Spurs star relaxed about team-mate’s injury comeback

Jermain Defoe has enjoyed a good run of form for Spurs. Photo credit: Adam Davy/EMPICS

Friday, October 5, 2012
11:15 PM

Jermain Defoe insists he is not worried about losing his place in the Tottenham starting XI despite the return of Emmanuel Adebayor from injury.

Adebayor will be in Tottenham’s squad for the first time in over a month this weekend as Andre Villas-Boas’ men face Aston Villa at White Hart Lane on Sunday.

Adebayor’s hamstring injury has allowed Defoe a run in the team during which he has netted four goals.

Adebayor was former Spurs manager Harry Redknapp’s first choice last season, but Defoe is relaxed about keeping his place in the team this time around.

“For me, him being back is not a problem,” Defoe said.

“You get pressure your whole career. There has always been pressure - it is something you get used to.”

Defoe signed a new contract in August and he is brimming with confidence on the pitch thanks to the game time he has been getting under Villas-Boas.

“My form this season has been the result of the manager playing me for 90 minutes,” Defoe added.

“That has allowed me to relax, make sure my movement is good and make sure I don’t panic that I am going to come off after an hour.

“When you play games, you get fitter and sharper.

“At times, you find yourself the only striker at the club who is fit, but I haven’t been getting complacent. Every game I want to play, do well, score goals and win.”