Jade, who was 26, died in hospital last Friday after suffering serious head injuries in an attack earlier that week - and Tottenham striker Defoe has thanked fans and his club for their support during that time.

"The things you thought were really important, the most important things in life, you realise they are not," Defoe said. "My brother will always be in my thoughts and in my heart and I'm sure this will make me stronger and appreciate everything in life."

The England international's mother broke the news to him at Spurs' training ground.

"I knew instantly something was wrong. She didn't have to say a word, I knew," Defoe added. "I got the news and went straight to the hospital. It wasn't a nice experience but it was one I'll never forget.

"All my family were at his bedside and it was hard, as you can imagine. It's hard to put into words how I felt but I'm glad I was there."

Spurs excused Defoe from duty last Saturday for the trip to Manchester United, with boss Harry Redknapp believing that training has been a welcome distraction for the striker since.

"It's probably good for him to come into the football club with the other lads [and] stops him from sitting around and thinking about it," Redknapp said.

As well as his team-mates, supporters also rallied around Defoe.

"I received a lot of cards, letters and messages from Spurs fans and that's something special as well, so I'd like to thank them all," he said.

"The club has been so supportive. It's been tough but I've had good people around me and that's helped."

Defoe has now declared himself ready to return to action.

The 26-year-old was out for nearly three months with a foot injury before returning against Newcastle as a substitute, just before he heard the news of his brother.

The Barclays Premier League clash against West Brom at White Hart Lane could be his first start since returning to full fitness and may also see him paired with Robbie Keane for the first time since the pair came back to the club in January.

Spurs need a win to maintain their European hopes, while Tony Mowbray's men need points for survival.

"I'm ready," Defoe said. "If I manage to start it would be great but I just want to get out there and do my stuff.

"It's a big game. West Brom are a good side, we've watched videos and they pass the ball well. It should be a good footballing match.

"They are fighting for the points but we've done so well from where we were and we want to kick on and try for that European spot."

Redknapp added: "It's good for him (Defoe) to be part of things and he's looked very sharp. He's also coming back from a long-term injury so it's just a relief to have him back before the end of the season."