Tottenham Hotspur striker Jermain Defoe is expecting plenty of stick from the West Ham fans this afternoon, but claims that it doesn’t affect him.

Defoe handed in a transfer request less than 24-hours after West Ham were relegated in 2003 and eventually joined rivals Spurs, but the former Hammers academy graduate still has a soft spot for the club that developed him.

“That always happens but I’m experienced enough now to blank it out and go with my game,” Defoe told The Sun.

“Even though I get stick, I always look out for West Ham, all their results, and the way they are playing is effective so it’s going to be a difficult game.

“I swear, even if I get stick it doesn’t affect me and it doesn’t affect the way I feel about the club, because I just think it’s all part and parcel of being a footballer. You leave clubs and sometimes fans aren’t going to be happy. I can understand that.

“I’m an East London boy and I was buzzing when they got promoted.

“When you come through a club as a youngster it’s important for the fans to get on your side and they were unbelievable for me.

“They helped my development so I have to take it on the chin that I get a few boos.”