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Reports in the press of late have linked Jermain Defoe with a January exit from White Hart Lane. The England international has largely been used as a substitute this season and is growing more frustrated at his lack of game time. However, despite Defoe not being selected if all players are fit, Harry Redknapp would be best advised to keep the marksman rather than sell him on.

Rafael van der Vaart’s refusal to play in midfield or from wide means that Defoe is in direct competition with the Netherlands international for a starting berth alongside Emmanuel Adebayor. Although Defoe has played alongside the Togolese frontman when Van der Vaart has been injured or unavailable, the ex-Real Madrid man has always been given the nod by Harry Redknapp when available.

Van der Vaart offers something completely different when he plays; his ability to drop deep and pick a pass offer Spurs a more creative approach, and takes pressure off Luka Modric in being the sole playmaker. Van der Vaart can be selfish at times, but his technique and skill cannot be questioned; when fit he must play.

This unfortunately means that Defoe becomes the odd man out and has had to watch on from the bench, despite being in excellent goal-scoring form earlier in the campaign. The hitman has employed a new agent, who is reportedly putting Harry Redknapp under pressure to play his client on a more frequent basis, or orchestrate a move elsewhere for him.

A number of teams have been speculated in being interested in Defoe, the latest Liverpool. Although a £10 million boost would help Harry strengthen in other areas over the last fortnight of this window and in the summer, Defoe loss would be felt.

Defoe gives Tottenham a clinical edge when he comes off the bench, with the diminutive attacker having a keen eye for goal, and arguably being the best finisher at the club. He scored the winner against West Brom in a recent 1-0 victory and has chipped in goals that have aided Spurs get to where they are now. With Adebayor not certain to be at White Hart Lane next season, Spurs may well depend on Defoe a lot more come 2012/13.

I can understand Defoe’s predicament. He loves the club and wants to stay, but he also wants to be included in Fabio Capello’s England squad for Euro 2012. Harry must fight hard to keep Defoe at the club, and this may mean resting Van der Vaart on occasion. Defoe is needed, and may well pop up with an all-important goal come the business end of the season that could guarantee Spurs’ success.

By Gareth McKnight

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