Jermain Defoe have always been a popular figure at Spurs and his reputation is set to soar even further after he revealed that it was he that persuaded Sunderland to buy Younes Kaboul.
The England striker told the Chronicle that the Sunderland manager Dick Advocaat sounded him out about Kaboul’s qualities and Defoe was quick to recommend him.
“Dick Advocaat asked me what I thought of him and I told him if you can get him he’ll be a top signing,” he said.
“He’s a great guy. Obviously I played with him at Tottenham for a few years and then again at Portsmouth.
“He’s a top player and a top professional.
“Younes messaged me about the move as well, and he’s looking forward to linking up with the squad.
“He was Spurs captain and he is a leader on the pitch. Physically he’s so strong, I think he’s a player who has got everything and I think he’ll do really well at Sunderland.
“Younes is a winner and a natural leader on the pitch and he’ll come to the club and bring that attitude – he’s a great signing for us.
“Even in training he was always going for it, running, tackling, heading, attacking – fans will love what he’ll bring to the team.”
Kaboul struggled during his last couple of seasons at Tottenham and most fans were happy to see the player leave. That said, if Sunderland play to his strengths – playing a deep defensive line rather than pushed up – then Kaboul could perhaps show the sort of form which we saw from him in Spurs’ 1-1 draw at the Emirates last season.
