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Tottenham boss Thomas Frank sends Lewis family message after £100m cash injection

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Tottenham boss Thomas Frank sends Lewis family message after £100m cash injection - The Mirror
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Thomas Frank has paid tribute to the Lewis family after they recently pumped £100m into Tottenham following the shock departure of Daniel Levy

Thomas Frank insists he's top dog at Tottenham - despite a major off-field shakeup. This week, the returning Fabio Paratici was unveiled as the club's new joint sporting director alongside Johan Lange. However, Frank has made it clear he'll still need to ratify all major transfer decisions moving forward, explaining ahead of tomorrow's clash with Aston Villa : "I'll always have the final say. You know that but of course, in the end, it's teamwork."

It's highly likely there will be plenty of international deliberation over new signings after the Lewis family injected an initial £100million in new capital into Spurs earlier this month. More cash could yet follow, too. Unsurprisingly, Frank values the reiteration of their long-term commitment to a club that is striving to fulfil its potential as a global force. The Dane added: "First and foremost, I think it's hugely positive that the Lewis family is clearly showing their interest in doing everything they can to improve the club and back the club as they want us to be as successful as possible. I think that's a sign of it, that they are injecting cash into the club."

Meanwhile, Frank has backed Tottenham's decision to bring "good guy" Paratici back in an official working capacity just weeks after a judge in Rome accepted a plea bargain, meaning he did not have to serve an 18-month prison sentence for false accounting.

Frank added when quizzed on Paratici's chequered past: "I think it's something, of course, I've heard about. I don't know too much about the details but I know Fabio as a good guy from the times I've met him. I think he's got a lot of quality and I look forward to working with him."

On the field, Frank is bidding to end a managerial hoodoo for the second successive match this weekend. Prior to the international break, he beat Daniel Farke for the first time in six meetings.

In five attempts, Frank has never beaten Unai Emery's Villa (two draws, three defeats) - it's the most the Dane has ever faced an opposition manager without victory. The Spurs boss has also won just one of his previous eight top-flight games against the Villains, his joint-lowest win percentage against any Premier League side (12.5 per cent).

His ranks will, however, be bolstered by the return of France international forward Randal Kolo Muani following a dead leg. The Paris Saint-Germain loanee has played just 13 minutes since arriving in N17 but he is now back in training.

Frank explained: "Kolo Muani has trained now for two weeks with the team, so that's good. He looks better and better, he'll be in contention for the squad so that's positive.

"I think Kolo is a very good player and I'm very excited that we managed to sign him. I'm really looking forward to having him play some consistent minutes and hopefully he'll show what he's capable of."

The clash comes too soon for Dominic Solanke, who is back out on the grass in light training following a minor surgical procedure on his ankle. Frank said of Solanke: "Dom is a naturally fit player. We need to take into consideration that he hasn't trained with the team since July. It will take him a little bit of time to get up to pace."

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Tottenham injury latest as Thomas Frank shares major blow before Aston Villa clash

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Tottenham injury latest as Thomas Frank shares major blow before Aston Villa clash - The Mirror
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Tottenham Hotspur host Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon, and Thomas Frank could be without as many as six players for the visit of Unai Emery's side

Thomas Frank has provided an injury update on three players ahead of Tottenham Hotspur's clash against Aston Villa. The Lilywhites will host Unai Emery's squad in north London on Sunday afternoon as they look to climb the Premier League.

Mohamed Kudus was the hero last time out, netting the winner in a 2-1 win over Leeds United at Elland Road. Spurs continued their excellent vein of form and leapfrogged Crystal Palace into third place.

Since losing 1-0 to Bournemouth on home soil at the end of August, the Lilywhites have put together an impressive seven-match unbeaten run across all competitions. Aston Villa, too, have been in fine form, notching four consecutive victories.

Dominic Solanke remains sidelined with an ankle injury, but Frank could finally hand a Premier League debut to one of his summer signings. Speaking to journalists at the club's training ground on Friday afternoon, he said: "[Randal] Kolo Muani has trained now for two weeks with the team, so that's good.

