Greg . 2 days ago

Thomas Frank urges Spurs fans to get behind Mathys Tel after receiving racist abuse

Tottenham boss Thomas Frank says Yves Bissouma is back in his squad for their Premier League opener against Burnley on Saturday.

Bissouma was dropped by Frank for their European Super Cup defeat to PSG in midweek for poor timekeeping.

Frank was asked about his midfielder at this morning's preview and said: "Bissouma was a situation.

I addressed it, there was a consequence.

He will be in the squad tomorrow.

"Reflecting on Wednesday night's Super Cup defeat in Udine, Frank says he learned a lot about his players' mental strength, as they took the European champions to a penalty shootout.

He continued: "One thing is the mentality of the group.

Very strong mentality and we saw that against PSG, the way they worked and their approach to it.

Also the ability to take on messages and game plans.

"Richarlison's importanceFrank also commented on Richarlison's fitness, with the Brazilian being taken off in Udine.

"Yeah, I think Richy was really phenomenal, his hold up play, his intensity, his arriving in the box was top.

And his attitude, top, top top.

Of course we’re aware of his fitness situation, that is why we have monitored him closely – that’s why he didn’y play Reading, but he is on it.

"The clash with Burnley will mark a first competitive home game for Frank as Spurs manager.

The Dane leaving Brentford for Spurs this summer to substitute Ange Postecoglou.

Asked about nerves, Frank says he's calm today, though expects feelings to change closer to kickoff.

He said, "I will have (nerves) tomorrow.

If I'm honest now I'm in work mode.

I know when I wake up tomorrow and when I step into the stadium I will feel it.

"Changing line-upOn Burnley and his selection plans after Udine, Frank continued: "Of course there were physical demands in every area, in particular the heat was high.

The players are very professional and they've recovered well.

"I can freshen up, whether that is from the start or during the game.

I'm a big believer that it's the third game more than the second one that's important in that acknowledge.

"During his press conference, Frank also had a word for Mathys Tel, who has been the subject of abuse online after missing in the shootout against PSG.

With a home game to kickoff the Premier League season, Frank expects Spurs fans to rally for Tel on Saturday.

"I think it's terrible what happened to Mathys," he said.

"We're doing everything to support him in this situation.

He's a strong person.

He will have support from family and friends as well as us.

"There's no real Tottenham supporter that will do that (abuse).

You'll see the real Tottenham supporters at the stadium tomorrow backing him.

I expect big cheers for him tomorrow.

"