TOTTENHAM have announced Thomas Frank as their new manager.
The Dane, 51, replaces Ange Postecoglou, who was axed just 16 days after winning the Europa League with Spurs.
Tottenham quickly identified Brentford boss Frank as their primary target following Postecoglou’s dismissal and they have paid his £10m release clause to seal the deal.
Much of the delay in the confirmation was due to the Bees’ highly-rated head of coaching Justin Cochrane.
Cochrane, who is also one of Thomas Tuchel’s staff with England, was in the mix to replace Frank as manager of the West London side and SunSport understands there was also interest from another club.
But the new boss wanted the former Tottenham academy coach to be part of his new setup and he has gone back to N17 as Frank’s No2.
Brentford fitness coach Chris Haslam and analyst Joe Newton are also moving across the capital.
Spurs confirmed the appointment in a statement, which read: “Thomas has extensive experience in English football having joined Brentford in 2016 – since becoming one of the longest-serving current managers in the Premier League.
“During his time at Brentford he transformed the Club, moving them up from the Championship to an established Premier League side, consistently and significantly outperforming expectations for an extended period of time.
“In Thomas we are appointing one of the most progressive and innovative head coaches within the game.
“He has a proven track record in player and squad development and we look forward to him leading the team as we prepare for the season ahead.”
Frank took over at Brentford in 2018 after two years as assistant.
He guided them to the Premier League in his second full season, and has since established them in the top flight.
Under Frank’s astute management, the Bees achieved a tenth placed finish last term.
Brentford finished seven places and a whopping 18 points above Postecoglou’s Spurs.
The Aussie boss saw Tottenham fall all the way to 17th in the Premier League.
But his sacking still raised several eyebrows due to his Europa League triumph in Bilbao.
Despite ending Spurs’ 17-year trophy drought, securing Champions League qualification in the process, Postecoglou was axed 16 days on from beating Manchester United in the Europa League final.
An excerpt of Spurs’ statement read: “Ange will always be remembered as only the third manager in our history to deliver a European trophy, alongside legendary figures Bill Nicholson and Keith Burkinshaw.
“However, the Board has unanimously concluded that it is in the best interests of the Club for a change to take place.
“Following a positive start in the 2023/24 Premier League season, we recorded 78 points from the last 66 PL games.
“This culminated in our worst-ever PL finish last season. At times there were extenuating circumstances – injuries and then a decision to prioritise our European campaign.
“Whilst winning the Europa League this season ranks as one of the Club’s greatest moments, we cannot base our decision on emotions aligned to this triumph.”
Spurs yesterday today that Postecoglou’s assistant coaches Mile Jedinak, Nick Montgomery and Sergio Raimundo have all left.
Ryan Mason has already left to take the reins at West Brom, but Ange’s No2 Matt Wells and goalkeeping coach Rob Burch remain at Spurs.
FRANK ‘PERFECT’ FOR SPURS
Frank’s move comes after nearly seven years with Brentford.
During that time, the Dane managed Christian Eriksen for a successful six months in 2022 before the 33-year-old midfielder joined Manchester United.
Eriksen, who spent seven seasons at Spurs between 2013-2020, said: “Thomas is the right coach for Tottenham.
“I had Thomas at various times and I think he is the perfect match for Tottenham. It would be great if he takes on that challenge.
“His personality, his way of playing and his way of being make him a good fit.
“And the club, considering where they were last season – they won a trophy of course – but they are in the process of building something and I am sure that Thomas is a good man to bring in.”
Eriksen’s link-up with Frank three years ago saw him return to football seven months after suffering a cardiac arrest on the pitch playing for Denmark at the delayed Euro 2020.
He moved on to United the following summer, but is leaving Old Trafford following three years there.
The 144-cap Denmark star has stated he fancies a new challenge away from England, feeling he has “had my turn” in the Premier League.
Ange Breaks Silence On Tottenham Sacking
ANGE Postecoglou issued a statement just moments after being axed.
It read: “When I reflect on my time as manager of Tottenham Hotspur, my overriding emotion is one of pride.
“The opportunity to lead one of England’s historic football clubs and bring back the glory it deserves will live with me for a lifetime.
“Sharing that experience with all those who truly love this club and seeing the impact it had on them is something I will never forget.
“That night in Bilbao was the culmination of two years of hard work, dedication and unwavering belief in a dream.
“There were many challenges to overcome and plenty of noise that comes with trying to accomplish what many said was not possible.
“We have also laid the foundations that means this club should not have to wait 17 more years for their next success.
“I have enormous faith in this group of players and know there is much more potential and growth in them. I sincerely want to thank those who are the lifeblood of the club, the supporters.
“I know there were some difficult times, but I always felt that they wanted me to succeed and that gave me all the motivation I needed to push on.
“It’s important to acknowledge the hard working people at Spurs who gave me encouragement on a daily basis.
“And finally, I want to thank those who were with me every day for the last two years.
“A fantastic group of young men who are now legends of this football club and the brilliant coaches who never once doubted we could do something special.
“We are forever connected. Audere est Facere.”
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