Thomas Frank explains the reason Xavi Simons wasn’t included in the starting lineup against either Arsenal or PSG.

Thomas Frank explains why Xavi Simons did not start against Arsenal or PSG

Among Tottenham’s seven summer arrivals, Xavi Simons was arguably the one supporters were most eager to see. Yet he has had the smallest impact so far and has struggled to secure a regular place in Thomas Frank’s starting lineup.

Some pundits have questioned whether the 22-year-old can handle the intensity and physical demands of the Premier League, but Frank is not troubled by Xavi’s slow start. He believes the Dutchman is still adapting to English football and hinted that other players were simply better suited to the tactical approach required in the games against Arsenal and PSG.

Speaking to Football.London on why the £51m signing did not start either match, Frank said: “Xavi has been fine. As we’ve seen with other players coming into the Premier League for the first time, it’s never straightforward. It’s a natural part of adjusting to the league. Different games demand different qualities. In the end, it’s all about performance. It’s no different for Xavi than for Wilson, Mo, or Joao. It depends on what each player brings to the team for that specific match.

“In attack, regardless of your position, you need to contribute—playing forward, creating chances, using crosses. Defensively, you must work hard, win duels, get onto the ball, and press with intensity. There’s also the set-piece side of things. All of that is why we select players. And of course, there’s a difference between playing Arsenal away and another team at home, or PSG away.”

Frank added that Spurs will face a different type of challenge against Fulham, who tend to sit deeper. Tottenham will be tasked with breaking down a more defensive setup, something that may suit Xavi’s style of play.

Asked whether Xavi could deliver a breakout performance against Fulham, Frank said: “Yeah, definitely could. It depends on how we break opponents down, how we open them, and how we create enough chances. That’s something we’ve been thinking about—how to get enough goalscorers on the pitch.

“In Paris, the two strikers worked well. We know we’re not the finished article. Before we get closer to where we want to be, there might be a middle ground we need to go through to reach that level.”