Sunderland striker Defoe fit for Stoke game – Allardyce

Scott Anderson
Jermain Defoe: Mentioned for an England recall

Jermain Defoe: Mentioned for an England recall

Sunderland have been given a huge boost after manager Sam Allardyce revealed striker Jermain Defoe will be fit for Saturday’s game against Stoke City.

Defoe suffered the injury in the Black Cats’ 1-0 win over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Monday, shortly after scoring the goal that secured Sam Allardyce’s side their first away win of the season.

It was initially feared that the 33-year-old, who has scored seven goals in 12 appearances for Sunderland this season, suffered ankle ligament damage.

However, Allardyce says that Defoe will be fit for the weekend’s game at the Britannia Stadium.

“I think Jermain is alright,” he told the Daily Mirror. “It looked serious on the night but he was walking around yesterday without a strapping on.

“So there is every chance he will be fit for selection against Stoke.”

Sunderland are currently 18th in the Premier League, one point behind north-east rivals Newcastle United.