John Heitinga’s reveals why he chose Tottenham amid ‘enormous interest’ this month
John Heitinga’s agent has spoken about his decision to return to the game so quickly at Tottenham after parting ways with Ajax.
One rarely sees coaches go back to being assistants after having experience as a head coach, but John Heitinga has done just that.
Following his success as part of the coaching staff at West Ham and Liverpool, the former Everton centre-back was given the top job at Ajax last summer.
However, he only lasted a few months in the role, with the Eredivisie club deciding to part ways with him in November. Just two months later, Heitinga has now been confirmed as the first-team assistant coach at Tottenham.
John Heitinga’s agent sheds light on how Tottenham move happened
His agent, Rob Jansen, has been speaking to the Dutch media about his client’s decision to jump straight back into coaching at the highest level so soon after departing the Johan Cruyff Arena
In fact, Jansen revealed that the move could have happened even sooner, asserting that the 42-year-old is rated very highly in England.
Heitinga’s agent told De Telegraaf: “In England, John is highly regarded, has a fantastic reputation, and is seen as one of the most talented managers of the moment. This new job seems to be coming quickly, but it could have happened much sooner.
“Just like after the first time he was sent away from Ajax, there was enormous interest in John. This time, too, there was almost immediate concrete interest. And one of the options was Tottenham Hotspur. So, for me, this move is not unexpected at all.”
Heitinga spoke to all stakeholders at Spurs before making decision
Some may feel that the Dutchman is taking a big risk joining Spurs, particularly given the ongoing rumours about Frank’s job being under threat.
However, Jansen explained that Heitinga had detailed conversations with everyone at Tottenham before deciding that it was the right project for him.
When asked about joining Frank’s coaching staff, Heitinga’s representative said: “Football is one big risk. But you either run away from that, or you don’t. John has listened to Tottenham Hotspur’s story and spoken to everyone who matters. He’s become convinced and knows what he’s getting into.
“Frank did well at Brentford and was given the opportunity at Tottenham Hotspur. The fact that he ended up with Heitinga says a lot about the esteem in which John is held in England. Perhaps the Netherlands has a completely wrong image of him.”
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