Thomas Frank glad to have Randal Kolo Muani option at Tottenham Hotspur
It took a while, but it finally came. In Tottenham Hotspur’s 3-0 win over Everton at the weekend, we saw Thomas Frank finally hand Randal Kolo Muani his first full Premier League start. And while the Lilywhites supporters were keenly looking forward to it, it wasn’t all fireworks.
The North Londoners signed the French international in the final hours of deadline day. It was a surprise move, as it looked like the North Londoner would walk into the season with Dominik Solanke and Richarlison leading the line.
But given the injury concerns with Solanke off late, it can end up being a much-needed transfer for Spurs.
Kolo Muani had an underwhelming performance vs Everton
It was a bit of an underwhelming performance from the 26-year-old. He didn’t dominate the game at all. You could see him still at many moments where he could have been bisecting the Toffees’ defenders and opening up a possible opportunity for an aerial through ball. And he also looked a bit rusty on the ball. While many supporters didn’t like what they saw from Muani, what Frank reflected after the game speaks volumes about what he wants from his forward line.
And he did show what the Dane head coach was demanding from him. Those movements off the ball and then showing his ability to link with others in the front four. And given that he is coming back after a while, it is about a process of getting things in line.
Speaking with the Tottenham Hotspur official website after the game, Frank said:
“It was pleasing to see his first 60 minutes. He’s still building his physicality and sharpness. I’m pleased with what I saw, but it’s the first steps, so there’s more to come.
“I think at times I like some of the movement, the interactions with the front four, but that is an ongoing project or process.”
TTLB Opinion
By speaking highly of his movements and his interactions on the pitch over mere goals, Frank showed that every player has a role to fulfil in his system, which is more than just to be on the scoresheet. Given his playing style, all roles together contribute to the entire system.
And given that the Lilywhites supporters want that instant show of his abilities, Frank and his words after the game show that he is looking at a season framework. 60 minutes now, 90 later, and maybe getting a few movements right now, and then. His goals later.
While Kolo Muani didn’t get on the score sheet. The question I am asking is whether he did everything Frank asked him to do. Because that is what you build up on. And he did show glimpses of how menacing he could be once back to his full abilities. And that’s what matters.
