Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger feels Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe deserves credit for what he has done at the Stadium of Light since returning from the MLS last year.
The veteran striker joined Sunderland in January last year after an indifferent spell in the MLS with Toronto FC and his goals last season played a key role in helping Sunderland to avoid the drop.
The Black Cats are again depending on Defoe to drag them out of a hole this season too and he has already scored four Premier League goals in the current campaign.
Wenger feels the 34-year-old striker deserves all the plaudits he is receiving at the moment as it is not easy for a player of his age to return to a top league such as the Premier League and put in such performances.
The Arsenal boss said in a press conference: “Honestly, you have to admire Defoe for what he has done.
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“For a guy of his age to move to the MLS and then come back to England, score goals and help Sunderland to survive in the league last season [is impressive].”
Wenger’s men will be facing a struggling Sunderland side at the Stadium of Light on Saturday and the Frenchman will be hoping that his defenders can keep the veteran Englishman in check.
