Football London

Brendan Rodgers has resigned as Celtic manager with former Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou touted as an early replacement for the Northern Irishman

Ange Postecoglou has been backed to return to Celtic after Brendan Rodgers resigned as the Scottish side’s manager.

Celtic confirmed late on Monday evening that Rodgers, 52, has stepped down from his position two years after returning to Celtic Park. The Northern Irishman began his second spell in charge in June 2023, four years after his initial departure from the club.

Rodgers led Celtic to four Scottish Premiership titles but leaves with the Bhoys trailing league leaders Hearts by eight points after nine games of the season. Celtic were beaten 3-1 by Hearts on Sunday.

A club statement confirmed: “Celtic Football Club can confirm that football manager Brendan Rodgers has today tendered his resignation. It has been accepted by the club and Brendan will leave his role with immediate effect.

“The club appreciates Brendan’s contribution to Celtic during his two very successful periods at the club. Brendan leaves Celtic with our thanks for the role he has played during a period of continued success for the club and we wish him further success in the future.

“The process to appoint a new permanent manager is underway and the club will update supporters further on this as soon as possible. We are pleased that during this interim period former Celtic manager, Martin O’Neill and former Celtic player, Shaun Maloney have agreed to take charge of Celtic first-team matters. Further details will be confirmed shortly.”

Former Tottenham Hotspur manager Postecoglou has already been tipped to return to the club. Ex-Hoops striker Chris Sutton raised the possibility just last week, when pressure on Rodgers was reaching breaking point.

Sutton said on BBC Radio 5 Live: “It could happen, I mean, would I like to see him back? Yeah, eventually, why not? I really enjoyed Angeball.

“Well, I think Brendan will leave at the end of the season – if [Postecoglou] just slots in next season, I would love to see Big Ange back.

“He’s respected at Celtic, the job he did. Brilliant, Angeball, what a brand of football.“

Postecoglou is a free agent having been ruthlessly sacked by Nottingham Forest earlier this month after just 40 days in the job. The Australian managed just eight matches before being given his marching orders.

The 60-year-old, who led Spurs to an incredible Europa League triumph in May, won two Premiership titles during his time at Celtic, as well as two Scottish League Cups and a Scottish Cup.

Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank has played down expectations after his side moved into the top four with a 3-0 win at Everton

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has acknowledged the need for improvement in their attacking play and is managing expectations as he continues to instil his methods. A 3-0 victory at Everton propelled Spurs into third place, possibly ahead of schedule after the Dane took over in the summer.

However, there are numerous indications that his strategies – with defensive organisation and set-pieces being two key aspects – are beginning to bear fruit.

"I think we are in the beginning of building something," Frank stated. "I'm very pleased with a lot of things: the defensive side, attacking set-pieces – but there is a bit we need to work on offensively to be more free-flowing.

"The clean sheet mentality is a very good foundation to stand on. Who knows (where it will lead) but I need to take it one game at a time."

Frank is hopeful that improvements in offence will come as on-loan Paris Saint-Germain striker Randal Kolo Muani adjusts to the Premier League after making his first start on Merseyside.

"It was pleasing to see his first 60 minutes. He is still building his physicality and sharpness," he said about the Frenchman. "At times he lacks some of the interaction with the front four but that is an ongoing process."

Following the club's Europa League triumph last season, Frank is balancing the demands of the Champions League while still trying to settle himself into the club.

He has been impressed with how his players have handled things up to now, having handed Everton their first loss at the new Hill Dickinson stadium just days after grinding out a hard-fought goalless stalemate in Monaco.

"We really are competitive, especially away from home," he added. "I think it is three years since the club was in the Champions League, so quite an inexperienced squad to go every three or four days.

"It is difficult to compete in both tournaments so to keep the energy and focus, plus we also did it after all the travel, it showed a lot about the mentality."

The manager brought his squad over to acknowledge the away supporters following the final whistle and emphasised that strengthening that bond away from the pitch can only help what he is attempting to accomplish on it.

