Toronto-bound Jermain Defoe insists he could still feature in England’s World Cup squad despite doubts about the calibre of the MLS league.
Defoe, who will leave Tottenham for Toronto FC for £8m at the end of February, claims he has done enough during his career to demonstrate to Roy Hodgson that he is worthy of a place in the England squad.
In an interview with Sky Sports News, Defoe, said: “Hopefully the manager knows what I can do. I’ve played in the Premier League my whole career, there’s not much more I need to prove, but it’s up to the manager.
“He picks the squad, and like I’ve always said, if I get picked to play for my country I’ll be ready.”
Defoe, who was frequently used as a back-up striker by former Spurs boss Andre Villas-Boas following the arrival of Roberto Soldado over the summer, fell further down the pecking order at White Hart Lane, with new manager Tim Sherwood preferring the resurgent Emmanuel Adebayor.
However, the striker insisted that while there were no hard feelings about his departure he had to consider his future career.
He said: “I’ve always said I have a special relationship with the [Tottenham] fans. But it's football, players move on. I feel at the age of 31 it’s a great opportunity for me and my family.
“I only had a year left on my contract but if someone comes in and offers you four you’ve got to think about it and consider your options.”
