Thomas Frank reacts to brutal Micky van de Ven and Djed Spence snub after Spurs loss

Tottenham were beaten 1-0 by Chelsea with Thomas Frank’s side failing to register a single shot on target as they slipped to a third defeat of the season

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has reacted to what appeared to be Micky van de Ven and Djed Spence snubbing him at the final whistle of Spurs’ disappointing loss to Chelsea. Joao Pedro netted the game’s only goal, with Spurs lucky to lose by just a single goal.

Spurs managed a mere three shots on goal, with only one hitting the target. The defeat to their London rivals means they haven’t tasted victory at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the league since the season’s first day.

Frank’s tactical plans were disrupted early when Lucas Bergvall was forced off due to a concussion. Xavi Simons was brought on, but the summer recruit failed to make an impact before being substituted himself. Cristian Romero and Destiny Udogie, both returning from injury, were introduced in an attempt to help Spurs build from the back, but the Lilywhites continued to struggle with possession.

The frustration felt by the Tottenham players – evidenced by the four yellow cards received and 14 fouls committed – seemed to linger post-match as Van de Ven and Spence ignored Frank while leaving the pitch.

It appeared that Frank wanted the pair to stay on the field and acknowledge the fans, but they chose to walk straight past him and into the tunnel. Spence seemed to mutter something in response, while Van de Ven didn’t even acknowledge the Danish manager.

READ MORE: Premier League issue explanation after Tottenham’s Rodrigo Bentancur escapes red cardREAD MORE: Mary Earps savaged in brutal takedown by Chelsea manager after Hannah Hampton accusations

Frank watched the pair for several seconds before continuing his walk, and he has now given his perspective on the incident.

“I think I understand why you ask the question but that’s one of the small issues,” he said at a press conference. “Micky van de Ven and Djed Spence have performed well this season and it’s just a small thing.”

It’s unlikely to represent any sort of significant behind-the-scenes drama given that Frank and Van de Ven were sharing a laugh together just last weekend following the defender’s double in the triumph over Everton.

Nevertheless, it’s hardly the ideal image for Spurs with Frank’s leadership appearing to have been questioned.

This comes after Pedro Porro beckoned Spence and Randal Kolo Muani over to acknowledge the Tottenham supporters in the away section at St James Park following their 2-0 Carabao Cup loss to Newcastle United earlier this week.

Whilst Spurs have suffered just four defeats this campaign, the displays have been anything but encouraging and they’ve yet to truly control a match under Frank’s guidance.

The fixture list doesn’t offer much respite for Spurs as they gear up to take on manchester-united-fc>Manchester United, Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain and Newcastle United during the coming month.

Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us, and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.