• Premier League

Van der Vaart feels Defoe's pain

ESPN staff
October 25, 2011
Rafael van der Vaart has been keeping Jermain Defoe out of the Tottenham starting XI © Getty Images
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Rafael van der Vaart admits he feels sorry for Tottenham team-mate Jermain Defoe after his form has forced the striker to endure life on the bench.

Van der Vaart has scored five goals in his last four games, helping Spurs recover from their shaky start to the season to storm up the table and within striking distance of the top four.

After making their Champions League debut last season, Tottenham failed to book a return after finishing outside the top four last term, but Van der Vaart believes Spurs' strength in depth will see them challenging the frontrunners this season.

"We are a better team than last year," Van der Vaart said. "We have a great squad, so that helps when you have to play a lot of games throughout the season. If we continue like this, we have a good chance. We can compete with the big teams.

"Maybe at the moment Manchester City are just too good for everyone else. But for the rest it is very even."

Van der Vaart's form has seen him given the nod to start alongside Emmanuel Adebayor, and while the Dutchman has no intention of giving up his place in the starting XI, he does feel sympathy for England striker Defoe.

"I just score my goals when I am picked," he said. "I feel I am a starting player, so I am not worried about starting. But of course, I feel sorry for Jermain."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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