Jermain Defoe realised that even he couldn’t defy his 39 years when tumbled in the box pleading for a penalty against Crewe two weeks ago.
Chasing a through ball he was half a yard ahead, but out-paced and outmuscled. The appeal was dismissed and it was effectively his only contribution to the League One game. Time catches up even with legends who have accumulated 22 years at the top, amassed 57 England caps and 305 senior goals.
At his peak, Defoe was up there with the best, a wriggling pest of a striker, with an enthusiasm and energy for the game that was infectious. The last chapter, his second coming at Sunderland fell flat, an emotional signing by the board to re-energise Wearside fans, that boss Lee Johnson didn’t want… and may have been a factor in his sacking.
What came before that was brilliant, even helping Rangers to the SPL title last season, while also offering coaching help to Steven Gerrard. He made his debut in 1999 as a 17 year old, and played his last 16 minutes as a sub last weekend, March 19, 2022, in a 0-0 draw with Lincoln.
“I feel now is the right time to bow out,” he said. “I have had an incredible journey, and have met some amazing people in the game. Football will always be in my blood, and it gives me great pride and satisfaction to look back on the blessed career that I've had. I now look forward to spending some quality time with my friends and family before moving forward on this next chapter in my career.
“Thank you to all the fans from each club I've played for. The love I have received and endured throughout my career will never be forgotten, and I will always have a special bond with you all. Thank you also to my amazing team-mates, coaches and staff for playing such an integral part in my career."
Defoe’s 163 Premier League goals rank him ninth highest scorer in top flight history ahead of Michael Owen, Robbie Fowler and Teddy Sheringham. Harry Redknapp gave him his first break at West Ham - 41 goals and 105 games - before a controversial switch to Spurs where he spent almost nine years over two spells.
Sunderland brought him back from Toronto in the MLS, and he was a big hit, keeping them in the Premier League. His greatest goal? Possibly the volley from outside the box in the Wear Tyne derby which dipped viciously past Tim Krul. World class.
His England career included 20 goals and three appearances at the 2010 World Cup, the last being as recently as 2017 for Gareth Southgate. Off the pitch, Defoe also had impact. He struck up a bond with young Sunderland fan Bradley Lowery as he fought a rare type of cancer, and has continued to back the Foundation in his name.
Defoe added: “Lastly, I want to say thank you to my mum. You gave me a ball at two years old and you made me believe my dream could happen. All that I am is because of you, and I owe everything to you and God.”
