Jan Vertonghen has reflected on his time at Tottenham Hotspur and has made an admission about his former Spurs teammates.
The Belgian international is widely viewed as one of the best centre-halves in Tottenham’s recent history, being part of the Mauricio Pochettino side that came close to winning the biggest trophies in the game.
Vertonghen, who announced his retirement from professional football last year, formed a formidable partnership at the back with Toby Alderweireld, which arguably remains the most fearsome centre-back pairing the club has had in the Premier League era.
It turns out that Spurs continue to hold a very special place in the 38-year-old’s heart.
Jan Vertonghen loved going down memory lane on Tottenham return
The former Tottenham man was the special guest during the club’s 2-2 draw against Man City a couple of weeks ago.
Vertonghen, who had a chance to address the fans at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium at half-time, admitted that memories came flooding back on his return to N17.
When asked how it feels to be back, he told the club’s official website: “Yes, very, very good, I’m so happy to be here, so many memories – everything that I see, every street I drive into. I’ve done a nostalgic tour this morning and yesterday. So, very happy I can share these moments with my wife and my kids.”
MORE SPURS STORIES
When asked about the club being such a big part of his life, Vertonghen said: “Eight years… we had probably the best times of our lives here. I had a very good time. I made lots of friends who I still speak to, which is not very common in football. I still speak to Mousa, Eric Dier, and Christian. I forgot, guys. Ben Davies, obviously. I made some very precious friends over the years.”
Vertonghen admits ‘special group’ at Spurs was unique
The Belgian, who has played around Europe and has been in several dressing rooms, admitted that the relationship he had with his Tottenham teammates was unlike any other.
He confessed that the group at Spurs was the best bunch of guys he played with across his long and illustrious career.
When asked about his comments about it not being common in football to remain in touch with teammates and if he thought it was a special group at Tottenham, Vertonghen responded: “I don’t think that – I know that. It was very special. We even had our breakfast club. We always sat with a big group of guys, just sharing life experiences and thoughts. It was a great group. Honestly, it’s the best group of guys I’ve ever played with, without a doubt.
“I forget Michel Vorm! He’s a very close friend of mine. This is why I shouldn’t drop any names! We said it loads at the time, we’re complaining about small stuff, but when we retire, we will think about these times. It is true. It’s the best group of guys I’ve ever played with, and probably the best team I’ve ever been part of. We had some great, great times. Obviously, ups and downs, but I’m almost just positive about everything.”