Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero has made a dramatic return to London just hours before his side's crucial Premier League survival decider against Everton on Sunday. The North London club faces the very real threat of relegation to the Championship, with defeat potentially opening the door for West Ham to secure safety with a victory over Leeds on the final day.
Romero had left fans furious after being spotted in Argentina, where he was expected to watch boyhood club Belgrano in their Championship final instead of supporting Spurs. However, the defender has now been spotted in the capital and is expected to attend the do-or-die clash with Everton at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
De Zerbi Addresses Romero's Absence
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Tottenham boss Roberto De Zerbi addressed the situation, stating: "Sometimes, not all the leaders are the same. Ben Davies spoke with me and asked to stay today to work with us. Tomorrow, we sleep in the hotel. He wanted to stay with the team and team-mates. Romero is preparing for the World Cup with an injury. For me, nothing changed. Then we have to think, everything is for the best future of Tottenham."
When asked specifically about Romero, the Italian added: "He spoke with the medical staff. Together, they decided to go to Argentina to complete rehab with Argentinian medical staff. We spoke last week. With me, he has shown he wants to stay with us. I want to be clear, I am not stupid. If I understand that there is a player who thinks for himself before the club, I cannot be the same Roberto."
De Zerbi continued: "With Romero, I can't say nothing. With me, in my time, he has been correct at the beginning until now." Asked if he could understand why fans were angry, the Italian replied: "100 per cent I understand. I don't know. Cristian is a top player and with me, he was a top guy. When I say top guy, it is because I am certain what I am seeing."
Romero's Tottenham Career
Romero initially joined Tottenham on loan from Italian side Atalanta before making the move permanent. He has since made 156 appearances for the club, scoring 13 goals. However, his discipline has been questioned on several occasions, having been sent off six times during his time in North London.
The defender is currently sidelined with an injury, but his return to London has been welcomed by fans who were angered by his trip to Argentina. With Tottenham's Premier League status hanging in the balance, Romero's presence at the stadium could provide a morale boost for the team and supporters alike.
