Defoe plays down ‘speculation’ he could rejoin Hammers

Jermain Defoe has played down speculation linking him with a return to West Ham.

The former Hammers striker, 34, has reportedly been lined up for a move back to east London from Sunderland.

“There’s going to be speculation because, let’s be honest, the people that score goals are wanted,” Defoe told Sky Sports News HQ.

“Over the years, anyone that has scored goals has been talked about in terms of moving to different clubs.

“I think it’s just part and parcel. The players don’t really get involved; you just get your head down and you play football.

“It’s a good feeling to be wanted but when you’re playing well and scoring goals then you must be enjoying being at the place you’re at.”

The Daily Mirror claimed on Friday that West Ham are convinced Defoe wants to rejoin the club.

He made his name with the Hammers before angering many fans when he left to join Tottenham in 2004.

Defoe played a crucial role in keeping Sunderland in the Premier League last season and has scored eight goals for the struggling Black Cats so far this term.

Sunderland boss David Moyes has insisted that the player will not be sold.