Jermain Defoe believes that Roman Pavlyuchenko can still be a hit for Tottenham Hotspur.

Defoe understands the situation the Russian is currently in at White Hart Lane, after finding himself out of favour at Spurs earlier in his career.

“I’ve always said when you have good players you don’t want to let them go,” he said in the Sunday Mirror.

“It showed the other week (against Leeds) when he came on – it was a fantastic finish and that’s what he’s about.

“He’s a world-class striker so if we can keep him it’s good for the club.

“It’s difficult for Pav. It’s important to stay professional but at times it’s difficult when you’re not playing.

“I understand because I went through a time at Spurs when I wasn’t in the team and it’s difficult.

“He’s a fantastic lad and is still a fantastic player.”

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