Thomas Frank believes Tottenham Hotspur’s win over FC Copenhagen is a “step forward” in the right direction
Tottenham Hotspur were heading into the FC Copenhagen game in the Champions League on the back of back-to-back defeats. They were eliminated from the Carabao Cup by holders Newcastle United and had lost 1-0 at home to Chelsea.
The pressure was rightly on Thomas Frank to respond to the critics and show the fans that his team is on the right track. And Spurs did just that, demolishing FC Copenhagen 4-0 thanks to goals from Brennan Johnson, Wilson Odobert, Micky van de Ven and Joao Palhinha. It could have been five in stoppage time had Richarlison not missed his spot-kick, which was won by substitute Dane Scarlett.
The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium faithful applauded the players at full-time whistle on Tuesday evening, a total contrast from their boos after the Chelsea game.
Thomas Frank gives his verdict on FC Copenhagen drubbing
It is no exaggeration to suggest Tottenham were excellent and dominated large periods of the game against FC Copenhagen. The Danish side partly helped the home side by committing mistakes on and off the ball. Even after being reduced to 10 men following Brennan Johnson’s dismissal in the 57th minute, Spurs did not go into the shell. Instead, surprisingly, they wanted to score more and did so.
Thomas Frank was delighted with his team’s showing in midweek. When asked whether this win could be a turning point for Tottenham after poor home form this season, the 52-year-old said in his post-match presser (h/t Football London):
“I would say it was a step forward in how we want to play. Assists and goals from the offensive players and also the structure was good today.”
Tottenham forwards give hope
A lot has been said about the Lilywhites’ bland attack and lack of cutting edge in the final third. Bar Mohammed Kudus, who was absent against Copenhagen due to a minor injury, none of the attacking players have performed as per the standards this season.
Summer signings Xavi Simons and Randal Kolo Muani have not delivered the goods, but the duo were bright in Tuesday’s win. The duo bagged an assist apiece, looked lively and were creative on the ball. Xavi, in particular, had a good game, which was critical after the barrage of criticism he has received from different sections of the media in recent weeks.
Now, the most important thing will be to build on this Champions League victory when Manchester United come to town at the weekend. Spurs can be a bit pragmatic as compared to Copenhagen, given Man United’s attack is superior in terms of quality and physicality, but the intent has to remain the same; take the game to them.
