Leeds United’s Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly axed Thomas Frank as their head coach.
Frank only took charge of Spurs in the summer, making the move to North London after seven years at the Brentford helm.
He was tasked with breathing life into the club after their lowly Premier League finish last term but has overseen a concerning plummet towards the relegation battle.
After their 2-1 defeat to Newcastle United last night (February 10), Spurs slipped below Leeds and into 16th.
Thomas Frank could not prevent his Tottenham Hotspur side suffering a home defeat to Newcastle United.placeholder image
Thomas Frank could not prevent his Tottenham Hotspur side suffering a home defeat to Newcastle United. | Steve Bardens/Getty Images
Tottenham Hotspur decision
According to The Athletic, Tottenham’s board have taken action in an attempt to arrest the club’s struggles.
Frank is said to have been relieved of his duties, with the club now thought to be exploring a number of contingencies.
Given the club are just five points above 18th-placed West Ham United, the need for a shrewd appointment is clear.
Final words
When asked last night if he would be in post for Tottenham’s upcoming derby clash with Arsenal, Frank said: “Yeah, I am convinced I will be. I understand the question. It is easy to point on me but it is never only the head coach, ownership, players or staff. It is everyone.
“Everyone knows what position we are in and what we need to improve on. That is what we are working hard on."
Fans were hostile towards Frank as his side were beaten by Newcastle and the 52-year-old said he understood their frustration.
Leeds United are due to visit Tottenham Hotspur in May.placeholder image
Leeds United are due to visit Tottenham Hotspur in May. | Michael Regan/Getty Images
He said: “I understand the fans' frustration. It's a position they don't want to be in. We are working day and night to try and change. It's a position the club have been in the last two years. The pattern is that the club are struggling to compete in Europe and the Premier League.
"Part of that is to eliminate injuries and suspensions. We face a Newcastle team that has struggled a little bit lately. But I think they were more on top first half and then we came back into it well. The second goal is a bit symbolic of our season."