The Mirror

Tottenham defender Micky van de Ven was involved in an argument with the club's supporters following their defeat to Bournemouth in the Premier League on Tuesday night

Micky van de Ven found himself embroiled in a heated exchange with Tottenham supporters following their dramatic defeat at Bournemouth. The Spurs centre-back was momentarily caught on Sky Sports cameras in a heated discussion with fans in the away section just after the final whistle.

Tottenham appeared destined for a draw after Joao Palhinha's late leveller, only for Antoine Semenyo to net the decisive goal during added time.

With tempers flaring, Van de Ven needed to be pulled away from a confrontation with some of the travelling Spurs supporters.

In a two-minute footage of the post-match scenes, Van de Ven, Pedro Porro and Palhinha are all seen interacting with the crowd.

Porro and Palhinha seemed to be attempting to calm the situation down, although Porro was subsequently held back by Guglielmo Vicario before walking away.

Van de Ven had received a yellow card earlier in the encounter for his complaints to the official after a penalty he had won was reversed following a VAR check. Spurs showed marked improvement in attack but still struggled defensively.

Thomas Frank addressed several matters in his post-match press conference, including his thoughts on the players' confrontations with supporters.

He said: "I haven't seen that situation, that's one thing. I think it's fair to say everyone involved in Tottenham, players, staff, fans, everyone is a tough one to take today.

"I think hopefully everyone can see how hard we worked to get everything in the right direction. And I think overall the performance was good, especially in the second half, in a game where we deserved to get more.

"That is extremely painful to be part of, so of course people are frustrated, I'm frustrated, so that's natural."

Frank was also forced to respond after he was photographed drinking from an Arsenal cup, which had been left at the Vitality Stadium following the Gunners' 3-2 victory over the weekend.

When quizzed about the incident, the Spurs boss responded: "Definitely not noticed it. I think it's fair to say that we're not winning every single football match so it would be absolutely, completely stupid of me to take a cup with Arsenal. Is there anyone thinking I've done that? All the staff has done it.

"They've been in the changing room, the game before us. Its normal to take a cup, give me an espresso, I do that before every game. I think actually it's a little bit sad in football that I need to be asked a question about that.

"I think we're definitely going in the wrong direction if we need to worry about me having a cup with another logo of another club, of course I'll never do that. That's extremely stupid."

Tottenham head coach Thomas Frank suffered another disappointing setback after defeat at Bournemouth, and his Arsenal blunder before kick-off won't please Spurs fans either

Thomas Frank was incredibly spotted sipping from an Arsenal coffee cup prior to Tottenham's Premier League defeat at Bournemouth in another awkward blunder for the under pressure boss. The Spurs manager was seen in a photo, taken at the Vitality Stadium before the game, drinking from a cup emblazoned with the Gunners' club crest.

When asked about drinking from the cup, he said: "I definitely did not notice it. It would be completely stupid of me to take it if I knew. "It's a little bit sad in football that I need to be asked about it. I would never do something that stupid."

The 52-year-old, who took over as Spurs head coach in the summer, has had a tough first six months, with fans expressing dissatisfaction with his tactical approach. His unusual team selections and odd remarks during press conferences have also raised eyebrows.

Bournemouth star Antoine Semenyo scored an injury-time winner to consign Spurs to another disappointing defeat.

This began almost as soon as he assumed his role at Spurs, when he lavished praise on their arch-rivals ahead of a pre-season clash. Boos rang out from

He stated: "I think it is a great challenge, besides being our biggest rivals and the first north London derby outside the UK. It is also right now one of the best teams, I must say unfortunately, in the world. We also need to be honest.

"In that way it is going to be a big test, but it is more than a test as against Arsenal it is not only a friendly. Of course it is a game we will do everything we can to win."

Despite winning that match, things have gone downhill since then, and his latest faux pas on Wednesday evening is unlikely to sit well with supporters, particularly as the team's performance continues to disappoint.

The Lilywhites have only managed to secure two Premier League victories since early November, with significant losses to Chelsea and Newcastle United preceding this.

Arsenal, Paris Saint-Germain, Fulham, Nottingham Forest and Liverpool had also triumphed over Spurs before the close of 2025. However, Tottenham are currently on a three-match unbeaten run, following draws with Brentford and Sunderland after defeating Crystal Palace.

