Football London

Our Tottenham writers at football.london have made their team selections for New Year's Day's Premier League encounter at Brentford

Tottenham are looking to build on their win at Crystal Palace with another positive derby result on the road at Brentford on New Year's Day.

Spurs overcame a tough first half at Selhurst Park to take home a 1-0 win thanks to Archie Gray's header. Recent wins under Thomas Frank have been followed up with poor performances so the Dane will be hoping his team harnesses the momentum this time as they make the trip to his old stamping ground across the capital, the Gtech Community Stadium.

Tottenham remain without the suspended Xavi Simons as well as the injured Dominic Solanke, who has returned to working with the team in training, Dejan Kulusevski, Destiny Udogie and James Maddison, while Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma are away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

We asked our Tottenham writers Alasdair Gold and Ryan Taylor to give the team selections they reckon Frank could pick for the New Year's Day's Premier League encounter.

Alasdair Gold - Tottenham correspondent

Frank initially said the same squad was available to face Brentford as was up against Palace but after I prodded a bit further he admitted that Lucas Bergvall is a doubt with an injury, although he was positive the teenage Swede will be available.

The Spurs boss might still be cautious with the midfielder and with the lack of numbers that could mean Joao Palhinha coming into the starting line-up alongside Rodrigo Bentancur and Gray playing in an advanced role as he did after Bergvall left the pitch on Sunday.

In defence, Cristian Romero comes back in after his one-game suspension, albeit with the threat of a future ban looming with his FA charge for failing to get off the pitch promptly following his late red card against Liverpool. Micky van de Ven will need his own rest at some point before that potential absence for his captain and Frank will have to decide whether it comes at Brentford or on Sunday at home against Sunderland.

Kevin Danso was named as player of the match for his battling display in helping Spurs keep a clean sheet at Selhurst Park and Frank will have no hesitation in naming him again. There is also the option of a back three if the Dane desires it.

Up top, the Tottenham head coach must decide whether to stick with the same front three of Randal Kolo Muani, Richarlison and Mohammed Kudus or bring in Wilson Odobert, Mathys Tel or the in-demand Brennan Johnson.

Gold's XI: Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Bentancur, Palhinha; Kudus, Gray, Odobert, Richarlison.

Ryan Taylor - Sports reporter

Providing everyone is fit as Frank claims, I think there's a strong argument that there should only be minor tweaks to the starting XI that saw off Crystal Palace.

Yes, Spurs rode their luck but they were solid defensively for decent spells of the second half and there were some commendable cameos from the bench, too.

Captain Cuti Romero should return following his suspension but it's hard to drop Kevin Danso after his man-of-the-match display at Selhurst Park. Perhaps he replaces Micky van de Ven so the Dutchman can have some much-needed rest for Sunday's clash with Sunderland.

Djed Spence and Pedro Porro remain the full-backs with goalscorer Archie Gray partnering Joao Palhinha in midfield.

Palhinha made some key tackles after entering the fray against Palace while Wilson Odobert should replace Randal Kolo Muani on the left after hitting the post and shining in the closing stages of the match.

Richarlison keeps his place up top with Mohammed Kudus operating from the right and Lucas Bergvall continuing as the No.10.

The Tottenham Hotspur boss believes the powers-that-be at the north London club are trying to improve one aspect of the transfer work

Thomas Frank believes that it's key Tottenham become good sellers in the transfer market and that those above him are working hard on improving that aspect of the club.

Spurs struggle to sell on players at the right time and for the right price, often suffering huge losses on their most expensive transfers such as Tanguy Ndombele and Giovani Lo Celso, with the club having spent around £100million more on that duo in 2019 than they got back in return last summer.

Now Tottenham have accepted a bid of around £35million for last season's top scorer Brennan Johnson, with the player yet to decide on his destination amid interest from a string of other clubs, with Bournemouth also having made an approach and Everton and Sunderland among those monitoring the situation.

If the 24-year-old does leave north London then he will become the third highest sale at the club in recent history and the fourth of all time behind Gareth Bale, Harry Kane and Kyle Walker.

Signed from Nottingham Forest for £47.5million in 2023, if Johnson does depart two-and-a-half years later then Spurs will have sold their past three top goalscorers.

While Frank would not comment on Johnson in particular and said the player was set to be in his squad to face Brentford on New Year's Day, the Dane did make it clear that Tottenham need to become good sellers.

"I think that’s key. It’s not only doing one thing right, playing a specific way or getting the culture right or whatever, there’s a lot of elements that we need to do well to be able to compete at the highest level," he said.

"Part of it is being able to sell. You see the other top clubs, they are quite good at selling. That’s something we need to be improving. That’s something I know the guys above me are working very hard on. Everything’s linked."

Frank explained why Johnson has started just six Premier League games this season after recording 25 goal involvements in the previous campaign.

"Brennan is a very important player for us. Sometimes things change if another player comes in. Unfortunately, [Mohammed] Kudus came in for him and played on the right side and has done well. So it's been a little bit more tricky to get enough starts. He started the season also quite well from the left," said the Spurs boss.

"I think Brennan has a lot of attributes. Very good running in behind, very good scoring goals. That's a good quality. So some of those key things is fantastic. Also working hard for the team, but you need more than just 11 players. That's the way it is. I think Brennan has been a top professional, is a top professional, trained well today. He's ready for two days' time [for the match at Brentford]."

Here's every single word the Tottenham Hotspur head coach said ahead of the Premier League match at Brentford on New Year's Day

Thomas Frank faced plenty of questions at his final press conference of 2025 before Tottenham kick off the new year with a Premier League clash at his former team Brentford.

Spurs ended the year on a high with the win at Crystal Palace on Sunday thanks to Archie Gray's first half header. Now 2026 will kick off with a game against Frank's old side as the north London outfit look to build on their victory rather than waste any momentum as they have with previous wins.

Frank gave an update on Lucas Bergvall, who left the pitch injured at Selhurst Park in the second half, and was asked again about Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski's recovery timeline.

