Thomas Frank: Tottenham in urgent need of a victory during challenging Premier League stretch
Thomas Frank has recognized that Tottenham is “desperate” for a home victory against Newcastle on Tuesday, but he admitted uncertainty regarding Dejan Kulusevski’s availability for the remainder of the season.
Spurs enter the midweek match sitting in 15th place, just six points clear of the relegation zone following a stretch of two wins in 16 Premier League encounters.
Frank faced numerous inquiries about relegation on Monday, and while he refrained from confirming whether Tottenham is in a survival struggle, he acknowledged their desire to secure a first domestic win of 2026.
“There is no doubt we are desperate to win games. Desperate,” Frank emphasized.
“And I am concentrating on Newcastle tomorrow. That presents a great opportunity for us against a strong team. The primary focus is — can we go out there and earn three points tomorrow? That would be very beneficial and allow us to progress from there.”
Spurs will be missing several players, including Kulusevski, who has been sidelined since May due to a significant knee injury.
Kulusevski recently received an injection to alleviate pain in his knee, but after being omitted from Tottenham’s Champions League squad for the knockout stage, Frank could not offer an optimistic update on the Swedish midfielder.
When asked if Kulusevski would be able to play this season, Frank admitted: “I don’t know.”
“Deki has another appointment at the end of this week where we will have more information, but of course, if he’s not in the Champions League squad, it’s an indication that it is not imminent.”
Left-back Destiny Udogie was the latest addition to the injury list on Saturday after suffering a hamstring injury during the 2-0 defeat to Manchester United.
“Unfortunately, Destiny has a hamstring injury, so he will be out for the next four to five weeks,” Frank disclosed.
Djed Spence has returned, providing a timely boost, but captain Cristian Romero will begin a four-match suspension due to his red card at Old Trafford.
“I believe we have discussed enough about Romero in the last press conference,” Frank stated.
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“He’s a young leader, so he’s learning every day. I recall when I was 30 years old, I thought I was at the peak of my abilities. I was far from the level I am today regarding leadership and understanding.
“And when you have a player who plays with such passion and intensity, sometimes incidents like that can occur. That is not to say he shouldn’t learn from it. Certainly, he needs to learn from it.”
Frank also called on frustrated Tottenham supporters ahead of a crucial match for both teams, with Newcastle having won only one of their last eight games.
“I can say we urgently need them,” Frank added.
“Of course, when you’re a bit stretched thin, with not many players available, it’s not straightforward, and the team’s confidence may waver, so we need to unite and push together.”
