Paul Stewart wants to see Cristian Romero make his debut starting alongside Joe Rodon at the heart of the Tottenham defence against Manchester City.

The Argentinian centre-back became Nuno Espirito Santo's third summer signing when he joined in a £42.5m move from Atalanta.

However, having only signed last weekend, Romero hasn't played a single minute in pre-season and is carrying an injury from the Copa America final.

During Tottenham's five pre-season matches, Santo has tried and tested several different centre-back pairings as he looks to improve on last seasons defensive problems under Jose Mourinho.

However, Eric Dier and Davinson Sanchez started the final friendly against Arsenal, which suggests they're likely to keep their place for the visit of the Premier League champions.

That wouldn't be a popular choice with the Spurs faithful after their own respective performances weren't at the required level last term.

Asked who he wants starting this weekend, Stewart exclusively told The Transfer Tavern:

"I think Rodon and the new signing, Romero. If I was managing that would be my starting two, the others have been in there last season and haven't cut the mustard, the biggest problem Spurs had was across the defence.

"Rodon did exceptionally well at the EUROs and Messi has backed Romero, so I can see them starting."