Frank Stands Firm on Romero Captaincy Despite Red Card Controversy
Tottenham Hotspur head coach Thomas Frank has publicly backed Cristian Romero to retain the captaincy, despite the defender receiving a straight red card in the 2–0 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford on Saturday. This incident marks Romero's second sending-off in just 10 matches, following a previous dismissal in the 2-1 loss at Liverpool on 20 December.
Romero's Disciplinary Record Under Scrutiny
The red card, issued by referee Michael Oliver in the 29th minute for a stamp on Casemiro's left ankle deemed a dangerous challenge, triggers a four-game ban for Romero. This suspension will see him miss crucial fixtures against Newcastle, Arsenal, Fulham, and Crystal Palace, with a return not expected until 15 March. Since his debut for Spurs in August 2021, Romero has accumulated six red cards in all competitions, the highest tally of any Premier League player during that period.
Romero's off-field conduct has also raised eyebrows recently. After last Sunday's 2-2 draw with Manchester City, he described the Spurs squad as "disgraceful", and earlier in January, following a 3-2 defeat at Bournemouth, he suggested the club's ownership bore greater responsibility for performance issues. In a since-deleted social media post, he wrote, "They only show up when things are going well, to tell a few lies."
Frank's Unwavering Support
When questioned about potentially stripping Romero of the captaincy, Frank was unequivocal in his response. "No, I think it is fair to say he doesn't have any intention to get a red card after 28 minutes," stated the head coach. He dismissed concerns about Romero's decision-making, adding, "That's your perception. No there is not any regret in making him captain and also he is sorry for the incident."
Frank revealed that Romero apologised to his teammates in the dressing room post-match, which he deemed sufficient for now. He defended the defender's aggressive style of play, noting, "If you look at how many red cards he had, it is not like that he had that many, when you play with passion and aggression." However, when informed of Romero's leading red card record among Premier League players since joining Spurs, Frank admitted, "I didn't know that."
United's Winning Streak Continues
On the opposing side, Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick expressed satisfaction with his team's performance, which secured their fourth consecutive Premier League victory under his guidance. This winning run, the club's first of such length since February 2024, was sealed by goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes.
Carrick highlighted the positive atmosphere within the squad, saying, "The connection with everyone has been the most pleasing thing. We all know that what goes on the pitch is really important, but the emotion with players and the staff is good." He added that seeing Old Trafford in full voice provided him with as much satisfaction as the tactical and technical aspects of the game.
Romero's disciplinary issues extend beyond red cards, with eight yellow cards this season putting him two cautions away from a fifth ban. As Tottenham navigate this period without their captain, Frank's steadfast support underscores the defender's importance to the team, despite the ongoing controversies surrounding his conduct on and off the pitch.
