Thomas Frank is repeating Ange Postecoglou’s mistake by failing to properly utilize one of Tottenham’s most exciting talents.
Under Ange Postecoglou, Tottenham Hotspur were often criticised for being too disorganised and reckless, while the manager himself faced repeated calls to adopt a more flexible tactical approach. His refusal to adjust, at least in the Premier League, ultimately cost him his job — despite ending Spurs’ 17-year trophy drought with a Europa League triumph.
Now, under Thomas Frank, the Lilywhites appear far more structured and consistent. However, one recurring issue has carried over from Postecoglou’s tenure, and even an unbeaten start in the Champions League cannot hide it: Archie Gray is being misused.
Frank was recently criticised for deploying Mathys Tel incorrectly, but the real problem lies in his continued insistence on playing Archie Gray in defence — a decision that diminishes the youngster’s true potential.
Gray has proven to be reliable wherever he is deployed. Last season, Postecoglou used the former Leeds prodigy across multiple defensive positions, and he never failed to deliver. Against Monaco last night, while playing at left-back, Gray was tireless, composed, and constantly looked to push the ball forward — something that could not be said of Rodrigo Bentancur.
Archie Gray vs Monaco – Statistics
Minutes: 90
Tackles won: 1
Interceptions: 2
Clearances: 4
Key passes: 1
Pass success rate: 90%
Passes in opposition half: 19
Passes in own half: 9
Despite his consistency, Gray’s natural position is in midfield — yet Tottenham fans have rarely seen him play there. Time and again, he has demonstrated the qualities needed to elevate Spurs’ midfield, raising the question of when Frank will realise the importance of deploying him higher up the pitch.
Even with injuries to James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski, Frank still has several exciting midfield options, though he seems to be using them in the wrong combinations. Lucas Bergvall struggled in the number 10 role against Monaco, a position better suited to Xavi Simons. Bergvall, instead, should be operating deeper in the pivot role.
Pape Sarr’s recent absence has also been puzzling, as his athleticism and energy are vital in the middle of the park. Meanwhile, Archie Gray could easily partner or cover for the more defensive-minded Joao Palhinha.
Thomas Frank has shown flexibility in his tactical setup, but there remains another level Spurs can reach — and using Archie Gray in his rightful midfield role could be the key to unlocking it.
Frank still does not know his players capabilities. He keeps playing guys in the wrong positions. Every time Spurs get a throw in, the player with the ball has difficulty finding a teammate as everyone is static. There is very little creativity in midfield. As such we are unable to breakdown opposition defences when we have possession of the ball. Nobody is willing to shoot from outside the box. We seem to want to walk the ball into the goal. Archie Gray and Johnson should be playing and only one of Bentacur or Palhina should be fielded.