Sources: Tottenham turn attention to appointing manager ‘proven’ in Premier League
Tottenham view a manager with proven Premier League experience as the “ideal” type of candidate to replace Thomas Frank, sources have told Football Insider.
The Lilywhites are keen to ensure that they land somebody who has already experienced the pressure of the Premier League in the event that they decide to sack Frank, who remains under significant pressure at the moment.
Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Tottenham could be forced into sacking Frank if they are dragged further into the relegation battle, with just eight points separating them and West Ham in 18th at the moment.
The Dane has had the support of the board so far during his stint at the helm, but plans are already being put in place to identify the perfect criteria for a replacement if it is needed.
Enzo Maresca ticks major box for Tottenham job
Former Spurs scout Mick Brown recently told Football Insider that Tottenham would have reservations over appointing Enzo Maresca as a potential replacement for Frank, given his volatile temperament.
The Italian’s recent downfall at Chelsea stemmed from an explosive press conference in which he hinted at a falling out with a member of the club hierarchy, something which the board didn’t take kindly to being aired in public view.
However, Maresca has already been linked with the job on several occasions since his departure from Stamford Bridge, and would tick a major box at Spurs regarding his experience.
The 45-year-old spent time as part of Manchester City’s coaching setup, before taking on the top job at Leicester City, and already has experience in England’s top two tiers, despite having only recently become a manager.
Maresca is one of the many names who are under consideration by the hierarchy in North London at the moment, and his time across the capital would certainly see him tick the box for being Premier League proven.
Thomas Frank problem comes too early for Robbie Keane
Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Tottenham are unlikely to consider Robbie Keane as a genuine option to replace Frank in the dugout, despite him being heavily linked at the moment.
The Irishman turned out for the North Londoners over 200 times across two spells during his playing career, but is seen to be lacking the level of managerial experience needed to be considered as a contender right now.
The 45-year-old has led Ferencvaros on an impressive run in the Europa League this term after lifting Hungary’s domestic league title last time out, but the Tottenham situation has come too early in his managerial career.
Vinai Venkatesham and Co. are keen to appoint a bigger name than Keane if they need to move on from Frank in the coming weeks, and their former player does not have the desired level of experience.