Jermain Defoe opens up on big Sunderland decision after Rangers exit

Sunderland confirmed the signature of the 39-year old on Tuesday on a free transfer.

Defoe was a free agent after his contract with Rangers expired earlier in the month. 

The former England international played with the Black Cats from 2015 to 2017 before the club were relegated to the Championship under David Moyes. 

Since then he has performed for Bournemouth and Rangers, where he was a part of the title winning squad under Steven Gerrard.

Having returned to Sunderland, he admitted it was too good an offer to turn down the opportunity to come back to the Black Cats as they fight for promotion back to the second tier. 

“It’s a special move for me, for so many reasons,” said Defoe, via the Sunderland Echo.

 “I wasn’t ready to leave when I did, and I said I would be back, I put it out there in the universe and here we are.

“At the end of the day, I’ve always dedicated myself, trained well and prepared myself for these moments where you can prolong your career.

Defoe went on to thank the other managers who also showed interest in his services this month. However, the striker admitted his relationship with the fans meant it was an easy decision to go back to the club. 

“The club is in a fantastic position to get promoted,” Defoe added. 

“The fans are unbelievable and I had a special bond with them. Bradley and the family, Gemma has been messaging me every morning! ‘What’s going on? Are you coming back?’

“It’s like a fairytale isn’t it, a movie. Hopefully it’s a good one.”

Sunderland are currently without a manager after the dismissal of Lee Johnson on Sunday.

The side are third in the League One table, following their 6-0 hammering at the hands of Bolton Wanderers last weekend. 

The gap to league leaders Rotherham is now