Winning is what it’s all about, and whilst Dele was delightful, our Most Valuable Performer by some distance, was Jan Vertonghen.
The Belgium international headed Spurs into the lead at Newcastle on Saturday after running on to fellow defender Davinson Sanchez’s eighth-minute flick-on, although referee Martin Atkinson needed the help of the Goal Decision System to rule that the ball had crossed the line by just 9mm!
Beyond the goal however, Verts’ contributions were absolutely outstanding.
If one were to pick 3 core disciplines for a defender, then tackling, heading and clearances would surely be the top 3.
6/6 headers.
10/10 clearances and equal to any other player at successful tackles.
If we look at Vertonghen’s passing throughout the game – we can see what a vital part of the press out from the back line he was.
Jan told PA Sport: “I didn’t expect it to be in at first. The goalkeeper made a great save and I was happy with the technology. I’m not a big fan of technology in football, but now I am!”
Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino was delighted with the way his returning World Cup stars responded to the challenge of launching the season with a victory after minimal preparation with Vertonghen, Hugo Lloris, Alli and Harry Kane all starting the game.