With the January transfer window almost upon us, the Tottenham head coach was quizzed about the club's plans and the fact that Spurs have agreed a fee of around £35million with Crystal Palace to sell last season's top scorer Brennan Johnson, with the player yet to decide on his destination amid interest from other clubs, with Bournemouth also having made an approach.

Our Tottenham correspondent Alasdair Gold was among those putting the questions to Frank. Here's the full transcript from the press conference at Hotspur Way.

What's the latest team news, any issues?

No, everyone should be available.

What's the latest with Cristian Romero and the FA charge?

He's ready for the game tomorrow, as far as I know it's something that will be decided in early January.

How is Destiny Udogie doing?

He is running out there on the pitch, doing individual sessions on the pitch, so progressing going forwards, so that's good"

And the long-term absentees?

I promise you I'll mention when they are fully firing.

With Brennan Johnson, a fee has been agreed, are you happy to accept he may go?

Again, this is the third time I think I've got this question. There's rumours out there, in general I'll not comment on that, no matter if we want to sign or sell a player, or get a staff member in or out. I've no interest in commenting either way.

Is he still part of the squad for Thursday?

He contributed to a very good and important win against Crystal Palace. He trained very well today. I expect him fully to be available and able to play against Brentford.

With the January window, do you expect Spurs to be busy?

We are, we will be in the market. We are definitely interested in, if we can, strengthening the squad. We will do that, I've said it a few times before, that I think it's very important of course there are different types you can add to a squad. But the main bit is that we ones we add need to be the ones we really think can improve the team. And then, like normal, there can be outgoings if you want to try to make a sharp squad.

Are you looking forward to Thursday, will you allow yourself emotions or is it business as usual?

That one cannot be 'business as usual'. That is special. I don't think I have thought that much about a game where it's coming back to me. And I'm actually happy that I have those emotions, because that means it meant something to me, the nine years I spent at Brentford, almost seven as a head coach. Brentford Football Club, the fans, and especially the people that I worked closely with, have a special place in my heart. That's the longest time I have ever been in a club, and we achieved incredible things together. That is very, very special. First and foremost I need to be extremely focused to go right instead of left, when I come out to the stadium, that's the first thing! And it will be special when I arrive, just before the match starts. But of course when the first whistle goes there's only one aim, and that is doing everything I can, together with the team, to perform well and get three points.

Will it be a weird occasion going back to Brentford?

Yeah strange, I don’t know. I think, not strange, special, special in every aspect. It’s special because there is one job to do, I’m head coach for this fantastic club. I’m working night and day to do everything I can to improve the team and the club, and that is one aim, that I want to win the football match ahead of me, together with the team.

Then it is special to come back first time in front of all the fantastic Brentford fans and the players and the staff I know very well.

What did you learn from the reverse fixture?

I learned a few things. So, one that, I know we won the game, but before that and after here, you can see they're strong, they've done well. I think they're such a top example to follow for a lot of football people, what they have created.

In many ways, it's super, super good that they performed well. I'm happy for that because when you leave something, you want to make sure that hopefully the impact you had is sustainable.

The bit we built together, me and a lot of other people, because it's not only about me, built a very strong culture, very strong organisation, very strong structure, so they could hire from within an unexperienced head coach, but a good person, good football knowledgeable person in Keith and good leadership skills. Carry on with a lot of other good people in the organisation.

So basically, take me, four staff members, four key players, and they're still performing in the most competitive league in the world. That is very, very remarkable.

That's unbelievable. It's a bit like that, that I, on the flip side, want to create here in Tottenham, something unbelievable, strong culture, strong organisation, strong structure, so no matter what things happen, we are strong and stable. We can be strong and stable and consistent, you have a real chance to create something magical. That's the aim, what I want to do again here in Tottenham, and that's what they have done very well.

Brentford use a lot of data, is that something you want to bring to Tottenham?

I think these days every club has very good data. I think the scouting department that Rob and Johan Lange have built together here is very strong. I see a lot of similarities to what I saw in Brentford. So that's relatively even.

Of course, they have a bigger base also with Matthew's company behind it. I think what people didn't understand fully about Brentford was the real secret sauce was the people, was the culture that was built stronger and stronger year after year.

Can you give us an insight into where Brennan's head is at? He scored that massive goal for Tottenham, all those goals last season and now he's not getting in the team. How is he when you speak to him and is he part of your future plans?

As I said, Brennan is a very important player for us. Sometimes things change if another player comes in. Unfortunately, Kudus came in for him and played on the right side and has done well. So it's been a little bit more tricky to get enough starts. He started the season also quite well from the left.

I think Brennan has a lot of attributes. Very good running in behind, very good scoring goals. That's a good quality. So some of those key things is fantastic. Also working hard for the team, but you need more than just 11 players. That's the way it is. I think Brennan has been a top professional, is a top professional, trained well today. He's ready for two days' time.

The January transfer window does open in a couple of days' time, have you given the club a shopping list of what you want?

I think there's a few things you need to understand. The January window is the most difficult window. So I understand it's a window. Everyone is super excited, speaking about it. It will not stop after the 31st of January. That's the way it is. As I said, I can't highlight enough. We are in the market. We are prepared. We are working, but I also think it's super important, as I said before, every decision I take, or I take together with the other guys in terms of decision-making, is for the future of the club.

So there's no reason to sign a player if you don't think it's for the future of the club, if it is just helping a little bit the next six months. We need to build something sustainable that can be very strong and powerful. That journey takes time, and that journey needs to take good, clever decisions along the way.

That's maybe not 'wow', but good decisions that can make us more stable and more competitive and then we are from there. So we are there, but we'll see what's happening.

Can I just double-check if Lucas Bergvall is ok?

Lucas is okay. I am quite positive that he will be available. Of course, there's a small doubt, but it's quite possible that he will be available.

If Brennan were to leave, it would be three years in a row that Tottenham have sold their top scorer from the previous season, with Kane and then Son. How difficult is it for a club to keep replacing those goals each season?

Goals are very important and they're very difficult to find. There's no two ways about that. That's very important. So it's important that how can we make sure we have enough goals in the team and players that can score goals. That's the key thing.

That's, of course, also what we are looking after to try to improve. I think the positive bits from this season so far is to think Richy has done well and been fit and available for more than almost eight months since we started.

