Jermain Defoe will be a man on a very special mission if he’s charged with the task of leading England’s attack against Moldova tonight.
With Wayne Rooney sidelined and Andy Carroll also on the injured list, Roy Hodgson’s attacking options are somewhat limited.
The Tottenham striker, who has endured the sad loss of his father and cousin in the last year, would seem to be an obvious choice this evening.
If selected, Defoe will make his 50th appearance for his country. Personally, I think he should have made many more.
He is one of the most natural finishers in the Premier League and if England play to his strengths, he will be a lethal weapon during the World Cup qualification campaign.
So much will depend on the likes of Carrick, Lampard and Gerrard feeding Defoe with the right ammunition.
His speed, movement and clinical eye for goal will take care of the rest.
From the moment the former West Ham striker hit the headlines during a loan spell with Bournemouth – scoring ten goals in ten consecutive games – he was earmarked for stardom.
In the main, he hasn’t disappointed although he’s not always been first choice for either club or country. I’ve never really understood that.
Fit and firing, Moldova will not be able to live with him tonight. Expect a special display from a special player.
LIKELY ENGLAND LINE-UP
Joe Hart, Glen Johnson, Leighton Baines, Joleon Lescott, John Terry, Theo Walcott, Steven Gerrard, Frank Lampard, Michael Carrick, James Milner, Jermain Defoe.
Source: DSG
