Sunderland AFC striker Jermain Defoe has signed a three-year extension with the Black Cats. 

Well-earned 

Defoe had one of his best seasons last year with his 18 goals proving vital in Sunderland's eventual survival. His efforts saw him end the third-highest English goalscorer behind Jamie Vardy and Harry Kane and earned him the Supporters' Player of the Year. 

Defoe has scored 22 goals in his 53 appearances since his move from Toronto FC in 2014 and has shared his delight at extending his stay until 2019. 

Defoe told Sky Sport News HQ that he was "delighted" as since he "walked into the football club" he has received "nothing but love"  from "people inside the club" and the "special fans". 

He continued, saying that it was "well documented" that he wasn't playing in his "favourite position" at the beginning of the season but since Sam Allardyce came in it has given him "a lot of confidence". 

Still in his prime 

The 33-year-old was playing on the left-hand side under former manager Dick Advocaat but has flourished under Allardyce, and the manager shared his delight at Defoe signing on the dotted line. 

Allardyce told safc.com that Defoe is one of the "greatest goal-scorers in the history of the Premier League" and a player that "every manager" would "want to have in their team". 

He added that it is "beyond doubt" that he is still in "fantastic physical condition" after last season and that he was "very pleased" to "extend his stay" with the team. 

Above: Patrick van Aanholt has signed a new deal with Sunderland AFC until 2020 | Photo: safc.com
Patrick van Aanholt has signed a new deal with Sunderland AFC until 2020 | Photo: safc.com

Dutchman extends stay 

Defoe has become the second player to extend their stay on Wearside in the last few days. He has followed on from Patrick van Aanholt who extended his stay until 2020 and Allardyce also shared his delight at his extension. 

He said that the Dutchman was a "outstanding performer" last season, not only contributing "solid defensive performances" but also "assists" and "vital goals". 

Allardyce explained that it is "fantastic" to "secure the long-term services" of a "talented footballer and athlete" and is hopeful that he will "continue to improve" for "many years to come".