‘I will be playing for Spurs’: Defender concedes he does want to be at Tottenham next season

At this time last year, Toby Alderweireld looked like a player on his way out of the club after his reluctance to sign a new deal with Spurs.

The defender was often linked with an exit, as Manchester United retained an interest in signing him while Jose Mourinho was in charge (the Sun).

The 30-year-old enjoyed a fairly successful season with Spurs last term, as he helped the team reach the final of the Champions League, where they were narrowly beaten by Premier League foes, Liverpool.

Following the events of the past 12 months, Alderweireld appears to have changed his mind over leaving north London this summer.

The Belgium star has revealed to the media that his decision now is to stay with the club and continue to flourish under Mauricio Pochettino.

Alderweireld has admitted that, with only one year left on his contract, anything could still happen. But the experienced defender insists he has decided to remain committed to Spurs.

“Yes. That’s my focus in football. Everything can go quick but all I’m doing is focusing on Spurs and being fit for the start of the season.” the defender said to the Telegraph

“I think (Mauricio Pochettino) knows I am committed to the club and the team. Again, (a club triggering the clause) can happen but my focus is on Spurs and in my head I will be playing for Spurs. I try to deliver the job I need to do – I’m happy and that’s it.”