"I think it is a big part, it is important to do it when we win, when we draw and also when we lose because we are in it in good times and bad," he said.

"The stronger the togetherness between players, staff, fans can be, the better."

Here are our Tottenham talking points following that resounding 3-0 demolition of Everton at the Hill Dickinson Stadium

It's a new week for Thomas Frank's Tottenham and the elation of Sunday's exceptional one-sided triumph on the road at Everton will soon begin to subside.

That's because Spurs must now prepare themselves for their latest challenge - a Carabao Cup fourth round clash with Newcastle, who are fresh from their late winner in the Premier League against Fulham.

The Magpies are hungry to defend their trophy and Spurs will also have one eye on Saturday's fiery London derby against Chelsea.

Here are our Tottenham talking points and several things for Frank to analyse and unpack ahead of the trip to the North East.

Vicario and Van de Ven bicker

It's hard to imagine Tottenham's two indispensable leaders falling out given they have forged such a close relationship both on and off the pitch.

Brothers do sometimes fight, however, and the two were seen bickering on the field following the full-time whistle.

Guglielmo Vicario seemed to be frustrated by something - possibly long ball related - and Van de Ven appeared to have a difference of opinion and wasn't afraid to let him team-mate know just that.

But the fact they were challenging one another is hugely positive for Frank. Even after winning 3-0, it's proof the players are holding themselves to high standards and they are not entirely satisifed.

This kind of mentality is what separates good and great teams.

Sarr's pointed message

When Pape Matar Sarr struck Tottenham's third on Merseyside, you couldn't help but feel overjoyed for the Senegalese midfielder.

However, when the Sky Sports cameras panned to the 'Sarr Man' - he looked anything but pleased as he was mobbed by his team-mate.

Sarr's situation is somewhat mystifying because he started the campaign in breathtaking form and was central to early Premier League wins over Burnley, Manchester City and West Ham, respectively.

So what happened? Frank confirmed on Friday that the 23-year-old hasn't been battling any fitness issues, his recent absence from the starting XI has simply just been tactical.

It feels rather harsh. Even when Sarr does not perform to the best of his ability, nobody can question his energy or application which is always a valuable asset for Spurs.

Perhaps this needed to happen - for Sarr to apply just a little bit of pressure on Frank - to give his boss something to think about moving forward. It would be a shock to see Sarr on the bench again on Wednesday at Newcastle.

Kolo Muani's frustration

It can only be positive that Randal Kolo Muani was unhappy to be substituted on the hour mark.

The Frenchman made a real impression on his first Tottenham start before being replaced by Richarlison. He ran channels unselfishly, protected the ball, held it up and also flicked it on confidently.

It was clear he was relishing the occasion, so much so, he was visibly annoyed when his No.39 shirt was held up by the fourth official.

Kolo Muani isn't comfortable enough to properly kick up a fuss but his reaction to being substituted was proof that he has fire within his belly. He did not overstep the mark, therefore it should be perceived as a good thing, rather than negative.

Frank said of the Paris Saint-Germain loanee after the game: "It was pleasing to see his first 60 minutes. He's still building his physicality and sharpness.

"I'm pleased with what I saw, but it's the first steps, so there's more to come. I think at times I like some of the movement, the interactions with the front four, but that is an ongoing project or process."

This was undoubtedly a step in the right direction for the France international frontman.

Van de Ven limping truth

Van de Ven was spotted limping by eagle-eyed Tottenham supporters following the 3-0 win at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

The Dutchman put his body on the line throughout the contest, making seven clearances and three interceptions on top of scoring two fine headers.

Football.London checked in with Frank regarding the stand-in captain's fitness after the game and he was confident there was no issue whatsoever.

That is reassuring news for Spurs, particularly given Van de Ven might have to go again on Wednesday at St James' Park, though it would be a major surprise if he wasn't rested given the amount of football he has played this season.

