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Tottenham expert believes Thomas Frank has one of best players anywhere in Premier League

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Tottenham is home to several players who are or have the potential to be world-class.

Thomas Frank seems to be building a strong competitive side this season.

Spurs’ win over West Ham made it three wins in four in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Lucas Bergvall’s performance in the UEFA Champions League for Tottenham meant that the Dane ended his first game in the competition as a manager with a win.

However, individual brilliance continues to play a role in this developing Tottenham side, and the Lilywhites may be a recipient of one of the best the Premier League has to offer.

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

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Destiny Udogie hailed as one of the Premier League’s best

Destiny Udogie returned for Tottenham in their 1-0 win over Villarreal in the Champions League.

The fullback had previously been sidelined with an injury, with Djed Spence’s recent Tottenham performances proving doubters wrong.

But as good as Spence has been, Tottenham expert and Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes Udogie is still better than him and most of the left-backs in the Premier League.

“I still think Udogie is a little bit better than Spence when he is fully fit in firing,” Wenham said.

“The fullback that we saw linked with Manchester City earlier in the summer, if you remember, that’s the level he can be, in my opinion. I think Udogie’s first season was absolutely phenomenal at Tottenham, and he was rewarded by becoming Italy’s left back.

“He’s had a couple of injuries since, but I think when you get him back to full form, he’s one of the best left-backs in the Premier League. And I think he’s the best left back for Italy as well.

How do Djed Spence and Destiny Udogie compare?

If going by the eye test alone, Udogie seems to be more complete out of the two. The Italian can defend well and is also excellent going forward.

However, data from last season indicates that Spence edges Udogie attacking-wise. The recently capped England international recorded 91 progressive carries per 90 to Udogie’s 84.6 per game.

Meanwhile, Spence had 40.9 per 90 in progressive passes while Udogie recorded a woeful 17.5 per game. Despite this, the Italian had him beat in both defensive duels and possession won.

But while the data indicates that Spence is the better attacking fullback, his partnership with Xavi Simons demonstrates a hesitancy to overlap on the wing. This is something Udogie has done consistently while at Spurs.

As a result, it will be interesting to see if the scales tip in Udogie’s favour now that he has returned to the fold.

Kevin Danso backed to take Thomas Frank opportunity amid ongoing Tottenham issue

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Kevin Danso has found gametime hard to come by at Tottenham so far this season.

The Austrian’s last start came in the UEFA Super Cup clash with PSG in early August, and he has picked up just 11 minutes of football in the Premier League so far this term.

Danso only joined Tottenham permanently in the summer as his loan move from Lens was turned into a permanent deal, but he already finds himself little more than a squad player.

Thomas Frank has hardly called upon the defender at all so far, and Danso will surely be desperate to get on the pitch and make an impact.

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

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Kevin Danso stuck behind ‘world-class’ duo at Tottenham

Danso became a fan favourite at Tottenham during his loan stint last season, and he came into the side and played an important role as injuries ravaged the group.

However, since he joined the N17 outfit permanently, the centre-back has hardly kicked a ball, with Frank largely sticking to the duo of Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven at the heart of the backline so far.

Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that Spurs’ excellent start defensively is providing an issue for Danso as he tries to break into Frank’s plans.

However, he also backs the Austrian to take his chance whenever it does arrive.

“Danso never lets you down,” Wenham said.

“He’s liked by the squad, he’s liked by the fans. The issue he’s got this season is that we’re on four clean sheets out of five. We’ve got two world-class centre-backs in front of him, who are injury-free at the moment.

“But when the opportunity arrives, I’ve got no doubt in Danso to come in and perform well. His throws are such a danger.”

Kevin Danso has to establish himself as third choice

With Radu Dragusin nearing a return for Spurs, Danso must ensure that he continues to show enough to establish himself as the third-choice centre-back in Frank’s eyes.

As good as the starting pair are, history suggests that neither are likely to make it through the entire season without picking up an injury at some stage.

