Thomas Frank (52), the manager of Tottenham Hotspur, has reportedly expressed that he will continue to respect Son Heung-min (33, Tottenham) as the club's captain.

The British outlet TBR Football reported on the 16th (Korea time) that "Thomas Frank, the new manager of Tottenham Hotspur, has solidified his stance on Son Heung-min."

Son Heung-min proved his ongoing value to the team by recording 10 goals and 11 assists last season. Although his return was somewhat delayed, he recently appeared at the training ground and began preparing for the new season.

Previously, 'Football Insider' cited former Manchester United chief scout Mick Brown, stating that Tottenham is looking to secure alternative resources due to concerns about Son Heung-min's declining fitness and speed.

On the 16th, TBR Football reported contrary news, indicating that Manager Frank is expected to show trust in Son Heung-min and keep him as captain for the 2025-2026 season.

The outlet noted, "Son Heung-min made a significant mark in club history as Tottenham captain last season. He became the first captain to lift a trophy since Ledley King in 2008." It added, "Although his performance dipped somewhat throughout the season, Son Heung-min recorded respectable offensive stats with 10 goals and 11 assists."

It continued, "Son Heung-min's future has been a topic of debate for a long time, but Tottenham's new head coach has already settled his position."

TBR Football stated, "Manager Frank will continue to rely on Son Heung-min's leadership," adding, "According to 'Football Asian,' Manager Frank plans to continue utilizing Son Heung-min's leadership. He fully respects Son Heung-min and is reported to have the intent to include him in the squad for next season."

It was also mentioned, "Frank has clearly expressed to Chairman Daniel Levy his hope for Son Heung-min's retention, and Chairman Levy has indicated that he will allow the player to stay if he desires."

However, Son Heung-min's playing time next season is likely to decrease somewhat due to intensified competition with left-side resources such as Mathis Tel, Mikey Moore, and Richarlison.

The outlet reported that "Son Heung-min has been in talks regarding a transfer with U.S. club LA FC. However, those discussions have halted without concrete progress. Chairman Levy demanded a transfer fee of £55 million (about 10.24 billion won), which was somewhat unrealistic for a player who has turned 33. Nevertheless, it cannot be denied that Son Heung-min's commercial value to Tottenham remains high."

As a result, TBR Football reported that there is a high possibility Son Heung-min will continue playing at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in the 2025-2026 season. Especially since the team has successfully returned to the Champions League, his retention becomes even more compelling.

At the same time, "Tottenham acquired Mathis Tel for £30 million (about 5.58 billion won) this summer. This acquisition was made at the direct request of Manager Frank. He has a strong desire to collaborate with Tel and is confident that he can maximize the player's potential," noting, "Tel had an impressive performance representing France in the UEFA U-21 Championship last June, particularly standing out with a decisive goal against Denmark."

The outlet highlighted, "Manager Frank, who developed Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney, Bryan Mbeumo, and Yoane Wissa during his time at Brentford, plans to nurture Mathis Tel as a new attacking option. There are projections that his growth might threaten Son Heung-min's playing time."

The outlet added, "Manager Frank still considers Son Heung-min to be the team's spiritual core and is expected to assign him an important role next season."

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