Football FanCast

Tottenham and their search for a winger goes on after being told by Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo that he won't be arriving in north London.

Semenyo rejects Spurs as Frank scours for new attackers

As first revealed by the reliable David Ornstein, despite holding talks over personal terms, Semenyo has decided to reject Spurs' advances with Man City, Man United and Liverpool remaining in contention.

“Tottenham were very keen, and I’m led to believe were prepared to pay a significant salary to Antoine Semenyo, but he’s politely focusing on other options, mainly it seems City or United, and he will have to make a decision around that," Ornstein told NBC Sports this week.

“I think Arsenal might have looked at the situation, but more towards the summer, and I don’t think he’s willing to wait until that point.”

For the Lilywhites and Thomas Frank, it is back to the transfer drawing board as the club search for a new wide attacker who can provide that extra cutting edge in the final third.

Pressure is mounting on Frank after a poor run of five defeats in their last eight games, winning just two in that time, with the Dane under fire from large sections of the fanbase who feel he is not fit for the job.

Frank may also be about to lose co-sporting director Fabio Paratici, who's reportedly on the verge of a surprise move to Fiorentina just over two months after his return to N17 was announced.

If Paratici does return to Italy, it is down to Johan Lange and the rest of the recruitment team to ensure Frank is fully backed next month.

After being rejected by Semenyo, reports suggest that Tottenham are keen on Real Madrid winger Rodrygo, but Los Blancos are reluctant to sanction a mid-season exit after his recent return to prominence.

RB Leipzig's Yan Diomande has also held advanced discussions over a move to Spurs via his representatives, as per Sky Switzerland reporter Sacha Tavolieri, and he's still on their radar.

That is according to journalist Graeme Bailey, who's also lifted the lid on a new target with bags of potential.

Tottenham eyeing Ajax sensation Mika Godts after Antoine Semenyo blow

Bailey, writing for TEAMtalk, says Tottenham have identified Ajax winger Mika Godts as an alternative target after losing hope of signing Semenyo.

The 20-year-old, who has drawn comparisons to Eden Hazard, has emerged on the radar of Frank's side as they seek attacking reinforcements to arrest their disappointing campaign.

Spurs dispatched officials to assess Godts during Ajax's recent matches against Feyenoord and NEC, with the youngster providing an assist in a 2-0 win before scoring in a 2-2 draw.

The young left-winger has produced seven goals and six assists from 13 starts this season, establishing himself as one of the Dutch giants' key performers despite their own difficulties under interim manager Fred Grim.

Godts arrived from Genk two years ago as a teenager and has frequently been likened to Hazard due to his dribbling ability and playing style.

Frank had considered other options including Real Madrid's Rodrygo, though the Brazilian's recent form makes a January departure from the Bernabeu highly unlikely.

Leipzig would also demand an excessive fee for Diomande midway through the campaign, while City's Savinho signed a lengthy new deal recently which could elevate his price tag.

Several other Premier League clubs have sent representatives to watch Godts in recent weeks too, meaning Tottenham face competition for the Belgian's services.

Ajax want to keep their young talent, but their poor season could undermine their bargaining position if clubs test their resolve with significant bids next month.

Thomas Frank’s tenure as Tottenham Hotspur manager got off to the perfect start back in August, as he won each of his first two Premier League games in charge.

The Dane collected wins against Burnley and Manchester City, with the latter being away from home, showcasing the excellent work he conducted during his first few weeks.

However, the last few weeks haven’t been plain sailing for the 52-year-old in charge of the Lilywhites, subsequently winning just one of the last seven games in England’s top-flight.

His side have subsequently dropped into the bottom half of the table, which could even lead to a repeat of last season’s dismal finish under Ange Postecoglou.

With the January transfer market now approaching on the horizon, the board have the chance to back the manager in the market to help him in his quest for success in North London.

Spurs keen on a move for a UCL superstar

Over the last few weeks, Spurs have been on the hunt for a new winger, subsequently leading them to Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo, but competition is high for his signature.

