Thomas Frank spoke to the media at St. James’ Park after our 2-0 loss against Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup fourth round on Wednesday night.
Here’s what he had to say...
What did you make of the performance?
Thomas: “I think it was a very even game. I think it was small margins that decided it. I think our performance was good. I think the way we played the game, especially how we built it from behind, phase one, especially phase two, I think we controlled the game much more. I think we had some short connections in the middle of the pitch. I think we found Lucas and Xavi in good positions. So, I think that was one of our better offensive performances for the season. You could say it was not like we created five 100% chances, but we created some really big chances. I think Ramsdale had some really good saves and we had six or seven very good moments where Richarlison arrived a second too late, or the final pass could have had even more cutting-edge quality to have created even more. So, overall, I'm happy with the performance. Of course, I'm super disappointed that we lost. I’m also super disappointed that we're out. We would love to progress and be in the draw tonight.”
It seems like a different system in the past couple of games, freeing up players a little - is that encouraging?
Thomas: “Yeah, definitely. I think both games, Everton and Newcastle, both games looked much better in the structure we tried to build, to hit players in the space between lines, if that opened up, or course around if it's too close. You're right, I think first half against Everton had it and throughout this game, I think we found good positions.”
Was Vicario out left for the same reason as Doncaster (in the last round)?
Thomas: “He had a small thing that had to be done. He’s ready for Chelsea.”
And Odobert?
Thomas: “Odobert had a side strain, unfortunately, that kept him out for this game. Also, we need to assess him, but he could look positive for Chelsea.”
Are you concerned with a few injuries starting to build up?
Thomas: “Of course, I would like to have everyone fit and available, but we know injury is part of it. It's up to me to find solutions. I think some of the ones we had is relatively, how can I say, unlucky. It's how quick we get them back, but contact injuries to Maddison, Bissouma, the knee with Destiny, can’t do too much about that.”
You saw how many changes Newcastle made - how difficult was it to pick your team today?
Thomas: “Yeah, it was very difficult, to be honest. Newcastle made eight, we made four, but we made four because we wanted to compete. I think we competed. Unfortunately, we just dropped out on the wrong end of it. So, of course, as you said, it's a busy schedule. It's a balance to make a very competitive team that can perform, tactically can still hit the criteria we want it to hit. Everton, it was four changes. Newcastle, four changes. Now Chelsea on Saturday. So, some you need to rest, others you need to be at it too. I'm very disappointed we couldn't continue. We have 5,000 fans travelling. So, we're more than pleased, happy that they're travelling this long way on a late night and give us all the backing. It’s unfortunate we couldn't give them back with a win.”
Just on Archie - is that a training injury?
Thomas: “He would have started. He got a contact to the calf in Monaco and probably in there or whatever also picked up a calf strain.”