Jan Vertonghen admits Arsenal captain Thomas Vermaelen urged him to move to England.

The former Ajax defender chose to join Tottenham ahead of Arsenal over the summer.

Vermaelen spoke very highly of the Premier League and convinced Vertonghen it was time to make the move.

Vertonghen told the People: "I played with him at Royal Antwerp and we were at Ajax together.

"I was aware of the rivalry between Tottenham and Arsenal. Thomas told me it was like Ajax and Feyenoord.

"They're big rivals but when I walk down the street even the Arsenal fans have been very respectful."