Thomas Frank has revealed what he has thought of Xavi Simons’ performances for Tottenham this season and has revealed the one change that he has asked the Dutchman to make to his game.
The attacking midfielder’s start to life in North London has not been particularly impressive, but we have seen some glimpses of real quality from the big-money summer signing.
Xavi was praised for his creativity in Tottenham’s win at Elland Road earlier this month, but the Netherlands international was largely uninfluential during the 2-1 loss to Aston Villa on Sunday.
According to reports, the feeling inside Spurs is that Xavi has the potential to become a superstar, with the Lilywhites hierarchy confident that the 22-year-old will come good once he finds his feet.
Thomas Frank compares Xavi Simons’ challenges to Liverpool star
Frank has now likened the Tottenham star’s challenges to those of Liverpool’s Florian Wirtz, stating that it has to do with adapting to a new league and new country.
He referred to Xavi as a ‘very good player’ and suggested that it is only natural for the youngster to have a period of adjustment following his big move.
When asked if the Spurs man’s struggles are similar to those of Wirtz, Frank said (via Sky Sports): “I think that’s a very good question. Also, a very good comparison with Wirtz, who is also a very good player, just like Xavi.
“A very good player coming into a couple of things – new country, new club, new city. You just need to settle in, and it is part of it. We are all getting judged every game. But we also need to see a little bit bigger perspective and see it over time.”
Frank has asked Xavi to add one element to his game at Tottenham
In Tottenham’s last two Premier League games, Frank has opted to start Xavi Simons over Lucas Bergvall, who has shown a knack for arriving in the box to score goals.
The Spurs head coach has now revealed that he and his staff have also been working with Xavi on making those runs in the box on a regular basis.
Frank added: “I always look for glimpses and bits and pieces we are working on. So, for example, Xavi, I think there were some good bits. I worked with him and asked him to be arriving more in the box, which, when I looked back at the game, he did.
“Was there a big eye-catching moment? No, but there were good glimpses. So I think it’s constantly going a little bit in the right direction.”