Tottenham Hotspur fans are said to see Jermain Defoe leave – but also happy he has a new adventure.
Last night saw White Hart Lane say its goodbyes to one of its most revered sons – as Jermain Defoe came on at half-time to wave off the Spurs fans who have supported him over two spells in North London for nine years.
Defoe agreed a deal with Toronto FC in January – and has been back on loan with Spurs ever since.
Unfortunately injury curtailed his involvement with the team for what would have been his final game – as Tottenham Hotspur defeated Dnipro 3-1 in the Europa League in order to qualify 3-2 on aggregate.
Defoe is one of the club’s all-time record goalscorer’s at fifth in the list with 143 goals for the club in all competitions – while he is also their leading European goal-scorer with 23 goals.
He said of the reception he received at half-time:
“I’m just speechless. I remember it like it was yesterday when I walked on to the pitch and signed. Even before I kicked a ball, the reception was fantastic. It’s something I will never forget. I will cherish and appreciate that. I’m going to miss this place. It’s been a part of my life and for my family. It’s a special place.”
Defoe now embarks on a new career in the USA – as he joins up with former team-mate Ryan Nelsen who is the head coach at the ambitious MLS franchise.
But don’t bank on this being the last time you see Defoe in a Tottenham kit.
In the MLS off-season next term he is likely to want to maintain his fitness levels – especially if he is still harbouring England ambitions at that time.
And you can certainly expect Spurs to be one of the many teams scrambling to make a move for the player on a temporary basis.
For now the fans can cherish the good times with Defoe – and wish him all the best in his new adventure across the Atlantic.
Here is some Twitter reaction to Defoe’s farewell…
image: © pahudson
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