Cristian Romero is back in action for Argentina against Saudi Arabia for their opening game at the Qatar World Cup after his recent injury problems at Tottenham

Cristian Romero has not played for Tottenham since their Champions League draw vs Sporting CP due to a hamstring injury (Image: Zhizhao Wu/Getty Images)

Cristian Romero has been named in the Argentina team for their World Cup opener against Saudi Arabia. Missing the last five games for Tottenham through injury, question marks had been raised over the defender’s fitness ahead of the tournament in Qatar.

Last featuring for the Lilywhites in their Champions League draw against Sporting CP after missing their previous game against Newcastle United, the player has since spent his time on the sidelines trying to get back to full fitness. Spotted in Argentina training a day after Spurs’ thrilling 4-3 win over Leeds United, it was something that didn’t go down too well with some Tottenham fans.

Part of Lionel Scaloni’s squad for the tournament, Romero has been named in the starting XI for their first Group C clash against Saudi Arabia at Lusail Stadium. Former Tottenham defender Juan Foyth is on the bench.

However, there is no place at all for Giovani Lo Celso, who is currently on loan at Villarreal from Spurs, as he missed out on the squad due to a hamstring injury sustained at the end of last month. One of the favourites to lift the famous trophy in a month’s time, Argentina also face Mexico and Poland in their group.