Tottenham players have paid tribute to Gian Piero Ventrone after the club’s fitness coach died at the age of 61.
Nicknamed ‘the Marine’, Ventrone was a key member of Antonio Conte’s backroom staff, working with the Italian at Juventus before joining him in north London last year.
He was a hugely popular figure at Tottenham, despite the drills the player had to endured, with Heung-min Son recently speaking of how important their relationship was after his hat-trick against Leicester.
It was announced on Thursday that he had passed away, after a battle with fulminant leukaemia according to reports in Italy, and many of the Spurs squad have taken to social media to pay their own personal tributes.
“A truly remarkable man,” Harry Kane posted. “I’m devastated by the passing of our coach Gian Piero.
“My love and strength is with his family at this time. His words and wisdom will live on with me for the rest of my life and I’m just grateful I had the opportunity to spend time with him. RIP Prof.”
Richarlison tweeted: “Since I arrived at Tottenham, Gian has been a huge inspiration to me. He always said that I would help him a lot during the season, but who helped me was him... much more than he can imagine.
“Today we woke up to the terrible news of his passing and we are all devastated.
“We will continue to play for you, my friend, who taught us to never give up! Thank you so much and rest in peace!”
Son took to Instagram to thank Ventrone for his role in helping him get through a tough period.
“The world has lost a truly special person,” the forward posted.
“Gian, you helped me get through the hardest times, and together we celebrated some incredible memories.
“I cannot put in enough words my gratitude to you, and how much I owe to you. We will miss you so, so much. Thank you for everything my friend. I am sending all of my love to you and all of your family.”
Ryan Sessegon wrote: “Was such an amazing person. Devastated by the news.
“ Was always positive and always pushing us to our limits to become better. My love and strength goes out to his family and everyone connected to Gian piero at this difficult time. RIP Prof.”