But we need to have enough players with goals. Both developing them, but also finding players that can score goals for the future.

Radu Dragusin came back and played his part at Palace after so long out, firstly how important for him to come back and secondly there has been rumours about him leaving. Does he need to get minutes somewhere?

Right now, I am just so happy to see him come onto the pitch. Being out for what nine months or 10 months? So for him it is a massive step to step onto the pitch that he miss so much. For me that is the most important thing. I also spoke to you guys about a month or six weeks ago that he needed more training, he needed more game minutes with the Under-21s and he progressively got better and more and more fit. It is all about that and regarding rumours, rumours are rumours.

An incoming young striker for January is Mason Melia. He has played almost 100 professional senior games, so is he someone you will look at first or will he go into the U21s?

No, we need him in the club first on the first of January. There are a lot of moving parts and then when we know all the moving parts, we’ll take the final decision on what we’re doing.

In 2025 Tottenham have played 37 Premier League games and only won 11 of them. What is your assessment of their record?

Probably not the greatest record, isn’t that fair to say? What can I say, I have been involved in half of them, or something like that, so that is the bit I can assess. I think for a club of Tottenham’s stature, we need to win more than 11 out of 37 games. I also said when I came in from the beginning, this is part of a longer, longer journey and there is not a quick fix. We are doing everything we can to improve things and make sure things get better bit by bit. Alongside we are playing Champions League, which we are very happy with and that is where we’re aiming to be every year if possible.

What in your view is the path or plan to winning games more often in 2026?

I think slowly bit by bit adding those layers where we are competitive in the games for example where not everything is perfect. I think that was a big step against Crystal Palace. It was a beautiful, ugly win. To go away to a very difficult away ground and win 1-0, it is definitely a quality you need to have if you want to achieve something big because one thing for sure is you will not going to play 38 perfect games. You play at least, at least 10 shit games and can you win three or four of them 1-0 on a rainy day?

That is a lot of quality in that and then the next bit is we need to be better on the player. For example that was not the best game on the ball against Crystal Palace. That is one area we are working very hard on and also being a more offensive threat. That we are also working on but for that game it is also fair to say we are still without Xavi, Maddison, Kulusevski and Solanke. Some of our most creative players and others are stepping up to help the team, but that is also part of it.

Goals are very important and they're very difficult to find. There's no two ways about that. That's very important. So it's important that how can we make sure we have enough goals in the team and players that can score goals. That's the key thing.

That's, of course, also what we are looking after to try to improve. I think the positive bits from this season so far is to think Richie has done well and been fit and available for more than almost eight months since we started.

But we need to have enough players with goals. Both developing them, but also finding players that can score goals for the future.

I think there's a few things you need to understand. The January window is the most difficult window. So I understand it's a window. Everyone is super excited, speaking about it. It will not stop after the 31st of January. That's the way it is. As I said, I can't highlight enough. We are in the market. We are prepared. We are working, but I also think it's super important, as I said before, every decision I take, or I take together with the other guys in terms of decision-making, is for the future of the club.

So there's no reason to sign a player if you don't think it's for the future of the club, if it is just helping a little bit the next six months. We need to build something sustainable that can be very strong and powerful. That journey takes time, and that journey needs to take good, clever decisions along the way.

That's maybe not 'wow', but good decisions that can make us more stable and more competitive and then we are from there. So we are there, but we'll see what's happening.

As I said, Brennan is a very important player for us. Sometimes things change if another player comes in. Unfortunately, Kudos came in for him and played on the right side and has done well. So it's been a little bit more tricky to get enough starts. He started the season also quite well from the left.

I think Brennan has a lot of attributes. Very good running in behind, very good scoring goals. That's a good quality. So some of those key things is fantastic. Also working hard for the team, but you need more than just 11 players. That's the way it is. I think Brennan has been a top professional, is a top professional, trained well today. He's ready for two days' time.

Tottenham have agreed terms with Crystal Palace over the potential sale of Brennan Johnson, who is still yet to decide whether he wants to seal the £35million switch to Selhurst Park

Brennan Johnson is edging closer to the Tottenham exit door after Crystal Palace agreed a £35million transfer deal with their London counterparts.

While the Wales international is currently stalling on the move amid rival interest from Bournemouth, Aston Villa and Everton, it now appears likely he will leave the Europa League winners in next month's window following last season's heroics in Bilbao.

With that in mind, football.london assesses four potential, hypothetical replacements that Spurs should consider. It's important to stress that there is no suggestion - outside of Savinho - that Tottenham hold an active interest in these players.

Bradley Barcola

Barcola is a phenomenal talent but he's only started nine of Paris Saint-Germain's 15 Ligue 1 matches this term.

The Frenchman, 23, is frequently rotated with Khvicha Kvaratskhelia and having now won the Champions League in Paris, perhaps it might be time to consider something new.

Whether Tottenham could one, afford the winger and two, convince the player to choose them is another question altogether.

But it would show great ambition if Spurs were to make a play for his services as he represents a clear upgrade on their current options.

The only issue with a move is that it would likely block the pathways of Wilson Odobert, who Thomas Frank has huge belief in, and Mathys Tel.

Savinho

The dream target for Tottenham of course but there are already strong indications Manchester City will again push back on a sale next month - even if Antoine Semenyo arrives.

Pep Guardiola is a big admirer of the young Brazilian, only 21, and equally there's a firm argument he is far more effective from the right flank.

Xavi Simons struck a close bond with Savinho during their time together at PSV and maybe the Dutchman can play a backstage role in a potential deal.

Savinho needs minutes if he's to consolidate his place in Brazil's World Cup squad and if Semenyo joins City as anticipated, that hampers his prospects.

City would also demand a premium fee if they decided to consider offers and when you're selling to a fellow Premier League club, the figures always feel somewhat inflated.

Kevin Schade

Schade, who rattled in a perfect hat-trick against Bournemouth for Brentford last weekend, hit 11 Premier League goals under Frank at the Gtech last term.

You do wonder whether Spurs consider a swoop for the German, who is another player with real untapped potential.

