Why is it a no-brainer for Spurs to give Vertonghen a new contract
According to the Evening Standard, Tottenham Hotspur centre-back Jan Vertonghen has said that he expects his contract to be extended by a year, keeping him at the club until 2020. The Belgian’s current £90,000 per week contract is set to expire at the end of this season.
The 31-year-old was quoted as saying (h/t Evening Standard):
“My contract is expiring at the end of the season, but Tottenham have an option to extend it with one year. I think they will take up the option. We’ll see what happens.”
As for Spurs, there shouldn’t be any debate on whether Vertonghen deserves an added year or not. The Belgian has been one of the best defenders and professionals for the team since his arrival in 2012.
Here’s why the 31-year-old should get a contract extension at North London:
Vertonghen has been an epitome of consistency at the back for Tottenham. He has at the club even before current manager Mauricio Pochettino arrived. The 31-year-old was a part of the team which was feared by the opponents when Gareth Bale was around, and later challenged for the league title for two consecutive seasons under the current management.
The Belgian’s versatility as a defender has come to the fore more often than not. He can play as a left-back and as a left-sided centre-back in a back-four or a back-three system. His passing from deeper areas of the pitch is just phenomenal, along with his imperious defensive attributes. This also culminates in him becoming one of the best defenders in the Premier League.
Despite having players who are no longer young, Spurs require players like Vertonghen in their line-up to continue their progress. Pochettino’s system demands a player like him to be in the team on a regular basis.
Verdict
Spurs have a problem with a few players getting into the final year of their contracts at the club. They have to make sure these assets don’t leave the door for free. Hence, Daniel Levy and Pochettino should ensure that players like Vertonghen get their contracts extended, and there are no two ways about it.
Read More: Forget it Poch – Tottenham’s decision to accept £8m offer for £80,000-a-week star could be suicidal
This is a vital stage in Tottenham’s progress, with the new stadium all set to be opened sooner than later. Having the core of the team intact will make them a better team in the coming years.