West Ham United goalkeeper Alphonse Areola has posted a touching tribute on Instagram to Tottenham Hotspur captain Hugo Lloris on Instagram after the Frenchman announced his retirement from international duty this week.
Lloris, 36, has ended his time with the France National Team after a stunning 145 caps for his country. He helped France win the 2018 World Cup, and reach the final in Qatar – only to suffer a loss on penalties against Argentina.
A stunning career, which sees him surpass Lillian Thuram as France’s most-capped player. The ex-Juventus defender had 142 caps for his country. Now, Lloris has decided to end his time with Didier Deschamps’ side after the final.
The news will come as a boost to Spurs. It means they can keep their no.1 goalkeeper at home during future breaks, rather than worrying he could pick up an injury. West Ham stopper Areola sent him a heartfelt message on Instagram.
West Ham goalkeeper Areola posts tribute to Tottenham captain Lloris
Of course, Areola was one of France’s three goalkeepers at the World Cup – acting as back-up to Lloris. Veteran star Steve Mandanda, too – which saw Leeds United’s no.1 Illan Meslier miss out. But Meslier is a future no.1 with France.
Now, focus turns to Spurs. But Lloris may find he is not at the London club for much longer. His contract ends in 2024, but the feeling is that he could leave at the end of the season. David Raya and Jordan Pickford are among the options.
Lloris remains one of the world’s best shot-stoppers. That is, even if he has had his question marks when it comes to his ability to help his side play out from the back, with the ball at his feet. But, the end of an era for Lloris and France.
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