Argentina is chasing history. The defending World Cup champions are aiming to become the first team in six decades to repeat as champions, and to do that, they'll need their best players on the pitch. Good news is coming in for one of their defensive pillars.

Cristian Romero, the fiery Tottenham Hotspur center back, suffered an injury late in the English Premier League season, sidelining him for the remainder of Spurs' relegation battle. This raised immediate concerns about his availability for the upcoming World Cup. However, recent roster projections suggest Romero is still very much in the picture.

According to the latest World Cup roster projections from ESPN, analyst Damian Didonato has Romero listed as a projected starter for Argentina. While this is a positive sign, Didonato is cautious, acknowledging the team's vulnerabilities. "Argentina's weaknesses involve a lack of depth in certain positions and the recurring physical issues of their defenders," he notes.

When healthy, Romero brings an unmatched intensity and stability to the backline, forming a crucial part of the team's spine. The current projection has him starting alongside Lisandro Martinez in a back-four, with Nicolas Tagliafico and Nahuel Molina as the fullbacks, and Emiliano Martinez in goal.

Of course, the team will still revolve around all-time great Lionel Messi, who is widely expected to be playing in his final World Cup. Argentina's potent attack will need to be at full strength to compete with the world's elite. But for any champion, a sturdy, healthy defense is the foundation. If Romero can shake off his injury woes, it could be the key to keeping the trophy in South America.