AliousEngland Icon Once Ranked Sunderland Hero Among the Best Ever – On Par with Figo and Owen, Says David Platt
Sunderland have enjoyed their fair share of attacking legends over the decades, but few have made as lasting an impression as Jermain Defoe — a striker once hailed as one of football’s finest by England great David Platt.
As the Black Cats bask in the glow of their recent promotion back to the Premier League following a dramatic play-off final triumph at Wembley, thoughts are already turning to how Régis Le Bris’ squad can survive the top flight’s unforgiving challenge. Their offensive shortcomings in the Championship – scoring just 58 goals across 46 games – underline the need for clinical finishing up front, something that defined the club’s best years.
From Kevin Phillips’ Golden Boot heroics to Darren Bent’s bizarre beach ball goal, Sunderland’s greatest moments have often come courtesy of iconic number nines. But while “Super Kev” remains the club’s most prolific scorer, Defoe is remembered not only for his goals but also his sheer brilliance on the pitch – and off it, through his unforgettable bond with young fan Bradley Lowery.
And Defoe’s legacy has been stamped by none other than David Platt, a former England captain who once managed the striker at U21 level. Speaking about a young Defoe, Platt gave an astonishing assessment:
> “He excites me more than anyone. He has no weaknesses — and I mean none. When I look to the future of English football, I keep coming back to him. He’s special. Only a few players come to mind when I think of that level — Michael Owen, maybe Luís Figo. That’s the company he belongs in.”
Defoe would go on to score 163 Premier League goals, securing his place among the division’s all-time greats and behind only six Englishmen in the scoring charts. While much of his top-flight success came at Tottenham Hotspur, many of his most iconic goals — including his thunderbolt winner in the Wear-Tyne derby — were netted in a Sunderland shirt.
His passion for the club remains strong. Defoe was spotted celebrating in the stands at Wembley after the promotion win and took time to praise Le Bris for his smart in-game management, particularly the game-changing introductions of Patrick Roberts and young Tommy Watson.
While Wilson Isidor and Eliezer Mayenda showed flashes of promise last season, the bar set by Defoe remains sky-high. Matching his impact is a tall order — but for a club built on legendary forwards, history suggests that anything is possible.
Alious
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