Jermain Defoe has completed an emotional return to Sunderland after he was released by Rangers in January. Posting on Instagram, Newcastle striker Callum Wilson responded – despite the Tyne-Wear rivalry.
Defoe, 39, has returned to Sunderland until the end of the season. It comes after Rangers chose to release the ex-England star, with Steven Gerrard departing. Gio van Bronckhorst only saw him as a player, and not a coach.
Sunderland have won the race to nab the veteran’s signature, handing him the no.10 shirt. Defoe played for Sunderland for two and a half years between 2015 and 2017 – scoring 37 goals in 93 games for the Black Cats.
Defoe is now expected to exceed 100 appearances in all competitions for League One promotion hopefuls Sunderland over the course of the next few months. He penned a contract until the summer and reacted on Instagram.
Newcastle star Wilson reacts as Defoe returns to Sunderland
It is a huge boost for Sunderland, who sacked their manager last weekend after a dismal 6-0 defeat to Bolton. They currently sit in third place, with a real chance of a return to the second tier of English football on the cards.
Sunderland have enjoyed a solid window – also bringing in Jack Clarke from Tottenham. Manchester City outcast Patrick Roberts and Danny Batth have also joined – the latter from Stoke City. Some excellent business.
Responding to Defoe’s move to Newcastle’s rivals, Wilson put aside rivalry to applaud his ex-Bournemouth teammate on Instagram with a three-word message. Yann M’Vila and Victor Anichebe also responded.
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