Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has praised one Tottenham star for his special performance against Leeds in the face of adversity this season.
Tottenham Hotspur became the first side to leave Elland Road with all three points this season after a gritty 2-1 win over Leeds United on Saturday.
It was never going to be a straightforward task for the Lilywhites, who had to dig deep to overcome a spirited Leeds side that managed to pull one back shortly after Mathys Tel’s opener.
Tel’s strike was his first of the campaign, a well-taken effort from the young Frenchman that found its way past Karl Darlow via a deflection.
Thomas Frank praises Tottenham forward Mathys Tel
It was undoubtedly a big moment for Mathys Tel, who has endured a testing start to the season and needed something to lift his confidence.
The French international was omitted from Frank’s Champions League squad earlier in the campaign and also suffered the disappointment of missing a penalty in the Super Cup final shootout, moments that would have tested the resolve of any young player.
Speaking after the win, Frank revealed his admiration for Tel’s attitude and commitment, while also praising the coaching staff for helping the forward stay focused.
In his words, as quoted by football.london, the Tottenham manager said: “So, so almost emotional about him. So happy for him. I think the character he has shown from a young man just really impressed me from day one.
“But of course after a setback, not coming in the Champions League squad, not being an established player. Maybe playing a good position where I really can see him play and I think he is taking steps. Also been picked a little bit for the left. So just keep training well, which he does. He trains well every day.
Stay at home, when we went to Bodo the whole team, trained well. Just ready today. And also I think a big praise to Cameron [Campbell] and Justin [Cochrane] to work with Mathys.
“And the way we worked with him from a fine game against West Ham as a striker to a better game against Doncaster, where he arrives more in the right areas.
I know he could have scored two goals but as I say he arrives there, because we trained and we showed clips. To the next level today, where I think he worked hard, he scored a good goal.
“I know there was a little deflection, but the connection was good. He has a header, other good situations. So very, very pleased.”
Mathys Tel can use Tottenham goal as a springboard
It certainly feels like a turning point for Mathys Tel, who will now hope that his Tottenham career gathers momentum following this goal.
The winger had already stated earlier in the season, after being left out of the Champions League squad, that he was determined to prove himself through hard work and consistency on the pitch.
There is plenty of opportunity for him to force his way into Thomas Frank’s plans, particularly with openings available both on the left flank and through the middle, and if he can build on this display, he could well turn his season around and establish himself as a regular contributor.