As a result, if the 27-year-old can become the first cab off the rank in terms of replacements, then it is almost guaranteed that he will get the opportunity to impress at some stage.

If he performs well when that chance is presented to him, then it will be his shirt to lose for the remainder of the campaign.

Thomas Frank to frustrate Tottenham fans with Xavi Simons decision vs Brighton

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Xavi Simons was a statement signing towards the end of the summer transfer window for Tottenham.

The Lilywhites were desperate to land a creative midfielder and finally got their man in the Netherlands international.

Simons wowed Spurs supporters during his Premier League debut against West Ham and delivered an important assist.

However, Thomas Frank is set to annoy the Tottenham faithful with a call he could make against Brighton.

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

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Thomas Frank to play Xavi Simons on the left vs Brighton

Tottenham were warned about Simons’ attitude when he arrived in North London, but he has been all smiles so far.

Indeed, Simons delivered a promising display for Spurs against West Ham and exceeded his expected output at the London Stadium, according to Sofascore.

However, large parts of supporters have called for Frank to deploy the Netherlands international in a central role.

Despite their demands, Lilywhite Rose owner Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes Simons will continue to play out wide.

“I think Frank’s just trying out a few different things in the squad,” Wenham said.

“Obviously, Simons can play on the left and was pretty good against West Ham, got the assist for the first goal from a fantastic corner. He’s never played in the English league before, and we will take a few games to get up to speed, but I think it’s a promising start.

“Frank is probably just assessing the different options at the moment. I think against Brighton, Simons will probably start again coming from the left-hand side.”

Why are Tottenham fans calling for Xavi Simons to play centrally?

Given how productive Simons was on the left, some might argue that Frank’s decision to play him out wide paid off.

However, given his creativity and vision, there are suggestions that the 22-year-old would be better suited in the middle of the park.

Indeed, the Dutchman has been utilised more centrally throughout his career and possesses better numbers in that position.

Also, the fact that Simons was signed to fill the void left by James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski begs the question of why he has played out wide.

Of course, Frank is experimenting with his players and will figure out his best team in due course, but he may well continue to irritate supporters.

Brighton vs Tottenham: Kick

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Brighton vs Tottenham in the Premier League: Kick-off time and how to watch

Tottenham are aiming to continue their positive start to the new campaign away at Brighton on Saturday.

The Lilywhites are flying high in the early-season Premier League table, having taken maximum points from three of their four games so far.

Spurs also opened their Champions League campaign with a win on Tuesday night, as an own goal carried them past Villarreal on their return to European football’s premier club competition.

Thomas Frank and Co. will be hopeful of securing another encouraging result, but they won’t find it easy against a Brighton side who have already claimed the scalp of Manchester City this term.

Brighton vs Tottenham is a Saturday 3pm kick-off

Spurs have big aspirations in the Premier League this time around, as they seek to right the wrongs of their dismal domestic campaign in 2024/25.

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The Lilywhites have tasted victory in both of their opening two away matches of the new top-flight season, but they now face the prospect of a trip to a venue where they have been beaten on each of their last two visits.

Brighton have had a mixed start to the new campaign, but are certainly capable of providing a surprise result on their day, and Frank and his men will certainly be well aware of that.

The encounter between the two will kick-off at 3pm BST, as the Lilywhites prepare for their fourth traditional Saturday afternoon clash of the season.

Spurs fans in the UK cannot watch Saturday’s game live

The Brighton clash is a big game for Tottenham this weekend, as they cannot begin to allow their European exploits to get the better of their league campaign, as it did last season.

With the N17 outfit playing in the Champions League this term, Saturday kick-offs will become a regular fixture for them once again as the campaign goes on.

Unfortunately, in instances like the Brighton game when the clash kicks off at 3pm BST, supporters in the UK will be unable to watch the game live on TV.

UK fans will instead have to wait until after the conclusion of the game to catch highlights packages from the likes of Sky Sports and the Premier League.

