Cristian Romero injury concern emerges as Argentina await scan results

Tottenham Hotspur and Argentina are awaiting further clarity on Cristian Romero's condition after the defender was forced off during Argentina's World Cup victory over Austria.

The centre-back started his second consecutive match of the tournament but was substituted in the 57th minute after experiencing discomfort in the same knee injury that prematurely ended his club season.

While early indications suggest the issue may not be serious, medical assessments are now scheduled to determine the extent of the problem.

Argentina secured a 2-0 win over Austria on Monday to strengthen their position at the top of Group J, but the result was overshadowed by concerns surrounding Romero.

According to reports from Argentina, the Tottenham defender felt pain in his knee after a collision with Austria midfielder Marcel Sabitzer shortly after half-time.

Despite initially wanting to continue, the medical staff opted against taking any unnecessary risks and Romero was replaced by Nicolás Otamendi.

The incident immediately raised concerns because it involved the same knee that troubled him during the closing stages of Tottenham's season.

Romero sustained the original injury in April, forcing him to miss the final weeks of the campaign and creating uncertainty over his World Cup participation.

Argentina manager Lionel Scaloni admitted after the match that the coaching staff are still waiting for a full diagnosis.

"We don't know the extent of his problem. It's something he's been dealing with. Let's hope it's nothing serious. It's always better to have everyone available. He'll have a check-up tomorrow or the day after."

The cautious tone reflects Argentina's desire to avoid losing one of their most important defensive players as the tournament enters a crucial stage.

Having followed Argentina's recent success under Scaloni, Romero has become a central figure in the team's defensive structure. His aggression, leadership and ability to play out from the back make him difficult to replace.

The reigning world champions have already defeated Algeria 3-0 and Austria 2-0, placing themselves in a commanding position at the top of Group J.

Austria and Algeria sit three points behind, while Argentina need only avoid defeat in their final group match to finish first.

That fixture comes against Jordan on 28 June, and the national team will hope Romero is available.

However, it remains too early to draw firm conclusions until the results of his medical tests are known. Given the defender's injury history over the past few months, both Argentina and Tottenham are likely to proceed cautiously.

Romero is expected to undergo further medical examinations over the next 48 hours, which should provide a clearer picture of his availability. Argentina's coaching staff will then decide whether he can feature against Jordan in the final group-stage fixture or whether rest is the safer option.

Tottenham will also be monitoring developments closely. With preparations for the new Premier League season approaching, the club will want reassurance that their vice-captain has not aggravated the injury that disrupted the end of his campaign.

Should Argentina rest Cristian Romero against Jordan, or does he need more match minutes before the knockout rounds begin?