Tottenham's fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone dies aged 61

Tottenham's fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone has died aged 61.

Ventrone, nicknamed 'The Marine' in Italy because of his rigorous training regimes, arrived at Spurs with Antonio Conte in November 2021.

Spurs confirmed his passing in a statement on Thursday, saying he "will be greatly missed by everyone".

The statement read: "We are devastated to announce that fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone has passed away.

"The 61-year-old joined the Club in November, 2021, as part of Antonio Conte's backroom staff, having previously held roles at Juventus, Catania, JS Suning, GZ Evergrande and AC Ajaccio.

"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."

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