Belgium looked like the real deal at Euro 2016.
Up until Jan Vertonghen got injured, that is.
Vertonghen helped the Red Devils keep three consecutive clean sheets in France, before tearing ankle ligaments in training.
In Belgium’s first match without him at Euro 2016, they were thrashed 3-1 by Wales and eliminated.
The London Evening Standard claimed on June 30 – 10 weeks ago tomorrow – that Vertonghen had been ruled out for between six and eight weeks.
On the morning of July 1, Sky Sports then reported that Vertonghen could miss the start of the Premier League season.
However, the 29-year-old looked in good shape earlier today as he trained with his Tottenham Hotspur teammates.
Vertonghen even took part in a training match, which is a great sign.
The hard work continues with four days to go… ? ?? ? #COYS pic.twitter.com/VagfVsFYcy
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 9, 2016
He has not played a minute of any of Tottenham’s three preseason friendlies, but manager Mauricio Pochettino may still opt to start him against Everton on Saturday.
Vertonghen and countryman Toby Alderweireld formed a terrific partnership last season and Pochettino is likely to want them together as often as possible.
.@JanVertonghen working hard at Hotspur Way… ? #COYS pic.twitter.com/z0PpQ3r7Lg
— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) August 9, 2016
Kevin Wimmer filled in for Vertonghen while the Belgian was injured last season and the Austrian did well.
However, if Vertonghen does miss out against Everton, Pochettino could chose instead to call upon 18-year-old Cameron Carter-Vickers, who started all three preseason games.