Jermain Defoe arrives in Toronto after agreeing switch from Tottenham: 'It's a bloody big deal'

The England striker is due to join up with the MLS side at the end of February

(TORONTO FC)

Jermain Defoe could be excused from getting a big head.

On Saturday he came off the bench against Crystal Palace to an amazing reception from Tottenham fans.

He then sent the White Hart Lane faithful into further raptures when he found the back of the net to secure a 2-0 win for Spurs.

Now the England striker is lapping up adulation on a whole different continent.

Having agreed a £6m deal to join Toronto FC last week, the 31-year-old arrived in Canada last night for his unveiling, much to the excitement of locals and the club.

Pictured at Toronto Pearson International Airport, Defoe can be seen surrounded by cameras. In a tweet accompanying the image, the official Toronto FC feed added: "Arrivals. Terminal 1. Toronto Pearson Int'l Airport. Moments ago. It's a Bloody Big Deal"

Defoe said at the airport: "I'm excited; it's been a long couple months.

"I just wanted to get over here and see the city. I'm looking forward to it; it's a fantastic challenge and great opportunity. I'm really excited, I feel like a little kid."

Defoe was taking in his new home before he moves over full time at the end of February - until then he will continue to play for Spurs. The conditions are currently a bit colder than he might be used to in North London.

(TORONTO FC)

With Defoe pictured in a car taking in his surroundings, Toronto FC said on Twitter: "Welcome Jermain, normally BMO Field isn't covered in ice & snow, we promise!"

Another Tweet from the MLS side showed a picture of Defoe on the front cover of a local newspaper. "Extra! Extra! Jermain Defoe graces the cover of the Metro."

They also apologised if little work was done by students this morning with the distraction of Defoe's official unveiling: "We apologize to all schools, your students will not get any work done this morning. It's A Bloody Big Deal!"