‘Disgraceful’ – Graham Roberts gives verdict on controversy involving Spurs pair

Graham Roberts has levelled scathing criticism at FIFA after reports emerged that Giovani Lo Celso and Cristian Romero could take longer to return from their international duty than previously thought.

The Premier League have prohibited players from travelling to ‘red list’ countries during the international break.

However, Lo Celso and Romero, along with Aston Villa’s Emiliano Buendia and Emiliano Martinez, decided to defy the ruling and join up with the Argentina squad for the World Cup qualifiers.

Nuno Espirito Santo has admitted that the situation is not ideal and that Tottenham are doing their best to stay ahead of the problem.

Things took another turn on Thursday when Argentina boss Lionel Scaloni insisted the four players would be available for all three qualifiers, including Thursday’s clash against Bolivia.

Reports had previously indicated that Tottenham had reached an agreement with the Argentine FA to let both Lo Celso and Romero depart after this evening’s clash against Brazil since they had to isolate for 10 days on their return to the UK.

This latest confusion has angered Roberts, who pointed out that it is Tottenham who pay the salaries of Lo Celso and Romero.

Here’s what the legendry Spurs defender tweeted:

Spurs Web Opinion

This situation has been a complete mess from start to finish. The Argentine FA are understandably are putting their own interests first by calling up the players for crucial World Cup qualifiers.

One also has to sympathise with the players as it is difficult to turn down the chance to represent one’s country. However, given the various travel restrictions in different parts of the world, FIFA must have been more flexible with their scheduling.

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