He's always been a key figure for the Bees and looks capable of stepping up to a big club with all due respect to the west London outfit.

Schade would bring goals to the party but having sold Bryan Mbeumo to Manchester United last summer, it's unlikely they'd consider a damaging sale mid-season unless Spurs stumped up huge cash.

However, the 24-year-old could represent a cunning buy for Tottenham.

Yankuba Minteh

Minteh has scored just one goal in the Premier League this season for Brighton, however, he's remained a mainstay in Fabian Hurzeler's team.

That's because the 21-year-old is a real live-wire and is capable of causing carnage down the flanks.

Problematically though, he predominantly features from the right and any move would surely have to involve Frank shifting Mohammed Kudus either inside or to the left flank, which he seems reluctant to do.

Minteh has so much room for growth and it's easy to forget he's still so young.

From that perspective, it's a transfer that would make great sense but Frank seems set on utilising Kudus on the right, which has proven to be Johnson's downfall this season.

Arsenal 'enquire' about £84m star embroiled in contract saga

Arsenal are reportedly one of three Premier League clubs to enquire about Juventus forward Kenan Yildiz.

The young Turkish star was named in Serie A's team of the season last year and has a reputation for being one of the best young players around.

He already boasts six goals and four assists in 16 appearances this season. Italian outlet Tuttosport have claimed Yildiz has stalled on whether he wants a new contract, prompting Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool to make "numerous phone calls" about a potential move.

Real Madrid are also understood to be of interest to the 20-year-old, who is valued at around £84million.

Arsenal's current injury list

Heading into the January transfer window, it's important to remember Arsenal's current injury list. Considering these can often inform a transfer strategy, Football London has a look at the areas the Gunners are currently thin in heading into the clash with Aston Villa.

Riccardo Calafiori - will miss the clash against Villa after a very 'awkward' pain. "It's something that he felt yesterday, something very awkward that happened, and today in the warm-up he wasn’t comfortable," Arteta said.

Jurrien Timber - picked up a training injury from an awkward fall before the Brighton game. Looks set to be absent against Villa.

Kai Havertz - closer to fitness but still expected to miss Villa game

Ben White - dealing with a hamstring injury which struck him down against Wolves

Cristhian Mosquera - Missed the last six matches with an ankle injury

Max Dowman - The 15-year-old is understood to be out with an ankle injury of his own

Tottenham transfer battle

Arsenal may face competition with Tottenham Hotspur for Club Brugge midfielder Aleksandar Stankovic. The 20-year-old defensive midfielder has been in impressive form for the Belgians.

So much so his former club Inter Milan are considering exercising their buy-back clause before selling him on for more money in the summer. It is then Arsenal and Tottenham will be waiting in the wings, as Italian outlet Gazzetta dello Sport understand both London clubs have made initial contact for the midfielder.

Arsenal currently have Declan Rice, Martin Zubimendi, Christian Norgaard and Mikel Merino as defensive options, but the latter has starred as a makeshift centre-forward while Rice had to fill in in defence against Brighton and Hove Albion.

Mikel Arteta's transfer message

In his pre-match press conference before the home battle against Aston Villa, Mikel Arteta urged the club to be active in the January transfer window.

He said: "The window is there. We're Arsenal and we have to be actively looking at it like 'Okay, what do we need' and we have to be actively looking.' Can we do it or not? That's a different story.

"We always have to be prepared because something could happen. Hopefully it will be very positive."

Andrea Berta's £17m plot

Andrea Berta is understood to be plottin a £17million move for Elche midfielder Rodrigo Mendoza. The 20-year-old has enjoyed a strong breakout season for the La Liga side.

In November, it was claimed by the Telegraph the Spaniard has a £17m release clause in his contract. With Arsenal looking for more strength in depth, Berta reportedly believes Mendoza has the technicality to thrive in the Premier League.

Barcelona midfielder Pedri once identified Mendoza as a rising star in Spain. It's also understood by Sky Sports Mendoza is firmly on Arsenal's radar as a potential understudy for Martin Zubimendi.

Good morning Arsenal fans

Good morning Arsenal fans. The January transfer window is fast approaching and already there are plenty of rumours to get your teeth into.

Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta already appears to be pursuing some big targets, while Mikel Arteta also had a message for the powers that be at the club.

Stay with us at football.london for all the latest rumours.

The former Tottenham executive chairman has been handed an exclusive title in the King's New Year's Honours

Former Tottenham chief Daniel Levy has been recognised in the New Year's Honours list for his services to charity.

The former executive chairman stepped down from his position in September this year after spending almost 25 years at the club. He was the Premier League's longest-serving executive in his role.

Throughout his time with Spurs, the club won the League Cup and the Europa League. They also made it to the Champions League final in the 2018/19 season, although they were beaten 2-0 by Liverpool.

Plenty more footballing heroes have been honoured alongside Levy, including five of the England Lionesses. That's as well as their head coach Sarina Wiegman, who has been awarded an honorary damehood.

Captain Leah Williamson has been awarded a CBE, while Alex Greenwood, Georgia Stanway, Ella Toone and Keira Walsh will be made MBEs. It was a historic 2025 for the Lionesses, who captured a second European Championship triumph in a row by beating Spain on penalties.

Here's a list of all 46 sporting figures who have been recognised by King Charles.

KNIGHTHOOD

Christopher Dean, OBE, Olympic gold medallist, services to ice skating and to voluntary service, Huddersfield.

DAMEHOOD

ayne Torvill, OBE, Olympic gold medallist, services to ice skating and to voluntary service, Heathfield, East Sussex.

Sarina Wiegman (honorary damehood), England women head coach, for services to football.

COMMANDER OF THE ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE (CBE)

Daniel Levy, former Tottenham executive chairman, for services to charity and the community of Tottenham, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire.

Leah Williamson, England captain and double women's European Championship winner, for services to football, St Albans, Hertfordshire.

Fergus McCann, former Celtic chief executive, businessman and philanthropist, for services to the economy and charity, Florida.

OFFICER OF THE ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE (OBE)

Derek Brewer, lately England and Wales Cricket Board adviser, for services to cricket, Loughborough, Leicestershire.