Fellow Premier League clubs Manchester United and Manchester City have also been credited with an interest, with the player leaning towards a switch to either one of the aforementioned clubs.

It’s been reported that the Ghanaian international currently has a £65m release clause in his contract until the 10th of January, with any interested party needing to act quickly to secure his services.

As a result, the Lilywhites have been hunting for other alternatives, subsequently leading them back to Rodrygo after previously wanting to land the Brazilian in the summer.

According to TEAMtalk, Frank’s men have 'looked at' signing the winger ahead of January, but it’s unclear if Real Madrid would be willing to sanction a move in the winter.

The report doesn’t state whether a move would be a temporary or permanent one, but it could hand Frank the added attacking reinforcements he’s been craving in recent times.

Why Rodrygo would be Frank’s own answer to Semenyo

There’s no doubt that a deal for Semenyo would improve the options within the Spurs attacking third, which in turn could allow the club to rise up the Premier League table.

He’s already featured against the Lilywhites this campaign, helping the Cherries win 1-0 in North London, and showcasing what Frank’s side are missing out on.

However, it’s evident that the player has his heart set on a move to Manchester, which could see him torment the Lilywhites in the Premier League for many years to come.

£65m would be an excellent fee given his tally of eight goals and three assists to date, but ultimately, other targets are now having to be considered in the coming weeks.

However, during the next meeting, Frank could have his own version of the attacker in the form of Rodrygo - with the Brazilian possessing many similarities to Semenyo.

Like the Ghanaian international, he can operate in either wide position in the final third, either cutting inside off the left or driving across goal with his stronger right foot.

However, his underlying stats too showcase his talents, with many of which make him an excellent option for the Lilywhites for the second half of the campaign.

Rodrygo, who’s been dubbed “one of the best wingers in the world” by Spencer Mossman, has completed 90% of his passes this season, whilst also creating 2.1 chances in the process.

Both tallies rank him in the top 15% of all players in LaLiga to date, showcasing the excellent attacking option Frank’s men would be getting in the January transfer window.

He’s also completed 2.1 successful dribbles and notched 1.3 shots on target per 90, subsequently showcasing the threat he carries with the ball at his feet.

The Real Madrid talent has registered 8.3 touches in the opposition box per 90, whilst winning possession back 1.4 times per 90 in the final third - arguably being the perfect all-round attacker.

At this stage, it remains unclear whether the player himself would be open to a switch to North London, but it’s evident that Rodrygo would be a phenomenal addition this winter.

Missing out on Semenyo will likely be a bitter blow for Frank and the supporters, but if a deal is reached for the Brazilian in the weeks ahead - all will certainly be forgotten.

Tottenham Hotspur have been known to splash the cash in the attacking department over the last couple of years in an attempt to be successful in the Premier League.

After Thomas Frank took the reins during the summer transfer window, he was handed over £100m worth of funds to make the changes he desired.

Mohammed Kudus and Xavi Simons were both added to the Lilywhites squad, but have often found themselves struggling to produce consistent performances in North London.

The former of the duo hasn’t registered a league goal or assist in any of his last three matches, whilst the latter received a red card in last weekend’s meeting with Liverpool.

As a result, the Dane has made it clear he wants extra reinforcements during the winter window to help correct the recent slump in form within England’s top-flight.

Spurs want move for clinical Premier League talent

Over the last couple of months, Spurs have been just one of the clubs touted with a potential move to land Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo in the January window.

After it was confirmed that the 25-year-old had a £65m release clause in his contract, rumours massively built up pace, but now a deal appears somewhat unlikely.

It’s been reported that the Lilywhites are now set to miss out on the Ghanaian’s signature in the coming weeks, which has handed Manchester City and Manchester United a free run at a possible deal.

However, he’s not the only Premier League option currently in the hierarchy’s sights ahead of the winter window, with West Ham star Jarrod Bowen once again appearing on their radar.

According to TEAMtalk, the Lilywhites are keen on a deal to land the 29-year-old Englishman, who’s already scored five Premier League goals this campaign.