Dominant Danso

Having reliable cover at centre-back has not always been a formality for Tottenham. But following consecutive clean sheets, Thomas Frank now seems to have found just that in Kevin Danso. The Austrian has been so good, it would actually feel cruel to drop him for Cristian Romero if the Argentine recovered from his adductor injury imminently. Danso made an astonishing 18 clearances against Everton, the most by a Spurs player in a Premier League match since Jan Vertonghen made 21 against Burnley in December 2016. Not only that, he also won all six of his duels (two on ground, four aerially) and relished the physical battle with Beto. The 27-year-old also completed 42 of his 47 passes. His long throw also remains a valuable weapon. Slowly but surely, he is starting to look like a very commendable buy at around £21million.

Frank's pointed message over Palhinha and Bentancur

When asked by a reporter what he made of Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur's performance, Frank's eyes lit up in excitement. That's partially because his persistent usage of the midfield duo has been subjected to scrutiny since the return of club football. However, the experienced pairing were fundamental to Tottenham's victory at the Hill Dickinson Stadium and both players oozed class in the centre of the park. No player has made more tackles (39) than Palhinha in the Premier League this season while Bentancur was exceptional in possession and also grabbed an assist for Van de Ven's opener. Frank said during his press conference: "Thanks for that question! I was looking forward to it, if you didn't mention that, I probably would have said something. In these types of games it's clear what they bring to the team. I think it's very clear, I think both of them today were excellent." Spurs looked so flimsy domestically last season under Ange Postecoglou - now they look like a tougher nut to crack and that is partially down to Palhinha's growing influence on this Tottenham side. Frank's tactics also deserved huge credit.

No European hangovers at Spurs

The blitz Spurs faced in Monaco was difficult to watch at times but the response was nothing short of perfect. We should not be surprised though because Tottenham have performed in each of their post-European matches this season, winning three and drawing once including UEFA Super Cup. That's a phenomenal record and one that will truly delight both Frank and his coaching staff because that is no easy feat. Tottenham seem to be breaking down barriers left, right and centre under the Dane. The recent 2-1 win at Leeds was the first Spurs victory before an international break since back in 2023 so they must be doing something right.

Here is every word Thomas Frank just said after Tottenham won 3-0 away to Everton in the Premier League

Thomas Frank has just delivered his verdict of Tottenham's sublime 3-0 win on the road at Everton. Spurs had to dig deep at times but nobody could dispute that they were worthy winners as they also showcased their quality from set pieces.

Micky van de Ven headed in from two corners before substitute Pape Matar Sarr added gloss to the scoreline just a few minutes from time.

Here is every word Frank said on his side's rampant win on Merseyside.

You must be so pleased to come to such a difficult ground and win so convincingly?

"Very, very happy with that, I think we were all very solid performance, especially pleased with the first half. I think we were good in phase one, good in phase two. More passes, control of the game, more in phases. In general, the second half was a little bit more of a dogfight at times. Going here to Everton, which is against a very good team, well set up by David Moyes and a very good home crowd, they've been unbeaten here so far. To any ground in the Premier League, to win 3-0 away from home is a very good result. So, yeah, very happy, happy with obviously the set pieces as well. What I would say, the clean sheet mentality, that is a very good foundation to stand on.

"That gives you an ability to perform at a certain level where you want to always do a little bit more, but be really, how can you say, competitive and especially away from home. And then I think we are, is it three years ago we played Champions League, or three years ago? but it's still quite an inexperienced Champions League squad to go every third or fourth day. And one of the most difficult things with that is to be able to compete in both tournaments and especially after an away trip in Champions League and then go away in the Premier League again. So to keep the energy, the focus, the intensity to be able to do that, I'm very pleased with the players, how they handled that to get the win today. Plus, we also did it after Boulogne, travel, then travel to Leeds and win. So I think it shows a lot about that mentality. There's things we like to work on, but the most important thing is the mentality."

How important have Van de Ven and Vicario been in absence of captain Romero? Both brilliant today?

