Thomas Frank is reportedly plotting a “special operation” to exploit the expected absence of key Arsenal defender Gabriel in the North London derby, as the Gunners seek to avoid a fourth consecutive loss against their rivals for the first time since the 1980s.
Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank is reportedly plotting a “special operation” to exploit the expected absence of key Arsenal defender Gabriel in this weekend’s North London derby at the Emirates Stadium.
According to a report from the Standard.co.uk, Gabriel, who has been player of the match in the Gunners’ last three consecutive wins over Spurs, is expected to miss the fixture after limping off with a thigh injury during the international break. Reports suggest the centre-back could be out until January.
Spurs, who have become “sick of the sight of the Arsenal defender,” are seeking to avoid losing a fourth consecutive match against their rivals for the first time since the 1980s.
While Arsenal has options like Piero Hincapie, Cristhian Mosquera, and Riccardo Calafiori to choose from, Gabriel is a “crucial figure” and his absence breaks up his partnership with William Saliba.
Frank is “plotting how to take advantage in attack,” expecting Spurs attackers to target whoever plays alongside Saliba.
The report highlights that Hincapie has played only 26 minutes in the Premier League this season, while Mosquera is only 21 and would be facing his first North London derby.
Frank could be tempted to shift to a back three to use two strikers up front, a tactic he called a “special operation” against Paris Saint-Germain in the UEFA Super Cup.
The plan, which saw Mohammed Kudus alongside Richarlison, “worked superbly for Spurs” that night.
The ability of Frank to devise specific gameplans is a key attribute, and the report concludes that if he is “to become the first Spurs boss since Harry Redknapp to win away at Arsenal in the Premier League, exploiting the loss of Gabriel will be pivotal.”