Rafael van der Vaart has revealed that Johnny Metgod played a role in persuading him to join Spurs.
Dutch schemer spoke with former Spurs player before move
Rafael van der Vaart has revealed that Johnny Metgod played a role in persuading him to join Tottenham Hotspur.
The Holland playmaker completed a deadline day switch to White Hart Lane from Real Madrid in the summer.
And Van der Vaart has made a fine impact since the deal, scoring five goals for Spurs thus far.
The 27-year-old spoke with former Nottingham Forest and Tottenham midfielder Metgod before sealing his move to North London.
He told the
Hotspur magazine: "I knew all about Tottenham as a child in Holland.
Heart
"I have always been aware of the wonderful players here like Jurgen Klinsmann and Glenn Hoddle while Johnny Metgod, a great friend of mine who scouts for the national team at home, told me that this would be a great club to join."
He continued: "Speaking to people in London, even before I had played a game, they told me that they love Spurs because the club has always sought to produce and provide entertaining football and that I would do well here.
"That was so encouraging to hear because it confirmed the good feeling that I felt in my stomach when I first knew I was coming here.
"True, I left Spain in some haste but that's football and if you're convinced that your destination is a good one then you travel with greater confidence and with a spirit of anticipation. To me, it is a club of the people and I like that.
"People here play from the heart."