"Yeah, I agree. And I think we've maybe forgotten Kevin Danso, maybe he was not as highlighted as the two others. But I think Kevin has done very well to step in, in big, big shoes to fill out after Cuti. But Micky, man of the match, clearly defended well, two goals, not two clean sheets, two goals and good on the ball. And I think Vicario, man of the match in Monaco. But today I think his performance was more complete, good with the feet, very good in the box and two exceptional saves."

There's been a lot of talk about Palhinha and Bentancur...

"Thanks for that question! I was looking forward to it, if you didn't mention that, I probably would have said something. In these types of games it's clear what they bring to the team. I think it's very clear. I think both of them today were excellent. I think they were very good on the ball. I think they were excellent defensively, landed on the second ball when they needed to. I think we controlled the game more, I think the bounce passes and the bits and pieces to build up and control the game was very good. So in a time where we are building and going to the next level, I think they are extremely important."

You've had success from attacking set-pieces, what about defending them? What have you and Andreas Georgson done this summer to improve the team's record?

"I agree that today of course we scored two goals, but it's equally important that we can keep the ball out of the net. And the team did very well and I think Andreas and Sean, our set-piece managers, have done a top job with the team throughout, from when we started to now. That's both a structure of how we want to do it, but also we know when there's a structure but there's also the physicality and then you need the desire."

Van de Ven didn't score any goals last season but now he has five in 14 appearances, what have you done?

"First and foremost, I think he's really growing and taking some big steps. I'm very pleased with him overall. I think he's taking more leadership. I think he's defending better and better, not only using his pace but also more clever positions. I'm very happy with that. And then I said, actually at the beginning of the season, I said, it's OK you score with your left foot and your right foot, but you need to score more goals with your head. You're centre- back. And then we have worked with it and that's a big praise to Micky, but especially to Andreas and the way he, how can you say, attack the ball, also get in there where it hurts, I think is key. Now, yeah, hopefully it will continue.

Away form has been so good, more points than any other PL side, what does that say?

"I think normally it's very difficult to do that and it's been very difficult, no doubt about that. But I think to have a foundation where we have a solid foundation, but of course when you go away from home, you normally need to defend a little bit more, especially where we are. And I think how we defend high, high pressure, but especially the middle block, but also the box, I think is important. Set pieces, both boxes, can make a difference on a day like that. Then we're adding layers. And then the overall thing, as I said, is that mentality to want to run hard and every team need to do that."

Kolo Muani, how do you think he did on first start?

"I think it was pleasing to see his first 60 minutes. He's still building his physicality and sharpness. I'm pleased with what I saw, but it's the first steps, so there's more to come. I think in times I like some of the movement, the interactions with the front four, but that is an ongoing project or process.

Xavi Simons, how did you rate his performance?

"I think he found some good positions. And maybe the final top actions are still missing, but I think still there was good actions. He just needs to keep going, keep building and keep working on it."

On celebrating in front of fans, symbolic after win like this?

"Yeah, maybe. But I think it's a big part. I think it's important to do it when we win. It's important to do it when we draw. It's important also to do it when we lose. Because we're in it in good times and bad times. And, of course, it's a very good time today. Very happy with a win, a difficult-to-win win. But, of course, as you say, the togetherness that is on and off the pitch, that is between players, staff, fans, the stronger that can be, the better it will be."

Porro corners, deliberately narrow to post?

"I think we have a plan to play close to the goal, but it's sometimes difficult to hit it that precise all the time. But as long as it's in a very good area, close to goal, then there's more opportunities to potentially score.

How far can this side go?

"I think we are in the beginning of building something. I'm very happy with a lot of things. As I said, the defensive side of it, mentality, set-pieces, but I think there's a bit we need to work on, especially offensively, to be more free-floating still. And for me, it's a long season ahead. I'm very happy going away from home after two away games in the Champions League. That's a big part of it. But to continue performing day in, day out is a challenge, which we embrace and want to do."

Do you see the team as title contenders?

"No. That, I think, is probably a few teams that are ahead of us. I think it's fair to say that. I'm only thinking one game at a time, and let's see where we are in April."

