The murmurs of transition were loud, the expectations immense, and the void left by key players palpable. Yet, under the astute guidance of new manager Thomas Frank, Tottenham Hotspur is not merely weathering the storm; they are charting a course for unexpected success. The early signs suggest a tactical masterclass unfolding, particularly in an area often overlooked yet profoundly effective: set-piece prowess. Frank is not just plugging gaps; he is strategically building a new foundation, transforming Spurs into a team that finds multiple avenues to victory.
The Genesis of a New Game Plan
Tottenham`s recent 3-0 demolition of West Ham United offered a revealing glimpse into Frank`s emerging philosophy. While the purists might pine for a constant flow of open-play brilliance, the reality of top-tier football, especially during a squad overhaul, often demands pragmatism. With the creative engines of Son Heung-min, James Maddison, and Dejan Kulusevski temporarily offline, the onus has shifted. Frank, it appears, has opted for a surgical approach, turning dead-ball situations into live-wire opportunities.
The opening goal against West Ham, a meticulously delivered corner from new signing Xavi Simons finding Pape Sarr, was no fluke. It was a testament to hours spent on the training ground, perfecting routines. Even Cristian Romero`s disallowed goal, originating from another dangerous dead-ball delivery, underscored this emphasis. The consistent threat posed by Simons and Mohammed Kudus from wide areas throughout the match spoke volumes: Tottenham`s set-piece strategy is not a fallback; it’s a primary weapon.
From Liability to Lethality: The Set-Piece Revolution
Contrast this season`s early performance with the previous campaign. Last term, Tottenham languished in the bottom third of the Premier League, scoring a mere 10 goals from set pieces while conceding a rather concerning 13. A stark imbalance, one might say, that hinted at a fundamental flaw. Under Frank, the script has been flipped with an almost theatrical flourish. Four games in, Spurs have already netted two set-piece goals and, perhaps more critically, are yet to concede one. While not quite replicating Arsenal`s “Set Piece FC” moniker just yet, it`s an undeniable leap in the right direction.
The second goal against West Ham, Lucas Bergvall`s header from a long ball by Romero, further illustrates Frank`s influence. While not a traditional set-piece, it epitomizes the rehearsed plays and directness he is instilling. It`s about exploiting opportunities, whether from a corner flag or a long-range distribution, demonstrating a holistic approach to offensive build-up beyond intricate passing sequences.
The Transfer Market`s Timely Intervention
The summer transfer window, initially fraught with near misses for talents like Morgan Gibbs-White and Eberechi Eze, ultimately proved fruitful. The arrivals of Xavi Simons and Mohammed Kudus have been transformative. Beyond their individual flair, their ability to deliver precise, menacing crosses and set pieces has been instrumental in powering Frank`s strategic pivot. These additions have not just bolstered the squad; they have recalibrated Tottenham`s tactical options, providing the precision necessary to execute the new manager`s vision. It seems the universe, or perhaps Daniel Levy, occasionally conspires to deliver exactly what a new manager needs.
Beyond Domestic Shores: Champions League Aspirations
With expectations soaring after a Europa League triumph and a return to Champions League football, Tottenham faces a challenging European journey. Their fixture list includes formidable opponents:
- Villarreal (h)
- Bodo/Glimt (a)
- Monaco (a)
- Copenhagen (h)
- Paris Saint-Germain (a)
- Slavia Praha (h)
- Borussia Dortmund (h)
- Eintracht Frankfurt (a)
The improved defensive solidity, coupled with their newfound set-piece threat, will be critical. The memory of the UEFA Super Cup, where Spurs let a two-goal lead slip against PSG, serves as a stark reminder of the fine margins in elite European competition. This time, Frank will be keen to ensure that tactical discipline and offensive variety, spearheaded by their set-piece capabilities, prevent a repeat. Micky van de Ven`s opening goal in that match was a glimpse of potential; now, it’s about sustained execution.
The Road Ahead: A Team Ready to Surprise
Tottenham under Thomas Frank is a work in progress, undeniably. The team still seeks its ultimate rhythm in open play, particularly as new players integrate and established stars return. However, one thing is abundantly clear: a repeat of a 17th-place finish is a distant nightmare. This team is built for resilience, for finding ways to win when the beautiful game gets gritty. If Kudus and Simons continue to click, if the defensive improvements hold, and if Frank’s tactical acumen keeps evolving, Tottenham Hotspur is not merely aiming for the Champions League last 16; they are positioning themselves as genuine contenders for a top-four Premier League finish. In football, as in life, sometimes the most effective solutions are found not in grand, sweeping gestures, but in the meticulous mastery of the small details – like a perfectly placed corner kick.
Dominic Ashworth