Tottenham Hotspur’s current campaign has been a stark contrast to the struggles they endured last season under Ange Postecoglou. Under new manager Thomas Frank, the North London side has undergone a major transformation, becoming far more resilient and difficult to beat. With only one loss in their first seven Premier League games—compared to three at the same stage last year—the improvement is clear. Frank’s influence has not only solidified their domestic form but also carried into Europe, where Tottenham remain unbeaten in the Champions League. Key players such as Micky van de Ven, Joao Palhinha, and Mohammed Kudus have flourished under the Dane’s guidance. However, one young star, Archie Gray, may have reasons to feel frustrated with his new boss after events that unfolded during Tottenham’s recent victory over Leeds United.
The teenage midfielder joined Spurs last summer in a £40 million move from Leeds, where he had become one of England’s brightest young talents after breaking through at Elland Road. Having spent a decade with his boyhood club, the fixture against Leeds offered Gray the perfect opportunity for a homecoming performance. Yet, despite the emotional significance of the occasion, he remained on the bench for the entire game. The decision was likely a bitter disappointment for the youngster, who would have been eager to impress against the club that shaped his early career. Still, the Leeds faithful acknowledged his return warmly, applauding him after the final whistle.
Last season, Gray was called upon during Tottenham’s injury crisis, often playing out of position at centre-back. But with the squad strengthened by new arrivals and returning players, his minutes have dried up. While his involvement in the Europa League provided valuable experience, being sidelined in the Premier League—especially during a match at his old ground—must have been frustrating. For a player who could easily be starring for his hometown team now that Leeds are back in the top flight, the lack of opportunities is becoming harder to accept.
Adding a curious twist to the story, Gray’s move to Tottenham might never have happened if events had played out differently. Before his transfer to Spurs, Brentford—then managed by Thomas Frank—had actually agreed a deal with Leeds for Gray’s signature. Had that transfer gone through, he would have been Frank’s most expensive signing and likely a central figure in Brentford’s plans. Instead, fate brought the two together in North London, though Gray has yet to become a regular under the same manager who once sought him so eagerly.
So far, the young Englishman has managed just 80 minutes across the Premier League and Champions League combined—a puzzling situation given his talent and price tag. While time is still on his side and opportunities may come as the season unfolds, being denied the chance to shine at Elland Road will have stung. For a player with Gray’s potential, Thomas Frank’s decision to overlook him—especially in such a meaningful fixture—remains difficult to understand.
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