Frank to axe 0% regular to save his job – Tottenham predicted XI vs Brentford
Tottenham Hotspur return to Premier League action on Saturday afternoon when they host Brentford, with the pressure mounting on Thomas Frank’s side to finally rediscover a winning formula.
Spurs were forced to settle for a 2-2 draw away at Newcastle United on Tuesday night, despite an unlikely brace from Cristian Romero. The Argentine defender produced two stunning finishes to drag Tottenham level, but even his heroics could not hide the growing concerns surrounding the team. The result means the Lilywhites are now without a victory in their last five matches in all competitions, a run that has seen them slide down to 11th place in the table.
For a club with Champions League aspirations, the situation is becoming increasingly worrying. Spurs must find a response quickly if they are to avoid falling further behind the top-four contenders, and Saturdays’ clash with Brentford presents both an opportunity and a serious test.
Thomas Frank preparing major tactical and personnel changes
Frank’s future in North London remains uncertain, with fan frustration increasing after a series of disappointing performances. Saturday’s encounter carries added intrigue, as it will be the first time the Dane has managed against Brentford—his former club—since taking the Tottenham job. A poor result would not only damage Spurs’ season further but could also bring unwanted ridicule given the emotional layers of the matchup.
As a result, Frank is expected to make several bold changes to his starting XI.
One of the most scrutinised players from the Newcastle draw is Rodrigo Bentancur, who endured a nightmare evening at St James’ Park. The Uruguayan international lost possession nine times, failed to progress the ball effectively, and created nothing meaningful despite completing 38 passes and touching the ball 58 times, according to Sofascore. His lack of influence in midfield is likely to cost him his place.
Alongside him, Pape Matar Sarr may also find himself relegated to the bench. The Senegalese midfielder has been out of form for several weeks, and his struggles continued midweek—where he failed to complete a single dribble, lost the ball 11 times, and recorded a minimal 0.07 expected assists. With Spurs lacking creativity and incisiveness in the middle of the pitch, Sarr’s dip in output has become a major concern.
Who comes in? Palhinha and Gray set for recalls
Frank is now expected to restore Joao Palhinha to the base of midfield, offering much-needed stability and ball-winning ability. Alongside him, Archie Gray is pushing strongly for a starting role after shining against Paris Saint-Germain in Spurs’ recent Champions League fixture. The teenager’s energy, vision, and composure could be vital in reigniting Spurs’ midfield.
In defence, Micky van de Ven is almost certain to return to the heart of the backline after being left out against Newcastle. His pace, recovery speed, and leadership have been sorely missed. This likely means Kevin Danso will make way after a shaky outing on Tyneside.
Attacking concerns remain without Dominic Solanke
Up front, Tottenham’s injury problems continue to limit their options. With Dominic Solanke still sidelined, Frank will once again turn to Randal Kolo Muani to lead the line. The Frenchman has worked hard but has yet to deliver consistently in front of goal, and Spurs desperately need him to step up in Solanke’s absence.
A crucial match for Tottenham – and for Frank
Creativity and goal-scoring have dried up for Tottenham in recent weeks, and much of their decline has stemmed from a lack of spark in central areas. Frank knows he must inject energy, invention, and decisiveness back into the team—and fast.
A win against Brentford could ease the pressure on the manager and potentially kick-start Spurs’ season. Another poor performance, though, may push Frank closer to the brink.