Tottenham Hotspur: Jan Vertonghem confirms Spurs exit

Defender joined the north London club in 2012 and made 232 appearances

Jan Vertonghen has confirmed his exit from Tottenham Hotspur after eight years at the club.

The defender joined Spurs from Ajax in 2012 and went on to make 232 appearances, and his contract with the north London side has now expired.

“So my time at the club comes to an end,” the Belgium international wrote on Twitter.

“A sad day for many reasons.

“I will miss the friends I’ve made here, the staff that make the club run, playing at the amazing new stadium & of course you fans.”

It is unclear where Vertonghen will play next, though the 33-year-old has expressed a desire to play in a different country.

A number of his Tottenham team-mates took to social media to pay tribute to the defender and goalkeeper Michel Vorm, whose time at the club is also up.

Striker Harry Kane wrote: “Wish nothing but the best for @jvertonghen and @mvorm with whatever is next for them. Been a pleasure sharing a dressing room and playing with them both.”

Vertonghen’s defensive partner for Spurs and Belgium, Toby Alderweireld, wrote: “Sad to see these two amazing guys leaving the club, both great players but even better persons. We shared countless moments that I’ll never forget. Wishing you all the best for your next steps. Keep in touch.”

Midfielder Harry Winks said: “Gonna miss these two. Been a huge part of my career since I came through the academy both on and off the pitch. All the best in your next chapters boys.”

Tottenham coach Jose Mourinho also confirmed that former club captain Ledley King will join his backroom staff, replacing assistant coach Ricardo Formosinho.