Tottenham Hotspur’s frustrating inconsistency struck again as they crashed out of the League Cup following a 2-0 defeat to Newcastle United. What should have been an opportunity to build momentum instead turned into another setback, leaving fans and pundits questioning the team’s direction under Thomas Frank.
Despite flashes of promise in recent weeks, Spurs once again looked flat, uninspired, and short of answers when it mattered most.
Their performance at St. James’ Park was sluggish from start to finish, with Newcastle outclassing them in every department. Tottenham’s attack, which has struggled for rhythm throughout the season, once again failed to deliver.
Even their recent 3-1 victory over Everton now feels like an illusion of progress, considering two of those goals came from defender Micky van de Ven. Without the Dutchman and Cristian Romero, Spurs lacked both defensive stability and attacking bite, and the absence of leadership on the pitch was glaring.
At the heart of Tottenham’s struggles was yet another disappointing display from Richarlison. The Brazilian striker was handed another start up front, but his performance did little to justify Frank’s continued faith in him.
He was wasteful in possession, disconnected from his teammates, and repeatedly failed to convert promising opportunities. The frustration was evident both on and off the pitch.
After the game, Thomas Frank usually calm and measured in his media appearances broke his silence on the issue. Speaking in his post-match press conference, he didn’t hold back entirely. “We created some big chances,” Frank said.
“Sometimes Richarlison arrived too late.” While the words themselves may have been mild, the message behind them was unmistakable. For a manager who rarely criticizes his players publicly, those few words carried significant weight. It was a subtle but clear signal of frustration.
Richarlison’s form has been one of the biggest talking points of Tottenham’s season. Once seen as a high-energy forward who could change games with his intensity, the 26-year-old now cuts a completely different figure.
His decision-making has been poor, his finishing inconsistent, and his link-up play almost non-existent. Despite his tireless running, his effort rarely translates into meaningful contributions. Spurs supporters, who once hoped he could be the long-term answer up front, are now losing patience.
On Wednesday night, his struggles were on full display. Tottenham created several chances through wide areas, but Richarlison couldn’t make the right movements or apply the finishing touch.
There were moments when he seemed out of sync with the rest of the team, almost as if he were playing to a different rhythm altogether. His frustration grew as the game went on, and by the time he was substituted, it was clear that confidence had completely deserted him.
For Thomas Frank, the situation is becoming increasingly problematic. His tactical system relies heavily on fluid movement and sharp finishing qualities that Richarlison currently lacks.
Many fans now wonder if the manager regrets not cashing in on the Brazilian during the summer transfer window. Reports suggested Spurs had opportunities to move him on for a modest fee, but Frank opted to give him another chance. With each passing game, that decision looks more questionable.
What makes Richarlison’s struggles even more glaring is the contrast between his work rate and his productivity. No one doubts his effort he runs, presses, and battles tirelessly but most of that energy leads nowhere.
It’s as though he’s trying too hard to make things happen rather than playing with instinct. The result is a player who expends enormous effort but delivers very little end product.
Tottenham’s broader attacking issues only amplify the problem. With Son Heung-min playing deeper and James Maddison yet to find his best form, Spurs are desperate for a reliable goalscorer.
But Richarlison’s inability to deliver in crucial moments leaves the team toothless in front of goal. The defeat to Newcastle was yet another reminder that something needs to change quickly if Spurs are to compete for silverware this season.
For now, Thomas Frank’s comments may serve as a warning shot to his misfiring forward. Whether Richarlison can respond positively and rediscover the form that once made him a fan favorite remains to be seen.
What’s clear, though, is that Tottenham cannot afford many more nights like this not if they want to move forward. Another early cup exit has only deepened the frustration, and unless the team’s attacking woes are fixed soon, patience from both the fans and the manager may begin to run out.
