Micky van de Ven and Djed Spence apologise to Thomas Frank after post-match snub | OneFootball

Tottenham manager Thomas Frank says Micky van de Ven (24) and Djed Spence (25) have apologised for appearing to ignore him after Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Chelsea, insisting the incident was born of frustration rather than disrespect.

Following the loss, Frank asked his players to complete a lap of appreciation around the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, but as boos echoed from the stands, cameras caught the two players walking straight down the tunnel without acknowledging their manager. The footage quickly circulated online, prompting criticism from some supporters and pundits.

Speaking to the media ahead of Tuesday’s Champions League clash with Copenhagen, Frank confirmed the pair had approached him personally to clear the air. “They didn’t want it to look bad or create any misconception,” he said. “They were just frustrated with the performance and the atmosphere. There was no disrespect meant at all.”

Frank, 52, praised the players for taking responsibility and addressing the issue directly. “If they hadn’t come in, I would’ve had to ask them,” he said. “But they did, and that shows they care, about the team, the club, and, in this case, me.”

The controversy comes amid growing tension at Tottenham, who have not won a home league game since the opening day of the season. Frank’s side have managed just three wins in their past 19 home matches, spanning both his and Ange Postecoglou’s tenure, a record bettered by all but Southampton across England’s top four divisions.

Fans need to get behind the team says Frank

Frank urged fans to continue backing the team, emphasising their influence during difficult moments. “During the game, we need help,” he said. “If we’re 1-0 down, the supporters can lift us. That energy can change everything.”

With Spurs sitting fifth in the Premier League but struggling for consistency, Frank will hope Tuesday’s European fixture can spark a much-needed revival, both on the pitch and in the stands.

GFN | Finn Entwistle