It also states that Spurs have been in contact with the Irons across the last four windows, but Nuno Espírito Santo’s side are reluctant to offload their star man during the upcoming window.

Previous reports have indicated Spurs may be willing to lodge a £60m offer for his services.

Why Bowen would be better than Semenyo for Spurs

During the 2025/26 campaign, Cherries star Semenyo has been one of the Premier League leading talents - as seen by his remarkable tally of goals and assists in the final third.

In his first 16 outings of the current season, the 25-year-old has already scored eight times and registered three assists - with such a tally the third highest of any player in the division.

He’s also netted numerous incredible efforts, including a superb solo strike on the opening day against Liverpool and a stunning byline effort against Fulham.

There’s no doubt he would be many of the supporters’ first choice this window, especially given his incredible efforts within the final third of the pitch this season.

However, a move for Bowen could prove to be a better option in the short-term at least, especially given his remarkable numbers in the Premier League over recent years.

The 29-year-old currently has a total of 61 goals in England’s top-flight, including a superb return of 16 strikes in his 34 appearances throughout the 2023/24 campaign.

Whilst he’s been outscored by Semenyo this season, Bowen has managed to outperform the Ghanaian international when comparing the pair’s respective stats in 2025/26.

The Hammers star, who’s been dubbed “sensational” by Ray Houghton, has posted a better goal per shot on target ratio in the Premier League this campaign.

Such a figure showcases that he’s able to take advantage of more of the chances which have fallen his way this season, arguably making him a more clinical option for Frank’s side.

He’s also posted a higher take-on success rate, whilst registering more carries into the final third per 90 - showcasing his ability to torment the opposition at any given moment.

Bowen’s ability to get past defenders is one thing, but he’s also been able to produce a better end product, as seen by his higher tally of crosses completed per 90.

Other stats, such as more shots taken and more fouls won per 90, showcase his all-round threat in the final third, with many backlines in the division often struggling to contain him.

After such a persistent effort to land the Englishman in recent years, January could present the perfect chance for Frank’s side to potentially make a move and land his signature.

It may be a deal that is unpopular with the fans, but the 29-year-old has constantly managed to provide the goods in the Premier League - something which is desperately needed within the current squad.

Tottenham face a crucial trip to Crystal Palace on Sunday as Thomas Frank's side desperately seek to halt their alarming slide down the Premier League table.

Spurs are sitting 13th after a turbulent campaign that has seen them win just six of their opening 17 league matches and lose five of their last eight top flight games.

The clash at Selhurst Park represents an opportunity for Frank to restore some confidence following Saturday evening's crushing 2-1 defeat to Liverpool, a result that left the manager under mounting pressure from supporters who have witnessed just two home league wins all season.

The loss to Liverpool proved particularly painful for Tottenham after they were reduced to nine men following red cards for Xavi Simons in the first half and Cristian Romero in stoppage time, with the Argentine captain losing his composure after winning a free kick and throwing a fit that earned him a second yellow.

Alexander Isak and Hugo Ekitiké scored for the visitors before a late Richarlison consolation, condemning Spurs to another setback in what has become an increasingly inconsistent and error-strewn campaign under Frank.

Palace represent dangerous opponents for Tottenham, sitting five places above them, with Oliver Glasner's side possessing the pace and directness on the counter-attack to exploit Spurs' vulnerable backline.

Frank will also be without several key players through injury with James Maddison, Destiny Udogie, Dominic Solanke and Dejan Kulusevski all long-term absentees, while the suspensions for Simons and Romero further deplete his options for the crucial festive period.

Another player who's been sidelined almost all season, and yet to make a single competitive appearance under Frank, is Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma.

Spurs were open to offers for the 29-year-old in the summer and he has been repeatedly penalised for disciplinary issues behind-the-scenes, with reports suggesting the Lilywhites have decided to sell him next year.

While Bissouma's deal expires in 2026, Spurs do have an option to extend it by a further year, but before that, supporters and Frank will be hoping he can contribute on the pitch at some point first.

