Thomas Frank insists he has backing and support at Tottenham despite receiving no assurances over his future as Spurs prepare for Champions League clash with Borussia Dortmund, while Arsenal take on Inter Milan and Marc Guehi completes Manchester City move.
Tottenham Hotspur Training and Press Conference – Monday January 19th
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Despite uncertainty surrounding his future, Thomas Frank is holding onto his position as Tottenham's manager.
Arsenal forward Gabriel Jesus has expressed his support for team-mate Viktor Gyokeres, while Marc Guehi has shared his relief after finalising his transfer to Manchester City.
In Premier League action, 18 year old Charalampos Kostoulas netted a last-minute bicycle kick, securing a 1-1 draw for Brighton against Bournemouth at the Amex Stadium.
Frank fully focused on Dortmund match.
Despite receiving no guarantees about his job security, Frank maintains that it's business as usual ahead of Tottenham's Champions League face-off with Borussia Dortmund on Tuesday.
During Saturday's 2-1 home defeat to West Ham, Spurs fans chanted "you're getting sacked in the morning" at Frank. This loss marked just one win in eight games and eight losses in 14.
The Press Association understands that discussions have been held at Tottenham regarding whether to end Frank's tenure after only seven months. However, he remained resolute on Monday, revealing that he had lunch with chief executive Vinai Venkatesham, sporting director Johan Lange and Nick Beucher, the son-in-law of Spurs co-owner Vivienne Lewis.
Frank stated: "I've just been feeling the trust along the way. I've said that at every press meeting, that there is backing and support."
Jesus backs fellow Arsenal striker.
Jesus has extended his support to Gyokeres following his fellow Arsenal striker's challenging start at the Emirates Stadium.
Jesus, who was sidelined for 11 months after undergoing surgery on a ruptured cruciate ligament, could be given his first Champions League start since December 2024 in Arsenal's showdown with Inter Milan on Tuesday.
He is poised to replace Gyokeres, who has netted just eight goals since signing for the Gunners and was substituted by Jesus in the second half of Saturday's goalless draw at Nottingham Forest.
Jesus said: "I have been in the position like Viktor is in now and it is not easy, but I am sure that everyone here – not only the coach, the staff, the players as well – is going to support him and give him the belief that he is here to help us."
Guehi 'relieved' to secure deal with City.
England centre-back Guehi expressed relief after finally sealing his £20million transfer from Crystal Palace to Manchester City.
The 25 year old, who was on the brink of joining Liverpool last year, could have moved as a free agent in the summer, but City chose to act after being hit with a defensive injury crisis.
Guehi had been linked with several clubs and is pleased that the speculation over his future can now cease.
"It's a relief," he said. "I'm very proud and very excited to get started.
"This move feels like the culmination of all the hard work I have put into my career. I am now at the best club in England and part of an unbelievable squad of players. It feels good to be able to say that."
Brighton boss Hurzeler full of praise for teenage star.
Brighton manager Fabian Hurzeler heaped praise on teenage sensation Kostoulas following his spectacular stoppage-time overhead kick that rescued a point at home against Bournemouth.
The Seagulls had struggled throughout the encounter and appeared destined for defeat following a contentious 32nd-minute spot-kick converted by Marcus Tavernier.
However, replacement Kostoulas intervened with his second strike in English football in stunning fashion, with Hurzeler commenting: "A great goal, but in the end we all prefer to win these type of games.
"He has the skill to do these kind of things, we know it. Now it's about doing the other things well."
What's on today.
The Champions League returns with Frank and Tottenham facing a crucial encounter against Dortmund in north London.
Arsenal, who have virtually guaranteed their progression to the next round, travel to San Siro to meet Serie A pacesetters Inter, whilst Manchester City venture into the Arctic Circle to take on Bodo/Glimt.
In the Championship, table-toppers Coventry meet resurgent Millwall, whilst Salford and Swindon compete for the opportunity to secure a lucrative FA Cup fourth-round tie away to Pep Guardiola's Manchester City.