Tottenham: Thomas Frank wants key Cristian Romero decision as Spurs eye contract resolution | OneFootball

Romero is in the final two years of his contract but Frank insists his new captain is committed to Spurs

Skipper: Cristian Romero was this week named Spurs captain after Heung-min son’s exit

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Thomas Frank hopes Cristian Romero will sign a new contract at Tottenham after being named club captain.

The 27-year-old went into the summer with his future in doubt amid links with Atletico Madrid, with Romero speaking in April about his desire to one day play in Spain.

However, Romero is understood to be happy in north London and the captaincy is obvious evidence that he is not seeking a move.

The centre-back has only two years left on his contract but talks have not yet begun over an extension.

Spurs would be reluctant to let Romero enter the final 12 months of his deal and are hoping to reach an agreement this season, but the club are relaxed over the current situation.

Romero scored against PSG in the Super Cup on Wednesday

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Frank said the decision to make Romero captain was not one done to try and persuade him to extend his time at Spurs, but he would be keen for the centre-back to do so.

"I think when you name a captain it’s because you think he’s the best that can help the team no matter what, now and also in the future," Frank said.

"It’s not really linked with the contract situation. Of course he’s a very good player so I want him to stay longer."

Frank insisted he has no doubts over Romero's commitment to the club, suggesting he is training better now than at any previous time in his Spurs career.

"I would say I’ve worked with him now closely for more than five weeks," the Spurs boss said.

"I’ve seen a very, very committed player who’s trained very well. The staff have said to me they’ve never seen him train that well. He’s in a very good place. I see a player that will want to lead the team and push the team."

Romero formed part of the team's leadership group under Ange Postecoglou and has stepped up when given more responsibility.

He received 21 yellows cards and three red cards in his first two season at Spurs. That has dropped to 12 bookings and one sending-off in the past two campaigns.

Frank is confident Romero has the necessary attributes on and off the pitch, but believes there is still room for him to grow as a leader.

"I know I see a very big and very good player," Frank said.

"What I like about him and why I have chosen him as captain is his leadership qualities on the pitch, there is a big respect for him from the players.

"Off the pitch as well he also sets the standards. But it’s fair to say, he’s 27 and there are a few older than 27. When I was 27 of course I thought I could do everything, but I also found out that as a leader I am 1,000 per cent better now.

"So he also needs to learn and become better and better so I will do my best to guide him."