Reports have claimed that former Rangers striker Jermain Defoe is set to retire imminently.
The 39-year old recently signed a short-term deal with Sunderland, joining the Mackems for a second spell but he hasn’t been able to make much of an impact personally as well as the Wearside club going through a typical up and down spell on the fringes of the playoff places in England’s League 1. They are currently in 6th place.
Reports are circling suggesting Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe, 39, is on the verge of retiring with immediate effect.#SAFC
— James Copley (@JamesCopley_) March 22, 2022
Since making his second debut in February, Defoe has made seven appearances of which just two have been starts.
Could it be that his body has simply caught up despite very good intentions and an excellent body condition for a man of his age and experience? Another key factor has been the recent appointment of Alex Neil in charge of Sunderland who will have had discussions with Defoe.
If the end is near, it will be tinged with disappointment but no-one will blame the player for wanting to continue as long as possible following his departure from Ibrox. A hybrid role was introduced for him under Steven Gerrard with coaching responsibilities included but that never quite got going and was very much over with the arrival of Giovanni van Bronckhorst.
Regardless of what happens, the England international made a very positive impression at Rangers and will always be welcome back – that is for sure.