Tottenham: Thomas Frank reveals plan for Richarlison as Spurs bid to limit Brazilian's injury risk | OneFootball

The striker has enjoyed two fine performances in Dominic Solanke’s absence this week

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Thomas Frank warned Tottenham must be cautious with Richarlison’s fitness as he called for patience after the forward’s brace against Burnley.

With Dominic Solanke not yet at full fitness, Richarlison’s form has come at an ideal time for Frank, but the Spurs boss insisted he will not take unnecessary risks considering the Brazilian’s injury record.

“He was very good against PSG and today he was exceptional, with his work-rate, driving the team, link-up play, hold-up play, just dominating and then the two finishes,” Frank said.

“So happy on his behalf and again performance department, medical department did a top job to build him. I think a few of you know he was not involved in the first friendly because we had to build him.

“That will be continuous and something we need to look at throughout the season. It is only the second game of the season, there is a long way to go but very positive with him.”

Asked if he was always certain this summer that he wanted Richarlison to stay at the club, Frank added: “Yeah, I think I always liked Richarlison. I always thought he was good when he played for Everton and when he came to Tottenham we know he struggled with some injuries.

“He was unlucky also so we are very aware that we need to build him and protect him because we can’t say we just played two games back-to-back, he did well both and we are out of the woods.

“That we need to prove over a little bit longer time but the first signs are good.”

Frank made three changes to the side that were beaten on penalties by PSG in the Super Cup, with Joao Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur dropping out as the Spurs midfield was freshened up.

While Frank stated his players must be ready for quick turnarounds between matches, he did voice his frustration at the fixture scheduling.

“If there are two days, three days, four days, one day (between games) I will make sure I do everything I can to get the team ready,” Frank said.

“But just a reminder that PSG are playing tomorrow night and we play today. I think City a few years ago also played Saturday instead of Sunday. I don’t know who decides that but the ones who decide that maybe need to think a little bit about the players.”