Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has emphasized his unwavering commitment to an attacking, "front-footed" style of play, even if it occasionally results in defeats. This declaration comes amidst recent criticism of his tactics, particularly following a disappointing 4-1 loss to Arsenal.
Frank's remarks followed Tottenham's 5-3 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, a game in which he felt the team displayed a more ambitious and attacking approach compared to the Arsenal match. Despite the loss, Frank expressed a preference for the team's performance against PSG, where they "really, really, really competed" and showed more of the identity he wants to instill in the team. In the match against PSG, Tottenham twice took the lead before being overcome by a Vitinha hat-trick. Randal Kolo Muani, on loan from PSG, managed to score his first goals for Spurs, while teenagers Lucas Bergvall and Archie Gray were given starting roles in central midfield.
Frank was heavily criticized for employing a five-man defense in the defeat against Arsenal. Addressing the criticism, Frank stated that he doesn't pay attention to external opinions, instead relying on the judgment of his trusted inner circle. He reiterated that his philosophy, throughout his career, has always been to play offensive football. He acknowledged that this approach may not always be successful, but it remains his fundamental principle.
"Over all the years I've been in charge, no matter if it was when I was with my under-eights team in Frederiksværk 30 years ago to now, I want to play offensive front-footed football," Frank said. He admitted that the plan to be front-footed did not work against Arsenal, leaving him feeling "angry, painful, hurt". In contrast, after the PSG game, despite the irritation of defeat, he felt better because the team competed with the identity he desires.
The pressure is mounting on Frank, with Tottenham having secured only three wins in their last 12 games. They are struggling at home, having not won a Premier League home game since the opening weekend. Their home record is currently the second-worst in the league.
Frank's commitment to attacking football is a clear attempt to win back the fans, who have become increasingly disillusioned with the team's performances. The Spurs boss believes that "to not take a risk, is also a risk," and he is determined to implement his vision, even if it means facing the possibility of further defeats. He hopes to replicate the success he had with Brentford, who had the best home record in the Premier League around this time last year.
It remains to be seen whether Frank's "front-footed" approach will ultimately prove successful at Tottenham. However, his commitment to attacking football is a clear indication of his desire to create a team that is both exciting to watch and capable of challenging for honors.
