Former striker Jermain Defoe has stated his interest in becoming Sunderland manager.
Defoe, now 41, is looking to make his way into coaching and management.
The 100-app former Sunderland man, who scored 37 goals during his time on Wearside, has been working as a youth coach with Spurs.
Defoe has also obtained his UEFA B license and is studying for his UEFA A and also his UEFA Pro license.
And in a recent interview, Defoe replied ‘why not’ when asked if he’d take the Sunderland job, adding:
“If I got a phone call from Kristjaan [Speakman] or Kyril [Louis-Dreyfus], get me my suit, get me my whistle and let’s go and win games. It’s as simple as that. These are my people. I know.”
Jermain Defoe interested in becoming next Sunderland manager
Defoe is yet to work his way into management.
But he certainly seems keen to make the breakthrough and it looks like he’s keen to maintain good connections with the Black Cats too.
It comes after Defoe recently opened a football academy in the north-east.
Sunderland are set to appoint a new manager in the summer and several names have been linked, with Paul Heckingbottom the latest name to be mentioned.
It’s a crucial appointment for Kyril Louis-Dreyfus and co, and fans want to see a worthy and experienced coach arrive at the Stadium of Light.
Defoe then, for the vast majority of fans, isn’t the answer right now.
Reacting on social media, here’s what Sunderland fans had to say about the Defoe links…