Tottenham midfielder Yves Bissouma could return from injury on Boxing Day

The former Brighton star, who played a key role in Spurs' Europa League final win against Man United in May, has been called up to represent Mali at AFCON regardless of his injury.

According to Pierrot Le Foot, Bissouma has been ruled out of their opening Group A fixture against Zambia this afternoon in Casablanca.

The national team captain is one of three key players unavailable for the Eagles, alongside central defender Sikou Niakate and experienced right-back Hamari Traore, leaving Mali manager Tom Saintfiet with significant selection headaches.

However, it is believed that Bissouma is on the verge of a return to action after resuming full training.

PLF report that Bissouma could play against Morocco on Boxing Day, or, failing that, against Comoros three days later.

“In many major tournaments, some players start with injuries and then become the most dangerous [for their team] in the quarterfinals, semifinals, or final," Mali boss Saintfiet told reporters.

"Hakimi is also on Morocco's roster, and there's a reason for that, because he's one of those great players who are important. Yves (Bissouma) is my captain; he's important, he's a leader of our team. But we didn't make this decision alone.

"Our doctor is in contact with Tottenham's medical staff. We have assurances that Yves will be ready during the tournament. When the matches become more difficult, we'll be glad to have him with us."

This could come as good news for Spurs, as once the AFCON tournament is over, Bissouma could well be available for selection by Frank — giving them another option in the engine room.

However, he hasn't exactly made the best impression since Frank's arrival due to his off-field antics, so it remains to be seen whether the tactician will trust in his services.

Tottenham Hotspur have been hunting for a new talisman over the last couple of seasons, but none have been able to emulate the incredible levels achieved by Harry Kane.

The 32-year-old rose through the ranks in North London, even being sent on numerous loan spells in the EFL, before making himself a fan-favourite in the Lilywhites' first-team.

He would spend a decade scoring goals for fun in the Premier League, subsequently achieving a total of 280 goals for the club - the most of any player in their history.

Such a feat highlights his incredible goalscoring prowess, but his ability to score 30+ goals in 50% of his ten years in North London further showcases his eye for the back of the net.

Whilst no player has been able to replicate such levels in recent months, Thomas Frank could be about to be rewarded with a new talisman to help him in his quest for success.

Spurs prepare move for Premier League striker in January

Over the last couple of weeks, Spurs’ hunt for a new striker has taken them across Europe, subsequently leading to links over a move for Porto star Samu Aghehowa.

The Spaniard has been a player in tremendous form during the 2025/26 campaign, as seen by his remarkable tally of 18 goals in 25 appearances across all competitions.

However, any deal could well prove to be one outside of the Lilywhites’ range, especially considering the Portuguese side currently value him at £80m.

As a result, their hunt for a new striker has brought them back to England, with Manchester City star Omar Marmoush one player the hierarchy are targeting at present.

According to TEAMtalk, Frank’s men are considering an approach for the Egyptian international who has only started two league games so far this campaign following a mega-money £63m move last January.

The report also states that a loan deal with an option to buy could be the perfect option for all parties, but that other sides are also keen on a move this January.

Why Marmoush would be Spurs’ best striker since Kane

Since Kane’s move to Bayern Munich in the summer of 2023, Spurs have tried a whole host of options in the number nine position to try and fill the void at the top end of the pitch.

Richarlison is currently Frank’s number one option in such a position, as seen by his tally of 10 starts and seven goals in the Premier League so far this season.

As a result, Randal Kolo Muani and Mathys Tel have both been impact players, often having to resort to minutes off the bench - leading to a combined tally of two goals in the league during 2025/26.

However, prior to the Dane’s arrival, Solanke was the main number nine for the Lilywhites, something which was to be expected given his club-record £65m transfer.

He ended last season on 16 goals across all competitions, but has been restricted to just 31 minutes of league action this time around due to an ongoing ankle issue.

There’s no doubt he’s been the closest replacement to Kane, but that could be about to change should Marmoush make a switch to North London during the upcoming window.

