Premier League: Danny Graham hails Sunderland strike partner Jermain Defoe

Sunderland striker Danny Graham has hailed the impact Jermain Defoe has had since his arrival at the Stadium of Light.

Graham, starting his first game for the Black Cats since May 2013, partnered Defoe up front against Swansea at the Liberty Stadium and watched as the former Toronto forward opened the scoring with a trademark finish.

Ki Sung-Yeung, who had a spell on loan at Sunderland, equalised to earn Swansea a point from a 1-1 draw but Graham feels the influence of Defoe will be key as the Black Cats fight to stay in the Premier League.

He told Sky Sports: “Goals, experience. He’s a good character around the place although he’s only been here a few weeks, but the main thing is he has given everyone a lift.

Since JD has come in the lads have been buzzing and I think that has shown in the results.

“To have someone of his calibre at the football club, knowing what he can do, has given everyone a lift and I think you’ve been able to see that over the last few weeks.

“All the forwards are working extra hard to be able to play up front with him and get in the team so we’ve got a lot of competition for places up front now which is good for us and probably good for the gaffer as well.

“Since JD has come in the lads have been buzzing and I think that has shown in the results. They weren’t so good before his arrival and it’s no surprise things have changed since he has been around so hopefully we can build on that.

“Since I’ve come back from Wolves on loan I’ve had a new lease of life again, I built up my match fitness while I was there and I’ve done really well in training so I’m delighted the gaffer has given me a chance today. Hopefully, I can stay there and have a few more appearances between now and the end of the season."