Tottenham are hesitant to dismiss Thomas Frank because of concerns over finding a high-calibre replacement mid-season, Football Insider sources have revealed.
The 52-year-old has come under heavy pressure in recent weeks, but Spurs believe it would be extremely difficult to lure an elite manager away from another job at this stage of the campaign.
Adding to their reluctance, football finance expert Dr Dan Plumley recently told Football Insider that sacking Frank could cost the club around £8million in compensation. Sources say that potential payout is another major factor holding Tottenham back.
Football Insider has previously reported that Spurs could turn to an interim head coach until the end of the season if Frank is eventually dismissed, and that remains the preferred contingency plan should they be forced into making a change.
Fan frustration grows
Supporters are increasingly running out of patience with Frank following a dismal run of Premier League results. Tottenham needed a last-gasp Cristian Romero goal to salvage a draw at Burnley on Saturday, despite their opponents sitting in the relegation zone and being winless since October.
Spurs have now managed just two wins in their last 14 league matches, rapidly eroding the early optimism that followed Frank’s appointment. A recent home defeat to West Ham sparked angry scenes at full time, with Champions League performances providing the only real bright spot in an otherwise poor season.
Tottenham round off their Champions League league-phase fixtures away to Eintracht Frankfurt on Wednesday, a match that could prove crucial for Frank’s future.
Late transfer backing planned
Former Everton and Aston Villa chief executive Keith Wyness told Football Insider that he expects Tottenham to support Frank with late signings before the 2 February transfer deadline.
So far, only Conor Gallagher and young left-back Souza have arrived this month, but Wyness believes further additions are likely as the club looks to strengthen the squad.
The board remain hopeful Frank can revive Spurs’ season, but recognise he will need proper backing to do so. After heavy summer spending failed to prevent an early downturn, Tottenham may once again be ready to spend in an effort to address their problems.
