Gary Neville has criticised Tottenham Hotspur's decision to allow captain Cristian Romero to return to Argentina for rehabilitation, describing it as symptomatic of a club in disarray. The Spurs skipper suffered a season-ending injury against Sunderland last month and has been absent during the team's fight against relegation.
Romero's absence sparks fan anger
Romero was granted permission to travel to his homeland to continue recovery from a knee issue ahead of the World Cup. His presence at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium for the final-day clash against Everton was initially in doubt, though he is now expected to attend. The decision has sparked anger among supporters, with Neville expressing sympathy for the fanbase.
Neville's criticism
Speaking on Sky Sports, Neville said: 'It's another something Tottenham fans can look at and think there's another disconnect. They are coming here today to support their team and the captain or the club is considering not be here for the last game of the season. Bad decision. Poor choice.' He added: 'It's symptomatic of poor decision making, it's something they've corrected and he's going to be here but everyone knows originally the decision was not for him to be here.'
De Zerbi's focus on the final
Tottenham manager Roberto De Zerbi refused to dwell on Romero's absence, stating: 'I don't want to answer about Romero, about Kulusevski. They can't play, they don't play and they are not here. My focus is on Djed Spence, on Kolo Muani, on Richarlison.' He emphasised the importance of the match: 'We have to play with blood, with character and with spirit because it's a final. There is something more important than a trophy and a bonus, there is the future of the club.'
Relegation battle
Tottenham face Everton on the final day knowing they will maintain their Premier League status if they match West Ham's result against Leeds. The club's recent mismanagement has been a recurring theme, with Neville's comments adding to the criticism of the board's decisions.
