What Cristian Romero did to Brennan Johnson before Tel scored Tottenham’s penalty vs Southampton – Journalist

Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-1 victory over Southampton should have been a straightforward celebration, but one lingering question dominated post-match discussions: why didn’t Brennan Johnson take the penalty that would have completed his hat-trick?

The Welsh forward’s brace had put Spurs in control before Mathys Tel stepped up to convert the late spot-kick Johnson himself had earned, denying the 23-year-old a milestone moment in his burgeoning career.

The incident unfolded in the game’s dying moments when Johnson, poised to claim match ball honors, saw vice-captain Cristian Romero intervene. The Argentine defender’s decision to hand the ball to Tel instead – the 19-year-old Frenchman yet to open his Premier League account – revealed intriguing team dynamics at play.

Romero’s consoling hug to Johnson suggested this was less about hierarchy and more about boosting a young teammate’s confidence, though the move inevitably raised eyebrows among supporters expecting their in-form forward to complete his treble.

Johnson’s performance deserved greater reward. His two clinically taken goals took his season tally to 16 across all competitions, making him Tottenham’s undisputed leading marksman.

The former Nottingham Forest man’s movement and finishing troubled Southampton throughout, with manager Ange Postecoglou praising his “outstanding” contribution that extended beyond mere goalscoring.

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While Tel’s successful conversion marked a personal breakthrough, the decision to prioritize his development over Johnson’s individual achievement speaks volumes about Tottenham’s current priorities.

In a season of transition, Postecoglou appears focused on building collective confidence rather than indulging personal milestones – a philosophy that may explain his apparent approval of Romero’s intervention.

The incident ultimately didn’t detract from a vital three points that eased relegation fears, but it provided fascinating insight into the dressing room dynamics at play. Johnson’s professional acceptance of the situation – coupled with his continued excellent form – suggests a maturity belying his years.

For Tel, the moment could prove transformative as he seeks to establish himself following his summer move from Bayern Munich.

As Tottenham rebuild, such moments of shared responsibility and sacrifice may become more common. While hat-trick opportunities don’t present themselves often, Johnson’s reaction – and subsequent praise from his manager – demonstrates a team-first attitude that could prove invaluable in Spurs’ quest to climb the table.

The Welshman’s goals remain crucial, but his willingness to put collective needs above personal glory might ultimately define his importance to Postecoglou’s project.