Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has openly expressed the team's desperate need for a win as they prepare to face Newcastle on Tuesday. Currently languishing in 15th place in the Premier League, just six points above the relegation zone, Spurs are enduring a challenging period, having secured only two victories in their last 16 league matches. While Frank refrained from explicitly stating the club was embroiled in a survival battle, he emphasized the urgency to claim their first domestic win of 2026.

Frank highlighted the Newcastle match as a crucial opportunity, stating, "There is no doubt we are desperate to win games. Desperate." He added that the focus is entirely on securing three points against a good team to climb the table.

The team faces significant squad challenges, with several key players sidelined. A major concern revolves around Swedish playmaker Dejan Kulusevski, who has been out since May due to a serious knee injury. Despite receiving an injection to manage the pain, his return remains uncertain. Frank admitted, "I don't know" when asked if Kulusevski would feature this season, noting his exclusion from the Champions League knockout squad as a sign that a quick return is unlikely. Further updates are expected after an appointment later this week.

Adding to the injury woes, left-back Destiny Udogie sustained a hamstring injury during the recent 2-0 loss to Manchester United and is expected to be out for four to five weeks. However, there is a timely boost with the return of Djed Spence. On the disciplinary front, captain Cristian Romero begins a four-match suspension following his red card at Old Trafford. Frank addressed Romero's situation, calling him a "young leader" who is learning and acknowledging that passion and aggression can sometimes lead to such incidents, from which the player must learn.

With Newcastle also struggling, having won only one of their last eight matches, the upcoming fixture is pivotal for both clubs. Frank issued a rallying cry to the Tottenham faithful, urging them to push together with the team, especially given the depleted squad and the current dip in confidence. He stressed the importance of fan support during this difficult period for the club.