Tottenham will battle to avoid relegation from the Premier League without their captain after Cristian Romero was ruled out for the remainder of the season.
Romero, and goalkeeper Antonin Kinsky, both required lengthy treatment following a collision during Sunday’s 1-0 loss to Sunderland, which plunged Spurs into the relegation zone.
The World Cup winner appeared to be pushed into his goalkeeper by Sunderland’s Brian Brobbey, and was unable to continue. He departed the pitch in tears.
Speaking after the game, Roberto De Zerbi said: “Maybe yes [it is a knee injury], but I don’t want to say anything until we know more.
“We don't know yet [the extent of the injury].
“We have to see in the next few days. I hope it's not an important problem because he's a crucial player for us.
“A good guy, a top player, big personality, and we need him to finish the season and to achieve our goal.”
Standard Sport understands the scans have confirmed a serious knee injury, which has ended Romero’s season with Spurs and has thrown his World Cup hopes into serious doubt.
Romero may have played his final game for Spurs with his future at the club under significant doubt.
The centre-back was expected to leave last summer amid interest from Atletico Madrid before a surprise U-turn saw him sign a new contract and be made captain.
But, with the club staring at the very real threat of relegation from the Premier League, Romero is expected to attract transfer interest following the World Cup.
