After Cristian Romero's criticism last year, Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly forked out on a private flight to bring the Argentine back to north London
Tottenham Hotspur have splashed out on a private charter flight to bring Cristian Romero from international duty with Argentina back to London, in an effort to sidestep another club versus country row. Spurs host Aston Villa in their first Premier League match following the international break this Sunday.
Last season, the north London club found themselves at loggerheads with the World Cup winners and Romero. Following Argentina's defeat by Colombia in a World Cup qualifier last September, Tottenham opted not to arrange a charter flight for Romero's return.
After Spurs' loss to Arsenal, the defender hinted the absence of a charter flight gave the Gunners an edge. He made this claim as Mikel Arteta's Brazilian stars got back to north London earlier thanks to their own charter flight.
Despite Tottenham's insistence it wouldn't have made a difference, they've decided to foot the bill for a charter flight for Romero, which will ferry him back after Argentina's friendly match with Puerto Rico in Miami.
According to The Telegraph, Spurs have dug deep into their pockets to ensure Romero returns with ample time before Sunday's showdown against Villa. Typically, national teams handle flight arrangements, but English clubs often share the cost of a private charter when the return journey is particularly lengthy, as will be the case for Romero.
Last year, they opted not to fork out for a charter flight, leading to Romero criticising their travel arrangements on social media. He shared a post claiming the Gunners had an upper hand as their Brazilian trio Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus managed to return to London earlier than him.
Spurs refuted this claim, pointing out Thursday is typically a rest day for their squad, while Arsenal often train on that day. However, just like last September, the club splashed out on a flight for their captain.
Romero's fellow Argentina international Emiliano Martinez will also be in goal for Aston Villa this Sunday. Spurs footing the bill for the flight ensures there's no potential advantage for Villa.
It also keeps Romero, who inked a new contract in the summer to become the club's top earner, content. Currently, he has little to grumble about at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
Under the stewardship of Thomas Frank, Spurs have hit the ground running with four victories, two draws and a single defeat in their first seven Premier League fixtures. They're just two points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal and one behind reigning Premier League champions Liverpool.
Romero was instrumental in Spurs' 3-0 away triumph over West Ham United, which occurred on the first weekend following the previous international break.
The club had also splashed out on a charter flight for that match, with Romero and his international team-mates hosting Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires earlier in the week.