Defoe could be in England's plans

Veteran striker playing his way back into World Cup contention

LONDON - England manager Gareth Southgate said on Sunday there was no reason why Jermain Defoe could not play at next year's World Cup after the 34-year-old marked his international comeback with a goal.

Defoe scored the opener in England's 2-0 World Cup qualifying win over Lithuania at Wembley following close to three and a half years in the international wilderness.