Thomas Frank surely set for Tottenham revival amid promising reveal ahead of Sunderland clash
Thomas Frank will be quietly optimistic ahead of Tottenham’s clash with Sunderland on Sunday.
Frank is under intense scrutiny at Tottenham as his side sit 12th in the Premier League table after 19 matches, although two clean sheets in a row have showcased some promising signs.
Tottenham’s 0-0 draw with Brentford on Thursday was a terrible watch, but for all the criticism the attacking play rightly deserves, they have looked sharper in defence over the festive period.
Tottenham have been awful at home this season, winning just two of their nine league games in N17 since Frank took charge.
They take on a Sunderland side that are flying under Regis Le Bris, but with Tottenham boasting an incredibly impressive record against newly-promoted sides, Frank could be primed for a much-needed win.
Tottenham can extend 17-year record amid host of promising stats vs Sunderland
Sunderland have lost 14 of their 16 Premier League away games against Tottenham, with the exceptions being a 2-1 win in August 2008 and a 1-1 draw in November 2010.
Le Bris’ side have netted just four goals in their nine Premier League away games this season, failing to score on six occasions on the road.
Indeed, the Black Cats have failed to score in 17 of their last 26 top-flight away games, and Frank has no excuses if his side fail to keep a clean sheet.
Tottenham have scored in 61 of their last 62 Premier League games against promoted sides, with the exception being a 0-0 draw with Brentford in April 2022.
| Previous meetings | 119 |
| Wins | 50 |
| Draws | 31 |
| Losses | 38 |
At home, Spurs have scored in their last 46 such matches since a 1-0 loss to Wolves in December 2009.
It’s been 17 years since Spurs failed to find the back of the net against a newly-promoted team, and although Sunderland have an impressive defensive record under Le Bris, Richarlison will pose a huge threat up front.
Richarlison’s stunning form likely to continue vs Sunderland
The 28-year-old has seven Premier League goals from 4.10 xG this season, and it’s undeniable that he is overperforming in front of goal.
Richarlison averages a goal or assist every 55 minutes against promoted clubs for Spurs in the Premier League, scoring four and assisting four in 437 minutes.
The Brazilian has certainly stepped up for Spurs this season, and without his goals, they would be in a far worse position.
He has also been involved in 13 goals in his last 16 Premier League starts for Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.
With Sunderland having several players unavailable due to AFCON, and with centre-back Dan Ballard a doubt for the match, Richarlison could have a crucial say in Sunday’s must-win match.
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