Tottenham Hotspur boss Ange Postecoglou says it is “great to have” Cristian Romero available for selection again ahead of Thursday night’s Premier League meeting with West Ham United.
The Argentine centre-back served a three-match suspension after receiving a straight red card in the 4-1 defeat to Chelsea last month, and is likely to come straight back into the starting lineup after drawing 3-3 with Manchester City at the weekend without a natural centre-back.
Postecoglou hailed Romero’s leadership qualities as they prepare to take on their London rivals at home.
“It’s great to have him back,” the Australian said in his pre-match press conference. “He’s the only recognised centre-back we have fit at the moment. To have him as a recognised centre-back back in the team is good.
“He’s a fantastic player but also a leader in the group. From a leadership perspective it is also good to have him back.”
Postecoglou says he has not had a conversation with Romero about his discipline, despite the player having a reputation for rash tackles.
“I’ve not had to have a word with (him) about discipline,” he said. “It’s part of who he is as a player, he brings a physicality to it. When he oversteps the mark the whole group pays a price so it’s up to him to maintain the discipline I know he can show, but more importantly he’s such a strong presence on the field and in during the week, so good to have him back.
Postecoglou added: “He’s been ready to go. The last week he has trained really well and I know he is happy and I know the rest of the group are happy to have him back in.”
Spurs have been dogged by injuries lately, but Brazil forward should be available again following his return from injury after coming on as a substitute against Man City.
Pape Matar Sarr is back in training but Thursday’s game will come too soon for the midfielder, while Eric Dier remains sidelined with a groin problem.
