Tottenham continue a strong start under Thomas Frank with a 3-0 win against Doncaster Rovers to move into the fourth round of the Carabao Cup. Opportunities aplenty went to new players or in unfamiliar roles and a fresh face on the scene was encouraged to go and make the "next step."
‘It was a fine performance’
Joao Palhinha, a consummate professional, played at the back for the hosts. An acrobatic finish got the scoring started for Spurs and he impressed Frank through his performance across 90 minutes.
“Very happy. He's been very good for us since he since he joined us. Again just stepping into that center back role and played very well and scored a very good goal.”
There was no involvement for Pape Matar Sarr, whom Frank is protecting from a slight niggle.
“This was just a minor precaution. A minor stretch to the thigh, so we just didn't want to take any risk today. There's a good chance that he could be ready for Saturday.”
It meant a chance for Archie Gray to go into midfield. Though his ability to play in a back four is appreciated, this is the area where Frank sees the teenager playing for him and he liked what he saw.
“We saw his running power. very willing to um to run in behind. He was very good when he has that drive with the ball and can go up the pitch. I think it was a fine performance. Archie can play centre back and right back, but I see him more as a midfielder. I like to see him today in that position.”
There was also a competitive debut for academy star Lucá Williams-Barnett in the 87th minute.
“The first step is very important. Very happy: always a pleasure to be part of a young player's debut.”
The Dane was delighted for the player, but the hard work begins here for Williams-Barnett.
“Over the years the focus on the talent development academies across the world is so big. So the talent pool is bigger. These talents coming through they're younger and younger. but one thing is the debut when you're 16. the next step and much more important is how Luca or other players take those steps forward where it's very tough to keep going and get in the first team as a really regular player.”