S2E50 | Thomas Frank’s Tottenham: Shape-Shifting & Set Pieces

In this episode of The Lab, Ben Bowman returns to dig into how Thomas Frank could shape Tottenham Hotspur tactically. From the possibility of a back three to a more fluid 4-2-3-1, we unpack what Spurs’ summer transfer links reveal about Frank’s likely setup. We explore why players like Van de Ven, Romero, Destiny Udogie, Brennan Johnson, and Solanke could all flourish under Frank’s pragmatism. We also discuss Brentford’s elite set-piece approach, the marginal gains Frank obsessively pursues, and what it all means for Spurs' short- and long-term prospects. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Lab, Ben Bowman joins us to break down Tottenham’s pursuit of Mohammed Kudus. We explore what makes Kudus such a unique talent: his one-on-one ability, explosiveness, versatility, and how he compares to Kulusevski. We discuss how Kudus could slot into Thomas Frank’s system, and why he might be the perfect fit for a transitional, fluid attack. We also react to West Ham fans’ frustration, examine the potential £60–85m price tag, and touch on Spurs’ broader recruitment strategy, including the signing of Kota Takai, squad depth, and the urgent need for a defensive midfielder. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Football finance analyst and Spurs supporter Ben White joins The Lab to unpack the structure behind the scenes at Tottenham Hotspur. With clarity and depth, he explains how a small group of decision-makers run a global football club, breaking down the Lewis family's role, Daniel Levy’s evolving influence, the arrival of CEO Vino Venkatesham, and the financial mechanisms like PSR and structured payments. From misperceptions around cash flow to how Spurs compare with Chelsea and Brighton, this is essential listening for anyone who wants to understand how modern football clubs - and especially Tottenham - really operate. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Lab, we're joined by Alasdair Gold, Spurs correspondent for Football.London and one of the most trusted voices in the Tottenham community. We take a deep dive into the current state of the club, the transition from Ange Postecoglou to Thomas Frank, and what the future might hold under a new approach. Alasdair shares insights on transfer strategy, Daniel Levy’s influence, behind-the-scenes dynamics, and the challenges of covering Spurs as both a journalist and a fan. It’s a wide-ranging, honest, and revealing conversation with someone who knows the club inside out. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This episode of The Lab explores the behind-the-scenes story of a potential Qatari takeover of Tottenham Hotspur. Habibullah Khan, who has links to people close to the process, shares what he’s heard about how discussions progressed. The Qataris were reportedly keen on acquiring full ownership of the club and investing in the local area as part of a long-term UK strategy. Talks with Joe Lewis’s side seemed to move forward, but negotiations appeared to stall when Daniel Levy became more involved. Habib outlines a pattern of reported delays and changing demands, and offers a personal perspective on Levy’s leadership style and role in the club’s direction. The episode touches on soft power, ownership dynamics and the complexities that can block major change at Spurs. It’s a compelling look at what might have been, and what could still happen in the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tottenham finally lifted a trophy under Ange Postecoglou, only to sack him 16 days later. In this episode of The Lab, we’re joined by Raj to break down Daniel Levy’s bold decision, the arrival of Thomas Frank, and what it all means for Spurs going forward. Can Levy really deliver on his claim that Tottenham can win the Premier League? Or is this another false dawn? We dig into whether the club’s long-term vision has any real foundation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Thomas Frank is now Tottenham’s head coach, bringing an end to a long-running story that has had a big impact on both Spurs and Brentford. In this episode, we’re joined by Mike Johnston from the Ealing Road podcast to talk about what Frank will bring to Spurs beyond just tactics. We discuss his focus on building culture, developing young players, and the importance of his backroom staff. We also look at how his flexible style compares to Ange Postecoglou’s approach, and what this all means for Brentford’s future. It’s a deep look at one of the most interesting coaching changes in the Premier League. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we're joined by football writer Ewan Flynn to talk about his new book, When the Year Ends in One: How Tottenham Hotspur's 1991 FA Cup Win Saved the Club and Transformed English Football. We look back at that dramatic season — from Gazza’s unforgettable moments to the chaos in the Spurs boardroom, Robert Maxwell’s attempted takeover, and how winning the FA Cup kept the club afloat. Ewan also explains why the 1991 FA Cup run wasn’t just big for Spurs, but a turning point in English football as a whole. There are stories about Brian Clough, Chas & Dave, iconic kits, and a very different era of the game. It’s a deep dive into a season that shaped the modern Spurs — and one of the last truly romantic chapters in English football history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode, we welcome for the third time on The Lab, journalist and author Vince Rugari to reflect on the end of Ange Postecoglou’s time at Tottenham. We talk about the highs, the heartbreak, and the chaos of Ange’s two seasons in charge, including the unforgettable Europa League win and the collapse in the league. It’s a heartfelt goodbye to a unique manager who inspired loyalty, debate, and plenty of drama. If you loved Ange, this one’s for you. If not, maybe skip it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of The Lab, we're joined by lifelong Brentford fan and photographer Adam Rosenbaum to talk about Thomas Frank: his rise, his coaching style, and why he’s such a special manager. We discuss Brentford’s journey from the Championship to the Premier League, how Frank built a strong team culture, and what might happen if he ends up at Spurs. Adam shares stories from Griffin Park, thoughts on Matthew Benham’s data-driven model, and what makes Frank different from other managers, and crucially would a move to Tottenham be a successful venture for all involved. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices