Cristian Romero’s Tottenham captaincy slammed as Atletico Madrid move edges closer

Cristian Romero has been heavily criticised over his time as Tottenham Hotspur captain, with former Premier League forwards Dean Saunders and Gabby Agbonlahor questioning both his leadership and discipline as he closes in on a move to Atletico Madrid.

The Argentina international is expected to leave Spurs after agreeing personal terms with the La Liga side, bringing an end to a turbulent spell in north London that included a disappointing first season as club captain.

Speaking on talkSPORT, Saunders argued Romero failed to lead by example during a difficult campaign in which Tottenham finished 17th for the second consecutive season.

The former Liverpool striker also pointed to the defender's disciplinary record and questioned whether he had shown the qualities expected from a club captain.

"Romero is up there with one of the worst captains in the history of the Premier League.

"Spurs have finished 17th and 17th, two years running. He was the captain so he can't be that good can he?

"He's an absolute liability on the pitch. He's a walking red card."

Romero featured in 23 league matches last season and was sent off twice. He also attracted criticism after travelling to Argentina despite Tottenham facing a decisive relegation fixture on the final day of the campaign.

Former Aston Villa striker Gabby Agbonlahor echoed Saunders' criticism, insisting a captain should be someone teammates can rely on during difficult moments.

"A captain is a role that's a privilege, you should be going around in the game and training ground setting standards.

"He's not the kind of captain you want. If you're struggling in a game you're not looking at him to lift you. He'd probably go and get sent off."

Agbonlahor also questioned Romero's disciplinary record, noting the contrast between his performances for Tottenham and Argentina.

He highlighted that Romero has accumulated six red cards during his Spurs career despite never being sent off while representing his country, suggesting the defender's temperament has been far more problematic at club level.

Despite the criticism, Romero remains one of Europe's most highly-rated centre-backs and now appears set for a fresh challenge in Spain.

Atletico Madrid have reportedly agreed personal terms with the 28-year-old, while Inter Milan and Arsenal were also linked with the defender earlier in the transfer window.

Agbonlahor believes Diego Simeone's aggressive style of football could suit Romero's combative approach.

Tottenham and Atletico Madrid are expected to continue discussions over a transfer fee as Romero moves closer to leaving north London. Spurs would then need to appoint a new club captain ahead of the new season, while Atletico hope the Argentine can strengthen Diego Simeone's defence for another title challenge.