AFC Bournemouth
Incoming striker Jermain Defoe feels his sharpness is coming after he appeared as a substitute in the 2-1 win against Portsmouth.
The striker's second-half minutes were the first time Defoe has pulled on the red and black shirt of Bournemouth since his loan spell with the Cherries in the 2000/01 season.
“It was nice to be back,” Defoe told afcb.co.uk. “As players pre-season is about getting your fitness and your sharpness but you always look forwards to get out there.
“The pace of the game was quick! I just wanted to get that one chance, but it was nice. Each day you feel stronger and stronger, now I’m just looking forward to the next one.”
Entering the fray after 58 minutes at Fratton Park, Defoe was afforded a special welcome by the 988 travelling Cherries fans, and the striker says he is keen to quickly remind them of his goal-scoring talents.
“It’s been a long time, this is where it started for me,” he said. “To be here again years later is a special situation and a challenge that I’m really looking forward to.
“If I can do what I did many years ago then I’m sure everyone will be happy.
“Ten in a row would be crazy, wouldn’t it? But why not? You can’t always be realistic, you’ve got to set your sights high and I’ve always tried to do that.
“You keep working hard and if you believe I’ve always said that age doesn’t matter.”
Defoe was partnered by last season’s top scorer Joshua King in attack for the game’s final 30 minutes, and the new signing believes plenty of opportunities will come his way in the upcoming season.
Defoe explained: “When you’re playing with good players that helps and I believe that in this team the forwards are going to get loads of chances to score goals – I’m definitely at the right place.”
If I can do what I did many years ago then I’m sure everyone will be happy.
