Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven is aiming to continue his positive start to the season under Thomas Frank
One of the biggest positives for Tottenham fans this season has been the consistent performances of Micky van de Ven. The Dutch defender has quickly proven his worth under Thomas Frank, enjoying a brilliant start to the new campaign. It would not be an exaggeration to say that the 24-year-old has become one of the first names on the team sheet for the Lilywhites this season.
Credit must go to Van de Ven for making the most of his opportunities under the Danish tactician and stepping up as a true leader on the pitch. The commanding centre-back etched his name into Tottenham’s history books last season, playing a crucial role in the club’s Europa League triumph. His heroic goal-line clearance in the final to preserve Spurs’ lead remains an unforgettable moment for fans at N17.

And to his credit, Van de Ven has carried that fine form into the new campaign. Impressively, the Dutchman has added a new dimension to his game under Frank, contributing more in attack. He has already scored three crucial goals in his first ten matches this season — a testament to both his confidence and growing all-round influence.
Micky van de Ven has stepped up under Thomas Frank this season
Micky van de Ven’s partnership with Cristian Romero has been the bedrock of Tottenham’s strong start to the season. The duo’s composure and chemistry have helped the Lilywhites register five clean-sheets across all competitions so far. Few would argue that they currently form one of the most formidable centre-back pairings in the Premier League this season.
Now, Alasdair Gold has taken the time out to praise the 24-year-old’s impact at N17 this season. Writing for Football.London, Gold said,
“Stepped up another level this season under Frank and has added goals to his game with three in his 10 matches after the Dane challenged him to score more. Van de Ven captained the team against Bodo and scored that night before taking his place in the new leadership group ahead of older players like Porro and Bentancur.”
The journalist added,
“That leadership ability might have come as a surprise for some but Frank saw it immediately in the young Dutchman. Has the second highest amount of minutes for an outfield player in the squad with 890 and that shows his growing fitness.”
Frank’s decision to include Van de Ven in Tottenham’s leadership group surprised many fans, but perfectly illustrates the defender’s growing influence both on and off the pitch. As Gold rightly highlighted, Van de Ven’s improved fitness levels have been another major positive this season. Given his injury setbacks last year, his ability to stay fit and perform consistently is a sign of maturity and progress.
Looking ahead, Van de Ven will be key to Tottenham’s ambitions of competing on all fronts this season. The 24-year-old has made it clear that he wants to win more trophies with the Lilywhites after tasting European success last term. To achieve that, he will need to maintain his consistency, leadership, and composure as Spurs continue their push under Thomas Frank.

