Tottenham boss Thomas Frank has called for a new innovation to be introduced to football during games.
Frank, 51, has enjoyed a positive start to life with Spurs after joining from Brentford over the summer and replacing Ange Postecoglou.
The Dane has won two of his first three league matches, while Tottenham also took European champions PSG all the way to penalties in the UEFA Super Cup.
He has been having some well deserved rest during the international break over the past few weeks and Frank has been busy discussing various changes he would make to the game.
And speaking to Bet MGM, who sponsor Tottenham’s training gear, Frank called for one alteration that would likely split opinion.
He said: ‘I’d have a timeout in each half. From a coaching perspective, I think it would be lovely to have an opportunity during the game to speak to the players and be able to adjust something.’
Thomas Frank has called for a new innovation to be introduced to football during games
Frank said he would like managers to have the opportunity to call a timeout in each half
Managers are currently not allowed to call an official timeout, rather they pass on instructions by shouting orders from the touchline, while they also have half-time as an opportunity to share their thoughts.
There has been a recent trend of coaches calling players over during a lengthy stoppage in the game due to an injury, yet the move would still be a radical one, particularly at a time when VAR delays already frustrate fans inside stadiums.
Frank also went on to give his thoughts on the handball law, with the increasing number of penalties being given if the ball hits players’ arms in the penalty area viewed as unfair.
Frank echoed that position and added: ‘I would take out the handball rule as for me it’s not right. If there’s a handball and it touches your arm in the penalty area, you are giving the biggest chance to the opponent just because it “touches” your arm.
‘Of course, if you’re standing on the goalline and you try to save it like a goalkeeper in the old days, that’s different.
‘But I simply don’t understand how if it just touches a player’s arm, and it touches their arm in certain areas, it gives the opportunity for the biggest chance in the game.
‘It’s a rule that has to be changed to improve the game and make it fairer.’
Frank’s side were dealt a minor setback ahead of the international break when they were beaten 1-0 by Bournemouth following a disappointing display, but the Dane chose to remain positive when reflecting on his tenure so far.
Frank also felt the handball law should be changed because too many penalties are being given
‘It’s been a good start to the season so far,’ he said. ‘I’ve been really pleased with how the players have approached things since I’ve come into the football club.
‘We’ve played three games in the Premier League and one in the UEFA Super Cup and I’ve been happy with three of the performances.
‘We weren’t good enough against Bournemouth but overall from where we started to where we are now, I’m satisfied.
‘Success this season is building something that is sustainable and strong. I want us to consistently perform at our highest level each and every game.’
