Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank clearly learned a hard lesson following his side’s 2-2 draw against Manchester United.
While the late goal from Matthijs de Ligt was a bitter pill to swallow, the broader picture suggests Spurs should be reasonably pleased with the point, considering how poorly they initially performed. The match exposed some glaring misjudgments in lineup choices and reinforced the importance of trusting the right players in key positions.
Spurs began the game with a lineup that left them vulnerable, and the decision to start Djed Spence at left-back alongside Richarlison on the left wing caused immediate concern.
The two struggled to make any meaningful impact, with Spence’s defensive limitations and Richarlison’s lack of consistency leaving large gaps in Spurs’ play. Frank’s decision to substitute Randal Kolo Muani instead of Richarlison drew criticism, given the Brazilian’s underwhelming performance, although Richarlison did end up contributing a fluky, decisive goal that momentarily masked his struggles.
The turning point came when Thomas Frank finally introduced Destiny Udogie and Wilson Odobert into the game. Their impact was immediate and transformative. Udogie, operating at left-back, stabilized the defense while also contributing to forward play, something Spence had struggled with all game.
Odobert’s introduction on the left wing revitalized Spurs’ attacking threat, combining with Udogie to create five clear chances in the short period they were on the pitch.
Mathys Tel also came off the bench to score, but his position as a winger versus a striker remains uncertain, highlighting that Odobert is the most reliable creative option on that flank.
This game served as a stark reminder that Udogie and Odobert are not just squad players they are essentials. Spence, despite being a regular starter in the absence of better options, has shown repeatedly that he is not at the level required in the Premier League.
His defensive shortcomings and inability to progress the ball forward make him a liability, and starting him over Udogie seems an error that Frank is unlikely to repeat. Meanwhile, Odobert has proven himself as the go-to wide creator, capable of finding space and producing opportunities in ways other players on the left flank simply cannot.
The game also highlighted a broader theme in Frank’s management: the importance of recognizing which players genuinely elevate the team. While some substitutions and positional shifts are tactical necessities, ignoring clear evidence of a player’s impact can be costly, as seen in the first half.
Spurs’ attack only came alive when Frank trusted the young, dynamic duo of Udogie and Odobert. Their chemistry, movement, and ability to create chances from nothing underscored their value and cemented the fact that they should be automatic starters moving forward.
Richarlison, while redeeming himself with a goal, remains inconsistent and a source of frustration. His ability to influence games is limited unless supported by more capable teammates in the wide positions.
Similarly, the match reinforced the need for Frank to consider squad depth thoughtfully; relying on underperforming players out of habit or perceived seniority can hamper team performance.
Ultimately, Tottenham’s draw against Manchester United was a lesson in patience, timing, and player selection. The contributions of Udogie and Odobert were undeniable, providing a blueprint for how Spurs should structure their attack and defense going forward.
Thomas Frank now has a clear message: talent and performance must dictate starting positions, and any deviation from this principle can lead to frustration and missed opportunities.
The match may have ended in a draw, but it offered valuable insight into who Spurs’ true starters are and highlighted mistakes that Frank is unlikely to repeat.
