One of Tottenham Hotspur’s most important players has refused to sign a contract extension while Thomas Frank remains in charge…
Latest information on Frank’s future revealed
Earlier today, journalist Ben Jacobs revealed that Frank’s future as Tottenham manager is in big doubt following the 2-1 defeat at West Ham United at the weekend, but he is expected to keep his job for at least one more game.
The Dane has since confirmed he has had positive discussions with Spurs bosses, saying: “I felt confidence along the way. I’ve said that in every press conference. Today I had lunch with Nick (Bucher), Vinay (Venkatesham) and Johan (Lange) and it was all good. (The speculation) is part of the media noise and I’m only thinking about winning against Dortmund.”
However, there are reports that some members of the squad are starting to resent the 52-year-old, with one of Tottenham’s most important players refusing to sign a new contract while Frank remains in his job.
Transfer official Dean Jones told TEAMtalk: “Tottenham risk losing Van de Ven unless a new elite manager is appointed by next summer.
“The Dutch defender has not yet agreed a new contract and is believed to have delayed matters while Thomas Frank was in charge.
“He’s one of the few players who has shown consistency and decent form this season, but Tottenham will lose him if he doesn’t get his season back because he’s not convinced by this project.”
Losing Van de Ven could be a big blow for Tottenham
Jones has revealed that two clubs that are hard to turn down – Real Madrid and Liverpool – are in the race for the centre-back, which is no surprise given he has been one of Spurs’ only bright spots this season.
Near the end of October, Frank privately praised the £90,000-a-week defender, saying:Well, I’m very happy with Mickey. He has been a great performer for the club since signing and I think he has stepped up even more this season.
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“In fact, his defense is even better. His ball handling is still very good and he added goals and headers. I’m very happy. He’s a threat from set pieces.”
Tottenham have been criticized for their passive style of play this season, but the Dutchman and Romero have formed a partnership in the heart of defence, keeping them four clean sheets since early December.
Losing Van de Ven could be a big blow for Spurs, but with Tottenham sitting 14th in the Premier League table and knocked out of both the EFL Cup and FA Cup, Frank should be sacked for performance reasons rather than the threat of players jumping.
