Jan Vertonghen will leave Tottenham after his teammates paid emotional tributes after the last game of the season at the Crystal Palace.
The Belgian defender was offered no new contract and will retire after eight years of service, playing more than 300 games and being one of the most reliable central defenders in the Premier League. Goalkeeper Michel Vorm also leaves with the club to confirm his exit on Monday.
Harry Kane said on Instagram after the draw at the Palace that secured a place in the Europa League: “I wish jvertonghen and mvorm only the best with what comes next for them. It was a pleasure for me to share a dressing room and play with both. “
Vertonghen’s Belgian team-mate Toby Alderweireld said: “It is sad to see these two great guys leaving the club, both great players, but even better people. We shared countless moments that I will never forget. I wish you all the best for your next steps. Keep in touch.”
Midfielder Harry Winks added: “I will miss these two. Has been a big part of my career since I went through the academy both on and off the field. All the best in your next chapters, boys. “
Vertonghen, who joined Spurs from Ajax in 2012, has fallen out of favor this season, first under Mauricio Pochettino when his contract issue rumbled last summer, and then played a minimal role under José Mourinho. He spoke about the desire to move to a new country with possible destinations in Spain and Italy.
Mourinho has also confirmed that former Spurs captain Ledley King will join his backroom staff and replace his current assistant Ricardo Formosinho. “I know something [Ledley] can give, ”Mourinho told Sky Sports. “I know what he has to learn and he likes to do it. The fans love him and he is another connection to the local community. “
Tottenham secured a place in the Europa League with the 1-1 draw at Selhurst Park, while the hosts ended seven defeats in a row. After the game, Roy Hodgson was pessimistic about the club’s chances of keeping Wilfried Zaha.
“I think he makes it pretty clear that he would like to move,” Hodgson told talkSPORT. “How sharp and desperate he is to get away, only he can answer this question … we just have to look at this room and we will accept what decision he finally made.
“I don’t think he was as good as possible during this time, but he really had to do a job in advance alone,” added Hodgson. “He is a very valuable player for us and he still has a good transfer value, so I really cannot say what will happen.”
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