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Jermain Defoe has revealed the critical part he played in Younes Kaboul’s move to Sunderland – and the Black Cats striker insists the club have signed a “natural leader who has got everything”.

Kaboul has joined the Wearside outfit in a £3 million, four-year switch from Tottenham Hotspur.

The 29-year-old played alongside Defoe at both White Hart Lane and Portsmouth.

And Defoe has explained how Kaboul and Dick Advocaat sounded him out about the move before Thursday’s deal was completed.

“Dick Advocaat asked me what I thought of him and I told him if you can get him he’ll be a top signing,” he said.

“He’s a great guy. Obviously I played with him at Tottenham for a few years and then again at Portsmouth.

“He’s a top player and a top professional.

“Younes messaged me about the move as well, and he’s looking forward to linking up with the squad.

“He was Spurs captain and he is a leader on the pitch. Physically he’s so strong, I think he’s a player who has got everything and I think he’ll do really well at Sunderland.

“Younes is a winner and a natural leader on the pitch and he’ll come to the club and bring that attitude – he’s a great signing for us.

“Even in training he was always going for it, running, tackling, heading, attacking – fans will love what he’ll bring to the team.”

Kaboul has returned the favour by telling Sunderland’s official website safc.com how highly he rates Defoe. “He’s a special guy,” he said. “You enjoy working with him every day and I can’t wait to see him and play with him again.

“He only needs one yard to shoot or to score. He can surprise anyone quickly. For us to have a player like that is amazing.”

And Kaboul is relishing the chance to work with Dick Advocaat.

“He is a great man, a great manager,” he said.

“From what I saw of the game against Arsenal, I was really impressed by everyone involved with the club. It was really emotional. What the guys did was amazing. You need that team spirit, it’s the most important.”

Kaboul added: “I have very good memories (of Tottenham).

“Now that is behind me and I’m looking forward to starting a new challenge.

“There is good leadership here already in John O’Shea, who was at Manchester United a long time. He’s got great experience. You’ve got Sebastian Larsson, you’ve got Jermain Defoe. Many players. Lee Cattermole.

“I’m very delighted to join them here and I hope we’ll have a great, healthy season.”