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With both teams having the chance to move 2nd in the Premier League table, Tottenham and Man United were forced to share the points after a wild finish in N17.

In what was a replay of last season’s Europa League final, Manchester United came looking for revenge while Tottenham Hotspur aimed to extend their unbeaten record against the Manchester club.

Following last weekend’s woeful 0-1 defeat at home to Chelsea, Spurs responded midweek with a commanding 4-0 win over FC Copenhagen in the Champions League.

However, this time, Thomas Frank’s side were up against a United team unbeaten in 4 and carrying plenty of confidence.

There were some raised eyebrows before kick-off as Brennan Johnson started on the right with Mohammed Kudus absent from the squad, while Djed Spence replaced Destiny Udogie.

At the same time, Richarlison was deployed on the left despite Wilson Odobert’s strong midweek performance in what looked like Frank’s attempt to replicate Ange Postecoglou’s setup from the Europa League final.

First half: Tottenham 0-1 Man United

The opening stages were flat, with neither side doing much to excite the crowd. Still, Tottenham looked slightly better early on, given they were the first team in the Premier League this season to hold off this Manchester United team from having a shot on target in the first 15 minutes.

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Spurs created the first real moment of danger when Johnson whipped in a teasing cross that begged to be headed home, but Richarlison somehow completely missed it.

There was still very little happening from both sides in the final third until United got the better of the dull start. Pape Sarr didn’t clear a loose ball, and it was worked back in by the United team before Amad Diallo crossed for Bryan Mbeumo, who headed past Guglielmo Vicario.

Tottenham struggled to break into the final third, not helped by the lack of attacking quality that left Xavi Simons, their only creative outlet, carrying the burden on his own. They entered the break trailing by one goal and with no shots on target.

Second half: Tottenham 2-2 Manchester United

Despite Wilson Odobert’s substitution at half-time being almost inevitable, it came as a bit of a surprise as he replaced Kolo Muani, rather than Richarlison.

The French U21 international almost had an immediate impact when he sent in a cross that Cristian Romero managed to flick goalwards, but Senne Lammens managed to keep it out. Moments later, the Belgian goalkeeper produced an even better save to deny Joao Palhinha’s volley.

With the hour mark crossed, Tottenham thought they equalised when Richarlison slipped in Brennan Johnson, who finished into the bottom left corner. However, it was ruled out for the Welshman being offside.

With seven minutes left, Spurs finally found their equaliser through their substitutes. Destiny Udogie, drilled a low ball across the box for Mathys Tel, who turned and hit a deflected shot into the top corner.

United almost got one back when Benjamin Sesko was sent through by Mason Mount, but Van de Ven produced a sensational sliding challenge to deny what looked like a certain goal.

However, the Manchester United forward injured himself in the process, and United were unfortunate to be reduced to ten men as Ruben Amorim had already used all of his substitutions.

The ten-man United side were definitely much easier to beat for Tottenham as they took the lead in stoppage time when Richarlison got the slightest touch to Odobert’s curling effort from the edge of the box.

However, fate thought it wasn’t fair to the Red Devils, so it handed them a last-second equaliser. Matthijs de Ligt headed home from Bruno Fernandes’ corner, with the ball crossing the line before Guglielmo Vicario could palm it back.

FT: TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR 2-2 MANCHESTER UNITED

Spurs Web man of the match: Wilson Odobert

What’s next for Spurs?

Both clubs will be happy and disappointed at the same time; United for the fact that they were in control for 83 minutes but then conceded back-to-back, and Spurs for falling short only in their final defensive act.

Thomas Frank will probably be more concerned about the 2 injuries than the 2 points dropped. While Kolo Muani’s substitution at half-time came as a surprise, Frank confirmed after the game that the French international had taken a knock, and Cristian Romero also had to be taken off late due to a minor issue.

With both these players selected to represent their respective countries in the international break that follows this fixture, Tottenham supporters will want them to be rested.

