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Frank Urges Patience With Simons as Slot Defends Wirtz Before Frankfurt Tie

Both 22-year-olds have modest early returns after Bundesliga moves, with managers pointing to adaptation rather than goals or assists.

Overview

  • Tottenham manager Thomas Frank compared Xavi Simons’ transition to Florian Wirtz’s and said he saw encouraging “glimpses,” including better box entries after specific coaching.
  • Frank addressed Simons’ progress before Spurs’ Champions League match at Monaco, having withdrawn the midfielder in Sunday’s 2-1 Premier League loss to Aston Villa.
  • Liverpool boss Arne Slot argued Wirtz has created enough chances to have “six or seven” assists already, citing near-misses by teammates such as Mohamed Salah.
  • Wirtz has one assist in 11 Liverpool appearances and is still seeking a first league goal, while Simons has one assist in eight games for Tottenham.
  • Wirtz is reported to be in line for a recall against Eintracht Frankfurt as both clubs manage roles, minutes and expectations during the players’ settling-in period.