The Belgian centre-back has proven to be a superb signing for Tottenham Hotspur.
On this day in 2012, Spurs acquired Jan Vertonghen from Ajax, in a deal believed to be in the region of £12 million, and the Belgium international has gone on to establish himself as one of the finest centre-backs in the Premier League since then.
The 30-year-old has made 204 appearances for Tottenham, and has been a key figure behind their recent success.
He is still yet to win a trophy with the Lilywhites, however – something that he will be hoping to change in the foreseeable future.
Spurs have come on leaps and bounds since Vertonghen’s switch to north London half a decade ago, and their development as a team has accelerated over the past three years, following Mauricio Pochettino’s appointment as manager in 2014.
Here’s a look at how they lined up on the Belgian’s debut against West Bromwich Albion on August 25th, 2012:
In contrast to today’s Tottenham first XI, that side looks rather poor in comparison. Only two players remain from the 2012 side – Vertonghen and Kyle Walker, and that could soon be down to just one, with Manchester City reportedly ready to step up their chase of the 27-year-old full-back, according to the Daily Star.
And if the former Ajax man does go on to be the last man standing from the 2012 team, it will just go to underline his importance to the club, as he continues to help lead his side into a new era of success.
Tottenham’s Jan Vertonghen in action
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