By Victor Kanayo
A Tottenham coach Gian Piero Ventrone has died of leukaemia at the age of 61.
Ventrone, a fitness trainer who was nicknamed ‘The Marine’ due to his training exercises, joined Spurs in 2021 as part of Antonio Conte’s backroom staff.
“As loveable off the pitch as he was demanding on it, Gian Piero quickly became a hugely popular figure with players and staff.
“He will be greatly missed by everyone at the club and our thoughts are with his family and friends at this impossibly sad time,” a statement by the club read.
Conte’s press conference, ahead of their match on Saturday against Brighton, has been cancelled with the club mourning the loss.
The funeral will be held on Sunday at 15:00 UK time.
Ventrone spent 10 years at Juventus where he enjoyed numerous triumphs with the Italian side.
They have also been paying tribute to the Italian.