"He looks better and better. He will be in contention for tomorrow, so that's positive. Dom's progressed well after the surgery, been on the pitch, he's progressing and he's going forward, so that's good."

Frank added: "[Yves] Biss, unfortunately, had a situation with the national team, I think everyone saw that, so he got a ligament injury to his ankle that will keep him out for weeks."

On whether Solanke could return before the next international break, Frank said: "I think the good thing is he's positive. He's progressing now. He's still training on his own, so I don't want to be too excited or too negative either way.

"I'm actually taking a little bit day by day and week by week to see how quickly he progresses. Dom is a naturally fit player. There are some players that naturally get that fitness up to a high level.

"But of course, also he's taken into consideration he basically hasn't trained with the team since July. That's not to say it will take three months to get up to pace. It will take a little bit of time to get up to pace. How long, I don't know."

James Maddison is still sidelined with a knee injury following his anterior cruciate ligament rupture during Spurs' pre-season tour of Asia. Dejan Kulusevski, who underwent knee surgery in May, and Kota Takai, who picked up a plantar fascia injury in his foot over the summer, are also ruled out.

Radu Dragusin suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury at the start of the year. In September, Frank suggested it would be 'a few weeks' before the defender could be considered for selection again.

Aston Villa might also be missing one or two key players this weekend. Ollie Watkins picked up a leg injury during England's victory over Wales last week and was substituted at half-time.

When quizzed about the striker's situation, Emery hinted that he'll be fit to face Spurs. He said: "Tomorrow we will train again, normally he will be ready for Sunday."

On Emiliano Buendia and Jadon Sancho, Emery confirmed: "Both have trained normally and will be available for Sunday in case they train well tomorrow."

Tyrone Mings, though, faces a late fitness test. The Villa boss said: "He is getting better. He trained this week individually. Tomorrow, we will see how he is. The idea is to train with the team and after that we will decide."

Youri Tielemans may be out for another four weeks due to a calf injury. The midfielder, who's been absent in each of Villa's last six games, experienced a setback in his recovery earlier this month.

Andres Garcia is yet to make an appearance for Emery's squad this season. The defender was seen in training before the season opener against Newcastle United, and again ahead of the Bologna clash.

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Ange Postecoglou launches extraordinary rant in response to 'failed manager' critics

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Ange Postecoglou launches extraordinary rant in response to 'failed manager' critics - The Mirror
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Ange Postecoglou has been speaking at length about his time at Nottingham Forest and his previous job at Tottenham Hotspur as he looks to silence his doubters

Nottingham Forest manager Ange Postecoglou has defiantly responded to his critics, promising that his tenure at the club will culminate in success, given enough time.

The Reds' head coach's future has been a hot topic during the international break. Since taking over, the club has gone seven matches without a win. The upcoming home match against Chelsea on Saturday (12.30pm kick-off) is set to be a critical test for him.

Many Forest supporters expressed their dissatisfaction with the 60-year-old during the team's last home game. As the hosts suffered a 3-2 loss to FC Midtjylland in the Europa League, chants from the City Ground crowd called for his dismissal and sang praises of his predecessor, Nuno Espirito Santo.

However, Postecoglou has urged those questioning his ability to turn around the Reds' fortunes to consider his track record at his former club, Tottenham Hotspur. He feels his achievement of securing a fifth-place finish in his debut year in London often goes unnoticed.

In a fiery response to his detractors during an extensive pre-match press conference ahead of this weekend's fixture, the Greek-born Australian passionately defended his position. When asked about the speculation and pressure surrounding his role, he provided a nearly five-minute-long reply, reports Nottinghamshire Live.

"Look, I guess from my perspective I just don't fit," Postecoglou said. "Not here, just in general. If you look at it through the prism of I'm a failed manager who's lucky to get this job - I know you're smirking at me, but that's what's being said, right, and I can find the print where that's actually said - then of course these first five weeks look like, this guy is under pressure.