Whilst he’s often struggled to dislodge Erling Haaland from his number nine role at the Etihad, his form at Eintracht Frankfurt is evidence of the talent he possesses.

Prior to his move last January, the 26-year-old netted a staggering 15 goals in his first 17 league games, not to mention also registering nine assists in the process.

His underlying figures further highlight his quality, with many of which place him above the likes of Kane in the Bundesliga during the 2024/25 campaign.

Marmoush, who’s been dubbed “phenomenal” by Sky Sports' Dougie Critchley, registered 2.3 shots on target and 0.93 goals per 90 - with both the highest of any player in Germany’s top-flight.

He also created 2.2 chances per 90, whilst also achieving a dribble success rate of 60% - subsequently showcasing his ability to provide for those around him in the final third.

The Egyptian’s talents were further reflected in his tally of 7.8 touches in the opposition box per 90, which could hand Frank the poacher-type forward he’s craved in recent months.

Whilst it’s unclear if the player or his current club would sanction a move this winter, it’s evident that Marmoush would be a sensational addition for the Lilywhites.

If he can replicate his numbers from his time at Frankfurt, he would certainly be the starting centre forward in North London and allow the club to end their hunt for a new talisman.

Tottenham Hotspur are now exploring a stunning move for an "unbelievable" Premier League forward, as an alternative to AFC Bournemouth's Antoine Semenyo.

Spurs eyeing new forward as Semenyo alternative

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Spurs are very keen on signing Semenyo, who has already scored eight league goals this season, with the transfer expert saying: "Tottenham have genuine and strong interest and are being very aggressive. But the final decision will depend on the player."

However, it could be difficult to get a deal for the Ghanaian over the line, given that he is attracting interest from a number of top clubs, with Liverpool, Manchester City, Manchester United and Arsenal also being named as potential suitors.

Such is their level of interest, Tottenham have already held talks to sign the forward, but it remains to be seen whether they are able to lure him to north London, given that they are not enjoying the best of campaigns.

Following the 2-1 loss against Liverpool on Saturday, the north Londoners sit 13th in the Premier League table, which means the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium may not be the most attractive of destinations.

As such, alternatives to the Bournemouth star are now being identified, with a report from TEAMtalk revealing they are now exploring a stunning move for Manchester City's Omar Marmoush, who arrived at the Etihad Stadium for £59m back in January.

Marmoush's game time has been very limited this season, which means he could be open to a move away, although Pep Guardiola is hesitant to sanction a departure, as the manager is keen to have strength in depth, given the busy fixture list.

With Semenyo making a move to Spurs deemed 'increasingly unlikely', amid rival interest, Thomas Frank has started to scour the market for other forwards, and there are indications the City ace could be an excellent addition to the Dane's squad...

"Unbelievable" Marmoush could flourish at Tottenham

The 26-year-old has found it difficult to force his way into Guardiola's plans, so it may be wise to move on this January, and his goal and assist record for Eintracht Frankfurt suggests he could flourish at Tottenham.

The former Frankfurt man also put in some eye-catching performances during his first season with City, amassing seven goals and two assists in 16 Premier League outings.

One of those goals was particularly impressive, with the Egyptian scooping up the Goal of the Season award courtesy of a remarkable strike against AFC Bournemouth.

Tottenham Hotspur’s 2-1 defeat against Liverpool on home soil last night will no doubt have cranked up the pressure onto the shoulders of manager Thomas Frank.

The Dane’s side were unable to get anything out of the clash with Arne Slot’s men, subsequently leaving the Lilywhites in 13th in the Premier League to date.

Frank’s side have now lost back-to-back games once again, subsequently shipping five goals in the process - and highlighting the struggles that face them in the defensive third.

After yet another defeat, the fans are now starting to get desperately impatient with the manager, especially after the struggles endured under Ange Postecoglou last campaign.

The club have now already racked up seven defeats out of their first 17 league outings, with no doubt two players taking the majority of the blame for Saturday’s defeat.

