Defoe: Tottenham need to sign strikers

Jermain Defoe has called on Tottenham to reinforce their forward line before the start of the new Premier League season.

Along with Defoe, Emmanuel Adebayor is the only other recognised striker currently considered a first-team regular at White Hart Lane – and he has been linked with a move away from the club.

Tottenham are reportedly interested in wantaway Aston Villa forward Christian Benteke after coming close to signing Internacional’s Leandro Damiao during the January transfer window.

And England international Defoe believes the club need to make additions to their squad if they are to break into the UEFA Champions League.

“I’m a forward but I can’t be the only forward at a club. Over the years, the clubs who’ve won titles have had several strikers,” Defoe told The Sun.

“When Manchester United won the treble in 1999 they had unbelievable forwards like Andy Cole, Teddy Sheringham, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Dwight Yorke – you need that.”

However, the 30-year-old is eager to establish himself as the leading frontman at Tottenham as he looks to earn a spot in England’s FIFA World Cup squad, should they qualify for the tournament in Brazil in 2014.

“In a World Cup year it’s important for me to play. It’s based on merit,” he continued.

“People will look at me and ask how many goals have I scored? To score goals you’ve got to play.

“I’ve got to score a lot of goals this season to get into the squad.

“A top club brings in top players. When you’ve something to fight for, you get the best out of yourself.

“It’s a World Cup year and after going to South Africa in 2010 I know it’s the best thing ever. I scored in a World Cup and I want that buzz again.”