tottenham Defender Cristian Romero looks set to return to Argentina's starting eleven for the World Cup last-16 clash. He came through the training without any problems.
according to hailWhenever everyone is fit, Lionel Scaloni has effectively settled on his preferred centre-back pairing. The pair also include Manchester United's Lisandro Martínez along with Romero.
Argentina started the World Cup with this combination. Even if Romero reached the tournament Lack of match fitness after knee injuryThis followed an injury sustained during the final weeks of the Tottenham season in early April.
Argentina's coaching staff managed his workload deliberately. Romero was a late substitute in the opening match against Algeria as part of a planned fitness programme. Later, he faced minor problems against Austria. Although the defender reportedly wanted to continue, he was sidelined as a precaution and veteran Nicolas Otamendi stepped in.
Otamendi also featured against Jordan, while Romero remained on the bench and did not even warm up with his boots on as Argentina took no risks with his recovery.
back on track
Ole now reports that Romero trained normally with the team on both Monday and Tuesday in Kansas, without any interruptions.
If he maintains that level during the remainder of the season and does not feel any pain, he is expected to return to the starting line-up against Cabo Verde. This will be exactly as Argentina had planned.
This would see Romero reunited with his close friend Lisandro Martínez in the center of defence. Otamendi, meanwhile, returns to a backup role.
This update will also be welcome news for Tottenham. Romero's knee injury hampered him towards the end of his club campaign. Spurs will be encouraged to see the 28-year-old regain full fitness on the biggest stage.
The Argentine clearly sees the Tottenham defender as one of the first names in his defense when he becomes available, and this latest report suggests that Scaloni is ready to restore that hierarchy as soon as the knockout rounds begin.
