Tottenham Hotspur striker Jermain Defoe has insisted that he needs to play regularly this season in order to secure a place in the England squad for next year's World Cup.

The 30-year-old has recently been snubbed by Three Lions boss Roy Hodgson in favour of Rickie Lambert, Daniel Sturridge and Danny Welbeck.

"In a World Cup year you have got to play, it's as simple as that," Defoe told Sky Sports News. "To get into any England squad, it's based on merit. So you have got to play, I understand that.

"I also understand that it's a long season, there are so many games to go and a lot of football to be played. I just have to try and keep myself sharp and fit. It has been really frustrating.

"When you have played in a World Cup and have been involved with the England squad for a number of years, it's just the best thing in the world - representing your country at that level. You want to play."

Defoe has made three appearances for Tottenham off the bench in the Premier League this season.