Bournemouth striker Jermain Defoe is looking forward to play against his former mentor and boss Harry Redknapp.

The 34-year-old will be a part of the Cherries side that will take on Redknapp's Birmingham City in the League Cup during midweek.

Redknapp played a huge role in Defoe's progress during his formative years and the striker wants to repay by scoring a hat-trick against his former boss.

"I'm looking forward to it, playing against Harry," he said. "I'll score a hat-trick.

"I did years ago for Tottenham when I played against Southampton at White Hart Lane.

"He looked at me, and I said: 'well H, you gave me the opportunity from day one.' It's his fault, isn't it? He's the one that gave me the confidence.

"I'm forever grateful because he was the one. I think in every sport you've always got that one person, and he was the one that believed in me from a young age.

"When I was about 16 I walked into West Ham, and it was almost like, he got me in the first team as quick as possible.

"Even when I came to Bournemouth on loan, he used to come to all the home games. Every home game he was here.

"Then after that every club that he went to he tried to sign me. Nine times out of 10 it came off as well."