Tottenham first-team coach Ryan Mason has revealed that Gian Piero Ventrone made "such an impact" on him in their 11 months working together. On Thursday morning it was confirmed by the club that the fitness coach had sadly passed away at the age of 61.
Following the tragic news, Spurs players past and present paid tribute to the Italian after working with him at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. An incredibly tough day for all involved with the club, Mason, who got to know Ventrone well due his place in Antonio Conte's coaching team, opened up on the renowned fitness coach during a post on his Instagram account.
"I'm absolutely devastated by the loss of Gian Piero," wrote the former Spurs player. "He has made such an impact on me and I feel so lucky to have spent the last year alongside him. We will all miss you. Thank you Prof."
READ MORE: Richarlison and Tottenham team send heartfelt tributes after death of Gian Piero Ventrone
With Harry Kane and Son Heung-min just two of a whole host of players showing how much they adored and cared for Ventrone, Richarlison was another to comment as he opened up on how the Italian had helped him so quickly after his summer move from Everton.
"Since I arrived at Tottenham, Gian has been a huge inspiration to me. He always said that I would help him a lot during the season, that I was a warrior and even that my hair looked like his since I dyed it white," said the Brazilian on his Instagram account.
"But who helped me was him... and much more than he can imagine. Especially at the beginning, when he said I shouldn't lower my head under any circumstances, no matter what.
"Today we woke up to the terrible news of his passing and we are all devastated. But we will continue to play for you, my friend, who taught us to never give up! Thank you so much and rest in peace!"
Following the news of his death, Tottenham gave an insight into Ventrone in their official statement and stated that he will be "greatly missed" by all at the club.
"We are devastated to announce that fitness coach Gian Piero Ventrone has passed away," read a statement on the club's official website. "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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