Harry Kane surprised by Daniel Levy’s departure but praises former chairman’s legacy
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England's Harry Kane said the Daniel Levy''s impact on the club had been transformative.
PHOTO: REUTERS
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LONDON – Former Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane was surprised by Daniel Levy’s decision to step down as executive chairman
While he was unable to end Spurs’ wait for a first English top-flight title since 1961, Levy’s legacy includes a new stadium and state-of-the-art training ground as well as a first major trophy since 2008, following their Europa League triumph last season.
“I didn’t expect it, didn’t see that coming,” Kane told British media ahead of England’s World Cup qualifier in Serbia on Sept 9 (Sept 10, Singapore time).
“Daniel has been a fantastic chairman for Tottenham in the 20 years or so he’s been there.
“Considering where the club was and where it is now, I think it’s been a big change, not just on the pitch, but off the pitch as well,” added Kane, who joined Bayern Munich in August 2023.
“Overall for Tottenham, it’s a new chapter they’re trying to create now.”
Kane was not the only former Tottenham star who has commented on Levy’s departure.
Ex-Spurs skipper Son Heung-min, who left before the start of this season to play his football for Major League Soccer club Los Angeles FC, also paid tribute to Levy.
“It’s not the right place to be talking about the departure of my chairman, I was there for 10 years – I think he deserves more than me just speaking here,” he said.
“Look, he was there for 25 years, I think he did an unbelievable job. I wish him all the best for the future in whatever he’s going to do, but I’m really, really grateful for what he did for me.”
The South Korean also expressed his gratitude for former Tottenham manager Mauricio Pochettino, who is the current coach of the United States national team.
“He is not just a manager to me. I first met him when I was 23, and he is the person who helped make me who I am today,” Son said in the wake of leading South Korea to a 2-0 friendly win over the US last week.
“On the pitch, we clashed for victory. But after the match, we genuinely embraced and exchanged greetings. He is a truly special existence to me.”
Speculation about a possible change of ownership has increased since Levy stepped down, though the club’s majority shareholder has said Spurs are not for sale.
While Spurs chief executive Vinai Venkatesham described Levy’s contribution as “extraordinary”, he downplayed the potential for upheaval following his departure.
“The club is well-organised for succession, so we have a very strong executive team in place,” he told the club’s website on Sept 8.
“Whilst it might feel like a slightly strange thing to say to the external world, although it’s big news, inside the club, it really is business as usual.” REUTERS
