Tottenham legend Ledley King issues verdict on Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven partnership

Ledley King believes Tottenham Hotspur boast one of the best defensive partnerships in the Premier League.

As someone who provided the bedrock of Spurs’ backline for several years, King knows exactly how to marshal a top-flight defence. His later career was blighted by injuries but the 43-year-old is still held in high regard by Tottenham fans, most notably for captaining the club to its last major honour in 2008.

Ange Postecoglou has made defensive stability the bedrock of his early success as Spurs boss. Just nine goals conceded is the second fewest in the division, shoring up the leaky backline from last season.

For context, Tottenham conceded a staggering 63 goals in 2022-23. Only the three relegated sides, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest conceded fewer despite Antonio Conte being known for his defensive prowess.

Signing Micky van de Ven from Wolfsburg has proved a stroke of genius as the Dutchman has eased into North London life. A tall, composed defender, the Netherlands international has provided the perfect counterbalance for Cristian Romero’s more aggressive style.

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Speaking to The Telegraph, former Spurs skipper King hailed Van de Ven as “exceptional” while crediting Romero for “adapting” his game. He said: “A lot of times you see defenders give up or jog back and almost think the ball is going to end up in the net. But if there is a chance, you’ve got to put yourself in a position to do something.

“As a defender, I was always told to run back as hard as possible. He’s (Romero) adapted his game this season and has a stable partner in (Micky) Van de Ven who has been exceptional. They are up there as a partnership.”