Joao Palhinha explains why he chose number 6 shirt at Tottenham

The tough-tackling central midfielder, who joined the club over the weekend, revealed the number holds a poignant personal meaning for him.

"I try to choose always a number with a six - sometimes it's not available but since I started my career, it was a number that I've had with me because of my family," he told the club's official website.

"It means a lot for me because of my grandfather... it's the day that he left our family and since my grandfather died, if I have a look, a lot of important things in my life have happened on this day, with the number six.

"I can remember my first goal... everything that has been important in my career - not just the career, but in other things as well - most of the days have the number six.

"I'm a bit superstitious and I believe always that this number has an important meaning for me and my family and this is why I want to keep, if possible, the number with me on the shirt."

The 30-year-old takes over the shirt recently vacated by Radu Dragusin, who has switched to number 3 for the upcoming season. Palhinha's decision links him to a proud lineage at Spurs, most notably former captain Ledley King.

King, a one-club legend who played from 1999 to 2012, remains the most iconic wearer of the number 6 in the club's history. Renowned for his leadership and calm defensive presence, King epitomised loyalty and class throughout his Tottenham career.

Palhinha, known for his combative style and defensive grit, will look to bring that same authority to the heart of midfield.