Tottenham announce new captain for start of Thomas Frank era after Son Heung-min's transfer to MLS
Full leadership group to be named later this month
Chance to win silverware in first match as skipper
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WHAT HAPPENED?
Son's leadership had been a defining presence at Spurs, guiding the team with grace and grit while being supported by vice-captains Romero and James Maddison. Now, with the transfer of Son to LAFC confirmed, Frank has revealed the Argentine centre-back as the new leader of the team ahead of Tottenham's Super Cup clash with Paris Saint-Germain.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Romero joined Spurs from Atalanta in the summer of 2021, fresh from being crowned Serie A's 'Best Defender' for the 2020-21 season. Since arriving in north London, Romero has notched over 100 appearances in all competitions. He has formed a formidable partnership with Micky van de Ven at the heart of defence, with the duo instrumental in Tottenham's Europa League triumph last season.
WHAT FRANK SAID
Explaining his decision to hand the armband to Romero, Frank said: "I had a good conversation with Cuti Romero, and he's going to be our captain. He was very honoured and very happy about it. It's a big thing and should be to lead this wonderful club out on the pitch, not just for this Super Cup, but also throughout the season. I think he has all the right qualities. He leads from his behaviour on the pitch, driving the team forward in every way, and outside the pitch he's always pushing the team."
The Spurs boss also outlined his plans to establish a leadership group within the squad, a core of four to five players who can share the burden of responsibility.
"I want a leadership group as well," he said. "Of course, one will wear the armband and be the captain, but I would like to have as many leaders as possible, four to five in the leadership group who can help, because it's the same with me, I can't do everything on my own and need a superb coaching staff around me. I will name that leadership group after the window to give me time to assess everything."
WHAT NEXT FOR TOTTENHAM?
Spurs are set to kick off their competitive campaign with a shot at silverware, facing Champions League holders Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup final at Stadio Friuli on Wednesday evening. With PSG boasting attacking firepower that can dismantle any defence, Romero will be tasked with marshalling his backline and leading by example. The timing to take on the armband couldn't have been more apt.
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