Arsenal clash more than just a friendly, says Spurs boss Frank

Thomas Frank knows Tottenham’s clash with Arsenal on Thursday is more than just a friendly.

Tottenham will face their fierce north London rivals for the first time outside of the United Kingdom when they meet in Hong Kong.

Frank faced Arsenal nine times in all competitions during his time at Brentford, losing six of those matches and drawing two.

His only win came in their first meeting when the Bees kicked off their maiden Premier League campaign with a 2-0 victory over the Gunners.

Frank, who reluctantly conceded Arsenal are one of the best teams in the world, insisted his side will do everything they can to beat their rivals.

“I think it is a great challenge,” said Frank.

“Besides being our big rival and the first north London derby outside the UK, they are also one of the best teams, unfortunately, I must say, in the world. We must be honest.

“So, in that way, it is a big test. But it is more than a test. Against Arsenal, it is not only a friendly. Of course, it is a game where we will do everything we can to win.”

Kicking off tour with a North London derby

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Since joining Spurs in 2023, defender Micky van de Ven has yet to be on the winning side against Arsenal.

The Dutch centre-back has lost three of his four games against Mikel Arteta’s side.

However, the 24-year-old is hoping to finally get in the win column against the Gunners, and provide some joy for Spurs fans early in Frank’s era.

Van de Ven added: “There is always a lot of pressure before games [against Arsenal] of course but I will go into the game the same way as if we were playing in London.

“But of course, the stadium will be full and there will be a lot of fans from our side so hopefully we can make them happy and give them a good game.”