"There is an alternative story that you can look at. I came to the Premier League two years ago, I took over Tottenham - 'Spursy' Tottenham. I was told by the chairman at the time that this club has to win a trophy. Has to win a trophy.

"He said, we've tried to bring winners in - Jose (Mourinho) and Antonio (Conte) - and it hasn't worked, we need something different. I was slightly offended by that because I see myself as a winner.

"Took over the Spurs that had finished eighth. Big club, no European football. Can't go two years without European football.

"We finished fifth in my first year. Every time Harry Kane scores a goal I wish he'd just stayed one more year, because it would have been handy to have him after finishing fifth.

"But somehow that year has disappeared from the record books. In fact, it was used as a reason for me losing my job because even Tottenham decided to exclude the first 10 games, because they were an anomaly, apparently. Although the first 10 games here are very important, apparently. Anyway, we finished fifth and I got them back into European football, which a club like Tottenham should be.

"Again, I was in meetings and people who are still at that club were in those meetings, where I was told winning a trophy is everything for this football club. That's fine.

"We win a trophy (the Europa League). We shed the tag of being 'Spursy'. It's Champions League football, which brings some rewards and the opportunity to bring in better players.

"But all I've heard since I've finished at Tottenham is that we finished 17th last year. So if you look at it from that prism of we finished 17th, then, yeah, I'm a failed manager who's lucky to get another opportunity.

"But again, if I have to explain why we finished 17th, really, it doesn't have to be too in-depth. Just have a look at the last five or six teamsheets of us in the league last year and see what I prioritised - who was on the bench and who was playing.

"The last game, against Brighton, the players were out partying for two days, which I sanctioned because I felt they deserved to. So yes, we finished 17th. If people think that's a reflection of me and my coaching, then, again, I think they're looking at it through the prism of I just don't fit.

"So, we get to the current space where there's a different story to tell, that maybe I'm not a failed manager who was lucky to get this job, but maybe I'm a manager that if you give them time, the story always ends the same. At all my previous clubs, it ends the same - with me and a trophy.

"So, just to finish up - and it's a long-winded answer, which probably won't get any coverage, but that's okay - you can look at this first five weeks and say, he's under pressure because he was lucky to get this job. Or you can look at it and say, well, there's been a major change.

"I am trying to change the way we play. The players are adapting, but there's inconsistency in there, for sure. But some will look at the weeds, I'll look at what's growing.

"The flip side of that is that I'm really still excited about the opportunity here. I've got a group of young players who are willing to change, which is the first thing, and I'm heading down that road.

"The rest of it, whether people don't want to see... and all I said were not opinion, they were just facts. That's just where we're sitting.

"I'm not going to waste my time or my energy worrying about that. And whether that's internal or external, I couldn't care less. At the end of the day, I will do what I think is the right thing to do to bring success to this football club, and that's what I'm focused on."

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Dominic Solanke makes Tottenham injury confession after Thomas Frank boost

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Dominic Solanke makes Tottenham injury confession after Thomas Frank boost - The Mirror
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Dominic Solanke has provided a Tottenham update after missing the last seven weeks because of an ankle injury with Thomas Frank having been handed a fitness boost elsewhere

Tottenham striker Dominic Solanke has sent a new message after being troubled by an ankle problem since pre-season that eventually required surgery to resolve the issue. Solanke made several brief appearances in competitive fixtures before being sidelined for the clash against his former side Bournemouth in late August.

He hasn't played since the 2-0 victory over Manchester City almost eight weeks ago. When questioned about Solanke's condition, Frank provided encouraging updates initially, but that optimism ended last month when perhaps the worst-case scenario was revealed.

"Dom we know got that ankle issue that's been bothering him for a little while," he said. "Decided to have minor surgery. Small procedure. More news about time frame after the international break."

That date has now come, with Frank anticipated to give a more precise return schedule in his press conference later today.

Richarlison and Mathys Tel have split striking responsibilities in his absence, with the latter netting his first goal of the campaign in the 2-1 victory over Leeds United.