One can’t help but wonder what this team will look like by the time the international break ends, given Spurs are expecting key returns of Dominic Solanke, Dejan Kulusevski, and Radu Dragușin, with two important back-to-back fixtures after the break.

Spurs have the North London Derby on 23rd November and then face Champions League title holders Paris Saint-Germain after that.

A pundit back in the Netherlands has delivered a harsh verdict on Tottenham’s Xavi Simons, despite his Man of the Match performance in the Champions League.

Tottenham Hotspur have yet to see Xavi Simons hit full stride since his move from RB Leipzig.

There have been flashes of promise from the Dutchman in a Tottenham shirt, but those moments have often been overshadowed by inconsistent displays.

The 22-year-old has managed just two assists for Tottenham since his £51 million move and is still searching for his first goal for the club.

For a player of his technical quality, the adaptation to the Premier League has not been as seamless as many had anticipated.

Pundit questions Xavi Simons’ physicality after poor Tottenham display

Simons’ performance against Chelsea was one of his least convincing in a Spurs shirt, as he replaced Lucas Bergvall early in the first half but was withdrawn just after the hour mark.

Pundit Johan Derksen has been particularly critical of the Tottenham man, and he once again took aim at Simons’ criticising his lack of physicality.

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Introducing his comments, Derksen suggested that while Simons possesses technical ability, he lacks the physical edge required to thrive in English football.

He told Vandaag Inside (as relayed by Soccer News): “That Simons, he is physically incompetent. In England, they are all skilled on the ball and can all play football, but you also need physical strength.

“Tijjani Reijnders has that, and so do the guys at Liverpool, but Simons is getting lost in the onslaught. Simply because he is physically incompetent.”

Xavi Simons still adapting to Premier League demands

It is becoming clear that the physical intensity of the Premier League is something Simons is still struggling to come to terms with, as he often fails to ride challenges or hold off contact.

The league is unforgiving, and for a player like Simons, it is proving difficult to adapt despite his natural technical quality and flair in possession.

The Dutchman showed glimpses of his talent in Tottenham’s Champions League tie against Copenhagen, where he registered an assist and picked up the player of the match award.

Tottenham Hotspur have played their final Premier League fixture ahead of another international break, but some players will be back in action sooner than expected.

Tottenham Hotspur ended their pre-international break curse against Leeds United in October securing a 2-1 win at Elland Road.

It looked like Spurs would achieve another victory directly before the November break, but a Matthijs De Ligt header robbed Spurs of the win after a second half comeback.

Tottenham return to competitive action on November 23 for the North London derby, but some players will not have to wait as long to represent their club again.

Spurs will play during the international break

Football London report that Tottenham are set to arrange a friendly at Hotspur Way during the international break next week.

The match will see Radu Dragusin back in a Spurs shirt for the first time in 10 months, with the defender suffering from a long-term ACL injury.

There was some hope that Dominic Solanke would join him in the non-competitive fixture, but Thomas Frank has confirmed he is unlikely to be ready in time.

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Tottenham must come back stronger after the break

It has been a difficult few weeks for Spurs in the Premier League and a trip to Arsenal will arguably be their toughest test yet.

A friendly during the international break could be of some use, but no player participating is likely to feature in the clash of the two rivals from North London.

Frank must use the halt in club football to learn why his team are not consistently performing and come up with a solution, because some recent displays have simply not been good enough.

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has been asked if Dominic Solanke will be back from injury before the end of the year and he has given an optimistic answer, whilst not giving too much away.

Tottenham Hotspur have been without Dominic Solanke for most of the season. The England striker had fallen behind Richarlison in the pecking order, but he is still a major loss for Spurs.

Thomas Frank does not appear to see any of his centre forward options as a definite starter, with Richarlison, Randal Kolo Muani and Mathys Tel all coming in and out of the team.

This means an opportunity could arise for Solanke when he eventually returns, which Frank hinted could be after the international break.

The Tottenham manager has given another update on Solanke following Tottenham’s 2-2 draw with Manchester United and he is hopeful that the 28-year-old will be back soon.