Ann Budge, former Hearts chair, for services to sport and the community in Midlothian, Edinburgh.

Jim Craig, former Celtic defender and member of the European Cup winning Lisbon Lions side of 1967, for services to Scottish football and charity, Perth and Kinross.

Gabby Logan, MBE, broadcaster, for services to broadcasting and to charity, Buckinghamshire.

John Mitchell, England women's rugby head coach, for services to rugby union, Woking, Surrey.

Barry O'Brien, former England and Wales Cricket Board interim chair and former Glamorgan chair, for services to law, to cricket and to charity, London.

Marlie Packer, double women's Rugby World Cup winner with England, for services to rugby union, Camberley, Surrey.

Sarah-Jane Perry, England and Great Britain squash player, grassroots champion and mentor, for services to squash, Kenilworth, Warwickshire.

Stuart Pringle, Silverstone circuit chief executive officer, for services to motorsport, Towcester, Northamptonshire.

Paula Radcliffe, MBE, broadcaster and athlete, for services to sport, abroad.

Zoe Stratford (nee Aldcroft), England women's rugby captain and 2025 women's Rugby World Cup winner, for services to rugby union, Gloucester.

Clive Tyldesley, football commentator, for services to broadcasting and to charity, Reading.

Gill Whitehead, 2025 women's Rugby World Cup chair, for services to women's rugby, Beaconsfield, Buckinghamshire.

MEMBER OF THE ORDER OF THE BRITISH EMPIRE (MBE)

Dr Frances Akor, UK anti-doping non-executive director, for services to sport, London.

Susan Briegal, lately World Netball chief executive officer and North West Rowing Council chair, for services to sport, Warrington.

Daniel Costello, Spartan Football Club chair, for services to community, sport and youth development, Edinburgh.

Kerry Davis, former England Women footballer, for services to football and diversity in sport, Lichfield, Staffordshire.

Simone Fisher, Professional Footballers' Association director of equality, diversity and inclusion, for services to sport, Sunbury-on-Thames.

Alex Greenwood, England footballer and double women's European Championship winner, for services to football, Wilmslow, Cheshire.

Isa Guha, broadcaster and former England cricketer, Take Her Lead founder and chair, for services to inclusivity and cricket, High Wycombe, Buckinghamshire.

Megan Jones, England women's rugby player and 2025 women's Rugby World Cup winner, for services to rugby union, London.

Tara Jones, rugby league referee, services to rugby league, St Helens.

Sadia Kabeya, England women's rugby player and 2025 women's Rugby World Cup winner, for services to rugby union, London.

James Keothavong, tennis umpire, services to tennis and tennis umpiring, Bedford.

Louise Kingsley, Great Britain rowing team director of performance, services to sport, Wallingford, Oxfordshire.

Ellie Kildunne, England women's rugby player and 2025 women's Rugby World Cup winner, for services to rugby union, Reading.

David Laing, lately Borders Disability Sports Group chair, for services to sport, Roxburgh.

Julia Lee, lately referee and advocate for women's rugby league, for services to rugby league, Huddersfield.

Sarah Massey, 2025 women's Rugby World Cup managing director, for services to women's rugby union, Street, Somerset.

Rhys McClenaghan, BEM, artistic gymnastic and pommel horse Olympic champion, services to gymnastics, Newtownards, County Down.

Dr Ritan Mehta, England women's football head of medical and team team, services to football, London.

David Perks, services to athletics, Carmarthen.

Kambiz Ramzan Ali, services to taekwondo and the community in Harrogate, Harrogate.

Toby Roberts, sport climbing Olympic champion, services to sport climbing, Godalming, Surrey.

Georgia Stanway, England footballer and double women's European Championship winner, services to football, Barrow-in-Furness, Cumbria.

Ella Toone, England footballer and double women's European Championship winner, services to football, Manchester.

Nigel Travis, BEM, services to boxing and the community in Moss Side, Greater Manchester.

Keira Walsh, England footballer and double women's European Championship winner, services to football, Rochdale.

Colin Wright, Rushmoor Gymnastics Academy co-founder, Sandhurst, Berkshire.

Marie Wright, Rushmoor Gymnastics Academy co-founder, Sandhurst, Berkshire.

Tottenham centre-back Luka Vuskovic is currently shining on loan in Germany with Hamburger SV and there is mounting interest from Europe in the 18-year-old Croatia international

The father of Tottenham defender Luka Vuskovic has confirmed his son will be staying put with Hamburger SV until the end of the season.

The German outfit snapped up the Croatia international on loan in late August and the 18-year-old has gone from strength to strength in the Bundesliga, scoring two goals.

Speaking in an interview with Croatian newspaper Sportske Novosti, Danijel Vuskovic has confirmed Spurs won't be recalling the player this winter.

He said: “Until June, he is definitely at HSV, and after that we will sit down with Tottenham and see what’s best. I am extremely satisfied with how he lives and trains.

"I would not like him to skip steps and go straight to the English Premier League, which I believe is the strongest in the world. There is still plenty of room for growth. As far as I’m concerned, it wouldn’t be bad if he stayed in Germany.”

Vuskovic's brother Mario also plays for Hamburg, however, he is currently serving a doping ban which runs until November 2026.

According to Vuskovic Snr, the highly-rated youngster would be keen to remain at the club on another loan next season.

He revealed: “A lot is written about Luka. More than anything, he wants to stay at Hamburger SV to play alongside Mario.

“But that’s not up to him – he is under contract with Tottenham, and everything will be done in agreement with them. So far, everything has been completely fair; Spurs have respected Luka’s opinion."

A number of top European clubs including Borussia Dortmund and RB Leipzig are said to be showing interest in Vuskovic, signed from Dinamo Zagreb for around £12million in September 2023.

Due to Brexit regulations, Tottenham had to wait until after Vuskovic's 18th birthday to formally complete the transfer.

He has already spent time out on loan in Poland with Radomiak Radom and with Belgian side Westerlo, where he scored seven league goals last season.

Vuskovic's father has confirmed there is mounting interest in his son, though Spurs are unlikely to consider offers for their talented gem.