This streak seemed set to end on the south coast, as the Cherries rallied from behind to take the lead after Mathys Tel's early goal. Evanilson and Eli Junior Kroupi both found the back of the net before half-time, while Lucas Bergvall was forced off due to injury after the interval.

Spurs appeared to have a chance to level the score when Micky van de Ven won a penalty, but following a VAR review, the decision was reversed.

Joao Palhinha later equalised the match with a spectacular overhead kick. Nevertheless, Semenyo scored a late winner in what looks like his final gift to Cherries' supporters ahead of a move to Man City.

Spurs' troubles continued last weekend when Mohamed Kudus was taken off in the first half of the draw at home against Sunderland.

Tottenham have confirmed the tragic passing of club legend Martin Chivers, aged 80. Their statement also stated that a tribute would be paid to the ex-forward for this evening's Premier League clash against Bournemouth.

Spurs' announcement read: "It is with immense sadness that we announce the passing of our legendary former striker, Martin Chivers.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to Martin’s family, friends and former team-mates at this incredibly sad time. Our players will wear black armbands during this evening’s fixture against AFC Bournemouth. Rest in peace, Martin. One of the all-time greats."

Chivers made a staggering 350 appearances for the Lilywhites over the 1960s and 1970s with 167 goals scored. He is the club's fifth all-time record goal-scorer behind Harry Kane, Jimmy Greaves, Bobby Smith and Son Heung-min.

The highlights of his career in north London are undoubtedly winning a UEFA Cup and two English League cups. In the triumph over Wolves, he scored a brace in the first leg.

He was also Tottenham's leading scorer in European competitions before being overtaken by Jermain Defoe in November 2023.

Chivers was in attendance at White Hart Lane to see Defoe break his record when he scored for the 23rd time in Europe against FC Sheriff in the Europa League.

Chivers also made senior appearances for Southampton, Norwich, Brighton and Switzerland side Servette. He also played 24 times for England

Tributes to Chivers have flown in since the announcement of his passing with former Spurs star Steve Archibald sending an emotional message.

He wrote to X: "Watched the great Martin Chivers before I became a pro, was an amazing watch, he was like Rolls Royce, so smooth in his movement, excellent in the air and a great finisher, but on top of all of that he was a really nice guy. Most sincere condolences to all of Martin’s family xxx."

Another of his former clubs in Southampton later sent their heartfelt condolences.

"We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of our former striker, Martin Chivers. Born in the city, Martin made 189 appearances for the club, scoring 108 goals," their statement read.

"We offer our thoughts to Martin's family and friends during this difficult time [red heart emoji]."

With Antoine Semenyo City-bound, Bournemouth start the second half of the season looking for answers quickly in the creativity front as they welcome Spurs in the Premier League

For the second time in as many Premier League matchweeks, the Vitality Stadium plays host to a North London giant, as Bournemouth welcome Tottenham Hotspur on Wednesday night. Andoni Iraola’s side suffered a narrow defeat in a five-goal thriller against Arsenal last time out, while Spurs were left frustrated by a disappointing home draw with Sunderland over the weekend.

It was seventh heaven for Arsenal and eleventh-place misery for Bournemouth, whose dreadful winless streak in the top flight extended into double digits despite a spirited showing against the league leaders. Bournemouth initially took the lead through Evanilson, but Gabriel Magalhaes’s equalizer and a Declan Rice double put Arsenal firmly in control. Eli Junior Kroupi’s stunning goal proved to be only a consolation for the increasingly exasperated Cherries.

Bournemouth were understandably aggrieved when referee Chris Kavanagh blew the final whistle just as they were about to deliver a dangerous ball into the box. However, even if that last chance had produced an equalizer, it would not have changed their worrying winless run. Eleven games without a victory marks Bournemouth’s longest such streak in a single top-flight campaign. Yet, thanks to the struggles of the bottom three teams, the 15th-placed Cherries remain closer to the top five in points than to the relegation zone.

Moreover, four of Bournemouth’s five league wins this season have come at the Vitality Stadium, but Iraola’s men now face a Tottenham side with ambitions of reclaiming their status as the Premier League’s best away team. Only Arsenal (20 points) have collected more points on the road than Spurs (18) this season, and with the Gunners hosting Liverpool on Thursday, a win for Tottenham would see them return to the summit of the away form table.

That task will be far from straightforward, despite Bournemouth’s recent struggles. Thomas Frank’s side have yet to hit their stride during the harsh winter months and dropped two points in agonizing fashion against newly-promoted Sunderland. Brian Brobbey’s thunderous strike canceled out Ben Davies’s opener in a 1-1 draw. Still, Sunderland have also taken points from Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea, and Manchester City this season, so Sunday’s result was not a disaster for Frank.