Here are our Tottenham player ratings from the Hill Dickinson Stadium as rampant Spurs inflicted Everton's first-ever home defeat at their new ground

There is just something about playing away from home that brings the best from Tottenham in the Premier League.

In fact, no top-flight side has claimed more points on the road (13) than Spurs this season and they are the only team that are yet to taste defeat.

This excellent spirited team display, which inflicted Everton to their first-ever competitive defeat at the Hill Dickinson Stadium, was the perfect combination of attacking efficiency and defensive solidity.

Furthermore, it was also the perfect response to the midweek Champions League scare in Monaco when Spurs faced an astonishing 23 shots on their goal. They were ahead on 19 minutes when Mohammed Kudus sent a corner swirling towards the back post.

Rodrigo Bentancur got his head on it, nodding it back across the face of goal for Micky van de Ven to turn in. However, it would get even better for Tottenham before half-time as their set-piece delight continued.

Pedro Porro's curling corner was glanced home by Spurs' stand-in captain for his second of the afternoon, meaning since the start of last season, only Arsenal have scored more Premier League goals from corners than Tottenham (15).

Thomas Frank's side undoubtedly had to dig deep during the second half as they weathered an Everton barrage in testing conditions.

Guglielmo Vicario made two excellent stops but the defence and midfield must also take a collective share of the praise for this priceless away victory which also marked the team's second consecutive clean sheet.

But Spurs got their rewards for their resilience when substitutes Richarlison and Pape Matar Sarr combined for the third on 88 minutes.

Here's how the Tottenham players rated on Merseyside.

Guglielmo Vicario

Stunning save to deny Beto in the second half. The Italian beat the ball away with his forearm after the Everton striker tried an acrobatic effort. Then made another brilliant save to keep out Iliman Ndiaye's deflected shot. 8

Pedro Porro

Brave block to deny Jack Grealish the opener inside the first few minutes. Also left a strong first-half challenge on the Man City loanee. Assisted the second and was solid throughout. 7

Kevin Danso

Solid afternoon from the Austrian. Marking Beto is never an easy task, even if his goalscoring record is questionable but the former Lens man relished the physical battle. Won all six of his duels. 8

Micky van de Ven

Headed home twice from corners during the first half. Defended bravely as you would also expect. Did nearly turn a cross into his own net before half-time but put his body on the line and was otherwise monstrous. 9

Djed Spence

Iliman Ndiaye made it clear inside the opening minutes he didn't fancy entering Spence's penitentiary. Was a good battle between the two but Ndiaye did cause Spence problems with his slick footwork. 6

Joao Palhinha

For all the talk Palhinha can't play with Bentancur, the pair bossed Everton's midfield. The Portuguese maestro turned in a gritty, steely display and made a number of key tackles, blocks and interceptions. Arguably his best in a Spurs shirt. 8

Rodrigo Bentancur

Teed up the opening goal then flashed a volley narrowly wide of the mark. The heartbeat of this Spurs win. Lucky not to be booked for chopping down Jack Grealish but his energy, technical quality and legs were key to this victory. 8

Mohammed Kudus

Very sharp. Played in a central role and did not disappoint. Was up for the challenge, drove with the ball and looked dangerous. Kind of display that justifies his price-tag. 8

Xavi Simons

Played a horrible square pass across Tottenham's backline that was intercepted. Luckily didn't amount to anything. Also picked up a knock and fluffed a promising first-half counter. Grew into the game before being subbed on the hour. 6

Brennan Johnson

Made some smart, unsung choices in the first half in terms of relieving pressure. Dribbled to the byline and got a few crosses into the box. Remains somewhat underused but this was a step in the right direction. 6

Randal Kolo Muani

Looked very assured at the tip of Tottenham's attack. Produced some nice holdup play and flicks. Very encouraging display and the fact he was disappointed to be subbed off just underlined how much he enjoyed it. 7

Subs

Richarlison

Almost made an instant impact but his powerful strike was saved by Jordan Pickford. Teed up Pape Matar Sarr for the third. 8

