Andre Villas-Boas wants Jermain Defoe stay

Andre Villas-Boas has insisted that Jermain Defoe is a "key" figure in his Tottenham Hotspur plans amid rumours linking the forward with a move away.

A host of Premier League clubs, including Aston Villa, Sunderland and Queens Park Rangers, are reportedly interested in signing the England international.

However, Villas-Boas has stated his desire to keep the 29-year-old, who is currently the only senior striker on the Spurs books.

He said: "I have spoken to Jermain and his agent about the situation. The talks were positive. Jermain scored 17 goals last year. He was a key player and will continue to be. That's the expectancy I have with regards to his future.

"Competition is something that he is used to. The goal he scored yesterday (on Wednesday as England beat Italy 2-1) shows he can make the difference.

"He is tremendous. It was a great goal, he has great technical ability."

Meanwhile, Villas-Boas remains hopeful of tying up a deal for Emmanuel Adebayor, who spent last season on loan at White Hart Lane.