Nonetheless, that offers little solace to Tottenham fans, who see their team languishing in 13th place overall. The Lilywhites have managed just two wins from their last 11 Premier League matches, home and away. On the bright side, Spurs are chasing a third consecutive Premier League away clean sheet—a feat they haven’t achieved since April 2022. However, Bournemouth’s 1-0 win in August means the Cherries could now complete their first-ever league double over their North London rivals.

Bournemouth vs Tottenham Team News

Long-serving Bournemouth midfielder Lewis Cook made his return from a neck injury as a substitute against Arsenal—a timely boost for the Cherries, especially with Justin Kluivert now facing an extended spell on the sidelines following knee surgery. The hosts are also without Tyler Adams (knee), Ben Gannon-Doak (thigh), Ryan Christie (knee), Matai Akinmboni (muscle), and Will Dennis (ankle). Dennis’s injury prompted the club to bring in former Spurs goalkeeper Fraser Forster on a free transfer, but young Veljko Milosavljevic (knee) has resumed training.

Antoine Semenyo, whose £65 million transfer to Manchester City has yet to be finalised, is due a medical later this week and is highly unlikely to feature in this match.

On the Tottenham side, Ghanaian Mohammed Kudus is ruled out as the Spurs winger suffered a thigh injury during the first half of the draw with Sunderland and is expected to miss out this week. Kudus joins a growing Spurs absentee list, which also includes Yves Bissouma and Pape Sarr (both at AFCON), Dejan Kulusevski (knee), James Maddison (knee), and Dominic Solanke (ankle). However, Destiny Udogie (thigh) is back in training, and Xavi Simons returns from a three-match suspension.

Simons is likely to slot straight back into the starting XI in place of the injured Kudus, while Lucas Bergvall could also be handed a start after Wilson Odobert suffered a facial knock at the weekend.

Bournemouth vs Tottenham Prediction

Tottenham to win and both teams to score - 24/5 (Betfred)

Over 2.5 goals - 8/11 (Betfred)

Premier League Betting Offers

If you are on the lookout for the latest free bet offers, then look no further. Here, not only do we bring you numerous free bet offers, but all from the very best betting sites in the industry. Each bookie we recommend is fully licensed and regulated by the UK Gambling Commission, so you know you are always betting on a safe and trustworthy site.

Check out the Mirror Betting Hubs Free Bets offers here.

Full terms and conditions apply | gambleaware.org | Gamble responsibly | 18+ | UK only

Gamble responsibly

Reach plc is committed to promoting safer gambling. All of our content and recommended bets are advised to those aged 18 or over. Odds are subject to change too.

West Brom have announced that head coach Ryan Mason has been relieved of his duties after the Baggies fell to a 10TH consecutive away defeat against Leicester on Monday night.

Mason, 34, landed the West Brom job in the summer after a stint coaching at Tottenham, whom he has also previously managed on an interim basis. But the former midfielder has been unable to bring success to the Hawthorns and leaves with the club 18th in the Championship table, 10 points off the play-off places.

His departure comes less than 24 hours after West Brom were beaten 2-1 at Leicester on Monday - the team's 10th straight away defeat, which is the worst run in club history.

A club statement on Tuesday morning read: "West Bromwich Albion have today parted company with men’s first team Head Coach Ryan Mason.

"Assistant Head Coach Nigel Gibbs and First Team Coach/Head of Performance Sam Pooley have also departed The Hawthorns.

"The club would like to place on record its thanks to Ryan, Nigel and Sam for their efforts and wishes all three the very best for the future.

"First Team Coach James Morrison will oversee first-team affairs on an interim basis until a new staff is appointed.

"The process of recruiting a new men’s first team Head Coach and staff is under way."

West Brom, who handed Mason a three-year deal back in the summer, play Swansea in an all-Championship third round FA Cup tie on Sunday. Their next league fixture comes the following Friday when they host Middlesbrough at the Hawthorns.

Tottenham Hotspur have faded after a fast start under new manager Thomas Frank and the Londoners sit 12th in the Premier League table at the halfway point in the season

Tottenham Hotspur manager Thomas Frank has admitted he isn't enjoying life at the North London club. The Danish boss joined from Brentford over the summer but has seen results taper off after a fast start.