Summer acquisition Randal Kolo Muani has been unavailable for a comparable period to Solanke, though Frank received a significant boost when he managed to feature for 45 minutes in a behind-closed-doors friendly last week.

Whilst all three previously mentioned players can and have operated as the main striker, Solanke is arguably Spurs' favoured choice, and consequently, fans are likely keen for his comeback.

The 28-year-old has now provided some insight into what he has been up to as part of a social media message on Thursday. Alongside an Instagram post featuring several contrasting images, he wrote: "Positivity through the dark times."

He's been keeping himself busy in recent months, with photographs showing him visiting the United States, training at Hotspur Way and attending a Coldplay concert with James Maddison. The latter is also currently sidelined after rupturing his ACL during pre-season.

Dejan Kulusevski, Radu Dragusin and Kota Takai have similarly been absent for extended periods through injury, whilst Ben Davies and Yves Bissouma have presented Frank with additional fitness concerns ahead of Sunday's Premier League fixture against Aston Villa.

Davies hobbled off during Wales' loss to Belgium, whilst Bissouma was carried off on a stretcher with what appeared to be a serious ankle problem just moments after entering the pitch for Mali.

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Football legend Pat Jennings 'delighted' at £400,000 raised in shirt collection sale

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Football legend Pat Jennings 'delighted' at £400,000 raised in shirt collection sale - The Mirror
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EXCLUSIVE: Football legend Pat Jennings 'delighted' at £400,000 raised in shirt collection sale

Former Tottenham and Arsenal star Pat Jennings sells his collection of shirts and speaks of his 'delight' at huge sum raised

Football legend Pat Jennings said he was “absolutely delighted” with the huge £400,000 raised from the sale of his incredible shirt collection. It fetched double what was expected.

Jennings had told the Mirror he wouldn’t be attending the auction earlier this week. But he was stunned when he received a call afterwards to give him the final tally - far above the estimated £200,000

The former Tottenham and Arsenal goalkeeper - widely regarded as one of the best players of all time - said: “I’m really pleased with how the auction went. The final total was amazing. I’m absolutely delighted.

“I’m so pleased the shirts are now going to fans who will love and cherish them. Thanks to all who bought them.” Jennings, who is now 80, sold 165 items of football memorabilia, including many from his time at north London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur.

Bids from the UK and foreign buyers pushed the collection to double its estimated £200,000 total. And Jennings' blue 1973 Spurs v Norwich City goalkeeper's shirt sold for £33,480 - a record sum.

A jersey from the Spurs v Aston Villa 1971 League Cup final fetched £21,800, while a 1976 Northern Ireland No7 top worn by George Best made £20,600. An England cap which belonged to Jimmy Greaves went for £6,500.

On the memorabilia, Jennings said: “It is just something that has happened to me during all my years in football. I started at Watford when I was 17 and finished playing against Brazil on my 41st birthday in the World Cup Finals in Mexico so there has been a lot of years involved there.

“I was the first player to play 1000 first-class games in 1983 and finished up three years later with around 1100 games. You could imagine what that meant to be with all the players I played with and against.”

David Convery, of Budds Auctions in Wellingborough, Northants, said the sale had "continued Pat's ability to generate excitement".

He added they had been “honoured to be entrusted with selling the legendary and prized collection of Pat Jennings.”

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min could make shock Premier League transfer due to 'David Beckham clause'

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Son Heung-min could make shock Premier League transfer due to 'David Beckham clause' - The Mirror
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Son Heung-min could make shock Premier League transfer due to 'David Beckham clause'

Son Heung-min made an emotional exit from Tottenham Hotspur in the summer as he joined MLS side LAFC but the forward could potentially be on his way back to the Premier League very soon

Former Tottenham icon Son Heung-min could take advantage of a ‘David Beckham clause’ to seal a sensational Premier League return sooner rather than later.