Lucas Bergvall

Made one crucial interception and did some ugly midfield work after replacing Xavi Simons. Some lovely composed touches under pressure. 7

Pape Matar Sarr

Muted celebration but well deserved goal just moments from time. Had a rough spell out of the team but remains an important player for Frank. Things should get better for him from here. 9

Mathys Tel

The Premier League have explained why Everton were denied an equaliser against Tottenham before the visitors doubled their lead

Tottenham were bailed out by VAR after Everton's equaliser from Jake O'Brien was ruled out for an offside on Iliman Ndiaye. The Everton attacker appeared to impact Spurs goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario with Craig Pawson recommended to review the decision at the pitchside monitor.

The official deemed that both Ndiaye and Jack Grealish were in an offside position and promptly disallowed the goal with the decision later clarified.

A statement posted to X from the Premier League Match Centre read: "#EVETOT – 24’ VAR OVERTURN After VAR review, the referee overturned the original decision of goal to Everton.

"Referee announcement: After review, Everton 10 and 18 were in an offside position, interfering with the goalkeeper. The final decision is an in-direct free kick in the six yard box."

Micky van de Ven had given Spurs the lead earlier in the half and bagged a second from another corner just before half-time.

The Toffees started the game better with Grealish going close after just a few minutes with James Garner also seeing a long-range effort go narrowly wide. Bentancur had a similar effort flash past the post in between Van de Ven's goals.

Spurs boss Thomas Frank has faced some criticism over the last week after two disappointing attacking performances with his decision to continue playing Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur, that continued on Sunday, also questionable.

During his pre-Everton press conference, he responded to the suggestion Spurs have been predictable in possession. "I think probably the team," he admitted.

"I think it's always team effort, how we construct a team or how. In the end, it's my final decision, of course. It's a collective effort in terms of how we want to build up or how we want to create chances. I think both of them are more than capable of helping the team.

"And I think it's one thing that is part of the game. The other part is, of course, how can we make sure we are strong and solid enough if we are in a spell where we may be.

"The team is not as free-floating as we want it to be because of new players getting, how can you say, gelled together, getting it more smooth, more free.

"How can we make sure that if that's not working, how can we make sure we are super solid and still building? So that's part of the puzzle."

The Lilywhites have not been too free-flowing in possession but have been superb from set-pieces with Van de Ven now up to five goals for the season. His first goal also came from Bentancur nodding a corner back across goal.

Hello and welcome to football.london for live coverage of Tottenham's Premier League meeting with Everton this afternoon.

Spurs will look to bounce back from last weekend's 2-1 defeat by Aston Villa when they face the Toffees at Hill Dickinson Stadium. After a superb start to life at Spurs, Thomas Frank has overseen one victory from the last five matches and a smattering of boos greeted full-time after a fortunate 0-0 Champions League draw at Monaco on Wednesday.

Recent injuries to Cristian Romero (adductor) and Destiny Udogie (knee) have halted Tottenham’s momentum and especially with the likes of James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski long-term absentees. Frank will be hoping his players can send the travelling supporters home happy with a much-needed win.

Thomas Frank and David Moyes have struck up a strong friendship since the 2024 European Championship

Thomas Frank intends to continue a "fantastic tradition" and enjoy a drink with Euro 2024 colleague David Moyes following Tottenham's visit to Everton. Frank and Moyes developed a close friendship whilst working together as pundits during the European Championships two summers ago.

The pair went viral when they were spotted chuckling in the background of a podcast being filmed by Gary Lineker, but despite being opponents for 90 minutes at Everton's new ground on Sunday, they will set that aside shortly after the final whistle. "I will 100 per cent go in and share a beer or a glass of red with David after the game," Frank confirmed.

"We always do that. That I appreciate. Some do it, some don't. I always invite coaches in, so they are more than welcome.

"I think it's important. I think it's a fantastic tradition. We are all in the same s***. Only a few of us that actually understand each other. So, even though we can be a little bit, how can you say, tense on the touchline, in the end of the day, we understand each other."

