Thomas Frank shuts down rumours surrounding Tottenham star; keen to retain him

Tottenham gaffer wants to keep Richarlison at the club

One of the biggest positives from the Burnley game was the performance of Richarlison. In fact, the 28-year-old has done well since the start of the pre-season and impressed the Tottenham gaffer.

The Brazilian has started the new season with two outstanding performances against Paris Saint-Germain and Burnley, netting an impressive brace, including a bicycle kick, against the latter, which paved the way for Spurs to a 3-0 win. The forward has also been the subject of transfer speculation, with reports suggesting that Richarlison is weighing up his future at White Hart Lane as he looks to cement regular first-team football ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

Now, Frank has firmly denied speculation linking Richarlison with a departure from the club this summer. He also considers the South American as his “starting No.9”. Here is what Frank said in his pre-match press conference (h/t Football London):

“Right now, he is my starting nine. He scored two top goals,”

“Richy wants to stay, I want to keep him and there’s been no talks about anything else”.

Richarlison must show consistency now

Having kept himself fit all summer and started the new season very well, Richarlison needs to bring some consistency in his game. When fit and firing, the Brazilian is a real handful for defenders and that was further evidenced by his showing against Burnley.

Frank has given Richarlison the vote of confidence by claiming he is the current starting No.9. The Spurs striker’s style of play, physicality and pressing from the front has quickly made him a favourite for the Danish tactician. Rumours around the centre-forward’s future is now expected to cool down following Frank’s open admission. This will also give the player belief that he can hold down a starting berth.