Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank expressed his delight for Xavi Simons after the Dutch playmaker's starring role ended a troubling home run with a 2-0 Premier League victory over Brentford on Saturday.
Simons Seizes His Opportunity
Under growing pressure following a series of disappointing results, Frank handed Simons his first start since November 8, a decision that paid immediate dividends. The £52million signing, in his 19th appearance for the club, needed only 25 minutes to make an impact, providing the assist for Richarlison's opening goal.
Simons then capped a superb individual display by netting his first goal for Spurs just before half-time. After initially losing possession, he won the ball back near the halfway line, drove forward past Yehor Yarmoliuk, and drilled a low finish into the bottom corner in the 43rd minute.
Frank Hails a 'Good Step' Forward
The win was Tottenham's first at home in the league since August 16 and only their fourth in 2025, providing vital relief for the Danish coach. "Happy for him," Frank said of Simons. "He has been working very hard, he is a top pro... but it’s a little bit of adaptation."
Frank emphasised the confidence boost the goal and assist would provide, adding: "That is what I believed from the beginning that Xavi could produce... this was a very good step. Now we need to do it again and again." The manager also highlighted an improved offensive performance from his team, who had won just once in their previous eight matches.
Crucial Result Amidst Growing Pressure
The fixture carried significant weight for Frank, coming off the back of a shock 2-1 home loss to Fulham the previous weekend. Another defeat would have intensified scrutiny on his position, making the three points imperative.
Tottenham could have won by a greater margin, with Djed Spence, Wilson Odobert, and Pape Sarr all denied in the second half. Meanwhile, Brentford boss Keith Andrews, who worked under Frank last season, admitted his side failed to hit their required levels in the first half against a revitalised Spurs.
The victory, inspired by Xavi Simons's moment of magic, offers Tottenham a foundation to build upon as they seek consistency in their Premier League campaign.
