Tottenham Hotspur attacker Brennan Johnson is struggling to make a regular impact this season
Tottenham’s forward line has struggled to find rhythm under Thomas Frank this season. The attackers have been unable to make a consistent impact in the final third due to the more pragmatic approach adopted by the Danish tactician. As a result, the Lilywhites are finding it difficult to break down stubborn defences while trying to close the gap on their rivals.
Spurs played a completely different brand of football under Ange Postecoglou last season. They operated with greater freedom, moved quickly in transitions and prioritised free-flowing, attacking play regardless of the situation. One player who benefited immensely from that system was prolific winger Brennan Johnson.
The Welshman played a key role in helping the Lilywhites end their long trophy drought, scoring 18 goals in all competitions. Fittingly, his final goal of the campaign came in the Europa League final, helping Spurs end their 17-year wait for silverware and secure Champions League qualification. However, it is fair to say the 24-year-old has struggled to replicate that form under Thomas Frank this season.
Brennan Johnson’s game is not suited to Thomas Frank’s system at Tottenham
It is also important to note that Brennan Johnson has been playing in an unfamiliar role under Frank. The Welshman has been shifted to the left flank following the arrival of Mohammed Kudus in the summer. This positional change has been a major factor behind his limited influence on the pitch, despite scoring four goals in all competitions this season.
Football writer Ali Speechly has identified Johnson as one Spurs player who is floundering under Thomas Frank. Writing for the BBC, Speechly said,
“Brennan Johnson is struggling to make an impact and it is unclear how he fits into this Thomas Frank side, if at all. When Johnson does make an appearance, despite a few goals, he often looks lost and lacks the confidence to take players on.”
As Speechly points out, Johnson is finding it difficult to make his mark at N17 this season. It increasingly appears that his skill set may not align with what Frank expects from his wide players. He has often looked out of place and has drifted through matches, even if he has managed to score sporadically.
It is no surprise that the North Londoners are looking to strengthen their attack in the upcoming transfer window. Johnson remains a useful squad player, but he cannot be relied upon as a regular starter if Spurs are aiming to compete for major honours in the coming years. They need players capable of making consistent contributions and performing in multiple positions.
But no Spurs fan will forget Johnson’s vital role in helping the club end their long wait for silverware last season. Whatever the future holds for him, he has secured his place in the club’s history and earned the status of a modern-day Spurs icon.