See how Archie Gray controlled the game and propelled Spurs to victory over Brentford.

Tottenham’s 2-0 victory over Brentford ended a five-game winless run and secured their first home league win since the season opener. Archie Gray, partnering Rodrigo Bentancur in central midfield, was key to Spurs’ control, excelling at breaking up Brentford’s play and supporting attacks.

Tottenham dominated the first half, leading 2-0 at the break and limiting Brentford to few meaningful chances despite an early physical challenge from the visitors. Thomas Frank, Tottenham’s head coach and Brentford’s former manager, praised Gray’s awareness, positioning, and defensive work rate, calling it a “solid shift” that helped unlock the midfield.

Gray, who almost joined Brentford in the summer of 2024 before signing for Tottenham, started his third league game of the season and grew into the match after a cautious opening. Playing in a deeper role, he provided balance to Spurs’ midfield, working seamlessly with Bentancur to stifle Brentford’s transitions. Defensively, Gray made several strong sliding tackles to disrupt the visitors’ play, picking up a yellow card in the 76th minute for a mistimed challenge but maintaining composure throughout.

His performance was energetic and disciplined, cutting passing lanes, winning possession high up the pitch, and facilitating Xavi Simons’ forward runs. Operating with the freedom to advance from the pivot, he also made overlapping runs on the left and contributed to the build-up for Spurs’ opener.

The display was mature and decisive, solving Frank’s midfield selection dilemma. Gray’s performance in his preferred central role, coupled with his intelligence and defensive awareness, could earn him more starts, especially given his versatility across midfield and previous stints at right-back earlier in the season.