Thomas Frank coy on Tottenham player’s best position after recent criticism

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Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has several versatile attackers at his disposal.

New Spurs signing Xavi Simons can play in the No.10 position and on the left, while Mohammed Kudus can also start behind the striker or out wide.

Mathys Tel is another individual in Tottenham’s squad who is capable of playing in more than one offensive position.

It has been an interesting start to life under Frank for Tel. Tel was omitted from Spurs’ Champions League squad, but the 20-year-old is not angling for a move away from north London.

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Thomas Frank discusses Mathys Tel’s best position

Tel has experience playing as a centre-forward and as a left winger, but Frank did not want to say which position he is actually better in.

Speaking about the Frenchman in his latest pre-match press conference, which has been relayed by Tottenham’s official club website, Frank said: “He plays his games for France Under-21s down the middle but he can also play down the left. Maybe it is his best position, but I don’t like to say.”

According to Transfermarkt, Tel has played up front on 42 occasions and on the left on 45 occasions.

He will be expected to start against Doncaster Rovers in the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, with Frank likely to make changes.

The Dane has ruled Randal Kolo Muani out of the game, so Tel may very well have to lead the line. Kolo Muani also missed Spurs’ draw with Brighton & Hove Albion after a small injury.

Alan Smith not convinced Mathys Tel can play up front

While Frank believes Tel can spearhead the attack, Arsenal legend and Sky Sports pundit Alan Smith is not too sure. He has doubts after watching the former Bayern Munich man play against West Ham United earlier this month.

As Smith watched Tel during one bit of play, he said: “It’s just a bit awkward for Tel up front now. You can see it’s not his natural position. He’s not entirely sure [about] the runs he should be making.”

Still just 20 years of age, the France Under-21 international has plenty of time to develop into a more polished striker. He is likely to benefit from getting regular game time in one position, though. It is something for Frank to consider going forward.