Mathys Tel favoured as Thomas Frank benches Richarlison in Tottenham striker shake-up

The Brazilian's long-term position at the club is now in question amid speculation that he could be offloaded in January. Frank had shown faith in the 28-year-old during the summer, keeping him despite interest from Saudi Arabia and Turkey. Reports suggested no firm offers arrived, making a transfer financially unrealistic at that stage.

Frank has often backed Richarlison's quality and work rate, but his form has dipped in recent weeks. After scoring three goals in his first five games of the season, he has managed only one assist in his last four outings, prompting Frank to freshen up his attack.

In a surprise tactical move at Elland Road, Tel led the line as a central striker, a role few expected him to take so soon after joining Tottenham permanently from Bayern Munich. The decision paid off immediately.

Tel opened the scoring in the 22nd minute with a deflected strike that beat Illan Meslier and later rattled the crossbar with a powerful header from Wilson Odobert's delivery. His relentless energy, pressing, and movement earned him a 7.8 Sofascore rating and widespread praise.

Odobert, playing on the left, also impressed by completing four of five dribbles and creating two key chances. His partnership with Tel could continue when Tottenham face Aston Villa at home on Sunday, October 19.

Frank was full of praise for Tel's performance, saying: "I'm so happy. I got emotional after the game because he's a young man who has been through a lot, loan spells, a new league, and to see him reward our faith like that is special. His energy, pressing, and maturity are exactly what we need."

Competition for attacking places is set to intensify with Dominic Solanke nearing a return from ankle surgery and Randal Kolo Muani expected to be available soon following a minor injury.

For Richarlison, benched for the first time this season, the challenge is clear. Frank has credited behind-the-scenes changes for the striker's early-season form but admitted the recent dip required action. Without a swift response, the forward, signed for a club-record fee, could soon find his place in Frank's plans under threat.

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