Jan Vertonghen has arguably been a great success for Tottenham since signing from Ajax in 2012. Widely praised for his tough tackling and positional play, he has formed a formidable central defensive partnership with long-serving defender Michael Dawson. However, does he have the ability to be a regular for Spurs for a long time?
World Gurning Championships??
Initial indications seem to be that he does have the potential to be one of the first names on the team sheet for a number of years. He has played some part in 90% of Spurs' premier league games over the last two seasons and also boasts a healthy goal threat from set-pieces, which saw him score 7 goals last season. Furthermore, he and Hugo Lloris, the spurs goalkeeper, have widely been recognised as the main figures in Spurs' great defensive record this season.
However, question marks have been raised about Vertonghen's discipline, particularly after being sent off in a crucial european tie with Basel, which Spurs eventually lost. Jan Vertonghen is not the quickest of players, and him and Dawson are not exactly the most mobile defensive unit, as seen in Manchester City's recent 6 goal mauling of Spurs. Younes kaboul, with his pace and power, is a strong contender for a starting place, so Vertonghen does have some good competition.
Jan Vertonghen is enjoying success
However, he is only 26 years old, and already looks like a commanding player with clear leadership qualities. His all-round play is good, and he complements the playing style of defensive partner Michael Dawson, which does seem to that he will be at Spurs for the forseeable future at least.
Jan Vertonghen had a great season
