Thomas Frank expressed his approval of Tottenham’s performance even though they were beaten 5–3 by PSG.

Thomas Frank was encouraged by Tottenham’s response in their 5–3 loss to PSG in the UEFA Champions League.

The match in Paris was full of action. Spurs went ahead when Richarlison scored from close range, giving him his third goal in as many games. Vitinha equalised with a brilliant long-range shot that rattled in off the crossbar.

Randal Kolo Muani then netted his first goal for Tottenham, but the reigning European champions soon shifted into gear. Vitinha struck again to make it 2–2, and Fabian Ruiz put PSG in front for the first time. Pacho added a fourth after reacting quickest to a rebound from a corner. Kolo Muani pulled another goal back to give Spurs some hope, but PSG sealed the result when Vitinha completed his hat-trick from the penalty spot.

It was Tottenham’s first Champions League defeat of the season and extended their poor run to just one win in five matches. Still, Frank felt his side showed major improvement compared to their performance in Sunday’s North London Derby.

“I’m pleased with the performance,” Frank said. “This was the reaction I wanted from the players and the team. We’ve all worked very hard to make sure we responded properly after a poor display.

“Today you saw more of the identity I want us to have — more character, personality, and aggression, the three qualities every team needs regardless of style or formation. That’s what made me happy.

“We were in a position to come away with a draw or even a win, so it’s frustrating to concede the goals we did.

“The strikers scored two goals, Richarlison and Kolo Muani both contributed, and the whole team played well. Archie Gray looked very promising. And of course, PSG are a top side.”

Frank also expanded on Kolo Muani’s showing: “Today you saw what we’re hoping he can bring. Two goals and an assist every match is unrealistic — though I’d certainly take it — but he arrived late in the window, didn’t have a pre-season, wasn’t fully fit, and had two setbacks plus the jaw issue you saw again today. Hopefully we’ll be able to get more out of him as he continues to settle.”