The South Korean forward only left North London in the summer in a record £20m move to MLS side LAFC. It saw Son bring to an end a glittering decade-long spell with Tottenham. He penned a deal until 2028, with the option of a further campaign - but he could potentially be on the move back to Europe sooner than expected.

According to The Sun, the 33-year-old has a clause written into his contract that would allow him to join a European side on loan during the MLS off-season. There is just one normal matchday of the season remaining, with attention then turning to the close season final series to decide the eventual champion.

Son would not be the first MLS star to take advantage of a similar agreement. Former Manchester United star David Beckham spent a spell on loan at Italian giants AC Milan during his time with LA Galaxy.

Arsenal icon Thierry Henry also returned to the Emirates on-loan while he was contracted to New York Red Bulls. Son has enjoyed a bright start to life in the United States having scored eight goals and provided three assists in just nine appearances.

Speaking after he signed for the club, he admitted that a move to MLS wasn’t on his list of priorities. "It's a dream come true. LA - what a city," Son said at his introductory press conference. “If I'm honest, it was not my first choice.

“But the first call I had with [LAFC co-president] John [Thorrington] after my season finished, he changed my mind, changed my heart, my brain.

"He showed me the destination where I should be. Now I'm here, I'm more than happy, I'm so excited."

Meanwhile, former Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino has backed Son to have a huge impact in MLS. Speaking last month, the United States head coach said: "Amazing opportunity to see each other, we really love each other, was a very important player, one of the most important players in my period at Tottenham.

"What he is going to add to MLS, I think he's this type of player that's going to help in the evolution of the game."

Son will hope to enjoy a positive end to the MLS season over the coming weeks. LAFC have already secured a spot in the final series, having won 17 of their 33 league games this term.

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Five Tottenham stars set to miss Aston Villa clash after injury blow on international duty

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Five Tottenham stars set to miss Aston Villa clash after injury blow on international duty - The Mirror
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Thomas Frank's Tottenham host Unai Emery's Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday, as Spurs look to secure their fifth victory of the season in the Premier League

Thomas Frank is still managing an extensive Tottenham Hotspur injury list ahead of their home clash with Aston Villa this Sunday. The Premier League resumes after the international break, with Tottenham aiming for back-to-back wins.

Mathys Tel and Mohammed Kudus scored for the visitors against Leeds United in their last game before the pause. Over the past few days, Frank has closely monitored his players' involvement in international matches, hoping to avoid further injury setbacks.

Unfortunately, Yves Bissouma was not so lucky, suffering an ankle injury while on international duty with Mali. Bissouma has been ruled out after appearing to be in significant pain and being stretchered off the pitch.

Sources close to the Mali national team have told football.london that he is expected to miss around two to three weeks, if all goes to plan.

Striker Dominic Solanke is still recovering from an ankle issue, with Frank confirming at the end of September that he underwent a 'minor procedure'.

"It went well," the Spurs boss said. "As I said in Bodo, in terms of a time frame, we'll know more after the international break."

Meanwhile, Randal Kolo Muani is nearing a return after resuming training and could be involved this weekend.

Kota Takai, who has been dealing with a plantar fascia issue, has returned to full training and may also be available to feature against Villa.

Dejan Kulusevski's return to the pitch is still uncertain as he continues his recovery from a knee injury.

Frank highlighted his significance to the team, stating: "He's a key, key player for us. Instead of putting an exact month on his return, I just want him back as quickly as possible.

"I know the medical team and Dejan are working very hard on that. It's not tomorrow, hopefully not too far away."

Meanwhile, Radu Dragusin has been making promising progress following his ACL injury. "He's progressing well," confirmed Frank.

"He's been on the grass for three weeks and is on track, but it will be a few weeks before he's able to be involved."

Long-term absentee James Maddison is not expected back until next summer after suffering a pre-season ACL rupture. Maddison has been sharing updates about his recovery journey on his YouTube channel.

