Frank on Spurs’ Struggles and Upcoming Clash with Newcastle

Thomas Frank has acknowledged that Tottenham Hotspur is “desperate” to secure a home victory against Newcastle on Tuesday. However, he admitted that he is uncertain whether Dejan Kulusevski will be able to play this season.

Currently sitting in 15th place, Spurs find themselves only six points above the relegation zone after managing just two wins in their last 16 Premier League matches. In response to questions about the possibility of relegation, Frank refrained from speculating on Tottenham’s survival prospects but emphasized their intense desire to achieve their first domestic win of 2026.

“There is no doubt we are desperate to win games. Desperate,” Frank asserted. “My focus is entirely on the match against Newcastle tomorrow. It presents a great opportunity for us to face a strong team. The main objective is to secure three points, which would allow us to build momentum for future matches.”

Unfortunately for Tottenham, several players, including Kulusevski, will be sidelined. The Swedish midfielder has been absent since May due to a serious knee injury and recently received an injection to alleviate pain. Frank could not provide a positive update regarding Kulusevski’s status, especially after he was omitted from Tottenham’s Champions League squad for the knockout phase. When asked about Kulusevski’s potential return this season, Frank replied, “I don’t know. Deki has another appointment later this week, which will give us more clarity. However, being excluded from the Champions League squad indicates that his return is unlikely to be imminent.”

The injury list has grown, with left-back Destiny Udogie sustaining a hamstring injury during the 2-0 loss to Manchester United. Frank noted, “Unfortunately, Destiny has a hamstring injury and will be out for the next four to five weeks.”

On a more positive note, Djed Spence has returned to training, yet the team will miss captain Cristian Romero, who begins a four-match suspension following his red card against Manchester United. “I believe we have discussed Romero enough in previous press conferences,” Frank stated. “He is a young leader who is learning every day. I remember when I was 30; I felt invincible, yet I was far from the leader I am today. A player who plays with such passion and aggression can sometimes encounter situations like this, but it’s essential for him to learn from it.”

Frank also called upon the Tottenham fans to rally behind the team, highlighting the importance of support during this challenging period. “We desperately need their backing,” he emphasized. “When we are short on players and confidence is low, it’s crucial for us to unite and push through together.”