Tottenham manager Thomas Frank enters Saturday’s clash with Burnley under mounting pressure, despite a morale-boosting Champions League victory over Borussia Dortmund midweek. The trip to Turf Moor represents a pivotal moment for the Dane, as Spurs risk extending their dismal Premier League run against a relegation-threatened side.
The "Dr Tottenham" Curse Strikes Again?
Spurs have unwittingly become a remedy for struggling teams this season. Bournemouth and West Ham both ended prolonged winless streaks against Frank’s side earlier this month. Now, Burnley – mired in a 13-game league winless run – hope to follow suit. Last season, Tottenham similarly "healed" Ipswich and Crystal Palace during their respective slumps.
European Highs vs League Lows
While Tottenham sit fifth in their Champions League group after Tuesday’s 2-0 win over Dortmund, their domestic form paints a bleak picture. With just two wins in their last 13 Premier League matches, only Burnley, Wolves, and Bournemouth have fared worse since November. Frank’s 31.8% league win rate ranks among the lowest in Spurs’ managerial history.
Michael Dawson, former Tottenham captain, acknowledged the temporary respite from criticism: "The Dortmund win quietened a few people, but Burnley away is a bigger test now."
Relegation Fears Loom
A loss to second-bottom Burnley could leave Tottenham just seven points above the drop zone ahead of a nightmare February schedule. Spurs face Manchester City, Newcastle, Arsenal, and Manchester United next month – a run that could define their season.
Tim Sherwood, ex-Spurs midfielder, warned: "The pressure would skyrocket with a defeat. They must translate European performances to the Premier League." With 31 league losses since 2023 – second only to Wolves – Frank’s tenure hangs in the balance as Tottenham seek to avoid becoming Burnley’s unlikely lifeline.
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment
Be the first to comment on this article!