Argentina’s Cristian Romero sustains injury during Tottenham defeat

SUNDERLAND, England — Tottenham defender Cristian Romero exited the pitch in tears after sustaining an injury during his team’s 1-0 defeat to Sunderland in the Premier League on Sunday.

The Argentina international hobbled off following a collision with Tottenham goalkeeper Antonín Kinsky in the second half at the Stadium of Light.

The specifics of the injury were not immediately known, but the 27-year-old Romero was unable to continue and appeared visibly upset as he made his way to the sidelines. Although he managed to leave the field without assistance and did not need a stretcher, he was comforted by teammates as he departed.

The timing of Romero’s injury raises concerns for Argentina ahead of the World Cup commencing in June, as he is a vital component of Lionel Scaloni’s defending champions.

Kinsky was able to proceed after having his head wrapped in a bandage.

New Spurs manager Roberto De Zerbi remarked that it was “very bad” for Romero to have sustained an injury, but he was uncertain about its severity.

“We have to see in the next days. I hope for us it is not an important problem because he is a crucial player for us,” De Zerbi stated. “We need him to finish the season and to achieve our goal.”

The defeat left Tottenham in the relegation zone, positioned 18th, two points behind 17th-placed West Ham with six matches remaining in the season.

Argentina will commence World Cup play in Group J on June 16 against Algeria at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.