He concluded: “They call, many call, but I don’t pay attention because everything will come in time; he just needs to continue like this. There are people handling that part, and they inform us from time to time.

“It is not known to me whether Tottenham sees him solely as their future player or would be open to a transfer if a suitable offer comes. Luka’s current goal is to achieve results with HSV and to go to the World Cup with Croatia."

Archie Gray scored the only goal of the game as Tottenham defeated Crystal Palace on Sunday

Tottenham midfielder Archie Gray is eager to keep learning from mistakes after his first professional goal earned a much-needed 1-0 win at Crystal Palace.

Gray was at fault in a 3-0 loss at Nottingham Forest a fortnight ago when he was dispossessed on the edge of his own penalty area, but was backed by boss Thomas Frank afterwards.

The 19-year-old has since retained his spot in Spurs’ midfield and rewarded that faith at Selhurst Park with a close-range header to score for the first time on his 112th professional appearance.

“It was a difficult game for me at Forest,” Gray reflected, after he helped Tottenham to only a second win in their last nine Premier League matches.

“The mistake was obviously my fault but that game I just tried to get on the ball as much as I could, tried to be positive and forget about the mistake.

“Obviously (this) still wasn’t the best game, it was a scrappy game but to get a goal is something every child dreams of.

“We knew if we could keep a clean sheet, we would get the chances to try and get a goal. Our back four was amazing and everyone to be fair with the mentality.

“I just found myself in the right place at the right time and it was probably Richy’s (Richarlison’s) flick which did all the work. I was stood what two-yards out from goal?

“I didn’t really have much to do, but it’s an incredible feeling.”

Gray comes from a family with rich football tradition and leaned on the advice of father and ex-Forest forward Andy Gray in the aftermath of his error at the City Ground.

After Gray spent the majority of debut campaign at Tottenham as a makeshift centre-back, the highly-rated youngster has relished his recent run in midfield and is eager to keep developing.

He told SpursPlay: “My Dad has always said to me after you make a mistake, just go get on the ball and don’t be scared.

“That is something that stuck with me and I will never go hiding for the ball or anything like that.

“It is not something I have ever done or will do. If I make a mistake, that is football sometimes and I have just got to learn from that. I have and I’ve been working on training every day to put it right.”

Here are our Tottenham talking points following their Premier League victory at Crystal Palace to finish off 2025 on a high note

This was an ugly victory to end an ugly 2025 - that trophy in Bilbao aside - and the match ball likely struggled with altitude sickness at times, but Thomas Frank only cared about the perfect late Christmas present of three points.

The relief on the Dane's face was clear to see on the pitch at the final whistle and also inside Selhurst Park after the game in his post-match press conference.

These were three points that he and Spurs needed. In a bruising first half, a victory looked the least likely thing to emerge from this latest London derby as Crystal Palace kept pushing in waves of attacks, having eight shots at the visitors' goal before a Tottenham teenager turned the game on its head.

The problem for Oliver Glasner's men was that for all of their efforts at goal - 15 in total - none of them actually caused Guglielmo Vicario any trouble, with only two soft efforts on target. In contrast, Spurs had eight efforts at goal, four on target, hit the woodwork late on, had two Richarlison strikes ruled out for offside and crucially put the ball in the net off the head of 19-year-old Archie Gray.

If you want a snapshot of just how contrasting Tottenham's season has been, simply take a look at their home and away records.

The north London side have the 17th best home record in the Premier League this season but their victory at Selhurst Park left them top of the away table as the year came to a close, with 17 points from their nine matches, from five wins, two draws and two defeats.

They must improve that home form for while Glasner was able to enjoy a 2025 that brought a historic FA Cup win and what would be a sixth place finish in the calendar year, Spurs' record is very different.

They have played 37 Premier League games and won just 11, drawing six and losing a whopping 20 matches, meaning a total of just 39 points. That would place them 15th in a 2025 Premier League table.

This result and the manner of the fight shown in a derby at least sent Spurs into 2026 on a high.

"I think it was an even game in many ways. We had three key actions in the game where it's like this [does a hand signal to show small margin] between being onside, two of them, and being inside of the post, and a goal," said Frank.

"So if you're that close three times to scoring a goal, it's not bad, and then we would have scored four. That's a way to look at it. I really liked the desire, details, mentality in the team, and the character and resilience is something I spoke about a lot.

"That is so important that we have that resilience in the team, because in a long Premier League season, you need to go to a very difficult away ground here, and fight and show character. Get a clean sheet, win 1-0, that was a massive win in many ways."

He added: "Was it a top performance? No. Are there things we can improve? Yes. But to go here, with the season having been a little bit up and down, I think it's a huge mentality effort from the players.

"We were extremely disciplined throughout the game. For example, one of Palace's main strengths is transitions, and we really closed them down, something we worked very, very hard on, big discipline in the team and we need to do that."

A Gray future

In Archie Gray, Tottenham got another glimpse into their future for the teenager has the potential to be a key man for the club for years to come.

Frank has already noted the traits in him that make for a future leader. One of those is the ability to bounce back from adversity.

It was only a couple of weeks ago that Gray made a mistake in possession that was ruthlessly punished at Nottingham Forest and even at Selhurst Park, an early first half yellow card would have hampered many a younger - and older - player.

Instead the former Leeds youngster covered the pitch with tenacity and desire and when pushed forward into a more attacking role, he provided two driving runs which led to a Wilson Odobert effort and Richarlison's second ruled out strike.

"It was a difficult game for me at Forest. The mistake was obviously my fault but that game I just tried to get on the ball as much as I could and tried to be positive and forget about the mistake," Gray said in his club interview.

"Obviously this still wasn't the best game, it was a scrappy game but to get a goal is something every child dreams of.

"My dad has always said to me 'after you make a mistake, just go get on the ball and don't be scared'. That is something that stuck with me and I will never go hiding from the ball or anything like that. It is not something I have ever done or will do.

"If I make a mistake, that is football sometimes and I have just got to learn from that. I have and I've been working on training every day to put it right."

