'I never said I wanted to leave' - Tottenham defender Cristian Romero hits back at claims he wanted Atletico Madrid move after signing long-term Spurs deal

Reports throughout the summer claimed that Atletico were eyeing a swoop to sign the World Cup winner, but he ultimately shocked and delighted fans in equal measure by signing a new long-term contract and being appointed club captain. Now, he has hit back at suggestions he wanted to leave. 

Romero is perhaps the most important cornerstone of the club's project under Frank, with the Argentina international playing every minute of every game thus far this season. He scored in the UEFA Super Cup final against Paris Saint-Germain, and also has a Premier League assist to his name. 

Romero has hit back at any suggestion that he wanted an exit ahead of the club's Champions League clash with Villarreal. 

He told reporters: "I never said I wanted to leave the club. Nothing came from me in that effect. It is important what the manager and president say. I am very happy here, it is like a family. I like the manager. I like the way we work, the way we train. Always things can improve but I think everyone here at all levels are taking the right steps to improve. I am very happy here."

Spurs are, of course, playing in the Champions League this season after their Europa League triumph last season. Romero won Player of the Match in the final, and will be out to help guide Spurs to the Wanda Metropolitano for this season's showpiece; the club have unfinished business there, having lost the 2019 final to Liverpool in the same stadium.