Tottenham Hotspur played out a 1-1 draw with Wolverhampton Wanderers in North London, with Spurs needing a late goal from Joao Palhinha to walk away with a point.
Spurs got a reality check at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, especially in the second half, where plenty of performances were below par.
One name that cropped up in the post-match conference was Xavi Simons, who did not have his best outing.
Simons struggled. The 22-year-old completed only 3/11 crosses, 1/4 dribbles, lost possession 23 times, and won only 5/15 duels.
Still, Frank came to his defence. Asked whether it felt like Simons struggled to get into his rhythm, the Danish tactician said (Football London), “Yeah, I think that’s fair to say.”
“I think Xavi, he had some good actions, also carrying the ball forward, and you had to foul him three or four times.
“But there was a lot of situations where he was not as sharp, I think that’s fair to say. I think he would say the same himself. But I also think it’s natural.
“You’re coming into a new team, a new league. To find that rhythm quickly is difficult.
“And I also think that we said the other time, I think we’re very happy with the Brighton performance in many ways.
“I think the first half was positive (tonight) also, you know, offensive. But that free flow, floating to have it enough, you know, that we need to keep working on.
“And then there are just some days where we don’t hit the highest level.”
Despite struggling, there were still positives in Simons’ game, as Frank said. He created one big chance, played one key pass, and showed some positive signs.
The raw edges will smooth out, but the flashes of invention, the ball-carrying, and his willingness to take responsibility suggest Spurs may soon have a difference-maker on their hands.
Simons is still clearly getting accustomed to the league, and Spurs fans need to be patient. They will soon get to see the best version of the Dutchman.
Stats from Sofascore