Thomas Frank backs Tottenham's Archie Gray to reach Rodri, Declan Rice levels

Gray, who left his boyhood club Leeds United at the end of the 2023-24 season in a 40-million-pound deal, is set for an emotional return to Elland Road on Saturday.

If selected, the 19-year-old will make his 52nd appearance for Spurs in the lunchtime kick-off, having already established himself as a regular under Frank.

The Spurs boss believes Gray's talent can take him to the very top, comparing his potential to that of Manchester City's Rodri and Arsenal's Declan Rice.

Gray, who made 52 appearances for Leeds before moving to north London, won admirers across England during his breakthrough campaign at Elland Road.

Frank revealed he had been keen to sign the midfielder during his time at Brentford and is now relishing the chance to guide his development.

"Let's put it this way, yes, we spoke with him, but he ended at Tottenham and maybe that was good because I still have the chance to work with him," said Frank.

"I see him as a midfielder who can play six or eight. That is his position and I think these days midfielders need to be more complete.

"You need to be a little bit of a six, little bit of eight and 10 and two of the best in the world right now are probably Rodri and Declan Rice.

"I think they can do a little bit of everything. I see Archie and they are big names to compare him too, but I see he has got the same potential.

"When do we judge a player? I think it is probably fair two years down the line where we can really make a big assessment.

"I am also being judged from game to game so I know how it works, but I think to judge it as a success or failure, I don't think you can really do that before two years.

"That's not to say you cannot be judged for your performances and if you haven't done well, that's fair."