It was Gray's goal though that will live with him forever. Pedro Porro's high, deep cross was headed back by Randal Kolo Muani and flicked on by Richarlison and there was the teenager in the right place at the right time to nod the ball beyond Dean Henderson and into the net.

At first he was confused when he looked around for the celebrations and nobody was around him, perhaps wary after the earlier disallowed effort for Richarlison.

"When I turned around, I didn't see my teammates celebrate with me. I was a bit confused," Gray told Sky Sports. "I was like 'Have I just scored, or?'. But, no, it's a good feeling. It's definitely one that took too long.

"It's incredible, I don't know how to sum it up. It's a feeling I have been waiting for a very long time. After 112 appearances, I will give myself leeway because of the positions [I have played] but it's an incredible feeling. I think my family will be bantering me about how I have only scored now."

He added on the goal: "I just found myself in the right place at the right time and it was probably Richy's flick which did all the work. I was stood two yards out from goal so I didn't really have much to do, but it's an incredible feeling."

The surprise in the Spurs dressing room was that Gray scored with his head.

"Everyone was just saying they weren't expecting it to be a header. I wasn't expecting it to be a header as well. But I think that one came off my dad's instinct, so thankful for my dad for that," he said.

Frank has big plans for Gray and it's no coincidence that the youngster has now started five matches in a row.

"Archie is growing. He showed why he has a very good potential in many ways. I think it's another fine performance overall today," the Tottenham boss told football.london. "Talking about resilience, he made a mistake in the Nottingham game, played another good game against Liverpool, growing as a young man.

"I loved that goal, because he was alert, he was seeing where the ball will land and he was ready for it."

Gray's latest performance was another peek into a future where the likes of he and Lucas Bergvall could run the midfield at Tottenham and Frank agreed with football.london that it was a glimpse into what this team can become with the teenager in the centre of the park.

"Yes I think so. I think he shows a lot of quality, he covers ground so well, he's excellent in the pressing game, the defensive transition, brilliant at closing down," said the Dane. "Then I think he's good on the ball, but there are parts of the game where we are not top in that area, and didn't show enough of his qualities there."

Gray is a work in progress but he has all of the building blocks to construct the perfect box-to-box midfielder with his technique, energy, desire, mentality and anticipation. Top drawer football is in his blood, it's in the Gray DNA.

Taking their time

Elsewhere around Gray on the pitch, it took most of his Tottenham team-mates a while to find their feet and most looked much better in the second half.

Kevin Danso started his latest stand-in session for the suspended Cristian Romero shakily but hit his stride after the break and had the Spurs fans singing his name before the game was done with a player of the match display.

The Austria international topped the defensive stats of both teams with a huge 18 contributions, with three tackles, one block and 14 clearances.

While captain for the day Micky van de Ven and Rodrigo Bentancur racked up 13 defensive contributions, the next in Spurs' list was Richarlison with 11, thanks to two tackles, one interception, four ball recoveries and four clearances.

On any other day, the Brazilian would have ended the day with two goals and a handful of assists as well. His first effort, slid home from Pedro Porro's low cross, was ruled out due to Bergvall being well offside.

However, his second similar finish was offside by his own kneecap as VAR once against ruined his celebrations as well as Mohammed Kudus' after the Ghanaian's perfect ball into his run.

Richarlison popped up everywhere, flicking on a header for substitute Wilson Odobert to run on to and send a shot against the base of the left-hand post and the Brazilian nodded on the ball for the returning Radu Dragusin to head just over.

The scrappiness of the game suited Richarlison's tendencies and he fought for everything without the reward of a goal.

In the end, the Brazil international had to settle for the assist for Gray's landmark goal, which made it six goal contributions in his past 10 matches for the forward.

Richarlison is also playing plenty of minutes. Like Van de Ven and Romero, Spurs are getting the trio who missed much of last season out on the pitch regularly during this campaign and much of that has come through improved communication and regular, daily meetings between the coaching staff, medical department and performance team.

After the game Richarlison kept up his usual habit of grabbing the player of the match award and taking a photo with it, and he also nabbed Van de Ven's captain's armband to post on social media: "Captain, MVP, two goals disallowed, one assist, three points. What a day."

It was also a game in which Frank's substitutions worked. Joao Palhinha contributed some big sliding tackles and brought energy to prompt further questions about why he's suddenly fallen out of the Dane's first choice starting line-up.

The Portuguese replaced Lucas Bergvall, who went down with an injury that looked to be causing him plenty of pain before the young Swede went straight down the tunnel when he came off.

When football.london asked Frank if he was ok, the Spurs boss would only say: "I hope so, of course we'll assess him tomorrow."

Odobert was a lively presence against tired Palace legs and played a part in keeping the hosts occupied in their own half rather than attacking in the final moments. Brennan Johnson did similar on the right with a couple of trademark low balls into the box immediately after coming on.

Then there was the return of Radu Dragusin, almost 11 months after his ACL injury against Elfsborg. The Romanian has worked tirelessly to get himself back into a position to play Premier League football again and he almost scored with his first touch, sending a header just over the crossbar.

"I didn’t even know where to start," he wrote on Instagram. "11 months ago, I went from doing what I love most to not being able to do it anymore. But I never gave up. I knew it was going to be a long, tough road with lots of ups and downs.

"I had the right people next to me, my teammates and staff, who helped me on and off the pitch. My family was always there for me, especially during the difficult moments. It’s been 11 months of learning, suffering, good days and some bad ones. But that’s life. 11 months of becoming better than yesterday, even if only by 1%.

"It’s great to be back on the pitch again, next to my teammates, in front of our fans. Thank you to everyone who supported me during this period. It meant so much. COYS."

Paratici spotted

Up in the stands during the game at Selhurst Park, Fabio Paratici sat alongside Tottenham's CEO Vinai Venkatesham.

While Johan Lange is abroad following his Christmas family time, Paratici was back from his time in Italy amid the headlines surrounding his future and a certain Head of Football job that awaits at Fiorentina if he can extricate himself from the contract he only signed two months ago in north London.

The Fiorentina job reportedly comes with a huge amount of power to change the fortunes of Serie A's bottom side and would require him to get out next month in order to be able to get things in motion in the transfer window.

