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Football Insider

Thomas Frank Responds to Jamie Carragher's Critique of Tottenham as Spurs Manager Claims 'It's Easier' to be a Pundit Than a Manager

After Tottenham's disappointing loss to Chelsea and subsequent criticism from Jamie Carragher, Thomas Frank hits back at the pundit's comments. Read on to find out Frank's perspective on the situation and how his team bounced back with a stunning performance against Copenhagen.

Thomas Frank Responds to Jamie Carragher's Critique of Tottenham as Spurs Manager Claims 'It's Easier' to be a Pundit Than a Manager

Thomas Frank has responded to Jamie Carragher's assessment of his Tottenham team, telling the ex-Liverpool defender that it's 'easier' to be a pundit and criticise managers for their shortcomings than to actually coach a team. Frank's Spurs lost 1-0 to Chelsea in the Premier League on Saturday, tallying a club-record low of 0.05 expected goals in the process. Supporters booed the Dane's team throughout the game and at full-time.The performance was then picked apart on Sky Sports' Monday Night Football programme by Carragher, who said Tottenham lacked 'courage, confidence and ability' during their defeat to the Blues, while he also took aim at summer signings Joao Palhinha and Xavi Simons for their subpar displays. But Spurs responded magnificently to this defeat by thrashing Danish outfit Copenhagen 4-0 in the Champions League on Tuesday.At his post-match press conference, Frank was asked by GOAL whether he saw Carragher's analysis and pointed comments.Frank replied: "No, I didn't. I didn't see his comments so there's not too much to say to that. The pundits are pundits, they need to say something about the games. I've been a pundit myself sometimes, it's easier to be that than stand down there (on the touchline)."Strikes from Brennan Johnson and Wilson Odobert saw Spurs build a two-goal lead against Copenhagen, before the Welsh winger was sent off after a VAR review for a high challenge on Marcos Lopez's heel. However, the hosts soldiered on and scored twice more in quick succession, firstly through an incredible 70-yard solo goal from Micky van de Ven and then substitute Palhinha."I saw a good performance today, which I'm happy with," Frank added. "We talk a lot about that 'bounce-back mentality' because in life and football there will be setbacks. Every team will experience that. It's how we react to that, to come out after a bad game or a bad spell and come back into it. That's part of a good team. I'm very happy with the response the players came with today, we controlled the game from minute one to the end more or less. Of course, there was a little bit about the red card but Micky decided it should not be a problem! Then we won a very good win in the Champions League and it's not easy. I know Copenhagen haven't had a good start but I know they are in general very difficult to play against and I'm pretty sure we will not see them lose 4-0."Frank was also asked about the decision to send off Johnson, with the Spurs boss admitting he could see why a red card was shown but believing ultimately the late challenge wasn't worthy of a dismissal."I think I understand why it can be given. But I think it's a little bit - what I've talked before - that still footage, studs on leg, is what the ref sees the first thing," Frank said. "That's where it looks bad. There was no recklessness in this tackle from Brennan. He goes down into a sliding tackle, you can say 'why give the opportunity?', but when he goes down, there's literally no leg in front of him, so when he slides, then the player steps down, and then it looks bad after that. I think it was a little bit unfortunate, and I think it was harsh."Tottenham went into Tuesday's clash with Copenhagen off the back of only one win in their last five matches in all competitions, while Frank's pragmatic approach has also come under the microscope. Such a convincing victory and performance will keep doubters at pay for a few more days at least, with Manchester United heading to north London on Saturday in Premier League action.This will be the first meeting between the two sides since last season's Europa League final, which Spurs won 1-0 thanks to a first-half goal from Brennan Johnson. Tottenham are unbeaten in their last seven games against United and beat them four times in three different competitions during 2024-25 alone.

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Frank's Reaction to Carragher's Criticism

Following Tottenham's defeat against Chelsea and Carragher's scathing assessment of the team's performance, Thomas Frank dismissed the pundit's comments, highlighting the challenges of being a manager compared to a pundit. Frank emphasized the need for resilience and how his team responded positively to the setback.

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Tottenham's Redemption Against Copenhagen

Despite a red card and adversity during the match, Tottenham showcased a strong performance against Copenhagen in the Champions League. The team's ability to dominate the game, even with 10 men, reflects their resilience and determination to bounce back from recent struggles.

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Controversy Over Brennan Johnson's Red Card

The decision to send off Brennan Johnson in the match stirred debate, with Frank expressing his belief that the red card was harsh. While acknowledging the parameters for such judgments, Frank defended Johnson's tackle as lacking intent, reflecting on the challenges faced by referees in making split-second decisions.

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Looking Ahead to Manchester United Clash

With a convincing win against Copenhagen under their belt, Tottenham face Manchester United in an upcoming Premier League fixture. The history between the two teams adds intrigue to the matchup, with Tottenham aiming to maintain their positive streak against United and build on their recent victory.

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Assessment of Tottenham's Form and Pragmatic Approach

Tottenham's recent form, marked by inconsistent results, has led to scrutiny of Frank's pragmatic coaching style. The emphatic win over Copenhagen serves as a reminder of the team's potential and ability to silence doubters. As they prepare to face Manchester United, Tottenham will look to build on this momentum.

Published on November 5, 2025