Jermain Colin Defoe OBE, born on October 7, 1982, in Beckton, East London, is a distinguished English football coach and former professional player. Defoe, who recently served as the under-18s coach at Tottenham Hotspur, has left an indelible mark on English football through his prolific career as a striker.
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Image Credit: Sports Illustrated
Early Life and Career Beginnings
Defoe’s football journey began in the youth ranks of Charlton Athletic at the tender age of 14. By 16, he transitioned to West Ham United, where his talent quickly became evident. Defoe made his first-team debut in 2000 and spent the 2000-01 season on loan at AFC Bournemouth, where he made headlines by scoring in ten consecutive matches. His impressive performances earned him a permanent spot in West Ham’s squad, though he later sought a new challenge following the club’s relegation in 2003.
Club Career Highlights
In January 2004, Defoe moved to Tottenham Hotspur for a fee initially reported at £6 million. At Spurs, he showcased his goal-scoring prowess, including a memorable hat-trick against Southampton in 2004. His time at Tottenham saw him become a key figure, though he briefly moved to Portsmouth in 2008. His stint at Portsmouth was marked by a notable goal-scoring run and a Cup final victory.
Defoe returned to Tottenham in 2009, but by 2014, he had joined Toronto FC in Major League Soccer. Despite a promising start, he re-signed with Sunderland in January 2015, where he made an immediate impact, including a crucial goal in the Tyne-Wear derby.
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A brief return to Bournemouth followed before Defoe signed with Scottish Premiership club Rangers in January 2019. At Rangers, he won the 2020-21 league title, a crowning achievement in his career.
International Career
Defoe’s international career began with England’s U16 and U18 teams, showcasing his potential at youth levels. He earned his first senior cap in 2004 and went on to score 20 goals in 57 appearances for England. Defoe was part of the squad at the 2010 FIFA World Cup, where he scored against Slovenia to secure England’s place in the knockout stages.
Records and Achievements
Defoe’s career is adorned with numerous accolades:
- He was the 20th player to reach 100 Premier League goals and is the ninth-highest Premier League goal-scorer of all time.
- He holds the Premier League record for the most goals scored as a substitute, with 24.
- His career totals include over 300 goals across all clubs and competitions.
Retirement and Coaching
Defoe announced his retirement from professional football in March 2022, closing a remarkable career. Following his retirement, he transitioned into coaching, continuing his connection with football as the under-18s coach at Tottenham Hotspur.
Jermain Defoe Age
How old is Jermain Defoe? Jermain Defoe was born on October 7, 1982.
Jermain Defoe Height
How tall is Jermain Defoe? Jermain Defoe stands at a height of 1.7m.
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