According to Frank, Solanke’s road to recovery is going as expected, but the Dane has refused to give a definitive answer on when he will be back in the Tottenham first-team squad.

He was asked by Football London if Solanke would return before the end of the year, to which he responded: “Er, I do hope so. I would say let’s see what happens after the international break.

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“We are still going steps forward. It’s on track so far.”

Another striker option would be welcome at Tottenham

Richarlison found the net against Manchester United with a very good header, but Spurs supporters were critical of his overall performance. Tel was also on the scoresheet, but he still looks to be third choice in his position.

Solanke might not have got the goals expected of him during his first season at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but he could find his form once he gets going under Frank.

The more available players Spurs have, the better, so it is good news that Solanke’s recovery is going as planned.

Wilson Odobert’s introduction flipped the script entirely for Tottenham Hotspur against Manchester United, offering signs that he is slowly starting to find his feet in north London.

Thomas Frank would have been satisfied with his side’s display against Manchester United, particularly the second-half performance where Tottenham played with real intent and attacking purpose.

The first half, though, was poor, with Spurs failing to pose any real threat on the United goal as they managed no shots on target before the break.

In the second half, Frank looked to shake things up and turned to his bench, bringing on Wilson Odobert, and it proved to be a decision that completely changed the game for the Lilywhites.

Wilson Odobert impresses for Tottenham against Manchester United

The Frenchman replaced Kolo Muani and brought life to Spurs’ attack with his direct play and creativity, instantly stretching United’s backline and giving Tottenham a much-needed spark going forward.

The stats do back up that Odobert’s introduction was what sparked Tottenham into life, as data shows he created the most chances(3) in the game and was one of the sharpest players on the pitch.

His willingness to take on defenders saw him complete two take-ons and his composure in possession earned him a 100% pass accuracy, giving Spurs a different dimension in attack – it was clear the tempo shifted once he stepped onto the field.

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Below are Odobert’s standout numbers from his performance at Old Trafford:

Wilson Odobert’s confidence growing after difficult start at Spurs

This is the sort of performance that will do Wilson Odobert a world of good, as his confidence continues to build after what had been a testing start to life at Spurs.

The French winger endured a tough opening spell following his long-term injury layoff, but this season he looks to be finding rhythm and consistency with regular game time under Thomas Frank.

After scoring in midweek and now registering an assist against Manchester United, Odobert has produced two goal contributions in his last two outings, which suggests that his adaptation to English football is finally taking shape.

Thomas Frank has been left impressed by one Tottenham Hotspur attacker after two bright performances this week.

There are, of course, a few positives for Thomas Frank to take from the performance of his Tottenham side in their 2-2 draw with Manchester United, one of them being their fighting spirit to come from a goal down.

The Tottenham substitutes were also a big positive for Frank, with Mathys Tel, Wilson Odobert and Destiny Udogie all coming off the bench to make an impact.

Tel grabbed Spurs’ equaliser after combining with Udogie, while Wilson Odobert provided the assist for Tottenham’s second goal, which gave them a brief lead before it was snatched away right at the end.

Thomas Frank reacts to Wilson Odobert’s display for Tottenham

Wilson Odobert started from the off during Tottenham’s midweek Champions League encounter with Copenhagen, but was benched on Saturday afternoon.

Speaking after the game, Thomas Frank explained his reason for not starting Odobert against the Red Devils, despite the 20-year-old scoring on Tuesday.

He told football.London: “I think we tried to work around what is the best way to attack the opponent in front of us, and at the same time still keep a little bit of flow.

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“But I think we wanted two strikers, Kolo Muani and Richarlison, for the crosses, which we thought was an area where we potentially could hurt United.

“I think it worked perfectly with the first one, where Richarlison got a big chance, so that could have been an unbelievable, fantastic game plan from us. So that was part of it, and we need different personalities and types for different games.”

