Brennan Johnson shows exactly why Thomas Frank needs to start him in Tottenham vs Newcastle – It’s not what you think
Thomas Frank will want to build on Tottenham’s 3-0 win over Everton.
Tottenham take on Newcastle United next in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday, as Frank has big decisions to make over his squad.
Last time out, Joao Palhinha proved his importance for Spurs, as Micky van de Ven stole the headlines with his brace against the Toffees.
Brennan Johnson, however, made his first Premier League start since August against Everton, as it’s no surprise that Tottenham got back to winning ways with the Welshman in the side.
Brennan Johnson was key for Tottenham vs Everton
Tottenham had failed to win either of their first two games since they returned to action after the international break, as Johnson started in neither of the matches against Aston Villa or Monaco.
Johnson had made a blistering start to the Premier League when he scored in both of Tottenham’s opening games of the season, but has since rapidly fallen down the pecking order in N17 under Frank.
However, Frank decided to play him against Everton on 26 October, as Johnson’s performance spoke for itself.
| Minutes | Accurate passes in own half | Dribbles (successful) | Tackles (won) | Ground duels (won) | Clearances | Rating |
| 89 | 100% | 1 (1) | 3 (2) | 5 (4) | 4 | 6.7 |
Although Johnson is an attacker, his work rate at the back was vital for Tottenham against Everton, as the winger got stuck in defensively for the Lilywhites.
Johnson won 80 per cent of his ground duels, as his defensive diligence allowed opportunities for Mohammed Kudus and Randal Kolo Muani to carry Tottenham up the field, into dangerous areas.
Making four clearances and winning two of his three tackles, the Welsh winger could be critical again.
There have been worries that Johnson could leave Tottenham soon, due to the lack of game time he is getting while holding a high market value, but he still seems key for Frank.
Why Thomas Frank needs to start Johnson vs Newcastle
Like Everton, Newcastle, and St. James’ Park will be a difficult place for the Lilywhites to go, as there is no doubt that Tottenham will be under defensive pressure for a lot of the game.
Frank left Johnson on the pitch for 89 minutes against Everton, as his running and pressure on the Toffees worked a treat away from home.
- Johnson scored 18 goals for Tottenham last campaign
- The Welsh international has only started six times under Frank
- Johnson has three goals in 13 appearances this season
Newcastle will pose a very similar task to Everton, but perhaps even trickier, as Johnson’s performance should have all but confirmed his place in the starting lineup for the game.
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