Lionel Messi has branded Tottenham star Cristian Romero the best defender in the world.

Romero has enjoyed a fresh start at Tottenham under new manager Ange Postecoglou after a difficult first two years since signing for the club.

Heavily-criticised under former managers Nuno Espirito Santo and Antonio Conte, the 25-year-old has flourished in a more positive team with stronger attacking instincts and able to hold the ball for longer.

And Romero’s Argentina team-mate Messi couldn’t speak highly-enough of him while the duo are away on international duty.

Lionel Messi (centre) has branded Tottenham’s Cristian Romero (left) ‘the best defender in the world right now’

The two are interntaional team-mates at Argentina and both starred as the world champions beat Ecuador 1-0 on Friday

‘For me, he is the best defender in the world right now. Amazing performance tonight, man of the match,’ he told Telemundo via the Evening Standard.

World champions Argentina beat Ecuador 1-0 in their latest international match on Friday, with Messi scoring the only goal of the game in the 78th minute of what was a tightly-contested game.

Romero also played the game, picking up another clean sheet in what was once again an impressive performance.

Several had questioned whether Romero would be able to secure a place in Postecoglou’s new-look side, but he has been almost the first name on the team sheet this season.

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His ability on the ball and recover pace has made him a key asset for the Australian, and his partnership with Micky Van de Ven is improving every week.

Romero was also one of the first players to speak out against the divide at the club under former manager Conte last season.

Romero has been given a fresh start with Tottenham under new manager Ange Postecoglou

Postecoglou (pictured) has transformed Spurs’ style of play into a more positive approach

‘After winning the World Cup, I came back to Tottenham and the group were somewhat separate from the staff,’ he said. ‘This is very difficult. My first match back was Aston Villa at home. We lost 2-0, that’s where it all started.

‘We’d win a game then we’d lose two. When things are divided and coaches and players are not pulling in the same direction it becomes very difficult.

‘But I’m the first to hold up my hands and take responsibility for the poor season we had. I’m not happy the season ended that way and I’m ready to repay the trust the club put in me and working to give my best.’

Tottenham’s next game is against Sheffield United in the Premier League next weekend following the conclusion of the international break.