In anticipation of the high-stakes North London Derby, Tottenham’s manager Thomas Frank remains focused on his squad and the upcoming challenge against Arsenal. The match, scheduled for Sunday, marks a critical moment for Spurs as they aim for only their second Premier League victory at the Emirates Stadium since its opening 19 years ago.
Focus Shifts from Eze to Upcoming Derby
Frank recently addressed the media, downplaying the significance of Eberechi Eze, who was once a target for Tottenham but ended up signing with Arsenal. Despite the rivalry, he expressed confidence in his current players and insisted he is satisfied with his team’s composition. “Who’s Eze? Very good player. He plays for Arsenal—a team we want to beat on Sunday,” Frank joked.
Preparation for Derby Chaos
As the derby approaches, Frank described the atmosphere as a “madhouse,” expecting an intense and unpredictable game. He remarked on the historic tension in North London derbies, which often guarantee drama and excitement. “I expect a difficult game of course, but a game that can go anywhere,” he noted.
This clash has particular significance for Frank, who previously claimed a point at Arsenal with Brentford and achieved a memorable win during his first Premier League outing in 2021. He wryly referred to two players he used during that match, David Raya and Christian Nørgaard, who have since joined Arsenal, dubbing them “traitors.”
Set-Pieces Key to Success
Set-pieces will play a crucial role in the match. Arsenal leads the league with 12 goals from set-plays this season, while Tottenham has made strides under the guidance of set-piece coach Andreas Georgson. Frank emphasized the importance of maximizing opportunities from corners and free-kicks, areas where both teams have shown effectiveness.
- Arsenal: 12 goals from set-pieces
- Tottenham: 5 goals from set-pieces
Frank acknowledged the competitive nature of derby matches and indicated that chaos could benefit his strategy. “We need a bit of chaos. Chaos can also be transitions, high-pressure, and set-piece actions,” he said. He remains committed to attacking play, stating, “We will never go for a 0-0. It may end 0-0 but we will always try to win. Always, always, always.”
As Tottenham prepares for this critical encounter, all eyes will be on their performance at the Emirates, striving for a vital victory in the North London Derby.
