Archie Gray has made a big impression at Tottenham since his £30million move from Leeds and Thomas Frank has made a bold comparison to two of the world's best midfielders
Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has delivered a glowing assessment of former Leeds United academy product Archie Gray, drawing parallels with Arsenal's Declan Rice.
The Spurs midfielder, whose father Andy and great-uncle Eddie both represented Leeds, made his senior bow under Daniel Farke in 2023. He went on to feature 52 times for the Whites during the 2023/24 season before sealing a £30million switch to north London.
Gray is gradually establishing himself in Frank's squad and winning plaudits in the process, having clocked up 51 outings for Spurs so far. The Danish boss holds lofty ambitions for the 19-year-old, having previously expressed interest whilst managing Brentford.
"Let's put it this way, yes, we spoke with him, but he ended at Tottenham and maybe that was good because I still have the chance to work with him," Frank disclosed. "I see him as a midfielder who can play six or eight. That is his position and I think these days midfielders need to be more complete.
"You need to be a little bit of a six, little bit of eight and 10 and two of the best in the world right now are probably Rodri and Declan Rice. I think they can do a little bit of everything. I see Archie and they are big names to compare him too, but I see he has got the same potential.
He added: "When do we judge a player? I think it is probably fair two years down the line where we can really make a big assessment. I am also being judged from game to game so I know how it works, but I think to judge it as a success or failure, I don't think you can really do that before two years. That's not to say you cannot be judged for your performances and if you haven't done well, that's fair."
There's genuine buzz surrounding the teenager, who has impressed in recent outings for Spurs. This week, he set up the dramatic leveller against Bodo/Glimt in their 2-2 stalemate in the Champions League.
"He seems to understand that he needs to work hard," Frank continued.
"The foundation, if you want to achieve anything, you need to do that. I think his understanding of the game is good as well. So, those two bits and the discipline, I think are key areas if you want to achieve anything. Maybe that is from the blood of the family."
His sibling, Harry, could soon step up from the academy ranks to the senior squad at Elland Road. The 16-year-old was included on the substitutes' bench for the 3-1 triumph over Wolves last month.
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