Spurs’ poor performers against Liverpool

Despite failing to impress against Nottingham Forest last weekend, Frank decided to stick with Xavi Simons from a starting position in the number ten role.

The Dutchman struggled to get into the game early on, only registering one dribble completed, but he certainly announced himself in the contest for all of the wrong reasons.

He was originally booked for a lunge on compatriot Virgil van Dijk, but after a VAR check, the midfielder was sent off for the first time since his £52m move in the summer.

Simons wasn’t alone in failing to deliver, with centre-back Cristian Romero once again being unable to deliver at the heart of the backline alongside Micky van de Ven.

The Argentine was unable to stop Hugo Ekitike from leaping above him to put Slot’s side into a two-goal lead, whilst also failing to win a single tackle in the contest.

Like Simons, he was also handed his marching orders after being adjudged to have kicked out on Ibrahima Konate in the closing stages after already being booked.

The Spurs star who’s becoming more unreliable than Simons & Romero

After winning just one of their last eight Premier League matches to date, there are evidently some key issues that Frank needs to address within the Spurs squad.

The Lilywhites’ only win in such a run came against the manager’s former side Brentford, whilst subsequently suffering a defeat in five of those outings.

It’s evident that something has to give in the next few games, especially given the slump in the table, which has seen the Dane fall below his former employers, whom he left to join the Lilywhites.

One of his biggest issues has been his inability to identify his best starting eleven in the Premier League, which has no doubt cost him in key matches of late.

He’s often started with a two-man midfielder with Simons in the number ten, with Rodrigo Bentancur one of the men usually called upon to start in such a role.

The Uruguayan has now started 13 out of a possible 17 league games this campaign, including a run of four in a row - including the two most recent defeats.

However, despite the faith shown in him by the manager, he’s rapidly becoming an unreliable option, with his constant selection now even becoming a baffling one.

His stats against Liverpool showcase his lack of impact, with the 28-year-old also becoming a bigger issue than the aforementioned duo despite their dismissals.

He featured for the entirety of the clash against the Reds, subsequently losing six of the duels in which he entered - a tally higher than any other player on the pitch.

Bentancur also managed to achieve an 80% pass completion rate, but was often wasteful, as seen by his tally of 10 times possession lost - one of the highest of any Spurs player.

The midfielder was often unable to live with the intensity of the opposition - especially in the second half - resulting in two fouls committed and leading to yet another booking.

His disappointing showing was further showcased in his tally of being dribbled past once, whilst also being dominated in the air and losing 75% of those battles.

As a result of his showing, Bentancur was handed a measly 5/10 match rating by The Express’ Archie Griggs - further reaffirming his dismal performance in North London.

After such a showing, it should now be clear to Frank the Uruguayan is unfortunately not at the level required to achieve success during his tenure at the club.

However, the Dane will need to make huge calls in the future if he is to be a success with the Lilywhites, especially given the recent slump in Premier League form.

Liverpool might have landed their third win on the bounce in all competitions at Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday, but there's no question that Arne Slot's side left plenty of room for improvement, lacking control and fluency throughout.

Xavi Simons was sent off after scraping his Dutch captain Virgil van Dijk's leg in a studs-up challenge before the interval, and Cristian Romero saw red too in the closing stages, kicking out at Ibrahima Konate in a startling display of fury.

Both centre-backs came away unscathed, but the same can't be said for Alexander Isak, whose fleeting appearance down N17 resulted in a goal but an injury to his leg to go with it.

Isak misery continues down N17

Isak has not found his feet at Liverpool, having joined the Premier League champions from Newcastle United in a record-breaking £125m deal on deadline day.

The 26-year-old's goal at the weekend was only his second of the league campaign, but it was a flash of brilliance and a reminder that this is a player who had been hailed "the best striker in the Premier League" last season by pundit Jamie Carragher.

He has struggled, but much of that is because of Liverpool's dysfunctional system, with wingers and creativity as a whole struggling to be directed toward the Sweden international's line-breaking movements.

