'El Dibu is a moron' - Argentina goalkeeper Emi Martinez branded 'unbearable' by Cristian Romero ahead of Copa America

The Tottenham defender, who is a Premier League rival of a fellow countryman on the books at Aston Villa, was speaking in jest when addressing his international colleague. There is, however, no doubting that Martinez has become a larger-than-life character that can rub some people up the wrong way.

Martinez has become famed for his penalty-saving antics, with his ability to get inside the head of opponents contributing significantly to Copa America and World Cup triumphs for the Albiceleste. Romero is one of those happy to have the 31-year-old on his team when they are representing their country.

Spurs star Romero has told Ole of having to line up against Martinez: “El Dibu is a moron, he is unbearable as a rival. He is in his best moment, we enjoy it as Argentines. Being a person who came from little and today he is the best goalkeeper in the world, it is beautiful to see him there. He is also a great person.”

Martinez is hoping to help Argentina to back-to-back Copa triumphs, with talismanic captain Lionel Messi also forming part of that quest. Romero added on having the eight-time Ballon d’Or winner available, as questions are asked of how much longer the 36-year-old will continue: “We'll see how long we have him, but while he’s there we're going to enjoy it to the fullest because he is out leader.”

Argentina will open the defence of their Copa America crown against Canada on June 20. That competition is set to be staged in the United States, meaning that current Inter Miami superstar Messi will not have far to travel in order to link up with Lionel Scaloni's squad.