Frank vs Postecoglou: Style and Stats Compared – A Shift in Tottenham’s Direction
Thomas Frank is reportedly close to taking over as Tottenham Hotspur head coach, replacing Ange Postecoglou after the Australian’s turbulent two-year stint. It’s a surprising twist considering Postecoglou’s journey began with a thrilling 2-2 draw against Frank’s Brentford – a game that hinted at both the promise and pitfalls of his aggressive tactics. Frank vs Postecoglou: Style and stats compared now paints a contrasting picture, as the Dane is seen as a more pragmatic, stabilising figure.
ICYMT: Tributes paid to Uriah Rennie, first black Premier League referee, after death
Postecoglou’s first season saw a flying start and three consecutive Manager of the Month awards. However, a rough ending to that campaign foreshadowed a disappointing second season. Spurs finished a shocking 17th in the Premier League, despite lifting the Europa League trophy – a bittersweet consolation. Injuries plagued the squad, but critics point to Postecoglou’s rigid attacking philosophy as a key factor in the decline, particularly his reluctance to adapt defensively.
Meanwhile, Frank quietly steered Brentford to a top-half finish after a poor 2023-24 season where they ended 16th. This turnaround, achieved with fewer resources, strengthens the case for his appointment. Brentford finished 10th, 18 points and five wins ahead of Spurs, and showed greater consistency throughout the season despite losing both league meetings to Tottenham.
The numbers reveal even more. Brentford were more clinical, recording more shots on target per match and finishing the season with a better goal difference. Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa starred in attack, combining for 39 goals. Postecoglou won three of four head-to-head matches, but Frank’s long-term impact on Brentford has drawn significant admiration.
Interestingly, Brentford’s pressing game matched Spurs’ despite their reputations. Previously known for a conservative, long-ball approach under Ivan Toney, Frank adapted following Toney’s move to Saudi Arabia. His revamped frontline, featuring Mbeumo, Wissa, and Kevin Schade, operated with pace and directness, hinting at the versatility Frank could bring to North London.
Defensively, Frank’s Brentford showed more discipline. Spurs made 41 errors leading to shots, 28% resulting in goals. Brentford made just 28 such errors, with 26% ending in goals. This stat alone could justify the managerial change, suggesting Frank can tighten a leaky Spurs backline.
Tactically, Frank’s style is more direct and pragmatic, with fewer short passes and a greater reliance on long balls. Tottenham have speedy players who might thrive under this system, offering hope for a smoother transition.
Off the pitch, the contrast is also clear. Postecoglou’s fiery personality often clashed with the media, while Frank is calmer and more composed – traits chairman Daniel Levy may see as key to stabilising a club that’s had five permanent managers since 2019.
Frank’s arrival would mark a new chapter. While the bond between Postecoglou and his players will be hard to replace, all eyes will be on whether Frank can deliver balance, results, and long-term vision to a club in desperate need of direction.
