in 29 appearances for the Cherries during the 2000/01 season while on loan from West Ham.

Bournemouth fans will be hoping the 34-year-old can form a formidable partnership with last season’s top marksman Joshua King, and Howe is confident Defoe can bring out the very best in his team.

(Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)

“Hopefully, they will look at Jermain as many different things,” he said.

“They can look at him as a role model and someone to inspire to them. They can look at certain things he does and add them to their game. I believe everyone can learn from one another.

“They will look at him as a team-mate and as a support – and someone who can bring something different to the team dynamic.

“He will provide competition. Everyone, including Jermain, will have to raise their levels due to the strong competition for places we have in that position.

“There are lots of different things which are all positives for our strikers and will hopefully inspire them all to greater performances individually.

“Jermain brings many things. His finishing is of the highest quality and his movement is excellent. I have always felt that since the very first time I saw him train when he was here on loan.”