Defoe managed just four Premier League goals last season, but has scored five from seven starts this season.
“I feel for Jermain at the moment,” said the Spurs boss.
“It’s almost unfair that he’s not in the team but there is nothing we can do about that.
“He has been in magnificent form and he can’t get in my team at the moment. He was almost unplayable in training this week, but Rafa has scored five in the last four.
“Jermain is a sensible lad. I am sure he will look at it and he will see how well Rafa is playing and Adebayor too.
“If you look at Rafa’s goalscoring record, it’s incredible. He is just a great finisher. He is cool in front of goal and when the chances come he makes it look so easy. His two goals last week were world class.”
