“Quite positive” – Thomas Frank offers a cautiously optimistic update on key midfielder
Tottenham Hotspur have endured a tougher injury situation than any other Premier League side this season. They began the campaign already missing key players, and both Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison remain sidelined for the foreseeable future. Dominic Solanke is also still recovering from foot surgery, with no clear return date in sight. Several other Spurs players have struggled with fitness issues throughout the season, and the latest concern arose during Sunday’s hard-fought 1–0 victory over Crystal Palace, when midfielder Lucas Bergvall picked up a knock.
Bergvall appeared to suffer a groin problem while turning, and although the incident did not receive widespread attention in the media, it caused anxiety among Tottenham supporters—particularly with their main No.10, Xavi Simons, suspended.
A crucial test lies ahead for Thomas Frank
Spurs face local rivals Brentford once again in the Premier League on Thursday, prompting fears that Bergvall might miss the clash between Thomas Frank and his former club. However, speaking via Lilywhite Rose, Frank played down those concerns, insisting the midfielder is “OK” and has not sustained a serious injury. While he did not provide details on the issue or a firm timeline, Frank admitted there is only a “small doubt” and said he is “quite positive” Bergvall will be available.
Frank said:
“Lucas is OK. I am quite positive he’ll be available. There is a small doubt, but I’m pretty sure he’ll be OK.”
Tottenham do have depth in midfield, with options such as Pape Matar Sarr and Archie Gray, while experienced players like João Palhinha and Rodrigo Bentancur should be capable of coping against Brentford. However, missing both Bergvall and Simons in the No.10 role would be a significant setback. If Bergvall is unavailable, Wilson Odobert—who impressed off the bench against Palace—could be an intriguing alternative thanks to his close control and underrated creativity.
That said, Bergvall is more naturally an No.8 than a No.10, something Spurs fans hope Frank has already taken into account. Ultimately, the key takeaway from this injury update is that the Swedish international has avoided anything serious, which comes as very welcome news for Tottenham.