Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe extends his contract with the club until 2019

Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe has extended his deal with the club meaning that he will be at the Stadium of Light until 2019.

The forward scored 18 goals in all competitions for the Mackems last term to help them survive the drop, despite the fact that Sam Allardyce’s side spent the majority of the season in the Premier League relegation zone.

Allardyce said: “Jermain is one of the greatest goalscorers in the history of the Premier League and is a player that every manager would want to have in their team.

“He proved that beyond doubt last season by scoring 15 league goals, he is in fantastic physical condition and we are very pleased that we have been able to extend his stay with us.”

The 33-year-old moved to the Wearside outfit from Toronto FC in 2014 in a swap deal for Jozy Altidore, and has gone on to net 22 goals in 53 appearances for the Black Cats.