Ledley King has revealed that Japhet Tanganga immediately caught his eye when he first watched the young defender in training due to his desire to put his body on the line.
Tanganga burst onto the scene this season and has put in consistent displays across the backline since making his debut against Liverpool back in January.
The young centre-half has been used by Jose Mourinho at right-back, centre back, and left-back throughout the campaign, with the youngster coping well each role.
The defender was getting a regular run in the matchday squad until the Premier League season was suspended due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
The 21-year-old is reportedly on the verge of signing a new contract with the club on the back of his performances (Football Insider).
King claimed that there aren’t many young players coming through at the moment who enjoy the art of defending as Tanganga does.
Speaking to The Beautiful Game Podcast, the legendary Spurs defender said: “When I watched him on the training ground, I saw someone that as a young player had a desire to put his body on the line and someone who wanted to defend.
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“I think when you get a young player with that it’s an important trait, not enough young players really enjoy defending.
“He was someone who stood out for me as he enjoyed doing it. The hard work begins for him now, as we have top defenders.”
Spurs Web Opinion
While Tanganga’s composure and athleticism have stood out during his short cameo with the first team, he also seems to have a great attitude. He comes across as a humble character who is keen on learning, which is why I think Jose immediately took to him.
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