Share

Leicester can inspire Sunderland - Defoe

Cape Town - Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe is looking to Leicester City for inspiration as his relegation-threatened club bid to stay in the Premier League.

Leicester, who beat Manchester City on Saturday to go five points clear at the top of the table, also battled against relegation last season but put on a late charge for safety.

Sunderland are second from bottom and fought back against Liverpool to win a point away at Anfield on Saturday, with Defoe scoring late to draw the teams level at 2-2.

"(Leicester's) story is unbelievable. But you do think, if they can do that why can't we?" Defoe told British media.

"We have such a strong squad here now, the new boys have come in and been brilliant."

"The team spirit is great and if we carry on working hard we will get results and hopefully get them soon."

Defoe's goal against Liverpool was his sixth in his past six league games, and the 33-year-old said he was enjoying his role as striker under manager Sam Allardyce after being deployed out wide under the Englishman's predecessor, Dick Advocaat.

"The previous manager played me wide on the left, and I'd never played there before in my life, even at school. It was a bit strange, playing at full back when you've always been a forward," Defoe said.

"This one (Allardyce) came in and even though I have never played under him, he knows me. He's changed a lot of the team, as well as the intensity levels and fitness."

We live in a world where facts and fiction get blurred
Who we choose to trust can have a profound impact on our lives. Join thousands of devoted South Africans who look to News24 to bring them news they can trust every day. As we celebrate 25 years, become a News24 subscriber as we strive to keep you informed, inspired and empowered.
Join News24 today
heading
description
username
Show Comments ()
Voting Booth
Should Siya Kolisi keep the captaincy as the Springboks build towards their World Cup title defence in 2027?
Please select an option Oops! Something went wrong, please try again later.
Results
Yes! Siya will only be 36 at the next World Cup. He can make it!
25% - 1142 votes
No! I think the smart thing to do is start again with a younger skipper ...
30% - 1327 votes
I'd keep Siya captain for now, but look to have someone else for 2027.
45% - 2026 votes
Vote
Editorial feedback and complaints

Contact the public editor with feedback for our journalists, complaints, queries or suggestions about articles on News24.

LEARN MORE