Source: SKY_Sports
Defoe uses Becks as inspiration
Jermain Defoe has used the 'unbelievable' career of David Beckham as a reminder when dealing with international disappointment.
In 2006 Tottenham star Defoe was controversially omitted from then England boss Sven Goran Eriksson's World Cup squad, with Theo Walcott earning a shock call-up.
But England, who play Croatia on Wednesday, are now on the brink of qualifying for the 2010 finals and the in-form striker has progressed to be in contention for a first-team place.
Defoe has netted five times in his last three internationals and he has revealed how he sees Beckham as a role model after the midfielder bounced back from being sent off against Argentina at the 1998 World Cup to earn more than 100 caps.
"It was disappointing to miss out on 2006 but when you go through disappointments in life, it's about how you react and come back from them," Defoe said.
"If you look at the most talented players, they all have to do that.
Incredible
"If you look at David Beckham, he got sent off in the World Cup in 1998 and had to bounce back, which he did by getting a goal against Greece a few years later to get us to another finals.
"To do what he has done since, to get all those caps and have an incredible career, is unbelievable. You look at players like that and learn from them.
"You've just got to keep your head up and keep working and hopefully you will get another chance - and that's what I want with this next World Cup."
Defoe is determined to help England to victory over Croatia in midweek after defeat to Slaven Bilic's side infamously cost the Three Lions a place at Euro 2008.
"It is a massive game against Croatia," he added. "We all remember what happened last time against them at Wembley and we don't want to have that feeling again.
"It is hard to put in words what it felt like two years ago. It was like 'it's all over' and we were out of the European Championship before making the finals.
