New Sunderland signing Anichebe keen to follow Defoe’s example

He may have linked up with former manager David Moyes but new Sunderland signing Victor Anichebe admits it’s striking up a partnership with Jermain Defoe which he’s most looking forward to.

Free agent Anichebe signed on at the Stadium of Light late on Friday, completing the formalities of a deal to play for the Black Cats until the end of the season.

The 28-year-old Nigerian had been without a club since being released by West Brom in May – but was handed a chance to get playing again thanks to Sunderland manager Moyes, who he worked under for seven years at Everton.

The North East side are currently 16th in the Premier League table, with Defoe – who recently moved into the top ten for goals scored in the league – topping the scoring charts so far with two strikes.

And Anichebe is keen to gain as much as possible from the former England international.

“I was speaking to JD before; everyone knows he’s such a great player,” he said.

“We played against Sunderland last season and I was watching from the side, just watching Defoe, his movement.

“He is so strong for a small guy and you know when he gets a chance he’s either going to hit the target or score.

“I told him that he’s one of the reasons I came here because I feel I can learn a lot from him.

“Even though I’m 28, you can always learn, there’s always time for that.

“That’s what I’m coming here for and I will give my all because I know what a great opportunity I have here.

“I will try to help the football club as much as I can.”