Defoe backed for Euro 2016 place

Sunderland boss Sam Allardyce believes Jermain Defoe’s form makes him a candidate for England’s Euro 2016 squad.

The striker has been superb for the Black Cats this season, netting 18 times in all competitions, including the winner in Saturday’s 3-2 victory over Chelsea.

His goals have helped his side move out of the bottom three and he will be hoping to weave his magic again on Wednesday against Everton. Allardyce’s men are 1.73 to win the game, with the draw 3.60 and the Toffees 4.50.

Victory would keep Sunderland in the top flight for another season and Defoe’s form has undoubtedly been a big part of their success.

England boss Roy Hodgson looks set to select Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy and Wayne Rooney for the summer, but questions remain over which other strikers he will take.

Allardyce believes 33-year-old Defoe could be a candidate for a place in France and is adamant the former West Ham man would relish the chance to represent his country again.

“There’s many, many high-quality strikers that England have got to select from for the first time in a long time,” said Allardyce. “In Kane, Vardy and Rooney, there’s three high-quality strikers.

“Would Roy want another one? Would he want a big one or a Jermain Defoe? “I think he’s made life extremely good for Roy in terms of an alternative if he feels it’s needed. I’ve not spoken to him about this, but I think he would love the opportunity to do that.”

England are currently 9.00 to win Euro 2016, with hosts France leading the betting at 4.00 ahead of Germany who are priced at 4.50.