AVB: Vertonghen is one of the greatest defenders I’ve worked with

Tottenham boss Andre Villas-Boas has admitted that playing Jan Vertonghen at left-back is a necessary ‘sacrifice’ due to a lack of personnel.

The Belgian has spoken out in recent days of his dislike of playing outside of his natural position, and Villas-Boas agreed with his sentiments.

The Portuguese boss went on to hail the defender as one of the greatest he has had the fortune to manage, and pledged to restore him to centre-back once the left-back problem is resolved.

“I have had lots of conversations with Jan regarding this situation,” Villas-Boas said. ”Unfortunately he has to sacrifice his position as centre-back for the team.

“His position at centre-back is not in question. He is one of the greatest central defenders I have worked with. He knows that and he knows that position is waiting for him whenever we have options at left-back. He has my word.

“He hasn’t fallen in love [with playing at left-back]. I know he doesn’t like it, but it’s no big deal. It’s a decision I have to make for the best of the team.”

Vertonghen has won an incredible 79 per cent of all of his duels this season, the highlight being his staggering 92 per cent take on success rate.