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Tottenham confirm Fabio Paratici return two years after worldwide football ban

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Tottenham confirm Fabio Paratici return two years after worldwide football ban - The Mirror
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Tottenham have confirmed the return of Fabio Paratici as the club's new co-sporting director, with the former Juventus chief set to work alongside Johan Lange

Tottenham Hotspur have confirmed the comeback of Fabio Paratici as the club's new co-sporting director, working in tandem with Johan Lange following a reshuffle at the top of the club. Paratici, who previously had a two-year stint at Spurs before stepping down in April 2023, is returning despite losing an appeal against a 30-month ban from football in Italy.

The club released an official statement saying: "We are delighted to announce the return of Fabio Paratici to the club as sporting director. Fabio will partner with Johan Lange, promoted to also become sporting director.

"This is part of a new structure for our men's football operation, designed to strengthen leadership, collaboration and long-term decision-making across all areas of the men's and boys' game.

"Together, they will lead our men's football strategy and drive an ambitious new chapter for the club. This evolution forms part of the club's continued investment in world-class men's and women's football structures designed to deliver sustained on-pitch success."

"Johan and Fabio's combined expertise will ensure that every decision, from player pathways and performance development to scouting and recruitment, is aligned and supports one overarching goal – to build a winning, world-class men's team that endures.

"This partnership reflects a progressive approach to modern football operations - uniting two proven leaders with complementary experience, and a commitment to collaboration and innovation."

Paratici expressed his joy at returning to the club he adores, stating: "I'm delighted to be returning to a club that I love. I have been working with Johan, Vinai and Thomas as a consultant for a number of months and I now look forward to returning to London and joining the team full-time."

He added, "I'm convinced that working in partnership with Johan we can build a special future for the club and our supporters."

Lange, who came on board with Tottenham in November 2023 after spells at Aston Villa and FC Copenhagen, shared his optimism about the club's future, saying: "I firmly believe we are building something special here at Tottenham Hotspur, and I am looking forward to working with Fabio as part of our new men's football structure.

"We have a talented group of staff and players here at the Club and we can look forward with confidence and positivity."

Vinai Venkatesham, appointed as the club's new chief executive officer in April 2025, spoke about the importance of this new development, saying: "This is an important evolution in how we operate. The remit of a sporting director today is vast, and by uniting two exceptional leaders in Johan and Fabio, we're setting the foundations for sustained success.

"They are both outstanding football minds, with complementary expertise and strong track records. This structure reflects our ambition and our determination to compete at the very highest level to deliver for our supporters.

"Together, Fabio and Johan will lead with purpose - building not only a competitive men's squad, but a connected football ecosystem where every detail contributes to our shared ambition: to make our club a benchmark for excellence in world football."

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Tottenham 'pay for private flight’ for Cristian Romero to return after player row

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Tottenham 'pay for private flight’ for Cristian Romero to return after player row - The Mirror
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After Cristian Romero's criticism last year, Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly forked out on a private flight to bring the Argentine back to north London

Tottenham Hotspur have splashed out on a private charter flight to bring Cristian Romero from international duty with Argentina back to London, in an effort to sidestep another club versus country row. Spurs host Aston Villa in their first Premier League match following the international break this Sunday.

Last season, the north London club found themselves at loggerheads with the World Cup winners and Romero. Following Argentina's defeat by Colombia in a World Cup qualifier last September, Tottenham opted not to arrange a charter flight for Romero's return.

After Spurs' loss to Arsenal, the defender hinted the absence of a charter flight gave the Gunners an edge. He made this claim as Mikel Arteta's Brazilian stars got back to north London earlier thanks to their own charter flight.

Despite Tottenham's insistence it wouldn't have made a difference, they've decided to foot the bill for a charter flight for Romero, which will ferry him back after Argentina's friendly match with Puerto Rico in Miami.

According to The Telegraph, Spurs have dug deep into their pockets to ensure Romero returns with ample time before Sunday's showdown against Villa. Typically, national teams handle flight arrangements, but English clubs often share the cost of a private charter when the return journey is particularly lengthy, as will be the case for Romero.

