Argentina centre-back Cristian Romero has called Gary Neville “stupid” for mocking his partnership with Lisandro Martinez.
Before Argentina’s dramatic 2-1 World Cup semi-final win over England, the former Manchester United full-back labelled Romero and Martinez “the best, worst centre-half pairing in the world”.
Both were shown yellow cards in Wednesday’s fiery clash in Atlanta, yet they were instrumental in limiting England to just two shots on target as the defending champions came from behind with late goals.
Romero and Martinez, both 28, have started all but one of Argentina’s matches this summer, helping Lionel Scaloni’s side reach a second successive World Cup final.
Asked about Neville’s comments, the Tottenham defender told DSports he hopes he won’t be “that stupid” when he retires. He added that the team always gives everything for the national side: sometimes it works out, sometimes it doesn’t, but they’re thrilled to be in another World Cup final.
He said they feel they are making history and that the importance of the Argentina shirt is unmatched for them.
Manchester United defender Martinez added: “People are always talking about us—it seems they enjoy it. We respond on the pitch, that’s it, always with respect.”