Tottenham secured a vital 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park, with teenager Archie Gray heading home his first career goal to hand Thomas Frank much-needed breathing room.
The 19-year-old's 42nd-minute header came against the run of play, as Palace dominated proceedings without finding the clinical edge required to break down a resolute Spurs defence.
A Tale of Missed Opportunities
Oliver Glasner's frustration was palpable at full-time. His side had created the better chances, with Jean-Philippe Mateta, Justin Devenny and Maxence Lacroix all guilty of spurning clear openings.
"It feels very frustrating and disappointing," the Palace manager conceded. "We're constantly underperforming the chances we create. At the moment, we have a little bit lack of finishing quality."
Richarlison, standing in for the suspended Xavi Simons, had two efforts ruled out for offside. Micky van de Ven was immense at the back, earning the Man of the Match award with a commanding display.
Frank Eyes January Reinforcements
Thomas Frank confirmed Tottenham will be active when the transfer window opens, with the club reportedly handed a £150m budget following ENIC's substantial capital injection earlier in the season.
"We will definitely be in the market, no doubt about that," Frank stated. "We want them as early as possible."
Bournemouth winger Antoine Semenyo remains the primary target, while Porto striker Samu Aghehowa has also emerged on Spurs' radar. Bayern Munich midfielder Leon Goretzka has been offered to the North London club, with Frank understood to be receptive to the deal.
Brennan Johnson's Future in Doubt
The Wales international has started just six Premier League matches under Frank this season, fuelling speculation over his future. Crystal Palace and Leeds United are monitoring his situation, with a January move increasingly likely.
Palace themselves are exploring a move for Chelsea outcast Raheem Sterling, while facing significant interest in their own players. Adam Wharton continues to attract attention from Manchester United and Chelsea, with a £70m summer move mooted. Marc Guehi remains a target for Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid.
The result moves Spurs up to 11th, a point behind Palace in ninth. Both clubs face pivotal weeks as the January window approaches.
