Hoddle hails Jermain as the new Romario

Glenn Hoddle today likened Jermain Defoe to the great Brazilian striker Romario.

Defoe marked his first senior start for England with a goal in the first half of the World Cup qualifier against Poland.

Former England coach Hoddle was suitably impressed with the Tottenham player and said today: "There was a touch of Romario about that goal.

"It was a goal out of nothing. He had his back to goal one minute and then the ball was in the net. That is Jermain's ability, he is so sharp around the penalty area. He picked up some interesting positions. He linked the team. He kept coming off so well. You can come off the front and not get the ball because the timing is wrong but he did it in a very clever manner. As long as he is able to get back into the box and he finds the right balance to his game, I am sure he can play that role. It will be another string to his bow.

"Jermain was terrific against Poland. He missed a chance just before he scored but good strikers don't allow that to affect them and it was a wonderful goal. He has the ability to score goals out of nothing. Our strike force is stronger now than during the summer, with Jermain and Alan Smith looking as though they can both become quite accomplished on the international scene."

Hoddle was also impressed by the defensive partnership of John Terry and Ledley King. "I can't praise Ledley highly enough," said the former Spurs boss.

"He is a Bobby Moore type of central defender, while John Terry has come on leaps and bounds over the last few seasons. We have a healthy situation in the centre of defence."