HERE IT IS: #WelcomeJermain #ScarfPic @IAmJermainDefoe pic.twitter.com/xCrrs4wxP0
— Sunderland AFC (@SunderlandAFC) January 16, 2015
Jermain Defoe can make his debut for Sunderland against his previous club Tottenham tomorrow after all the paper work was completed in time.
The former England striker, 32, has agreed to join the Black Cats on a three and a half year deal after spending a year at MLS side Toronto FC.
Although the transfer had been at an advanced stage for the last 48 hours Sunderland were unsure if Defoe would be able to make his debut against his former side.
The news the deal has been completed will come as a boost for the north-east side, though Spurs will be hoping he does not continue his record of scoring on every debut.
“I am delighted to be here and I’m looking forward to the challenge,” Defoe said. “It is a great club and I’ve always enjoyed coming up here and playing against Sunderland because of the stadium and the supporters. It is a great place to play and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Head coach Gus Poyet expressed his delight at the completion of the deal: “I am thrilled that Jermain is a Sunderland player.
“I know all about his attributes and his qualities first-hand and his exceptional goal-scoring record speaks for itself. He has something different, something special.”
