JERMAIN Defoe believes he has joined a “special” club that will give him the ideal platform to score goals.

England international Defoe signed a three-year contract worth £65,000 a week with Cherries and is hoping to provide a prolific striking option for the team.

The striker scored 15 Premier League goals in each of the last two seasons for Sunderland and Defoe feels that he can add goals to a side that bagged 55 goals in the Premier League last term.

“If I’m scoring goals, it's good for the club, it's good for the team,” said Defoe.

“I’ll try and improve this team, help the young lads and just be a part of something special.

“I believe it’s a special place to be going forward. I’m just really excited.”

The former Sunderland striker enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at Cherries 16 years ago.

In his seven months at the club on loan from West Ham, Defoe netted 20 times – including a record run of scoring in 10 consecutive league games.

The 34-year-old said he was delighted to join up with former team-mates Eddie Howe and Jason Tindall.

Under Howe’s stewardship, the side has built a reputation for their attacking style that creates a lot of chances and Defoe is relishing the opportunity.

“As a forward, it’s something to look forward to because you know you’re going to get chances then it’s just down to you to score,” he added.

“Over the years, I’ve always believed that if I’m getting chances in games I will score goals.

“I always like to feel that the chances are important. I never go into games and think that if I miss a chance I’m in a team that creates a lot of chances I’ll get the next one.

“Throughout my career, I’ve always wanted to be that player that my team-mates can look at and think if we get a chance, JD will score.

“Even if it's half chances, you’ve got to make the most of those. I know that I’m in a team that puts a lot of chances in – I’m delighted I just can’t wait to get going.”

Despite his best efforts, Defoe was unable to prevent Sunderland from being relegated to the Championship last season.

The lure of top-flight football with a club that has a place in his heart made the move a simple decision for the former Tottenham and Portsmouth forward.

When asked if it could take time to settle into Howe’s way of playing, Defoe was confident he would be able to hit the ground running

“You’ve got to adjust because it’s a different team, sometimes it takes time. If you’re willing to learn then hopefully it will be quick, which I am.

“I understand I’m joining a top team that’s got some good players, good spirit, high intensity and lads that work hard for each other.”