Frank: Spurs players fighting to be a better team

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank does not think his players are fighting for him, but instead because they want to be a better team.

Spurs got back on course in the Premier League with a 1-0 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday.

Archie Gray’s first senior goal, which came just before half-time, was enough for the three points, with the victory helping to ease some of the pressure on Frank, with Spurs now up to 11th in the table and just a point off the top half.

Frank was quick to move the discussion away from him, instead praising his players for a much-needed win after two straight league defeats.

When asked about the resilience of his side, Frank told BBC Sport: “I don’t think it’s for me, they fight and they battle because they want to be a good team.

“They fight for each other, for the club, the staff, and the fans most importantly.

“I liked the character and mentality in team today, there is so much to improve but you need to have that in the Premier League, especially away from home.”

“I’m very happy with the desire, the mentality and the character in the team.”

Thomas Frank’s thoughts after victory at Selhurst Park pic.twitter.com/KS8aPEPMge

— Tottenham Hotspur (@SpursOfficial) December 28, 2025

Despite Spurs’ struggles in the league, they have the joint-most points away from home, with 17 from nine matches, and Frank was pleased with how well-organised his side were throughout the 90 minutes.

He said: “I liked the discipline in the team, the way we gave very few transitions away, which is the threat of Crystal Palace.

“The discipline to not give those away was good because that is what they want.

“We defended excellently, we gave maybe one chance away in open play and the rest was set pieces.”

Spurs, who also saw two Richarlison goals disallowed at Selhurst Park, are back on the road for their first game of 2026, which comes against Frank’s former club Brentford.