The former Brentford manager first came up against Moyes in the summer of 2020 before an appreciation for the Scottish manager evolved into a genuine friendship. Frank chuckled: "I also like my red wine and he is also a decent drinker. He also likes his beers and red wine. He's a very good guy and I feel privileged to get to know him.

"And the first time I met him we were in the Championship and we played West Ham in a friendly. Or did I meet him before? I don't know. But that stood out.

"Then we started to meet each other in different areas outside the pitch in different events and stuff like that or for dinner with other coaches and just mutual good respect. And yeah, we worked at the Euros and we had some good evenings!".

After an impressive beginning to his tenure at Spurs, a disappointing sequence of just one victory in five fixtures has materialised either side of the October international break. Richarlison had begun the campaign in excellent form, though his most recent goal came on September 21.

With Richarlison set to face his former club Everton, Frank supported him to add to his tally of five goals against his previous employers when questioned whether the occasion could reignite his scoring touch. "Yeah, hopefully. I think Richarlison started the season very well and, touch wood, he's in a good place," Frank said.

"I can't remember a spell this long where he hadn't had anything, so big praise to the medical guys and the sport performance guys to put him in a very good place. Plus himself, working hard on that."

Have off-field changes impacted team?

Frank: "The day it was decided Daniel wasn't here anymore was unusual, then the first couple of weeks there were a few questions from you guys but then you get on with things. I focus on preparing the team in the best possible way."

On Pape Matar Sarr - is he fit?

Frank: "Yes, there's nothing wrong with him. It's just competition and other players have done well. In general I'm happy with Pape, he was one of the players that impressed me most at the start of the season."

On Xavi Simons

Frank: "Xavi has been with us for seven or eight weeks which is a short time in football but also a long time.

"I liked his personality after the first 60 minutes against Villa but he then tired a bit.

"Our demands to him is more intensity but a player I believe in, he's got the pass and vision.

"We've just been training and he trained very well."

On Jack Grealish

Frank: "Everton is a very competitive team. There are more players than just Grealish, Beto has been good, Ndiaye too and Dewsbury-Hall after maybe not being on top at Chelsea.

"My colleague David Moyes' teams are always competitive, I've always respected him.

"The coaching stuff and Moyes have got Jack flourishing again, he's so dangerous and can create from nothing."

Kolo Muani, how close to starting?

Frank: "He's definitely getting closer. It's the first time he's had a sustained block of training and minutes. He can't be bombarding 90 minutes again and again but he can be used, which is good news."

Fixture list, tough games?

Frank: "I'm learning every day about the team, the players and individuals.

"I see a really willing group trying to do their best for this wonderful club.

"I learned that after the game against Villa, I know we lost but the performance is what I need to look at."

Missing long-term absentees like Madders and Deki?

Frank: "Every head coach or manager wants all their players fit, then we're complaining that the squad is too big

"It is what it is, I very rarely say anything about injuries.

"It's my job to put the best possible team on the pitch."

Updates on Romero, Udogie and Solanke

Frank: "Cuti just walked out on the grass running, positive and progressing, no timeframe but I don't expect it to be a longer one.

"Destiny isn't on the grass yet, not a longer one.

"Dominic positive, he's taking steps in the right direction every day. Sustainable amount of pitch sessions on his own."

Thomas Frank has just been speaking to the media following Tottenham's Champions League 0-0 draw at Monaco in the Champions League

Thomas Frank has praised Tottenham goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario for his heroic display that earned Spurs a big Champions League point in Monaco.

The Dane has now spoken to the media following the goalless draw and stated he is now overly concerned by the fact his side faced 23 shots this evening at the Stade Louis II.

Spurs now return to north London to rest before they travel north to Merseyside for Sunday's Premier League game with Everton.

Here is the full transcript from Frank's press conference.

