JERMAIN DEFOE did not travel to Old Trafford with the Tottenham squad for yesterday’s game after the death of his 26-year-old half-brother on Friday night from injuries received when he was attacked in the street.

Jade Defoe, who was known as Gavin and as Esco Bars on the urban music scene, died from head injuries after an assault on Monday afternoon in Leytonstone, east London. A post-mortem examination at East Ham mortuary yesterday gave the cause of death as a head injury.

A statement from the club said: “All at the club wish to extend their condolences to Jermain Defoe and his family following the death of his half-brother late yesterday. Our thoughts are with Jermain and his family at this sad time. The club will be giving Jermain both time and support whilst respecting his and his family’s privacy.”

Scotland Yard has launched a murder investigation into the death. The attack happened between 4.15pm and 5pm in Walnut Gardens, near the junction with High Road, Leytonstone. A Metropolitan Police spokesman said: “We do not believe a weapon was used during the assault. We retain an open mind as to any motive and inquiries continue to establish the full circumstances of the incident.”

A 28-year-old man was arrested on Tuesday on suspicion of perverting the course of justice in connection with the investigation. He was released on bail, but was rearrested on suspicion of the same offence and remains in custody at an east London police station.

Jermain Defoe, who returned to Tottenham in January, had been out for three months with a foot injury. However, he came on as substitute last Sunday and was expected to make the squad for yesterday’s match.