Jermain Defoe: 'I need to play up front'

Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe has claimed that he can make a greater contribution for the team if he returns to a central role.

Defoe was used in a wider position as the Black Cats survived relegation in dramatic style last season, and Dick Advocaat has adopted the same approach so far in the current campaign.

However, the 32-year-old believes that he should be given the responsibility of leading the attack after successive defeats.

"It goes without saying that I still feel that I've got more to offer, but I need that to be up front - in the position I know best," Defoe, who has been linked with Bournemouth recently, told The Mirror.

"I still feel that I've got more years in me. I'm fit, I don't drink, don't smoke, I like to stay professional and I love the game."

Sunderland will look to collect their first points of the season when they host Swansea City on Saturday.