However, fans in the USA will be able to catch every second of the action via Peacock’s Premium channel.

Mohammed Kudus set to thrive at Tottenham as early doubts brushed aside

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Mohammed Kudus has shone for Tottenham since arriving from West Ham in the summer.

Kudus signed for Tottenham over the summer as one of several players brought in to strengthen Thomas Frank’s squad.

The right winger starred in his Premier League debut for Spurs in their 3-0 win over Burnley and has gone on to become an integral player for Frank.

However, there is one part of his game that has been critiqued by Tottenham fans in recent days.

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

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Mohammed Kudus set to be ‘brilliant’ for Tottenham despite not scoring

Kudus has not yet scored for Tottenham in a competitive game since he arrived in North London over the summer.

He came close during Spurs’ win over West Ham in the Premier League, but even his best efforts were swatted away by Mads Hermansen. As a result, Tottenham fans have begun to feel a little on edge regarding his goalscoring form.

However, Tottenham expert and Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes any doubts about him are far too premature.

“Kudus might be somebody who contributes to the team enormously, and maybe doesn’t get the goals and assists,” Wenham said.

“I think his first goal is probably coming in, just a matter of time. He’s an outstanding player, one of our best players already. So any doubts about him are too early.

“I think I think he’s fantastic. I think he deserves the recognition he’s received so far. I’m sure the first goal is to come in, and I just think he’s going to be a brilliant player for Tottenham.”

Why has Mohammed Kudus not yet scored for Tottenham?

One of the biggest reasons for Kudus’ goalscoring drought is that he is not getting into enough goalscoring positions.

As such, he has only taken six shots in four Premier League games this season with an expected goals of 0.53 per match.

Another reason is the over-reliance on Spurs’ right-hand side to create goalscoring opportunities. This stems because the partnership of Djed Spence and Xavi Simons is not as established as Kudus and Pedro Porro.

One can assume that Kudus will score more once Simons adjusts to his role on the left or Destiny Udogie returns.

As a result, Tottenham fans will need to be content with the right-winger’s impressive creative output for now.

Thomas Frank hailed for ‘brilliant’ quality that is already being seen at Tottenham

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Thomas Frank has been hailed for the impressive start to the season that he has overseen at Tottenham.

The North Londoners have won three of their opening four Premier League games and sit second in the early-season table, just a matter of months after the new boss took the reins.

Frank’s Tottenham side continued their promising run in the Champions League in midweek, even if they did have to survive a second-half scare to beat Villarreal.

The former Brentford boss has made a seamless adaptation to life in the dugout in N17, and he has a clear ability that has been central to his early success.

This article includes the opinion of iconic football commentator Ian Darke.

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Thomas Frank ‘brilliant’ at building team spirit at Tottenham

Frank has rotated quite heavily at Tottenham in the last few weeks, but that doesn’t appear to have created too many problems for him when it comes to the harmony within the squad.

Almost every player has played their part in the encouraging opening to the season, and they will be desperate to sustain that as we enter the bulk of the campaign.

The boss has made a big step up after his time in charge of Brentford, but he appears to be having all the right effects so far.

Iconic football commentator Ian Darke – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – believes that Frank’s ability to foster camaraderie within a group has played a central part in Spurs’ success so far this term.

“I think he’s number one quality,” Darke said.

“Frank gets everybody on the same path. He’s brilliant at building a project and building a spirit. And I think you’re seeing that.

“They’ve got one or two eye-catching, surprising performances. Leave aside the Bournemouth game, because there’s going to be hiccups; they’ve gone on and won against Manchester City along the way.

“They’ve also won at West Ham. It’s a good start to the season. There’s no two ways about it.”

Spurs won’t regret Ange Postecoglou decision

Ange Postecoglou’s sacking by Tottenham was a controversial decision when it was made, but a few months down the line, the club hierarchy must surely be delighted with their call.

