Romero set to be in Argentina during Spurs-Everton

Tottenham Hotspur captain Cristian Romero is set to be in his native Argentina instead of at Spurs' season finale against Everton on Sunday as they battle to avoid relegation.

Argentina defender Romero, 28, was already missing the game because of a knee injury and he is in a race against time to be fit for this summer's World Cup.

A win for Spurs would guarantee Premier League safety, although a draw should be enough because of their superior goal difference over 18th-placed West Ham United.

The Hammers head into the final day two points behind Spurs and need to beat Leeds United at home to have a realistic chance of survival.

While his absence for Spurs' season finale is yet to be formally confirmed, Romero posted a social media image of himself and his family boarding a private jet. On Thursday, Romero was pictured at the training ground of his boyhood club Belgrano.

South American football expert Tim Vickery has told Talksport that Romero will attend Belgrano's AFA Liga Torneo Apertura final against River Plate on Sunday.

Belgrano president Luis Artime has reportedly confirmed that Romero is allowed to use the club's training facility as he recovers from the injury suffered against Sunderland at the Stadium of Light in April.

Romero recently posted a video of congratulations to Belgrano, who have qualified for their first Argentina Primera Division Apertura final. The final kicks off at 19:30 BST, with Spurs hosting Everton from 16:00.

Since the 2022 World Cup winner's season was confirmed to be over, Romero has been around Roberto de Zerbi's squad and has looked to inspire his team-mates where possible.

Spurs boss De Zerbi praised Romero before Tuesday's defeat by Chelsea, when asked about the defender's future amid links with a summer transfer.

De Zerbi is set to speak to the media later on Friday.

BBC Sport have approached Tottenham for comment.

It is not unusual for players to return to their former clubs when recovering from long-term injuries, especially when it is someone who is playing for a club outside of their home country.

It is unknown whether Romero is receiving treatment in Argentina as he bids to be part of the defending champions' 26-man World Cup squad.

The most peculiar part is the timing of it. Spurs are one of only six clubs to have featured in every Premier League season and have not played in the second tier of English football since 1977-78.

Romero cannot provide any help to his players on the pitch, but at a time where Spurs' immediate future is at serious risk, their captain is almost 7,000 miles away.