Copyright Yardbarker
Tottenham have looked stable and secure the back this season Thomas Frank has quickly addressed Tottenham’s defensive issues since taking charge at N17 in the summer. Under his leadership, the Lilywhites have become far more organised and compact, making it increasingly difficult for opponents to break them down. Unlike last season, the North London side are no longer conceding cheaply and have learned how to consistently keep clean sheets. A large part of this defensive improvement is due to the strong partnership formed between Micky van de Ven and Cristian Romero. The pair have become key figures at the back, displaying leadership and quality throughout. Their efforts have helped Spurs secure eight clean sheets across all competitions this season. Thomas Frank also deserves credit for allowing both defenders to play to their strengths. Romero and Van de Ven were excellent once again in the Champions League win over Copenhagen on Tuesday night, where they recorded their third clean sheet of the competition. Romero also provided an assist for the fourth goal, while Van de Ven produced a stunning solo effort, running the full length of the pitch before scoring. Tottenham’s defensive pairing is second to none in the Premier League right now This season, Romero and Van de Ven have complemented each other perfectly. When one steps forward to press, the other provides cover at the back and reacts quickly to loos balls. Tottenham look far more secure when both are in the starting line-up, reflecting their composure, discipline, and understanding of the defensive structure. Given how influential the pair have been, former Spurs player Jamie O’Hara recently claimed they are a better partnership than Arsenal’s Gabriel and William Saliba. Speaking on Sky Sports, O’Hara said, “The reason being, Arsenal defensively are incredible as a unit, as a team. Spurs are not. But the two centre halves are absolutely fantastic. If you were going to take two of them out and put two of them in, I think Van de Ven has more about him than Gabriel. I think Romero is on par Saliba.” The pundit added, “There is not a centre half in the world that can do what Van de Ven did last night [goal vs Copenhagen]. Gabriel cannot score that goal. They are all world class but I think Arsenal are better defensively as a unit to Tottenham.” O’Hara believes that while Arsenal are stronger as a defensive unit, both Romero and Van de Ven would individually fit well into their system. He considers Van de Ven to offer more than Gabriel and sees Romero as being equal to, if not better than, Saliba. However, Arsenal’s strong structure and consistency contribute to the perception that their centre-backs are superior. Comparing the two partnerships directly may not be the most accurate approach, as each pairing has its own strengths. It is also worth noting that Arsenal have kept eight consecutive clean sheets this season, with Gabriel and Saliba playing key roles. There is no doubt that Van de Ven and Romero are capable of achieving similar standards, provided they stay fit and continue building on last season’s Europa League progress. With Romero already committing his future to the club and Van de Ven close to negotiating a new deal, there is plenty of optimism among the Spurs supporters. The defensive duo have all the qualities required to establish themselves as club legends in the years to come.