Their new man is much more measured and personable than his predecessor, and that can often go a long way in the eyes of the players.

Frank appears to have got the entire squad pulling in the same direction, and as long as that continues, then Spurs will likely continue to churn out strong results.

Thomas Frank expected to delay Kolo Muani’s Premier League debut amid new Tottenham claim

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Randal Kolo Muani’s arrival at Tottenham rightly caused excitement, given his exploits at club level.

The forward made his European debut in Spurs’ Champions League victory over Villarreal, although he only played 13 minutes.

While many will be expecting the France international to play a part against Brighton, it may not be so straightforward.

Indeed, it appears that Kolo Muani is going to be kept waiting by Thomas Frank before he gets a meaningful opportunity.

This article includes exclusive comments from Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham.

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Randal Kolo Muani likely to get domestic debut against Doncaster Rovers

Tottenham face a difficult trip to Brighton this weekend, and it is a fixture that has caused them issues in recent seasons.

Indeed, if Spurs lose to Fabian Hurzeler’s side, then it will be the first time they have lost three successive Premier League games to the Seagulls.

Goals have been a common feature of the matchup, and they are something that Kolo Muani will want to deliver in spades.

However, Lilywhite Rose owner John Wenham – speaking exclusively to Tottenham News – does not think that he will be given a chance.

“I think he’s probably going to debut [domestically] against Doncaster Rovers,” Wenham said.

“It could be 10 or 11 changes as it’s a home game, it’s a League One side, I think we all really use the opportunity to rotate.

“A lot of those players will be staking their claim for more involvement thereafter by attempting to put in an impressive performance.”

Why is Thomas Frank making Randal Kolo Muani wait at Tottenham?

While many would presume that the forward would slot straight into Frank’s side, several factors are standing against him.

Perhaps the biggest one is the fact that he arrived late in the window, although that has not hampered Xavi Simons.

Furthermore, the early-season form of Richarlison means that he has been a prominent figure in the tougher matches.

The only game that the Brazilian has not started was in the 3-0 thrashing of West Ham, where Mathys Tel was given a rare start.

However, Kolo Muani has had ample time to get up to scratch and must surely be fit enough to start.

All that the 26-year-old can do is bide his time and grasp his opportunity when it arrives.

AJ Tracey thinks Thomas Frank is doing something wrong at Tottenham, it’s easy to fix

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Thomas Frank has not been able to escape criticism despite a solid start at Tottenham.

Frank was hailed as Tottenham’s signing of the summer soon after taking over from Postecoglou.

The Dane has won all his games in the Premier League this season other than Spurs’ 1-0 defeat to Bournemouth at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

Impressively, the Lilywhites have conceded just one goal since the league season began. However, there are warning signs that the Dane will need to address to go far in all competitions this season.

AJ Tracey unconvinced by left-wing Xavi Simons

Xavi Simons arrived at Tottenham from RB Leipzig over the summer in what people believed to be a James Maddison replacement.

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However, the Dutchman has started on the left wing during both of his Spurs appearances. While Simons shone on his Tottenham debut, he looked completely out of place in Spurs’ win over Villarreal in the UEFA Champions League.

There remains hope that Destiny Udogie’s return could bolster Simons’ left-wing performances. But musician and lifelong Spurs supporter AJ Tracey seems unconvinced.

Speaking via talkSPORT Spurs on 18 September, revealed that he does not want to see Simons on the left wing.

He said: “I do think that Xavi Simons playing out on the left is not preferable. Richarlison can also play on the left, so you can maybe swap them around a little bit and rejig.

“[Dominic Solanke] can play on the left, to be fair. It wouldn’t be my preference, but I’d rather have him there than someone who doesn’t play there at all. We need creativity.”

Thomas Frank should give Wilson Odobert a chance

Wilson Odobert impressed for Tottenham in their pre-season wins over Arsenal and Wycombe Wanderers.

Following the return of the competitive season, it was believed that Odobert could start on the left wing for Frank. But he seems to be a second thought for the Dane.

