Former Tottenham and Sunderland striker Jermain Defoe is launching a first academy in Durham.

The first enrolment will be held in September 2024 and among the coaches will be former Sunderland defender Darren Holloway.

The Jermain Defoe Football Academy will also include tuition from highly experienced sport lecturers at East Durham College.

“This new academy is something I've wanted to do for a long time," said Defoe. "I've been really lucky to have an amazing career in football and now it's all about giving back to the next generation for me."

“The academy will give students who love football opportunities they could only dream of, training with some of the best coaches in the area; EDC is the place for college football training in the North East."

He added: “The facilities at East Durham College are absolutely amazing for anyone interested in sport. They've got some of the best grass pitches in the region, a full-size floodlit 3G pitch, double-size sports hall and their own on-site gym. What more could someone interested in sport ask for?"