Jermain Defoe has told the Sunderland Echo that he wants to return to his natural position as the spearhead of attack in time for the new Premier League season. The experienced striker has spent much of his time on Wearside in a wide left role, supporting fellow strikers Danny Graham, Steven Fletcher and Connor Wickham, rather than acting as the main goalscoring threat himself. During last season's relegation battle, he was also encouraged to track back extensively by Dick Advocaat, helping shore up the defence and securing the points needed for survival. But Defoe has told the Echo that he has aspirations of returning to his usual central role, stating: You want to play in your favourite position; the position youve been playing in for your whole career. Ive never played on the left wing in my whole career. Im not a left winger, Im a striker." Despite this, the former Tottenham star acknowledged the need for flexibility, especially in a pre-season campaign geared towards fitness. There's every chance Defoe could get his wish, especially with the impending signing of Jeremain Lens looming close - a player thought to be used on that left hand side. However, he will find himself in stiff competition with Fletcher, Graham and Wickham for the solitary striker position, and could well find himself filling in on the wings for a while longer - especially given his newfound tenacity in tracking back.
