Tottenham Hotspur’s assistant manager Cristian Stellini has told Thursday’s press conference – as per Football London – that Cristian Romero has a weakness and it is the defender’s timing when it comes to jumping into a tackle, at times.
Romero, 24, picked up his second red card in the space of 49 games for Tottenham on Sunday. While it was arguably, a necessary second yellow card and stop a Manchester City counter late on, Romero is known for his lack of discipline.
That red card will now see Romero miss out on Saturday, as Spurs travel to Leicester to take on Brendan Rodgers’ side. It is likely that either Davinson Sanchez or Japhet Tanganga come in for Romero, on the right side of the Spurs defence.
Or, Pedro Porro is given his first start and Emerson Royal plays on the right – given his excellent, recent form. Stellini was asked about World Cup winner Romero’s aggression. He says that it is his timing in tackles that needs to improve.
“If you get a yellow it’s because you did not get the ball. You have to work on the timing. He has to jump and tackle and win the ball. This is something we can work on. We will work on this aspect but keeping the same aggressiveness.”
Stellini says Tottenham defender Romero weakness is his timing
Romero’s aggression often helps him, 99% of the time. It allows him to win many tackles and often, get the better of his opponent. It also helps Spurs win the ball back quicker than expected, sometimes, higher up the pitch.
Romero is known for stepping out of defence in order to go and win a tackle. He is less conservative on the right than the likes of Ben Davies. But it does mean that sometimes, £42m Romero will pick up a yellow card – or even, is sent off.
Given he is still only 24 and well before his peak as a defender, that timing will come with experience. Indeed, Romero has only played 170 games at club level – 49 for Spurs. Just 19 caps for his country. So, that timing will come.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