Last year, they opted not to fork out for a charter flight, leading to Romero criticising their travel arrangements on social media. He shared a post claiming the Gunners had an upper hand as their Brazilian trio Gabriel Magalhaes, Gabriel Martinelli and Gabriel Jesus managed to return to London earlier than him.

Spurs refuted this claim, pointing out Thursday is typically a rest day for their squad, while Arsenal often train on that day. However, just like last September, the club splashed out on a flight for their captain.

Romero's fellow Argentina international Emiliano Martinez will also be in goal for Aston Villa this Sunday. Spurs footing the bill for the flight ensures there's no potential advantage for Villa.

It also keeps Romero, who inked a new contract in the summer to become the club's top earner, content. Currently, he has little to grumble about at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Under the stewardship of Thomas Frank, Spurs have hit the ground running with four victories, two draws and a single defeat in their first seven Premier League fixtures. They're just two points adrift of table-toppers Arsenal and one behind reigning Premier League champions Liverpool.

Romero was instrumental in Spurs' 3-0 away triumph over West Ham United, which occurred on the first weekend following the previous international break.

The club had also splashed out on a charter flight for that match, with Romero and his international team-mates hosting Venezuela at the Estadio Monumental in Buenos Aires earlier in the week.

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England call up Tottenham youngster after Ollie Watkins ruled out of Latvia trip

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England call up Tottenham youngster after Ollie Watkins ruled out of Latvia trip - The Mirror
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England have been dealt a blow ahead of their World Cup qualifier with Latvia on Tuesday evening, with one of their most proven goal threats being sent home from training with an injury

Young Tottenham striker Dane Scarlett has been caled up to train with the England squad after Ollie Watkins left the camp due to injury. Thomas Tuchel's World Cup qualifiers have been a roaring success so far, with the Three Lions comfortably perched at the top of Group K with 15 points, courtesy of five victories in as many matches.

However, there's still a job to be done if England are to secure their place in next year's tournament in North America. If they manage to triumph over Latvia on Tuesday evening at the Daugava Stadium, they will qualify for the major tournament with two games to spare, allowing them to use their remaining matches against Serbia and Albania as a victory parade of sorts.

England suffered a significant setback on Monday when Aston Villa forward Watkins was sent home from training due to an injury he picked up during England's 3-0 drubbing of Wales last week. Consequently, he will not be making the journey to Latvia.

The official England social media account posted on X: "Ollie Watkins has been ruled out of tomorrow's @FIFAWorldCup qualifier against Latvia, having not recovered from the knock sustained against Wales. Speedy recovery, Ollie!"

Tuchel had Watkins in his starting line-up against Craig Bellamy's Wales, where he found the back of the net in the first half along with Morgan Rogers and Bukayo Saka. However, after missing a chance later in the half, Watkins collided with a goal post and required treatment on the pitch.

He was replaced by Marcus Rashford as the second half kicked off, and while Tuchel described him as "OK" after the match, he has since left the camp. It's still uncertain whether he'll be fit for Villa's showdown with Tottenham on Sunday, 19th October.

Thankfully for England, Bayern Munich striker Harry Kane should be back in action on Tuesday after missing the Wales game, while Barcelona loanee, Rashford, could also be played centrally rather than on his preferred left-hand side.

Following Watkins' departure from the camp and return to Villa, Tottenham prodigy Scarlett was called up by Tuchel to participate in the morning session at Spurs' Hotspur Way training ground.

England took to social media to share a snap of the 21-year-old during a training session alongside Kane, writing: "Good to have you with us, @DScarlett09. #YoungLions forward Dane Scarlett joins the #ThreeLions for this morning's session at @SpursOfficial."

A product of the Spurs youth system, the forward has made 22 appearances for Tottenham so far, contributing a goal and three assists - although, he has mainly spent time on loan at Portsmouth, Ipswich Town and Oxford United to continue his development.

He has also netted 23 goals in 23 appearances for Spurs' Under-18s side, and is tipped to be a big player in the future. He is yet to make a senior appearance for England as of yet.

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