Sunderland’s feet are firmly on the ground according to Jermain Defoe.
The striker’s winning goal against Chelsea lifted the roof off the Stadium of Light as a carnival-like atmosphere roared on the Lads to a 3-2 victory, and speaking to safc.com Defoe explained how it left Chelsea captain John Terry in awe.
On Wednesday the Black Cats can secure their place in the Barclays Premier League with a win over Everton, but it won’t be easy against a Toffees side looking to bounce back from defeat at Leicester City.
However, Defoe explained that Wednesday’s game is not about Everton but about what Sunderland do on and off the pitch.
“It’s about getting over the line now,” said the club’s top scorer.
“Coming back the way we did and getting the three points was like a dream, but we still have to get one more win and although it’s in our own hands we need to stay focused and push harder than we ever have.
“Niall Quinn was on the TV yesterday and he said it will be hard for Everton to handle the atmosphere, but we’re looking forward to it because when it’s like it was on Saturday it drives you on and the fans can win you the game.”
He continued: “That said, Everton are a top team full of top players who play at international level, so it will be a tough game but when you’re fighting for the points like we are you will bring everything to the pitch.
“After the first five minutes on Saturday John Terry came up to me and said ‘wow what a start’, and for somebody like him to say that – he’s played against the best players in the world – shows you the energy and desire we were playing with.
“He thought the way we set out our stall was unbelievable so credit to the lads because they never stopped believing, and if we can produce a performance like that against a team like Chelsea there’s no reason why we can’t do it again.”
