Frank Asserts Spurs’ Progress with ‘Small Steps’ Forward
Tottenham Hotspur is currently navigating a challenging phase, with head coach Thomas Frank emphasizing the club’s progress, albeit through small steps. The arrival of Conor Gallagher has been particularly noted as a significant boost during the January transfer window.
Challenges Faced by Tottenham
Following a disappointing 2-1 FA Cup loss to Aston Villa, frustration among fans has been palpable. This defeat marked Tottenham’s seventh in their last thirteen matches across all competitions. As they currently sit in 14th place in the Premier League, concerns over performance and leadership are mounting.
Conor Gallagher Signing
Tottenham’s recent acquisition of England international Conor Gallagher has generated optimism. The midfielder was signed for a reported fee of £34.7 million ($45.5 million). Frank expressed his belief in Gallagher’s potential impact, referencing his strong performances at Chelsea and the need for immediate contributions to the team.
Assistant Coach Addition
- John Heitinga has been appointed as the new assistant first-team coach.
- He replaces Matt Wells, who departed to take over at Colorado Rapids.
Positive Signs Amid Struggles
Despite the team’s poor league standing, Frank sees “good signs” of progress. He emphasized the need for improvements and noted that recent performances, especially during the second halves against Bournemouth and Villa, have shown potential growth in team culture and resilience.
Focusing on Offensive Play
While acknowledging improvements in defensive areas, Frank pointed out the need for better offensive output. The coaching staff is committed to enhancing the attacking aspect of their game as they prepare for West Ham’s visit.
Key Injury Updates
- Rodrigo Bentancur is sidelined due to hamstring surgery.
- Richarlison is also facing a similar issue and is expected to miss several weeks.
As Spurs continue their campaign, Frank believes the combination of recent signings and a focus on team culture will help them emerge from their current challenges. He stated, “We just need to add a top performance and a win on Saturday,” reinforcing the commitment to progress on the field.