Jermain Defoe: I can replace Rooney

Tottenham striker Jermain Defoe believes he can lead the line for England at next summer's European Championships in the absence of Wayne Rooney.

Rooney faces a three-game suspension following his red card in the Three Lions' 2-2 draw with Montenegro earlier this month, meaning he will miss the entire group stage.

Despite being left out of the squad for the qualifier in Podgorica, Defoe is confident he can deliver at international level should Fabio Capello award him a recall.

"When I'm fit and sharp, and in the form I'm in now, I can score goals at that level. I've done it before," he said.

"The manager knows what I can do, especially with playing in the last World Cup and gaining that experience."

The 29-year-old made his England debut in 2004 and has gone on to score 15 goals in 46 international appearances.