It was, however, a strong finish, rifled past Guglielmo Vicario and into the back of the net following neat interplay between Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike.

Slot will be hoping for more of the same going forward, but even if Isak avoids a long-term injury layoff, the threat of fitness blows is growing for a striker whose track record is not the finest.

He's a concern, the world-class striker, but he's not the biggest worry in Liverpool's first team.

Slot must drop £150k-p/w Liverpool flop

Liverpool laboured their way to a win at Tottenham, and now they have climbed to fifth place in the Premier League, level on points with Chelsea ahead of them.

But so much more work must be plied if Slot is to bring his team back into the ascendancy, and one of the tougher decisions the Dutch tactician must make is dropping Alexis Mac Allister, who has been a pale imitation of his once elite self this year.

The £150k-per-week midfielder had stood out as a "superstar" throughout his first two terms in Liverpool, as was remarked by pundit Joe Cole, but he's fallen by the wayside this year, lacking all of his physicality and sharpness and completeness.

As football analyst Pythagoras in Boots puts it: "Mac Allister has gone from the heartbeat of Liverpool's midfield to its ghost."

The Liverpool Echo did give the Argentina star a solid 6/10 match rating, drawing attention to his involvement in the build-up to Liverpool's opening goal, but it was also said that he struggled to influence his team's attacking play from his creative berth at number ten, and his wider metrics from across the campaign underline that.

As per Sofascore, Mac Allister, 26, failed to create a chance, nor did he attempt a tackle. He lost five duels, winning only two. He did not attempt a dribble and made just one recovery.

This all points toward a staggering athletic regression and a crisis of confidence. He's becoming Slot's biggest problem, and he needs to be dropped.

Heading into Tottenham Hotspur's clash with Liverpool in the Premier League, Thomas Frank would have been hoping for a response from his hot-and-cold troops.

Indeed, off the back of a demoralising 3-0 loss away at Nottingham Forest, the Dane remained under intense pressure to succeed in North London, and he hasn't helped his precarious job position by following up that humiliation at the hands of the Tricky Trees with a disappointing 2-1 defeat against Liverpool.

Spurs' mission to pick up a much-needed three points was not boosted by Xavi Simons' reckless dismissal in the first half, as the number seven's bumpy start to life in England continued against the resurgent Reds.

How Xavi Simons let Spurs down

Simons' arrival in North London for £52m attracted a lot of fanfare in the summer, with the expectation that the former RB Leipzig man would instantly settle into life swimmingly in his new surroundings.

Having scored two goals against Brentford and Slavia Prague earlier in the month, the hope would have been that Simons could now kick on, having found the initial transition hard.

Unfortunately, though, he would only last 33 minutes against the Merseyside giants, with zero efforts attempted on Alisson's goal, before being given his marching orders for this mistimed challenge on Virgil Van Dijk.

Coming out after the 2-1 defeat with a public apology, Simons will pray, when he does return, that he can finally find some consistent red-hot form for Spurs, or he will surely fear that he's already been dismissed as an expensive flop.

He isn't the only flop in the attacking areas that will be frustrating the Spurs masses at the moment, though, as this other high-profile summer acquisition constantly spurned chances up against the reigning Premier League champions.

Frank must drop this other Spurs flop

Frank will know if he doesn't steer the sinking Spurs ship back on course soon that he could face the sack already, as the board will not want consistently poor results.

He does have plenty of time now on the training pitch, as his side's next Premier League test isn't until the 28th, but he will be hesitant to start Randal Kolo Muani up front against Crystal Palace in the immediate aftermath of the 2-1 defeat, after his wasteful showing against Liverpool.

In total, the France international would see four shots pass him by, with one header very close to beating Alisson, before Simons' red card dominated the narrative.

Away from looking lively in spurts when through on goal, Muani would - unfortunately - become isolated during large spells of the game, with only six accurate passes tallied up by the 27-year-old in total.

Moreover, come the end of his 80 minutes on the pitch, the hot-and-cold number 39 would amass fewer touches of the ball than Guglielmo Vicario in between the sticks, with the Italian's tally standing at 38 touches, next to Kolo Muani's paltry 17.

