Why Jermain Defoe Can Save Bournemouth From The Drop
Jermain Defoe is one of those players who has been there since forever, changing clubs regularly and yet, never running out of goals. In 473 appearances, he has so far scored 159 goals for clubs like Tottenham Hotspur, West Ham United, and Sunderland. At the start of the season, he was picked up by AFC Bournemouth to help them propel away from relegation this season.
However, it didn’t go according to plan for Eddie Howe and his team at all. After the first 4 matchdays, they were handed 4 consecutive defeats and were at the rock bottom of the league. Drained of confidence and wary of a long season ahead, the Cherries needed some inspiration from someone.
It seems like the Almighty had finally heard their prayers, as they finally won their first game of the league season this past weekend, courtesy of a Jermain Defoe goal. They were outplayed by Brighton and Hove Albion for large parts of the game, but goals from Andrew Surman and the former English international helped them garner 3 invaluable points.
It was a breath of fresh air for Defoe as well, who was recently applauded by his manager as being one of the best finishers that he had ever seen. The 34-year-old is the embodiment of the journeyman striker who has developed a cult status over the years, his longevity and dedication to the cause is a source of inspiration for many.
Bournemouth fans know that they need someone of his experience to help them stay in the top flight for another season and they will be hoping that the likes of Jordan Ibe, who made a massive impact in the Brighton game after coming off the bench, can consistently provide the former Portsmouth forward with good service throughout the season.
Recognised mostly as a typical No.9 who is more of a poacher in the box, Defoe makes up for his lack of height with his footballing brains. Currently the 7th-highest goalscorer in the League, he thrives off wingers who put good crosses into the box and likes to work the channels. His movement is hard to track, which will give the likes of Benik Afobe and Callum Wilson the freedom to roam around and stretch defences.
Bournemouth have a particularly tricky set of fixtures coming up, that starts with an away trip to Everton followed by a home game against Leicester City. The fans will be hoping that Defoe hits the ground up and running and secure their stay in the Premier League, which he should.