Spurs boss Thomas Frank urges fans to support Mathys Tel after online racist abuse.
Tottenham forward Mathys Tel was subjected to racist abuse online after missing a penalty in Wednesday’s UEFA Super Cup loss to Paris Saint-Germain. Spurs branded the abuse “disgusting,” while teammates Dominic Solanke and Richarlison sent messages of support.
Campaign group Kick It Out warned that such abuse could stop players from volunteering for penalties in future.
Ahead of Saturday’s Premier League opener, Spurs boss Thomas Frank urged supporters to stand behind the young French striker.
“It’s terrible what happened to Matty, and we’re doing everything we can to support him. But no real Tottenham supporter would ever do that. The real supporters we’ll see tomorrow will back him, and I expect them to give him a really big cheer.”
Midfielder Yves Bissouma, who missed the Super Cup final after pre-season disciplinary issues, is back in contention.
“There was a situation. I addressed this. There was a consequence. Bissouma will be in the squad tomorrow. Move forward, and we have a big game,” Frank explained.
Tottenham continue to explore moves for Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace) and Savinho (Manchester City), but Frank avoided naming names, saying the recruitment team led by Daniel Levy and Johan Lange are working “day and night.”
Saturday’s Burnley clash at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium will mark Frank’s Premier League debut as Spurs boss after replacing Ange Postecoglou, who departed despite guiding the club to Europa League glory.
“I know when I step into the stadium tomorrow, I will feel butterflies. That’ll be special,” Frank said.
