Defoe, 34, made his debut for Bournemouth in a 2-1 friendly win at Portsmouth on Saturday, and admits he is desperate to be on the plane to Russia with the England squad next year.
“It’s only normal to have one eye on the World Cup,” said the veteran striker.
“Every English player will want to get in to that squad but it’s based on merit, so you’ll have to play well for your club.
“I’ll focus on doing that and then if I get the opportunity to play in the World Cup again, it would be a dream.”
Defoe was recalled to the England setup by Gareth Southgate in March after a three-year exodus.
