Romero downplays knee injury after Argentina's win over Austria

Tottenham captain Cristian Romero has played down fears of a serious knee injury after being forced off during Argentina's 2-0 World Cup victory over Austria. He was substituted early in the second half but said he remains optimistic about being fit for the final group match, offering reassurance to both Argentina and Tottenham about his long-term fitness.

Romero aggravated a right knee issue 57 minutes into the game and was replaced by Nicolas Otamendi as Argentina secured passage to the knockout stages. He had missed the last six Premier League matches after injuring the same knee following a collision with Tottenham goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, then battled back to fitness for the World Cup, playing 80 minutes in the 3-0 win over Algeria before lasting just 12 minutes into the second half against Austria.

Speaking after the match, Romero said: “I knew this could happen to me. I had a little issue there, I felt it again, but in 3 or 4 days I’ll be fine again, so that’s that. It’s nothing serious.

Argentina

cristian romero, knee injury, argentina, world cup, tottenham, nicolas otamendi, austria, knockout stages, premier league, antonin kinsky