Tottenham defender Jan Vertonghen was reportedly ‘fuming’ after being omitted from Mauricio Pochettino’s squad for their Premier League opener with Aston Villa last weekend.
Despite not being injured, the Belgian international was left out of the match day squad for Spurs’ 3-1 win over Dean Smith’s newly-promoted side on Saturday, with Pochettino reportedly unhappy with the defender’s fitness following the pre-season campaign.
Toby Alderweireld and Davinson Sanchez were selected ahead of the 32-year-old and, according to the Daily Mail, Vertonghen’s Spurs teammates were surprised the centre-back stayed to watch the clash following his furious reaction.
Pochettino has reportedly put his players through a tougher-than-ever pre-season schedule, including double sessions on Tuesdays and Wednesdays, as last season’s Champions League finalists look to once again challenge for silverware this season.
Spurs began their Premier League campaign with a home victory over Aston Villa, as debutante Tanguy Ndombele’s fine strike and a late Harry Kane double sealed victory over the resilient visitors.
Pochettino’s side next travel to face champions Manchester City, who top the table on goal difference after the opening round of games, at the Etihad on Saturday.
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