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Cristian Romero has been handed the Tottenham captaincy by Thomas Frank, and the Spurs boss has made it clear the Argentine is fully committed to the club despite ongoing speculation about his future.
After a couple of weeks of observing his new squad, Thomas Frank decided that Cristian Romero would take over the armband following the departure of former captain Heung-min Son.
Romero led Tottenham out for the first time in their UEFA Super Cup clash against Paris Saint-Germain, and it was so nearly the perfect start for the defender in his new role.
Spurs had established a two-goal lead against the French champions but were eventually pegged back, with the tie going to penalties.
Tottenham would go on to lose the shootout 4-3, a tough way to begin Romero’s tenure as skipper, yet one that will undoubtedly serve as a valuable learning curve for both the player and the team as a whole.
Fortunately, Romero followed that up by captaining an opening-day Premier League victory over Burnley, keeping a clean sheet in the process.
Cristian Romero backed by Thomas Frank amid Tottenham transfer links
Romero has been linked with a move away this summer, with Atletico Madrid reported to be monitoring him.
Those rumours have now cooled, and Thomas Frank has stepped in to address the uncertainty surrounding his new captain. When asked directly about Romero’s long-term future in north London, Frank was clear in his response.
Speaking to the press, as relayed by the Guardian, he said: “I have worked with him closely for more than five weeks; I have seen a very, very committed player who has trained very well.
“The staff have said to me they have never seen him train that well. He is in a very good place. I see a player that will want to lead the team and push the team.”
Frank was also pressed on whether handing Romero the armband was perhaps the first step towards securing a contract extension, given his current deal expires in two years.
“Yes,” Frank admitted. “But I think when you name a captain it is because you think he is the best that can help the team no matter what now and also in the future. It is not really linked with the contract situation. Of course he is a very good player so I want him to stay longer.”
Frank highlights Cristian Romero’s leadership qualities
Cristian Romero has not always been the most consistent performer in a Tottenham shirt, but Frank is adamant about his captain’s quality and what he brings to the team. He explained that his decision was influenced as much by character as by talent.
“I see a very big and very good player. What I like about him and why I have chosen him as captain is his leadership qualities on the pitch. There is a big respect for him from the players. Off the pitch as well he also sets the standards,” he said.
The Spurs boss went on to speak about Romero’s development as a leader, drawing parallels with his own experiences.
“When I was 27 of course I thought I could do everything but I also found out that as a leader I am 1,000% better now, so he also needs to learn and become better and better, so I will do my best to guide him.
“His aggression is phenomenal. He is fantastic in the duels. When he gives that to the team, he can transform the team and give energy to the team so I think that is extremely important.”
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