Thomas Frank faces 'emotional return' as Tottenham head to Brentford in league clash

Frank took charge of Brentford in 2018, ultimately managing 278 league games and guiding the club to Premier League status, before moving to Spurs in June last year.

"I spent nine years at Brentford, almost seven as head coach," Frank said this week. "Brentford Football Club, the fans and especially the people I worked closely with have a special place in my heart. That's the longest time I've ever been in a club." But he also made it clear his focus remains on securing a positive result for Tottenham.

Spurs come into the match looking to build on a gritty 1-0 win at Crystal Palace on December 28 where teenager Archie Gray scored his first senior goal in the Premier League. "It was a beautiful, ugly win," Frank said after that game, reflecting on Spurs' resilience. "It's definitely a quality you need to have if you want to achieve something big."

Tottenham's season has been mixed. After lifting the Europa League last May, Spurs finished 17th in the Premier League in 2024-25 before progress under Frank this season saw them climb into mid-table. Their home form has been inconsistent, and in their last nine league matches before Christmas they had only two wins.

Frank was candid about areas needing improvement, especially on the ball. "We need to be better on the ball," he said. "That's one area we're working very hard on." He added that despite the emotional backdrop of facing Brentford, the priority remains performance and results.

Brentford boss Keith Andrews, whose side sit below Spurs, warned his team will be tough opponents. But for Frank, this visit is more than just another game, it is a personal return that carries weight, emotion and the chance to show how far his Spurs side have come under his guidance.