Tottenham captain Romero flies to Argentina before relegation decider
Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero has sparked fan fury by flying to Argentina ahead of Sunday’s crucial Premier League relegation decider against Everton.
The injured defender will miss the final match of the season as Spurs fight desperately to secure their top-flight status.
Roberto De Zerbi’s side sit merely two points above the drop zone following a damaging 2-1 defeat by London rivals Chelsea on Tuesday.
Spurs face historic drop
Tottenham require at least a point against the Toffees to ensure they do not suffer their first relegation in 49 years.
If they suffer another defeat, a victory for 18th-placed West Ham over Leeds United would condemn the North London club to the Championship.
Despite the immense stakes, the Argentine centre-back has chosen to travel back to his homeland instead of remaining with the squad.
Boyhood club visit angers fans
Footage emerged on Thursday night showing the former Atalanta man visiting the training ground of his boyhood club, Belgrano.
The South American side are currently preparing to face River Plate in a domestic title decider this weekend.
His absence from London has enraged a frantic Spurs fanbase, who expected their skipper to support his struggling teammates from the sidelines.
Injury disrupts difficult campaign
The World Cup winner has been sidelined with an injury sustained during De Zerbi’s first game in charge last month.
He previously enjoyed immense success at the club, playing a pivotal role in their run to Europa League glory under Ange Postecoglou last season.
The defender assumed the captain’s armband last summer following the departure of Son Heung-min and has featured in 23 league matches this term.
However, his decision to abandon the camp during the most significant Premier League match in Tottenham’s modern history severely threatens his relationship with the club’s faithful.