The return of Romero: Tottenham’s fearless center-back ready to take on West Ham

A World Cup winner. Touted by Lionel Messi himself as the best defender in the world. Vice-captain Cristian Romero is crucial to success at Spurs. 

Amid the many injuries which have plagued Tottenham this season, suspensions have only worsened the matter. Cristian Romero’s harsh clearance in the 4-1 loss to Chelsea saw the Argentinian miss out on the Wolves, Villa, and City matches, where Tottenham were only able to collectively scrape together 1 point. In a position where the squad already has limited depth, the loss was brutal. 

Now, Ange will finally be relieved to switch out of a back line made up entirely of full-backs, as Romero will look likely to feature alongside Ben Davies in the upcoming fixture against West Ham.

Tottenham have scored first in each of their last four matches, all ending in losses or ties, showing that a lack in defensive performance has clearly been an issue.  With Romero out for three of those games, the hope is that his presence may now help to even the score line.

Despite starting the season at the top of the table, Spurs now sit at 5th, and while it’s still early in the campaign, every point will matter going forward.

West Ham have managed to net an average of 1.7 goals per game this season, with their highest scorer Jarrod Bowen boasting eight non-penalty goals. 

The Hammers have struggled against tougher opponents this year, losing 3-1 to both Liverpool and City, and 4-1 to Villa. However, with their attacking prowess, goals will be coming from both ends of the pitch unless Cristian Romero can hold down the back line.