To make matters even worse for the Spurs loanee, who is breaking the bank with his £150k-per-week salary, Richarlison would only be on the pitch for a matter of moments as his replacement when he buried home this opportunity, leading to Spurs content creator Jonny Blain hailing his cameo as "superb".

Could Frank now be tempted to start the ex-Everton attacker over the 27-year-old for the short trip over to Selhurst Park?

With Richarlison boasting another six Premier League goals for the season, it does feel like an easy swap to make, with Muani still yet to break his league duck for Frank's men, ten games into his journey in the English top-flight.

His inaccurate display in front of goal against the Reds does make for a convincing argument to suggest he was as bad as Simons was, even with the Dutchman barely lasting only half an hour on the pitch, as Muani had far more time to leave his mark on the game, and he didn't.

Frank will just hope, whatever lineup he decides to field against the Eagles, that another Premier League win comes his team's way soon, with Muani likely to be cast aside from his starting XI plans if he continues to fire blanks.

Rarely do Liverpool emerge from the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium without some scratches and bruises, and while Arne Slot's side defeated the Londoners in the Premier League, it was a victory tainted by numerous grievances.

But this is not shaping out to be a pretty season for the Premier League champions, whose successive victory in the Premier League have extended their unbeaten run to five matches, with a win in the Champions League against Inter Milan at San Siro besides.

After a fiery and frantic encounter, Liverpool showed that they still lack the requisite control and fluency to challenge for the league title.

Alexander Isak's goal should have been a relief, a turning point for the struggling talisman. But Isak got injured in the process of scoring off the bench.

Alexander Isak's misery continues

When it rains, it pours. It is typical that Isak entered the fray after half-time and quickly bagged to set Liverpool on their way against Thomas Frank's Spurs, only to injure himself in the process of striking on goal.

It looked a painful one, with the 26-year-old, who joined Liverpool from Newcastle United for a record-breaking £125m fee on deadline day, swept aside by Micky van de Ven. It has since been insinuated that Isak has damaged his lower leg, which is preferable to a knee injury, if still deeply concerning.

The saving grace comes in the shape of Hugo Ekitike, whose second-half strike marked his fifth goal in three Premier League games. The 23-year-old joined Liverpool for £69m in July, and he looks every bit the world-class superstar Slot needs to spearhead his system.

It wasn't a fine performance, but Liverpool got the job done, and the win underlined the calibre of attacking talent the Reds have at their disposal.

Now, an anxious wait for fears of a long-term layoff to be allayed - or not - for Isak, who scored only his second Premier League goal of the campaign.

Isak and Ekitike both got their goals, but it was a superstar on the other end of the field who proved himself to be Liverpool's main man on a crucial evening in the Premier League

A fierce attack wins you games, but a mean defence wins you titles. Liverpool have got some of the best in both areas, and so must surely kick on now, having won three in a row in all competitions.

If the Reds are to rekindle their most fluent form, Virgil van Dijk will need to maintain the level of performance that he struck against Tottenham, commanding against the home side's pesky frontline.

In the thick of the action after international teammate Xavi Simons committed a studs-up challenge and got sent off before half-time, the 34-year-old avoided injury as so many of his teammates dropped like flies.

He was awarded an 8/10 match rating by the Liverpool Echo, with praise drawn to his aerial dominance and quality on the ball, notably winning 11 of 13 contested duels and completing 94% of his passes.

Isak and Ekitike both took their chances, but Van Dijk came up trumps as the focal point of a backline that has left so much to be desired this season, simply incapable of mustering the kind of cool control needed to match or even come close to the feats of last year.

There was much to dislike about Liverpool's performance against the nine-man Lilywhites, but the important thing right now is to get points on the board, and Van Dijk's steely form is proving instrumental in getting the side back on track.

If Liverpool are to make something of this season, they will need Van Dijk on his A-game, performing as he did down N17, a throwback to his imperious best.