Tottenham manager Thomas Frank has made it clear that he will not use injuries as an excuse as his team prepares to face Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday night.
Spurs travel to St James’ Park with a long list of absentees, but the manager insists that setbacks are part of football and his focus remains on finding solutions rather than complaining about problems.
Both Tottenham and Newcastle are navigating the demanding schedule of competing in the Champions League alongside their domestic fixtures.
This midweek Cup tie comes right between two crucial Premier League and European matches, adding even more strain to already tired squads. Spurs face Everton in the league this afternoon after a goalless draw against Monaco in midweek, a match where they were arguably fortunate to escape with a point.
After a bright start to the campaign, Tottenham’s momentum has slowed, with just one win in their last five matches. Injuries have undoubtedly played a major role in that dip in form.
Key players like Cristian Romero, Destiny Udogie, James Maddison, and Dejan Kulusevski are currently sidelined, leaving Frank with limited options across the pitch. All four stars are expected to miss the Everton clash and are unlikely to feature against Newcastle in midweek either.
Despite the circumstances, Frank has no interest in pointing fingers. Speaking candidly, he explained that managing injuries is simply part of the job.
“Every head coach wants all the players fit and when they are, we end up complaining that the squad is too big,” he said with a wry smile. “It’s just how football works. I very rarely talk about injuries because it’s something I can’t control. My job is to get the best possible team on the pitch and make it work.”
Frank admitted it is tough to be without some of his most influential players, particularly Maddison and Kulusevski, who have been vital in creating and scoring goals.
“Of course, it would be lovely to have players like Kulusevski and Maddison available they’ve proven their quality time and time again. But I still think we have some very talented players who are growing and eager to take their opportunities,” he said.
One of those players is summer signing Mohammed Kudus, who has impressed with his energy and end product since arriving at the club.
However, £52 million recruit Xavi Simons has struggled to find consistency, while former Everton forward Richarlison has seen his form dip after a strong start to the season. Frank remains patient, though, confident that the team’s attacking rhythm will return soon.
“Wilson (Odobert) and Xavi are both adapting well, and Mo has been excellent for us,” Frank noted. “Richy had a good start, and now it’s just about finding that flow in our front four.
It’s not something that happens overnight it takes time, hard work, and chemistry. We’ve had good games and good spells where we’ve looked dangerous, so we’ll keep working on it step by step.”
While there’s no fixed timeline for the return of Romero and Udogie, Frank provided a positive update, suggesting that neither will be out for too long.
He revealed that both players are progressing well in their rehabilitation and that the signs are encouraging. “Cuti (Romero) has started running again on the grass with the performance team that’s a good sign.
There’s no specific time frame, but it doesn’t look like a long-term issue,” he said. “Destiny is not back on the grass yet, but he’s progressing well too, so we’re hopeful he’ll be back soon.”
Meanwhile, striker Dominic Solanke is also on the road to recovery following minor ankle surgery earlier this month. The forward has resumed light training and could return sooner rather than later if his progress continues at this rate.
“With Dominic, things are moving in the right direction every day,” Frank confirmed. “He’s been on the pitch working individually and getting back into rhythm. He’s had several good sessions now, so it’s definitely a positive sign.”
As Spurs prepare for their trip to Newcastle, Frank’s message is one of calm focus and resilience. He refuses to let injuries define the team’s performances or become a convenient excuse for dropped points.
Instead, he is determined to get the best out of the players available and maintain the competitive edge that defined Tottenham’s early season form.
Tottenham’s campaign may be facing turbulence, but Frank’s composure and commitment to steady progress suggest he’s determined to weather the storm.
He knows the challenges of managing a squad stretched thin by injuries and fixtures, yet he continues to emphasize adaptability and teamwork. With crucial games ahead in the Premier League, the Champions League, and the Carabao Cup, Frank’s leadership will be tested but his no-excuses approach is exactly what Spurs need to stay focused and fighting on all fronts.
