Defoe u-turn might be a surprise to Rangers fans
EDITORIAL USE ONLY No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or live services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. Mandatory Credit: Photo by Kirk O Rourke/Rangers FC/Shutterstock 11787192ce Rangers players Calvin Bassey, Jermain Defoe and Glen Kamara celebrate at the end of the Scottish Premiership at Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow. Rangers v St Mirren, Scottish Premiership, Football, Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland, UK - 06 Mar 2021 Rangers v St Mirren, Scottish Premiership, Football, Ibrox Stadium, Glasgow, Scotland, UK - 06 Mar 2021
Rumours linking Jermain Defoe to a slightly unexpected playing extension are certainly intriguing, but have our attention for sure.
The aging strike veteran had widely been expected to retire at the end of this season, such is his minimal involvement the past year or so, but if sources are to be believed, Rangers still value his contribution as a player and want to extend him for one more campaign.
In truth, like Steven Davis, Defoe has looked after himself magnificently and shown no signs of slowing down when he’s had his moments on the pitch.
Indeed, Steven Gerrard preferred him over younger competitors for the shirt v Cove, and started with his ex-England team mate up top – being rewarded with an excellent 25-yard goal.
Defoe still has it – his brain is still as quick as it always was, and surprisingly his body isn’t deteriorating half as quickly as we’d have expected.
Does he have another season in him?
Like Allan McGregor and indeed Davis, his career has earned him the right to choose when he’s ready to hang up his boots.
He’s a special striker, and he’ll never stop scoring as long as he’s on that football pitch.
But we do hope, sensibly, if he gets another year, he accepts a more modest wage than the £65K (or £35K depending on who you read) that he’s on now.
We can’t afford a fringe squad member to be the highest earner on the payroll.
But he’s still invaluable, and his wisdom will always be welcome, whatever role he plays.