Transfer Centre

Jermain Defoe: Toronto is a "great opportunity"

By Sam Hughes, Reporter | 12 January 2014

Jermain Defoe admits that he could not turn down the "great opportunity" to join MLS side Toronto, despite how hard it is for him to leave Tottenham Hotspur.

Tottenham Hotspur striker Jermain Defoe has said that he believes his move to MLS side Toronto is a "great opportunity" in his career.

The England international, who has scored 143 goals in two spells at White Hart Lane, had his move to Canada confirmed on Friday.

The 31-year-old admits that he is upset to be leaving Tottenham after a long spell at the club, but admitted that he could not turn down the new challenge in the MLS.

"I was there nine years so you can imagine what it's like. I think everyone knows how I feel about Tottenham," Defoe told Sky Sports News. "I have had a special relationship with the fans over the years but it's football and players move on.

"I have had a special relationship with the fans over the years but it's football and players move on. At the age of 31 it is a great opportunity for me and my family. I've been through some things with my family over the last few years and sometimes it is nice to have a change.

"I only had a year left on my contract at Tottenham. If you have a year left and someone comes in and offers you four, you have to think about it and consider your options. It's as simple as that."

Defoe will leave Spurs at the end of February.