Glenn Hoddle believes that one Tottenham star, who has nearly played every single game this season, is not someone that Thomas Frank can hang his hat on for the whole campaign.
Even though the season is in its early stages, Tottenham’s injury list has already mounted, which has constrained Thomas Frank in his selections.
That is particularly true of the situation upfront, with the Spurs boss having to stick with Richarlison despite his downturn in form over the last few weeks, due to injuries to Dominic Solanke and Randal Kolo Muani.
To make matters worse, Mathys Tel has been left out of the Champions League squad, which means that Frank had no other option but to start Richarlison again against Bodo/Glimt.
Glenn Hoddle issues a warning to Thomas Frank about Richarlison
The Brazilian started the season in fine form, but his displays of late have not been up to the required standard, with the 28-year-old struggling to make an impact in games.
Hoddle believes that Richarlison can be a useful option if he is used as a rotational option with other strikers, but the pundit claimed that the former Everton man is not good enough to be relied on as the main man through the season.
The Tottenham legend told TNT Sports (30/09/25) about the Spurs striker: “I think he’s a classic example of a number nine that needs another striker up there.
“Not necessarily to play with, but I think he needs that edge where he comes out of the team, maybe, he’s on the bench and still has an impact from the bench.
“Then you play him for another two or three games. I’m not sure he’s a player who can put your hat on the whole season, where he’s going to return you a load of goals.
“He started the season like a house on fire; he scored the two goals, this is stunning (his second goal), and this will have given him all the confidence in the world. But I don’t think you can really say he’s my number nine for the whole season. Solanke getting injured, he would have played tonight.”
Frank has a clear plan for Randal Kolo Muani
Previously, it was reported that Thomas Frank could use Randal Kolo Muani on the flanks this season, but the Dane appears to have had a change of heart.
It was reported by L’Equipe earlier this week that Frank has now had a conversation with Kolo Muani about his role, with the Spurs boss telling the Frenchman that he primarily plans to use him up front.
The report added that the on-loan Paris Saint-Germain has been reassured by the 51-year-old’s plans and is keen to make an impact at Tottenham this season.