Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has publicly backed the club's new ownership to provide him with the necessary time to build a sustainable and successful project, while issuing a stern rebuke to supporters who jeered their own players during a damaging home defeat.
Frank's Confidence in New Spurs Regime
Ahead of Tuesday night's Premier League fixture against Newcastle United, Frank expressed strong confidence in the Lewis family, who assumed control of the club following Daniel Levy's departure as chairman in September. The Dane, who is just beginning his relationship with the new hierarchy, praised their business acumen and growing football knowledge.
'I'm very confident,' stated Frank. 'It seems like they're good guys, intelligent people. They know how to run businesses and are learning more about football. When we're dealing with intelligent people they can see every successful dynasty, every successful club has taken time.'
He emphasised that while instant success is possible, longevity requires a solid foundation. Frank pointed to his own career history, having been given time to turn around slow starts at both Brondby and Brentford, where he spent over three and nearly six years respectively.
Manager Condemns 'Unacceptable' Fan Behaviour
The manager's comments come in the wake of Tottenham's 1-2 home loss to Fulham on Saturday, a result that extended their winless run at home to six matches. The defeat was compounded by sections of the home crowd booing and mocking goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario after his error led to a Fulham goal.
Frank described the incident as 'unacceptable' and questioned whether those involved were 'true Tottenham supporters'. He clarified his stance, distinguishing between booing at full-time to register disapproval and targeting players during the match.
'What I meant by that was the mocking of one of their own players,' Frank explained. 'He makes a mistake and there is a little bit of booing after that... The next ball, he clears and there is like a cheering. You can't do that. The opponent can do that. You can't do that as a fan.'
This is not an isolated issue. Frank revealed that players discussed the matter in a team debrief after a previous 1-0 home defeat to Chelsea, where Vicario and defender Djed Spence were also booed. Some players subsequently decided against applauding fans after the final whistle if they heard booing during play.
Seeking Harmony During a Tough Run
Tottenham's form has been poor, with just three wins in their last 13 games across all competitions. Frank stressed the critical need for unity between the team and the supporters, especially during matches.
'During matches that's where we need each other,' he said. 'Afterwards, it's fair with the booing but during, that is when I want to create a fortress.'
He confirmed he would like his players to acknowledge the travelling fans after the Newcastle game, a gesture that was notably absent from many after the Fulham match. 'It is important that we connect with the fans,' Frank added, recommending his squad always offer applause in recognition of support.
Frank also offered his full backing to goalkeeper Vicario, whose position as number one he insists is not under threat. 'Oh no, not for me, he made one mistake,' said Frank. 'Everyone makes mistakes. His character is fantastic in every aspect.'
The manager's appeal for patience and harmony highlights the challenges facing the new Tottenham ownership as they seek to stabilise the club and build a team capable of consistent success, with fan sentiment appearing increasingly fractured in the post-Levy era.
