Thomas Frank is convinced that Tottenham have made a resounding vote of confidence in his leadership, a clear statement of backing him, as they gear up for a crucial London derby clash with fellow strugglers West Ham. The Danish boss has endured a torrid period at the north London outfit, grappling with a mounting injury crisis, languishing in 14th place in the Premier League table, and managing just two victories from their last 13 outings.

Frustrated Spurs fans have voiced their displeasure with boos and pointed chants including ‘Boring, boring Tottenham Hotspur‘ and ‘Sideways and backwards, everywhere we go’, reflecting their dissatisfaction with the style of play under the 52 year old. Nevertheless, Frank has enjoyed an encouraging week at the club, with Tottenham moving swiftly to secure Conor Gallagher’s signature from Atletico Madrid in a £34.7million transfer.

The head coach played a pivotal role in the deal, making a crucial phone call to the 25-year-old midfielder to outline his vision and the player’s potential contribution to the project.

Frank also spearheaded the recruitment of John Heitinga as his new assistant manager this week, bringing in the Dutchman who previously worked alongside Arne Slot during Liverpool’s Premier League triumph last season before his unsuccessful tenure as Ajax manager.

When questioned about whether these two significant signings, coupled with the decision to offload last season’s leading goalscorer Brennan Johnson, demonstrated the club’s faith in his approach, Frank responded positively.

“Yes, definitely. I think it’s a very good sign of it,” he confirmed. “We know January is a tricky window to sign a quality player like Conor, I think it’s a great sign of that.

“Also to sign John Heitinga, who is a very skilful coach, that he believes in the project and the vision from me, from the club, in a moment where, from the outside doesn’t look as smooth but from the inside looks a little bit more positive.

“But of course I’m very aware we need even more consistent performances and better results. Tottenham have so much to offer. Some of the appointments we have made in the leadership, with Rafi [Moersen] coming in as well [as director of football operations], it’s very positive of what kind of direction we want to go in.”

Tottenham predicted XI (4-2-3-1) Vicario; Porro, Romero, Van de Ven, Spence; Gallagher, Palhinha; Odobert, Xavi, Tel; Kolo Muani.