Cristian Romero has returned to London from Argentina for Tottenham Hotspur’s final match of the Premier League season at home to Everton.
The club captain was at the side of the pitch before Tottenham’s game against Everton.
Romero’s Return Amid Injury
Romero, who was ruled out of the game because of a knee injury, was expected to watch his boyhood club Belgrano play River Plate in the Argentina Primera Division Apertura final on Sunday.
However, the 28-year-old is instead at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, where a win for the home side will guarantee Premier League survival and a draw will also realistically be enough because of their vastly superior goal difference compared to West Ham United’s.
De Zerbi Defends Romero’s Absence
Earlier this week, head coach Roberto de Zerbi defended his captain’s expected absence from the game but also said he “100%” understood why fans were upset about it.
De Zerbi added that the decision for Romero, who is racing to be fit for the World Cup, to return to Argentina to continue his rehabilitation was agreed with the club’s medical staff.
Criticism From Spurs Legends
Former Spurs captain and manager Glenn Hoddle criticised Romero, calling his decision “scandalous”, while ex-Spurs striker Teddy Sheringham said he “can’t believe” the Argentina centre-back was allowed to leave.
Romero recently posted a video of congratulations to Belgrano, who have qualified for their first league final.
De Zerbi has refused to comment on Romero’s future at the club.
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