Thomas Frank gives verdict on Wilson Odobert

Indeed, Odobert was one of the standout performers on the pitch despite playing forty-five minutes and the underlying stats back up his performance.

When asked about the young wide man’s individual display, Frank admitted he was pleased with the his impact and the steady progress he is making since returning from injury.

“Oh, sorry, and Wilson, yeah, sorry. I think, again, he’s positive. I think he’s stepping forward, or stepping up, and doing things that look right.”

Tottenham Hotspur moved up to third in the Premier League table after playing out a tense 2-2 draw with Manchester United on Saturday afternoon.

Tottenham Hotspur have managed to keep their unbeaten run against Manchester United in their last eight outings intact following the stalemate.

Spurs had to claw their way back into the game after trailing early on, with substitute Mathys Tel drawing them level before Richarlison turned the tie on its head.

However, Tottenham were left frustrated when Matthijs de Ligt found the back of the net late on for United, ensuring both sides shared the spoils at full-time.

On the balance of play, it felt like a fair result for both teams, yet Thomas Frank had more to worry about than just the dropped points, as a few of his players came off injured during the encounter.

Randal Kolo Muani was withdrawn at halftime after taking a knock, while captain Cristian Romero had to be replaced late in the second half by Kevin Danso after also picking up a minor issue.

Speaking after the match, Thomas Frank provided an encouraging update on both players, telling reporters that neither injury appeared serious.

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On Romero, he said: “Just done physically. He just came back from that injury. He is fine.” On Kolo Muani, he added: “Actually struggled a little bit, but nothing big.”

Tottenham facing heavy injury list before international break

This league fixture marks Tottenham’s final outing before the November international break, which will come as a relief for Frank, who continues to juggle an ongoing injury crisis.

Ten players remain sidelined for Spurs, with Dominic Solanke, Dejan Kulusevski, Archie Gray, and Lucas Bergvall among those still recovering from various setbacks.

However, Tottenham could welcome back several of these players once club football resumes, which would be ideal timing as the matches begin to pile up rapidly during the busy festive period.

Tottenham Hotspur secured a 2-2 draw at home to Manchester United in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon, with Thomas Frank’s side moving into third place.

Let’s take a look at the five things we learned:

Tottenham’s poor home form continues

A clash against Manchester United is never an easy one, and coming into this league fixture, many Tottenham Hotspur fans would not have expected a straightforward game.

That proved to be the case, as United fought right until the end and refused to stay down even when Spurs equalised and grabbed what looked to be a winner through Richarlison’s strike.

A 2-2 draw might seem a fair result, yet Frank would still be scratching his head over how his side once more failed to collect three points on home soil.

Coming into this clash, Tottenham had managed just three wins in their last 19 league fixtures at home, a run equivalent to going an entire season with only three victories at home.

That, of course, is not good enough for a side looking to secure a spot in the European places, but at the moment, that is Tottenham’s reality.

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The struggle clearly continued today, with Spurs dropping what seemed like three points right at the death, leaving Frank with more questions than answers about his side’s home performances.

Destiny Udogie must start every game to give Tottenham width on the left

This is the sort a match that would have left mixed feelings for many Spurs supporters who watched their team struggle for large spells of the contest.

The first half was flat from Tottenham, who failed to record a single shot on target and looked devoid of creativity or invention.

Credit must go to Frank for acting quickly, as he withdrew Randal Kolo Muani and later replaced a poor Pedro Porro with Destiny Udogie.

Those two changes transformed the game, giving Tottenham far better balance down the left-hand side.

Udogie came on and linked superbly with Wilson Odobert, combining both on the inside and outside channels.

His ability to deliver first-time crosses added a fresh dimension to Spurs’ attacking play, something they have lacked when Djed Spence has been deployed in that role.

It was fitting that a cross from Udogie eventually led to Tottenham’s equaliser through Mathys Tel.

The balance of the team looks far better with him in the side, and as long as he is fit, he simply has to start every game to maintain width and structure on the left flank.