Odobert is a natural left wing whose electric pace and elite close-control could cause havoc down the left-hand side. But whether it is due to tactics or his inexperience, Frank continues to trial and test several other options.

But with the left wing levels below Spurs’ right-hand side, Frank may have no choice but to start the natural left winger.

Tottenham early team news vs Brighton as Thomas Frank rules ‘outstanding’ player out

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Thomas Frank will be eyeing a statement win when his Tottenham side travel to Brighton on Saturday.

Spurs defeated Villarreal 1-0 in the Champions League, but that was only down to a goalkeeping howler from Luiz Junior.

In the Premier League, Frank has delivered several positive results for Tottenham despite a home defeat to Bournemouth.

Ahead of the trip to the Amex Stadium, Frank has delivered some significant team news that will prick the ears of the Lilywhites faithful.

Dominic Solanke will not play for Tottenham against Brighton

Tottenham face a daunting trip to Brighton, and it has been a fixture that the North London club have struggled in of late.

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Indeed, if Frank’s men lose to the Seagulls, then it will be the first time in the Premier League that the Lilywhites have lost three successive away matches to the South Coast side.

The Dane is expected to shake up his team after their Champions League win, with Richarlison likely to return to the starting lineup.

Spurs supporters would have been wondering when Dominic Solanke would return to first-team action, but Frank has revealed that they will have to wait.

“The positive thing is he’s back on the grass, and he has been doing so for three to four days,” Frank said during his pre-match press conference.

“He’s progressing, slowly, but he’s progressing. Too early for tomorrow and too early for Doncaster.

Dominic Solanke will boost Spurs when he returns

While he failed to hit significant numbers during his first season, Solanke is still a valuable player at Hotspur Way.

Last term, the striker bagged just nine league goals, but he offered so much more value to the team.

Indeed, his former manager Ange Postecoglou offered him significant praise back in January.

“Dom has been outstanding in the way he has carried the frontline for us during this period,” the Australian said via BBC Sport.

“We put a lot of demands on that position. It’s not just him standing up there scoring goals – it’s working hard for the team.”

While he was favoured under Postecoglou, under Frank, every player has a fresh slate.

However, if Solanke puts in the same effort for his side this campaign, then it will only be a matter of time until he becomes a regular again.

Richarlison pulls full on strop in new Tottenham footage after what he’s been told

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Richarlison was seen looking less than impressed as he continues to navigate through the 2025/26 season.

The Brazilian has had an impressive start under Thomas Frank. Richarlison netted a brace for Tottenham against Burnley before providing an assist against Manchester City in the Premier League.

His output has since decreased but still started for Frank in Spurs’ win over Villarreal in the Champions League.

However, the striker has not been impressed with the latest developments at Hotspur Way.

Richarlison unhappy with EA Sports FC rating

Richarlison looked less than impressed in a new video uploaded onto Tottenham’s X account on 19 September.

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The Brazilian can be seen in the video, jokily throwing the EA Sports FC 26 game onto the floor after being told his rating, along with the other Tottenham players.

The striker’s overall rating in the game is 78. His shooting and dribbling match this. However, his defensive actions sit at 53, and he comes in at 72 on passing. His overall rating in the 2025 version of the game was 81, which shows a 3-point decrease.

How has Richarlison performed for Tottenham this season?

Many believed Richarlison had proven several individuals at Tottenham wrong after a strong start to the season.

Richarlison was expected to leave Spurs over the summer, but ended up remaining and netting a brace during his opening Premier League game of the season.

However, after a goal and assist in his first two games, the Brazilian’s contributions have come to a halt. Richarlison has failed to score or assist in Spurs’ last two Premier League games.

While goal contributions are not everything, his creative output is still lacking. In four games, the striker has created one big chance and has made 0.8 key passes per 90.

As a result, Richarlison will be looking to get on the scoresheet when Tottenham takes on Brighton in the Premier League.