Unfortunately for Paratici and the Florence-based club, that's exactly what Spurs wanted him to do for them.

As of Sunday night, Tottenham were still yet to receive any approach from Fiorentina for their under-contract joint sporting director.

At least for Spurs this year they have learned to make themselves less reliant and beholden to one person at any level in the organisation.

An independent review instigated by the Lewis family uncovered an old-fashioned management structure within the club that needed overhauling, with some people in positions of power for lengthy periods without enough delegation.

For those who have departed, such as Daniel Levy after 24 years, it has taken time for those coming in to pick up the pieces and figure out where they go as departments used to running in a certain way for so long now have more autonomy. One of the key words of the new Tottenham is 'empowering'.

Venkatesham himself is said to have discovered a bigger job on his hands to kick on Tottenham than he expected when he first arrived. He will at least have the blueprint of what he helped put in place down the road at Arsenal in that regard.

Even having two sporting directors, with their shared loads, would make Paratici's departure, if Fiorentina can prise him away, less impactful than it would have been in previous years, but it's still a damaging time ahead of a window in which Frank needs help.

One of Paratici's strengths is his ease at manoeuvring between the worlds of agents and boardrooms and Tottenham need as much charm as possible in this upcoming window.

Spurs are expected to push up the ceiling on their wage structure in order to compete after years of having to rule out targets who wanted more than they could offer, but they are also not the most attractive proposition right now for big players.

They sit in the bottom half of the Premier League table, with a disgruntled fanbase and the prospect of a next season without Champions League football a distinct possibility if Sunday's win is not built upon.

It is the first transfer window at Tottenham in a quarter of a century without Levy involved and what that means will be found out in the weeks ahead.

Frank's transfer needs

football.london understands Spurs are looking to fix the entire left-hand side of their team across the next two windows, with a left winger a priority next month as well as potentially adding a midfielder and a centre-back.

Manchester City star Savinho was chased in the previous window and Tottenham will be hoping Antoine Semenyo's potential arrival in Pep Guardiola's squad could allow the Brazilian to finally make what would be an expensive move. If not, others will be sought but only if Frank believes they improve his options for the long-term.

While currently raw, Odobert is viewed as a strong future candidate for the left wing role by the head coach. There is also the hope that Mikey Moore will return from his loan at Rangers ready to push on down that flank, with the ability to come inside as a number 10 as well. Mathys Tel is currently seen as being something between a number nine and winger in his development.

Either now or in the summer, a natural left-back will be sought to balance the squad and provide competition for the injury-prone Destiny Udogie while allowing Djed Spence to compete with Porro, a player Frank rates highly, on the right.

Elsewhere it's all about upgrades and if Tottenham can secure any next month then they will look to do so in various positions, while ensuring they do not put themselves into future PSR problems after years of losses and an absence of strong sales.

Frank has now had almost six months to analyse his squad and believes it needs plenty of improvement around a small core of important players, both young and old, with additional new leaders required if the club are to become top four regulars again.

The Dane has made it clear that he wants better players - top four level quality - not simply more bodies next month and he vocalised that publicly in his interview with Sky Sports after Sunday's win.

"Of course the window will open and we will be in the market and see if there's anything we can do," he said. "But it needs to be something where we think it can clearly improve the team, if not I'd rather want to wait. But we will be out there."

If Tottenham move for a striker, with the club one of the many sides across Europe eyeing up Porto's pricey Samu Aghehowa, it says more about the lengthy wait for Dominic Solanke, who Frank sees as one of his core stars, as well as the long-term future for Richarlison and the on-loan Kolo Muani.

Players will be allowed to depart for the right price if upgrades are available, with Johnson and Dragusin looking for game time and having price tags that have not fallen.

Frank was asked about the former on Sunday and repeated his comments from last week: "Yeah, I think Brennan is very important for us. Maybe he didn't get many minutes, but unfortunately we can only play 11 players. We spoke about it before with Mo, he's coming in and put his stamp on that right winger position. Then the left, we tried different solutions. He's still started quite a few games. I think Brennan is an important player for us."

The Spurs boss is unlikely to say the Wales international can go but last season's top scorer is available for the right price.

While Dragusin got his first minutes in almost a year, there was also a rare sighting of summer signing Kota Takai on the bench. The Japan international has had an injury nightmare since arriving with foot and muscle issues.

The 21-year-old's appearance among the substitutes may well have been as much about letting potential loan suitors know he is fit and ready good enough for a Premier League bench than anything else. For Spurs had three players who could have come on as centre-backs ahead of him on that bench.

If Dragusin departs this month then Spurs are expected to bring another centre-back in through the doors.

While upgrades are being sought, there will also be an awareness of those to come back into the fold. Frank is a big admirer of Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison was set to play a big part for him this season.

As well as their goals and creativity, Kulusevski and Solanke in particular have been missed in terms of their personalities in looking to drive up the standards of those around them both on and off the pitch.

Frank appears to yet be convinced about his older midfield heads doing similar with consistent displays around the teenagers Gray and Bergvall, and that is expected to be a key upgrade area in January if the right candidate can be secured, with Yves Bissouma set to depart the club next year.

There are also the on loan potential stars of the future in Luka Vuskovic and Moore, while all eyes are on when 17-year-old Luca Williams-Barnett will be brought more regularly into the first team set-up.

There is also a new signing set to kick off his Spurs career in the coming days with 18-year-old Irish starlet Mason Melia having completed his time at St Pat's after 13 goals and four assists in 35 League of Ireland Premier Division matches this season.

This is no academy youngster coming in on January 1 hoping for U21s minutes. Melia has played 98 senior matches despite his age, including 12 European appearances in the UEFA Conference League qualifying rounds.

Frank will want to take a look at the strong, technically gifted teenager and decide whether it's more beneficial for him to learn around the Spurs first team players or send him out on loan to a good level to continue his rapid education.

There are plenty of decisions for Frank, Paratici, Lange and Venkatesham to make in the weeks ahead. Spurs go into 2026 with the taste of victory back in their mouths, but they need to do so much more if it is to become a more permanent sensation.