Sunderland manager Gus Poyet was over the moon after his club completed the signing of Jermain Defoe on Friday.
The Black Cats have landed the 32-year old striker from MLS club Toronto FC on a three-and-a-half-year deal which has seen Jozy Altidore move the other way to Canada.
Ahead of Saturday's meeting with Defoe's former team Tottenham, Poyet spoke highly of the 55-time England international who he described as a 'special' signing.
"Yes I'm delighted," Poyet said.
"Delighted because it was difficult. It wasn't easy, it was hard work.
"There were many, many clubs trying to get Jermain and it took really hard work from the club.
"It is special, a very, very special signing. We took the steps that we needed to make. It wasn't about changing the whole structure of the club.
"It was waiting for the right time and the right player. I said a few weeks ago; quality, not quantity. I think we have proven that so I'm very pleased.
"It's a special moment. It's going to be great to see him playing for Sunderland."
When asked if Defoe would be in the squad and starting in the White Hart Lane fixture, Poyet was keeping his cards close to his chest.
"Yes!" was his response regarding Defoe being in the squad.
"We'll see (if he starts). He is desperate to play."
