Thomas Frank shares Cristian Romero update after shock injury in Tottenham warm-up
Thomas Frank has offered a fresh fitness update on Cristian Romero following Tottenham Hotspur’s 2-1 home defeat to Aston Villa at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium — a result that left the north London side frustrated and unable to capitalize on their strong start.
The loss marked Spurs’ second defeat of the Premier League season and proved a missed opportunity for Frank’s men to climb into second place in the table. Instead, Tottenham now sit sixth, behind title contenders Chelsea, Manchester City, and Arsenal. For a side that had started the campaign brightly under Frank, this result was a bitter pill to swallow.
Tottenham had taken an early lead through Rodrigo Bentancur, whose composed finish gave the hosts a perfect start inside ten minutes. However, defensive lapses and a lack of clinical edge allowed Aston Villa to turn the game on its head, scoring twice to complete a comeback victory. The defeat not only highlighted the team’s need for greater composure in key moments but also compounded the frustration surrounding a mounting injury concern — the late withdrawal of club captain Cristian Romero.
Cristian Romero’s late setback
Romero had been named in the starting lineup and was expected to feature after returning early from international duty with Argentina. However, during the pre-match warm-up, the centre-back felt discomfort and was forced to pull out moments before kickoff. His absence prompted Frank to make a last-minute adjustment, bringing in Kevin Danso to partner Micky van de Ven in defence.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Thomas Frank addressed Romero’s condition and offered a reassuring update to concerned Spurs supporters. “Minor abductor injury,” the Tottenham boss explained. “He felt a little bit the past few days. We expected him to be fine but he wasn’t. I don’t expect it to be anything too big.”
Frank’s comments will come as a relief, given how integral Romero has been to Tottenham’s defensive structure this season. The Argentine international’s leadership, aggression, and ability to organize the back line have been crucial components of Frank’s system. His temporary absence, however, serves as a reminder of how thin Tottenham’s defensive depth can become when injuries strike.
Focus turns to European competition
While the defeat to Aston Villa was a setback domestically, Spurs now have a chance to regroup and respond on the European stage. Their next challenge takes them to France, where they will face AS Monaco in matchday three of the UEFA Champions League league phase.
Tottenham remain unbeaten in Europe this season, having claimed a victory on matchday one and followed it up with a draw against Norwegian side Bodø/Glimt. Frank will be hoping that his squad — even if without their captain — can rediscover their rhythm and return to winning ways in midweek.
A strong performance in Monaco would not only restore confidence after the weekend’s disappointment but also reinforce Tottenham’s growing reputation under Frank’s leadership. For now, the focus will be on Romero’s recovery, ensuring the Argentine is fit and ready to lead the defence once again as Spurs continue their push for both domestic and European success.