Van der Vaart labels new Spurs man a ‘real striker’

Vincent Janssen: Picture courtesy of Tottenham

Vincent Janssen: Picture courtesy of Tottenham

Former Spurs star Rafael van der Vaart says Tottenham’s new signing Vincent Janssen is a “real striker” and capable of being a legend.

Last week’s £18.5million arrival from AZ Alkmaar has plenty to prove, despite scoring 31 times for the Eredivisie side last season.

The 22-year-0ld burst on to the scene with Almere City in the Eerste Divisie in 2013/14 and scored 10 goals before plundering 19 and getting a £340,000 move last summer to AZ.

The five-cap Netherlands international maintained his scoring form last season and Van der Vaart, who was a fans’ favourite at White Hart Lane during his two-year spell between 2010/12, believes he will be a big hit in north London.

“In my opinion Tottenham have signed a great striker,’ van der Vaart told the club website. “He’s still young but he’s a real striker. He loves to play and work for the team but he doesn’t just score goals, he makes goals as well.

“If you work hard at Tottenham and in the Premier League, people will love you and if you score goals, you will be a legend. I hope he will do both.

“I think it’s a great signing for Tottenham and a great move for Vincent.”

Van der Vaart, 33, who is currently playing for Spanish side Real Betis, having moved to Seville on a free transfer at the start of last season, played 77 games and scored 28 goals for Spurs.