David Moyes has challenged Jermain Defoe to establish himself as a Sunderland great after revealing owner Ellis Short will not sell him this month at any price.
The 34-year-old striker has found himself in the headlines in recent days with former club West Ham having firmed up their interest in him with a £6 million bid, which was instantly rejected.
Furthermore, the Hammers -- and indeed any other interested parties -- have been told Defoe, who has scored 11 Premier League goals so far this season, is simply not for sale.
Asked about the situation on a day when differing reports suggested the London club had both tabled an improved £13m bid and ended their interest, Moyes was unequivocal in his response.