Tottenham Hotspur could be forced into a major leadership decision this season, with growing concerns over Cristian Romero’s discipline prompting calls for Micky van de Ven to take on the captain’s armband under Thomas Frank.
With Spurs hovering just above the relegation zone, leadership on and off the pitch has become a key talking point at the club.
Spurs’ difficult Premier League campaign
Tottenham find themselves in a precarious position in the Premier League with 13 matches remaining, sitting 15th and only six points clear of the relegation places. Despite Thomas Frank’s appointment to steady the ship, form has remained inconsistent.
The situation has increased pressure on senior figures within the squad, particularly those tasked with leading by example during difficult periods.
Romero’s disciplinary issues under scrutiny
Cristian Romero was appointed captain following Heung-min Son’s departure last summer, with Frank praising the defender’s leadership qualities and intensity. However, Romero’s behaviour on the pitch has increasingly undermined that decision.
The Argentine has been sent off twice this season against Liverpool in December and Manchester United last weekend leaving Spurs short-handed in crucial matches. Those dismissals have taken his total red cards for the club to six in just over four seasons.
In a relegation fight, such lapses in discipline can prove costly.
Van de Ven emerges as a leadership alternative
Micky van de Ven has quietly established himself as one of Tottenham’s most reliable performers since joining from Wolfsburg in 2023. The 24-year-old centre-back has already made 82 appearances for the club and is widely viewed as a cornerstone of the defence.
Frank has previously included Van de Ven in the club’s leadership group, and the Dutchman has worn the armband when deputising for Romero.
What the numbers show
Van de Ven’s performances this season support his growing influence. He has maintained an 89% pass accuracy, averaged 3.5 recoveries per 90 minutes and contributed four goals from defence in the league.
Defensively, he has won over three duels per game and combined his physicality with elite recovery pace, often bailing Spurs out of dangerous situations.
Such consistency has reportedly seen Tottenham value him at close to £100 million, underlining his importance to the club’s long-term plans.
A decision Thomas Frank may need to make
With Spurs fighting to avoid being dragged further into trouble, Thomas Frank may be forced to prioritise reliability and composure over aggression. While Romero remains a key defender, his disciplinary record as captain raises legitimate concerns.
Handing the armband to Van de Ven could provide greater stability and set a calmer example during a crucial phase of the season.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
