‘Stupid’: Antonio Conte delivers update on Tottenham defender Cristian Romero

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Antonio Conte has told Thursday’s press conference – as per Football London – that it would be “stupid” to risk Tottenham defender Cristian Romero against Wolves on Saturday afternoon, after sustaining an injury against Chelsea.

Romero was heavily involved during the 2-2 draw at Stamford Bridge. Was it, pulling Marc Cucurella’s hair, celebrating in the face of Reece James after Harry Kane’s equaliser, or being on the receiving end of an accidental Cucurella stamp.

But it appears that Romero has come off worse from the draw, suffering a muscle issue. There have been conflicting reports this week, some reporting a muscle injury that might keep him out for weeks – or an impact knock.

Conte cleared up the issue. He says that Romero was keen to be available for Saturday lunchtime’s clash against Wolves, but that he is not going to take the risk. Indeed, Conte says it would be “stupid” to risk Romero on Saturday.

“About Cristian, he had a little problem during the game against Chelsea in the final part of the game. It’s a little problem and after the game he started to feel a bit of pain in his adductor [muscle].

“We checked him. The player wanted to give availability. But in this situation we have a lot of games to play it would be stupid to take risk. For this reason not available for Wolves,” Conte said, as per Football London.

Conte: Stupid to risk Tottenham defender Romero against Wolves

It is perhaps, uncharacteristically cautious from Tottenham’s manager. Last season, Spurs fans will remember his growing frustration surrounding the injury to Oliver Skipp – urging the Spurs medical staff to give him a break.

But his caution regarding Romero perhaps underlines just how important the ex-Atalanta defender is to his system. He has established himself as one of the first names on the team sheet. As the right-sided defender of a back three.

With Romero out, Conte is likely to turn to Davinson Sanchez. Japhet Tanganga is also an option. While, Clement Lenglet could come in – but he is left-footed and will probably remain on the bench once again.