Spurs' first goalless draw since March 2023, 125 games ago. Did you set out to grind it out like that, because that was kind of how it became in the end?I think it was a game where relatively even first half and then a second half where I think Monaco was better than us, where we didn't hit the performance we want. I think we lacked a bit of intensity overall in the game, especially the second half. And that combined with a day where we didn't get too many players at a good enough level, that can happen. I think we are learning Champions League and every game in Champions League is difficult, especially away games against a good Monaco side, Monaco side I said, before the game, which I also think it's fair to say they had the best half of the season against us, but fair play to them and then the ability for us to compete in the Premier League and then in the Champions League is a challenge we are up for and want to. I also think it's fair to say last year we finished 17th and competed in Europa League, so we are taking it step by step. And it's not the worst thing on a bad day to get a point and a clean sheet. I think today the clean sheet was down to a few things, but a big thing down to Vicario, I think, that played a fantastic game.In the last 10-11 years, Tottenham have had either Harry Kane and Son to rely upon or both of them, now you haven't. Are we seeing the reality of that now?I think that's fair to say. Wilson Odobert is a very, very good talent and I think he's been positive but of course he is taking his step into the Premier League and the Champions League. With other players also, Xavi [Simons] has just come to the club, Lucas is a young player, Kudus has been exceptional for us, but also played more or less every minute. So we lack maybe that little extra spark today. Kolo Muani we believe can make a difference and look positive when he came on. But he had that injury, so of course there's some of that. No complaints, it is what it is. It's my job to get the most out of the players available.

Some of the players lack some intensity. What do you put that down to? It's a Champions League night.Good question. Maybe we need to think a little bit more about it. I'll try to come up with an answer. There can be many, many things. It can be a combination of play it good and cover it. It was a very competitive game against Villa. I think we performed very well. Then to go again. Some of them haven't done that too much, some have. It could be just on the day you don't get a top performance. I think the first half was okay in that sense, but I think in the second half we lacked more.But just to be clear, is it a matter of effort in your mind?No, I don't think it's effort. I think it's more the ability to go again and again and again in every action throughout a game. I think it's not been a problem at other times. Sometimes it is. Today was not top.On Vicario, his performance was questioned against Villa, is he the type of character to use that as fuel to turn in tonight's performance? Did you speak to him? There's been some questions amongst fans whether he should be your number one, but that was a great response tonight.I think the two goals against Villa, I don't think it's mistakes. I don't think it's any of that. It was two great finishes. But what I would say, and as you said, I think he was very good today. I think some of the saves were exceptional tonight. He's a big part of why we got a hard-fought point, but at the end of the day it can be a crucial point.

Just on Odobert, did he pick up an injury?Actually, I don't know. But of course we shoved him off because there was some pain, but I don't know the consequences of it.Thomas, I know you had 23 shots tonight. Is that worrying for you, that they're hurting a lot?Yeah, I think you can say we just played home to Villa where they only had eight shots. If it was every game we conceded 23 shots, it would be a big challenge, which it is definitely not. So it can be a combination of lack of intensity, a combination of Monaco hitting a very high level, a combination of us not hitting the best level. But they had too many shots to what I would like.What can Archie Gray give you from left-back?I think he solves it very well, as he's done a lot of times last year, left-back, right-back and centre-back. I think he can play all three positions. I think his best position is still midfielder. But I think he can play all three. I like his character and effort in the left-back today. He just carried on when he came into the midfield and did well there as well. Final one on the back, please.What is Kolo Muani missing to get back into the national team?First and foremost, I think it was very nice to have him back in the Champions League. I'm sure he appreciates it as well. I'm very happy that we managed to sign him in the end of the transfer window. We were unlucky to pick up a dead leg early.

That's kept him out of the game so far. But now he's been training well for some weeks. He got minutes in the weekend against Villa, got more minutes today. I think it looked like there were some promising actions today.

Of course, he liked a little bit more rhythm and Max's top actions. But I like him a lot in many aspects. I think for any player to come into any national team, and the French is a very strong national team, of course you need to play more games and hopefully we'll do that.