Jermain Defoe says the death of his half-brother Jade has put the role of football in his life into perspective. The Spurs striker told the Daily Mirror: "When things like that happen, it puts everything else into perspective. The things you thought were really important, the most important things in life, you realise they are not.

"My brother will always be in my thought and in my heart, and I'm sure this will make me even stronger as a person and appreciate everything in life.

"It wasn't a nice experience but it was one I'll never forget. It's hard to put into words how I felt, but I'm glad I was there."

Defoe missed the trip to Manchester United on compassionate leave last Saturday, dashing from the training ground to be at Jade's bedside.

"All my family were at his bedside and it was hard, as you can imagine, to put into words how I felt, but I'm still glad I was there," Defoe said.

He says the sheer volume of support from fans and well-wishers has helped him come to terms with the tragedy and he thanked everyone for their messages of sympathy.

Defoe added: "I've received lots of cards, letters and messages from Spurs fans and that's something special as well - I'd like to thank them all.

"The club has been so supportive - it's been a tough time but I've had good people around me and that has helped.

"I'm ready to play again - if I manage to start, it would be great, but I just want to get out there and do my stuff because it's a big game.

"I feel like a schoolboy and I can't wait to get back to doing what I love - scoring goals for Tottenham in the Premier League."