Frank declines to criticise Van de Ven and Spence over apparent snub in Spurs loss

Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank chose not to criticise Micky van de Ven and Djed Spence after the defenders seemed to overlook him at the end of their 1-0 loss to Chelsea on Saturday.

Joao Pedros goal in the 34th minute secured Chelsea a fifth straight win against their London opponents and marked their 10th victory in the last 12 encounters across all competitions.

Franks side faced boos from the crowd after managing just a single effort on target in another lacklustre showing at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

This marked the third defeat on home soil in seven games for the ex-Brentford manager, who has yet to address the teams struggles at home, a issue that also affected his predecessor Ange Postecoglou in 2025.

Compounding Franks challenges, Van de Ven and Spence made their way to the tunnel post-match, ignoring what appeared to be Franks instruction to acknowledge the Spurs supporters, as they passed by the Danish coach, who looked their way before turning to clap for the fans.

"I see that as a minor matter. We have Micky van de Ven and Djed Spence giving their all. They have played excellently this season and with everyone feeling the strain, we handle things differently, so I do not view it as a major issue," Frank commented.

"Naturally all the players feel frustrated. They want to succeed, to claim victories, to shine on the pitch, so I get where they are coming from.

"It comes down to staying steady through highs and lows, which is tough. That is why I made a point to engage with the fans like I did. Winning makes it far more enjoyable, I assure you."

Frustration and emotions

Despite holding third spot in the Premier League table, level with Chelsea on goal difference, Tottenham supporters are growing impatient with their managers straightforward approach, which clashes with the clubs motto of to dare is to do.

When questioned on whether he comprehended the fans response to the outcome, Frank replied: "Absolutely yes. We all feel the irritation and the passions involved. That is just how football works."

Frank has long been recognised for his practical coaching style, prioritising results over flair, differing greatly from the offensive focus of Postecoglou, who lost his job even after lifting the Europa League last term to halt the teams 17-year wait for silverware.

"It stings a great deal, no doubt. I have never led a side that generated so few chances in a single fixture. I will certainly examine that," Frank admitted regarding Tottenhams feeble offensive output versus Chelsea.

This represented just Chelseas third shutout in their past 12 outings, and manager Enzo Maresca expressed relief at avoiding damage this time.

"Regardless, I am pleased with the 1-0 scoreline, delighted with the points gained, and particularly glad about the clean sheet, though it is vital for what lies ahead. We recognise we are a squad capable of finding the net, yet we must strengthen our backline," Maresca noted.

"The display was solid overall. Both in possession and without. Our pressing game proved crucial, without question."