Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has expressed confidence that the club's new ownership will afford him the time needed to build sustainable success, despite a fractious period that saw him criticise supporters for booing goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario.
Frank stands by fan criticism after Fulham defeat
The comments followed a damaging 2-1 home defeat to Fulham last Saturday, Spurs' third loss in six days. Frank described those who jeered Vicario after his error led to Fulham's second goal, scored by Harry Wilson, as "not true fans." On Monday, the manager refused to retract his statement but acknowledged that the only way to mend the relationship with the fanbase is to "perform and keep connected."
This reconnection must begin with Tuesday night's challenging Premier League fixture away at Newcastle United. Tottenham's form has been dismal, with just three wins in their last 13 matches across all competitions. Their record at St James' Park is particularly concerning, having lost their last four visits there while conceding 14 goals.
Backing from the board and support for Porro
Despite the growing tension, Frank stated he is "very confident" he retains the long-term backing of the new Spurs management group, led by chief executive Vinai Venkatesham. This new structure was established following Daniel Levy's unexpected departure in September.
"It seems like they're good guys, intelligent people," Frank said of the owners. "They know how to run businesses and are learning about football... When we're dealing with intelligent people they can see every successful dynasty, every successful club has taken time."
Frank also defended defender Pedro Porro, who took to social media after the Fulham match to post a message "to the true Spurs fans." Porro explained he stormed off the pitch at full-time due to anger at hearing "disrespect from the fans to my teammates." Frank said, "What he put out there was fair in every aspect."
A call for unity ahead of a tough run
Addressing the notion that he has lost a section of the support, Frank questioned the scale of any dissent and called for everyone to rally behind the team. "I'm pretty sure every fan wants to win and wants to support," he said. "When you say you lose the fans, how many is that? Five per cent, 10%, 15%, 20%? How much is it? I don't know. We would like to get all 100% on board."
The immediate focus is on arresting the slide at Newcastle, before Frank faces his former club Brentford at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium on Saturday. The manager's belief in a patient, long-term project from the owners will be tested if results do not improve swiftly.