Mathys Tel scores off the bench after boos when Xavi Simons went off

Tottenham fans have not seen much of Mathys Tel in recent weeks, but the Frenchman used this game to remind everyone of his quality.

He did not start, yet his work rate after coming off the bench was impressive as he helped defensively and provided an extra spark in attack.

His goal was expertly taken, controlling the ball before turning and finishing clinically. It came after he replaced Xavi Simons, who had shone in midweek against Copenhagen but struggled badly on this occasion.

Simons offered little going forward, and Tottenham fans made their frustration clear when he was substituted, booing as Tel replaced him. However, the change proved inspired as Tel rewarded his manager’s decision with a crucial contribution.

Wilson Odobert is winning the left-wing battle for Spurs

Many Tottenham supporters would agree that the right flank is firmly owned by Mohammed Kudus, the £55 million signing who has made the position his own since joining from West Ham United.

The left wing, however, remains up for grabs, with Tel, Odobert, Muani and Brennan Johnson all in contention for the spot.

Frank initially deployed Richarlison on the left, but at half-time, he switched things around, moving the Brazilian up top and introducing Odobert for Muani.

The young Frenchman changed the tempo of the match, linking up well with Udogie, beating his man several times and delivering dangerous balls into the box.

He is beginning to find rhythm and confidence, and after scoring on Tuesday, he followed it up with an assist today for Richarlison. Odobert may not yet have cemented his place, but he is undoubtedly the one leading the battle for that left-wing role.

Tottenham need injured players back over the break

This game underlined how vital squad depth is, as Frank’s substitutions ultimately salvaged a result.

However, Tottenham are still not at full strength, with ten players currently sidelined through injury.

Cristian Romero appeared to pick up a late knock in this encounter, something that will concern Frank and his coaching staff.

The upcoming international break could not have come at a better time, allowing Spurs to recover key players for the busy festive period ahead.

Dominic Solanke is expected to return after the break, while Dejan Kulusevski, Radu Dragusin, Archie Gray and Lucas Bergvall would be closer to full fitness after the pause.

The full-time whistle has blown between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in the Premier League, and the player ratings are in.

Tottenham full-time player ratings vs Manchester United

Guglielmo Vicario – The Tottenham number one was beaten by United’s first shot on target after Mbeumo headed in at the back post. Late in the second half, right when Tottenham thought they had won it, United grabbed an equaliser, scoring from their two shots on target. 5.

Pedro Porro – Was hooked off after a rather poor display in both halves. The Spaniard failed to mark Mbeumo at the back post for United’s opener, and his crossing from both open play and set pieces was shocking. It was no surprise he was taken off. 3.

Cristian Romero – Had a very quiet first half as most of United’s threat came from the wide areas, leaving him with little to do. In the second half, however, with Spurs pushing to get level, the club captain managed their first shot on target after meeting Odobert’s cross. He was later taken off for Danso after picking up a knock before heading straight down the tunnel. 6.

Micky Van de Ven – The corners Tottenham managed all game were poor in terms of delivery, perhaps down to Kudus’ absence. Van de Ven, however, put in a solid display at the back as United barely threatened all match. The Dutchman made a crucial recovery tackle to deny Sesko, who was bearing down on goal right after Spurs’ equaliser. 6.

Djed Spence – He definitely could have done more to put pressure on Amad Diallo’s cross for United’s opener. In the second half, he was moved from the left to the right as Frank searched for fresh ideas, but Spurs’ attacking play still did not improve. 4.

Joao Palhinha – The Portuguese midfielder did his defensive basics well in the first half, winning both ground and aerial duels. In the second, he ventured further into the opposition box and drew a fine save from Lammens after a well-struck effort. 6.

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Pape Sarr – The Senegal international tried to contribute at both ends, as shown when he tracked back in the first half to block Cunha’s strike. He looked to offer more presence in United’s box but was ultimately lacking in intensity and desire. 5.

