Tottenham gave manager Thomas Frank some much-needed breathing room with a commanding victory over Brentford - the club where he once enjoyed hero status - easing the growing pressure around his early tenure.
With Spurs fans still unsure whether Frank is the right man to lead them forward, Brentford’s visit carried real danger.
But instead of becoming another setback, it became a morale-boosting afternoon, building on the positive momentum from their spirited midweek draw at Newcastle.
New signing Xavi Simons was the standout performer.
The Dutch midfielder created Richarlison’s opener with a perfectly weighted pass, then produced a sensational solo run from inside his own half before coolly tucking away his first Tottenham goal.
From that moment on, Spurs were largely untroubled as they controlled the second half and secured the type of routine league win their manager desperately needed.
Frank’s relationship with supporters has been strained in recent weeks.
Criticism of his cautious game plan in the heavy derby defeat to Arsenal, followed by boos during the home loss to Fulham, raised doubts about his suitability and authority.
A determined fightback to draw at Newcastle helped steady things slightly, and this win provided another important piece of evidence that his approach can work at Spurs - especially at home, where results have been dismal.
Before this match, Spurs had managed only three wins in 16 Premier League home games in 2025, losing 10.
This victory, their first home league success since the opening-day win over Burnley, offered long-awaited relief.
Simons’ performance will be particularly pleasing for Frank.
Signed for £52m from RB Leipzig, he provided creativity and drive behind the fluid front line of Mohammed Kudus, Richarlison and Randal Kolo Muani.
Spurs fans have not had many enjoyable home afternoons this year - this one certainly qualified.
Brentford arrived believing they could exploit Spurs’ fragile confidence and a home crowd that has not been shy about voicing frustration.
Frank’s comments labelling Vicario’s critics as “not true supporters” had only heightened the tension.
But instead of taking advantage, Brentford produced an unexpectedly flat display.
Their only significant threat came when Igor Thiago forced Vicario into a save at 0–0.
Once Tottenham took the lead, Andrews’ team rarely looked capable of mounting a response.
Manager Keith Andrews has coaxed strong performances from his squad this season, which made this passive showing particularly disappointing.
A golden chance to deepen Tottenham’s anxiety went begging as Spurs cruised to victory.
