The England striker, whose disappointing season at White Hart Lane last year was capped by a failure to make the World Cup squad, struck in the second half to hand Martin Jol’s side their third win in as many pre-season games so far.

Republic of Ireland captain Robbie Keane got through 70 minutes unscathed on his return from a neck injury.

Defoe, starting as a substitute, was introduced for the second half and opened the scoring by reacting fastest when Reto Ziegler’s shot came off the upright to head home.

Two minutes later Defoe scored again, putting the ball over Celta goalkeeper Pinto after good work by Teemu Tainio and rounding the stopper to tap home.

Spurs had been denied a penalty claim two minutes before the break when Wayne Routledge went down under the challenge of Lequi.