Tottenham head coach Roberto De Zerbi has defended captain Cristian Romero's decision to travel to Argentina to watch his boyhood club Belgrano, despite the defender missing the team's crucial final Premier League match against Everton. Romero, sidelined since injuring a knee against Sunderland last month, has been criticised by former Spurs player and manager Glenn Hoddle, who described the trip as 'selfish'. However, De Zerbi insisted the visit was sanctioned by Tottenham's medical staff and that Romero's presence would not affect the result.
Romero, 28, flew to Argentina to attend a league playoff final between Belgrano and River Plate, but De Zerbi stressed the decision was made in consultation with the club's medical department. 'He spoke with the medical staff, together they decided to go to Argentina to complete the rehab with the Argentinian medical staff,' De Zerbi said. 'We spoke last week and he always wanted to stay with us. The injury is already an injury, and we have to accept it.'
De Zerbi dismissed suggestions that Romero prioritised personal interests over the team, stating: 'I'm not stupid, if I understand there is any player, or some player who thinks for himself before the club, I can't be the same Roberto. But with Cuti Romero, I can't say nothing, because with me, in my time, he has been correct, in the beginning, until now.'
Tottenham face Everton needing at least a draw to secure Premier League survival for the first time since 1977, with a win guaranteeing safety. A draw would likely suffice given their superior goal difference over West Ham. De Zerbi said his team must 'play with blood, with character, with spirit' in what he described as a 'final'. Dominic Solanke is expected to be available after a hamstring injury, while Djed Spence will wear a protective mask following a broken jaw.
De Zerbi also revealed that defender Ben Davies chose to stay with the squad rather than take time off, highlighting different leadership styles. 'Sometimes not all leaders are the same,' he said. 'Ben Davies spoke with me, and he asked to stay today to work with us... But Romero is preparing for the World Cup with his injury, and for me nothing changed.'
