Thomas Frank has confirmed that Cristian Romero will remain Tottenham Hotspur captain despite picking up yet another red card.
The defender was dismissed in the 29th minute of Saturday’s 2–0 Premier League defeat at Manchester United after a challenge that caught Casemiro on the ankle, leaving referee Michael Oliver with little hesitation in producing a red card.
It was the sixth sending-off of Romero’s Spurs career across all competitions, the highest total of any Premier League player over the past five seasons. The latest dismissal means the Argentine will be suspended for the next four matches, including the highly anticipated north London derby against Arsenal on February 22.
Frank was asked whether he regretted handing Romero the captain’s armband at the start of the campaign, but the Spurs head coach was unwavering.
“No, not at all,” he said. “He apologised for the incident and said sorry to his team-mates in the dressing room. He’s one of our most important players, and when he’s at his best, he drives the team.”
When it was put to Frank that the early red card at Old Trafford added further pressure during a difficult period, the Dane defended his captain again.
“I don’t think he had any intention of getting sent off after 28 minutes,” Frank responded. And when asked directly whether a change of captain was being considered, he replied simply: “No.”
Tottenham’s poor run of form has continued, with their last league win coming almost six weeks ago in a narrow 1–0 victory over Crystal Palace. Since then, they have recorded four draws and three defeats, leaving them 15 points adrift of the top four.
More concerning is the fact Spurs sit just six points above West Ham in the relegation zone, dragging them into an uncomfortable battle near the bottom of the table. While relegation to the Championship still appears unlikely, it is now a scenario the club must guard against.
After facing Newcastle on Tuesday night, Spurs will then have 12 days to prepare for Arsenal’s visit. A victory in the derby would not only damage their rivals’ title ambitions but also provide a vital boost in Tottenham’s fight to pull clear of danger.
