Is Frank’s time up? Spurs’ defeat places them in relegation battle.
LONDON — Just four minutes into the second half of Tottenham Hotspur’s 2-1 loss at home to Newcastle United, supporters began chanting the name of former manager Mauricio Pochettino. Earlier, the visiting Newcastle fans had shown their support for beleaguered manager Eddie Howe right from the first minute.
Who was advocating for Thomas Frank? By the conclusion of another disappointing performance from Spurs, the Dane stood on the sidelines with a blank look, drenched by the incessant rain and enduring the ultimate insult: “You’re getting sacked in the morning” … from Tottenham supporters.
How much longer can this situation persist? The club’s top executives acknowledge that there is no quick solution to the ongoing issues. Long-standing problems existed before this head coach’s tenure, and until now, they have hesitated to dismiss a well-liked figure, understanding that stability is essential.
However, with Frank being booed off at both halftime and full time, the immediate discomfort is intensifying. Spurs have not won in their last eight Premier League matches, marking their longest winless streak since October 2008.
Frank managed a commendable Champions League group stage, leading them to a fourth-place finish and automatic qualification for the round of 16. Yet, while Spurs previously chose to prioritize European success over their domestic campaign, repeating that strategy this season could lead to relegation.
This is why Frank’s position is now in imminent, unprecedented jeopardy. Spurs have secured only two victories in their last 17 league matches, accumulating just 12 points during that span.
Frank avoided addressing questions on Monday regarding whether Tottenham was facing a relegation battle. He can no longer evade the reality. West Ham, currently in 18th place, were denied a victory by Manchester United, who equalized in the 96th minute at London Stadium. Spurs sit just two places higher and five points above the relegation zone following Benjamin Sesko’s goal, which occurred moments before Frank entered the post-match press conference to confront inquiries about his future.
Following their early exit from the FA Cup, Tottenham will not play again for 12 days, until they host north London rivals and Premier League leaders Arsenal. It was reasonable to question whether he would still be in charge for that match.
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“Yeah, I’m convinced I will be,” he responded. “I understand the question; it’s easy to point fingers at me, but it’s never solely the head coach, or the ownership, or the directors, or the players, or the staff. It’s everyone.
“If we do things correctly, we can create something that endures. Of course, we are not in a favorable position right now. Everyone is aware — directors, ownership, myself — of our current standing and what we need to improve. And that’s what we are diligently working on.
“[I’m] 1,000 percent sure [I’m the right person to lead Tottenham]. I’m also 1,000 percent sure that I never anticipated being in a situation like this with 11 or 12 injuries affecting us and what we have been dealing with.
“I understand that when you need to build something and navigate through challenges, you must demonstrate remarkable resilience. … We can only overcome this together.”
All of this, remember, against a Newcastle team grappling with their own crisis and a manager in Howe who has been reflecting deeply in recent days. “A bit is an understatement,” he remarked afterward.
Spurs began slowly, effectively allowing Newcastle to regain their confidence. Joe Willock had a goal disallowed just before halftime on VAR review for offside, but Tottenham still could not reach the break on level terms. Malick Thiaw scored in stoppage time, a goal that epitomized the home side’s lethargy. Spurs failed to close down the cross or react when goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario saved Thiaw’s initial attempt. Archie Gray scored against the run of play in the 64th minute, but Newcastle responded just four minutes later as Jacob Ramsey finished after good work from Anthony Gordon.
Frank was left to defend not only the club’s poor injury record — Wilson Odobert limped off here, worsening the situation — but also the broader notion that dismissing a head coach in challenging circumstances is the solution many believe it to be.
“I understand the dynamics in football, no doubt about that. But I also believe there are numerous studies indicating that it is not necessarily the correct course of action,” said Frank.
“I recognize it is the only option they have, but there are also many instances where it is not the right decision. And the only thing I will concentrate on is fighting, doing the right things alongside everyone else.”
Ultimately, it was Howe who stepped up to advocate for Frank. “It is an incredible list of players they are missing, and I think that is really challenging,” said Howe.
“I believe he is an exceptional manager. I’ve faced him many times. I think he possesses all the qualities to be a top manager for this football club, and I hope he is given the time to demonstrate that.”
Frank now faces an anxious wait to determine if his tenure has come to an end.
