Rangers striker Jermain Defoe has revealed he is acting as a mentor to some of the younger players in the Bears dressing room.
16-year-old defender Leon King, 18-year-old midfielder Ciaran Dickson and 20-year-old winger Glenn Middleton all came off the bench during the 4-0 win against Falkirk on Sunday and Defoe says he has been giving advice to the youngsters:
“I am obviously one of the more senior players so I try to take care of the dressing room. I know that at a big club like Rangers for young players coming in, it’s not always easy to hit the ground running and there is a lot of pressure because you are expected to win every game. People say stadiums are empty, but you still have millions of people watching at home.”
Defoe has made over 700 appearances at senior level and fans on Twitter are delighted that the 38-year-old is offering up his experience to the younger members of the first-team squad:
Imaging having a top internationalist in the dressing room! What an influence
— dex (@PRodgersN) December 1, 2020
Yes. If these youngsters have their heads in the right place then what a start in their careers. Gerrard, Beale and a host of experienced players including JD and Davis. What an opportunity….
— the ranger (@SbudRanger) December 1, 2020
So glad to have him at our club. His professionalism has been first class
— Bairdric (@Bairdric1) December 1, 2020
Give him a coaching post once he stops playing.
— James David Anderson (@JamesDavidAnder) December 1, 2020
The man is just a class act ????
— Burnsey (@Burnsey69uk) December 1, 2020
Perfect role model??
— Kenny Les (@kdy1303) December 1, 2020
Legend
— David Kennedy (@DavidKe53173656) December 1, 2020
jermain is the total professional, 38 years old and still got that appetite and to help the young lads.
— Billy boy (@andrewp07071010) December 1, 2020
Not every professional footballer is prepared to give up their time to help out others and it is testament to Defoe’s character that he is willing to play a key role in the development of young players.
The forward may be making his mark off the pitch but he isn’t doing too badly when he is given the chance to play either. His goal against Falkirk was his third in six appearances this campaign.