Xavi Simons – Showed glimpses of his quality in the first half when Spurs looked to transition from defence to attack. In the second forty-five, however, the Dutchman’s influence faded as he saw little of the ball. 4.

Brennan Johnson – Had a few bright moments in the first half, including when his floated ball narrowly missed Richarlison’s head, but at times he struggled to look after the ball. In the second half, he found the net but from an offside position. A performance that summed up Tottenham’s attack in a nutshell — inconsistent and bland. 4.

Richarlison – A very poor showing from the Brazil international, who struggled to influence proceedings. His decision-making in the final third was poor. Although he saw more of the ball, he often picked the wrong pass, and his hold-up play was lacking. He did, however, paper over the cracks with a goal that proved to be the winner until De Ligt’s late equaliser. 6.

Randal Kolo Muani – After a quiet first forty-five, where he was largely chasing shadows, Thomas Frank decided to substitute the Frenchman. 5.

Substitutes

Wilson Odobert – Came on in place of Kolo Muani as Frank looked to change things up. Created a really good chance with a cross that Romero met, but the effort was straight at the United goalkeeper. The 20-year-old remained lively and looked the most dangerous of Tottenham’s attackers. Eventually provided the assist for Spurs’ second. 8.

Destiny Udogie – Replaced Porro and had a bright moment when he linked up with Odobert down the left. The pair combined again shortly after, with Udogie delivering a cross that found Tel, who finished beautifully. 7.

Rodrigo Bentancur – Came on to replace Palhinha as Frank’s side pushed to salvage something from the fixture. N/A.

Mathys Tel – Replaced Xavi Simons and, with his first shot on target, pulled Tottenham level after controlling Udogie’s low-driven cross before turning and firing into the net. A brilliant goal. 7.

The half-time whistle has blown between Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester United in the Premier League, and the player ratings are in.

Tottenham half-time player ratings vs Man United

Guglielmo Vicario – Manchester United barely threatened the Spurs goalkeeper, but in what was their first attack of the game, Mbeumo headed home. Nothing Vicario could have done about it. 5.

Pedro Porro – The Spanish full-back was tasked with marking Mbeumo, whom Spurs were linked with during the summer. The Cameroon international did grab a goal after Porro lost him at the back post while ball-watching. 4.

Cristian Romero – Has not had to do much defending in this game so far. Tottenham, however, have seen loads of the ball, and each time Romero has had it at his feet, he has looked positive, always seeking to play forward passes. 5.

Micky Van de Ven – Tottenham managed just two corners in the first half, but van de Ven did not meet any as they were overhit. No dazzling run so far either, but he has been solid at the back alongside Romero. 5.5.

Djed Spence – A quiet opening forty-five for the England international, who has not been threatened much on the left of Spurs’ defence. Amad Diallo did put in a cross from his side of the pitch, and neither Spence nor Richarlison did enough to put pressure on the ball. 4.

Joao Palhinha – The only one in the pivot today. The Portuguese midfielder has made a few key tackles and interceptions. He also gets his head on United’s long goal kicks, helping with his height. 6.

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Pape Sarr – The Senegalese midfielder produced a really fine block to keep Tottenham level in the half when Cunha got the better of Cristian Romero and shot from Spurs’ box. 5.5.

Xavi Simons – If Tottenham are to create consistently, then they have to find this man more often. Simons has, however, seen the ball a few times in the pockets behind United’s Casemiro and Fernandes, but he has not done much with it in transition, often holding onto it for too long. 5.

Brennan Johnson – Picked up a needless yellow card in the first half. Johnson has also seen little of the ball, nor has he had any clear-cut chances. He did put in a tantalising delivery into the box, only for Richarlison to fail to get his head on it. He has also not looked after the ball well in the final third, often taking heavy touches or over-hitting his passes. 5.

Richarlison – Had a good opportunity to test the United goalkeeper at least after Johnson floated in a cross, but the Brazil international failed to make contact. It is a fluid frontline that also sees Richarlison occupying the central areas. 5.