Spurs drew 0-0 with Frank's former side in their last match and some fans booed off the team. They have won just two of their last 10 league matches to sit 12th at the halfway point in the season and their manager didn't mince his words in the lead-up to Sunday's game at home to Sunderland.

"So the short answer is no," Frank said when asked if he was enjoying his time in charge at Spurs. However, he anticipated being able to look back at this period with pride further down the line.

"When you need to put in a big, big shift and it's not smooth and it's tough, it's probably difficult to enjoy it," he added. "I'll give you an example. If I run hard, I don't enjoy that moment. But I know I need to keep my head down and run hard to get through it, to get my fitness up or to win a race, whatever it is.

"We're in a situation where you need to run hard, to stay in it, to get through it. And then on the other side, when you look back on this spell we think 'what a learning experience', that made it so much better for the future. It's definitely a marathon. It definitely seems like it's one of the little bit more heavy miles I'm on now. But head down and keep going."

Spurs are still without several players for the weekend's match against Sunderland. Xavi Simons is suspended after a recent red card, while Pape Matar Sarr and Yves Bissouma are away at the Africa Cup of Nations.

Lucas Bergvall remains an injury doubt while James Maddison and Dejan Kulusevski are long-term absentees, but striker Dominic Solanke is getting closer to a return after not featuring since August. However, Frank would not give a concrete date on the striker's comeback.

"The thing I need to know about, of course, is when he's out there on the pitch with pictures then that's positive," he said. "To say mid-Jan, end of Jan or 25 Jan, I will not do that. I will very much look forward to naming the dates when he's involved in the squad."

Upcoming opponents Sunderland are severely depleted due to AFCON. Habib Diarra, Chemsdine Talbi, Arthur Masuaku, Noah Sadiki, Bertrand Traore and Reinildo are all away with their national teams, but defender Dan Ballard could be fit to return after missing the draw with Manchester City through injury.

“The standards within our team are high," Black Cats boss Regis Le Bris after the City draw extended their unbeaten home run to 10 matches. "We want to get better and it is important to always have that mindset, because if you want to stay at the same level, you will be punished. We must be ambitious and hopefully that will be the case in our next game.”

Former Premier League referee Dermot Gallagher has delivered his verdict on Cristian Romero avoiding a red card during Tottenham's goalless draw with Brentford on Thursday evening

Tottenham have received fresh verdicts on the controversial potential red card and penalty incidents from their goalless stalemate away at Brentford.

Despite bouncing back with victory against Crystal Palace last time out, Thomas Frank's team dropped points once more as neither side could find the breakthrough at the Gtech Community Stadium. In an extremely tight encounter, Brentford enjoyed marginally more possession than their guests and managed one additional shot on target.

The match wasn't completely devoid of controversy, however, as referee Andrew Madley faced two significant decisions. The first concerned Spurs defender Cristian Romero, who had only recently returned from suspension following his dismissal against Liverpool before Christmas.

OPINION

OPINION

On this instance, the Argentina centre-back fouled Brentford forward Igor Thiago whilst being the last defender and seemed to use his hands in the process. No infringement was awarded and Romero, rather luckily, stayed on the field to complete the match, leaving Keith Andrews visibly frustrated.

During Sky Sports' Ref Watch, former referee Dermot Gallagher believed the incorrect decision had been reached, arguing that Romero deserved to be dismissed. "He challenges for the ball, he doesn't get the ball, he gets Thiago, there's no doubt about that," he stated on Friday morning.

"Is Thiago in possession? Most certainly. He'll skip by and he's away on goal. For me, foul, red card, easy decision."

Spurs were left frustrated when their penalty appeals were dismissed after Archie Gray was tackled by Kevin Schade and Nathan Collins in the penalty area. The contact appeared minimal on replays, and Gallagher concurred with the decision made on the pitch that no penalty should be given.

"I do not think it is a foul because Schade bumps into him," he explained. "There is a little bit of a nudge, but if you watch Gray, he actually throws himself forward and uses Collins's calf to go over – I thought no foul."

Now, Frank's team must prepare for a challenging series of matches, including hosting Sunderland this weekend and travelling to Bournemouth next week. Later in the month, they will welcome Aston Villa for the third round of the FA Cup, while a clash with Dortmund awaits in the Champions League.

In terms of the Premier League table, Thursday's draw means Spurs remain in 12th place, outside the top 10. They are seven points behind the top four with 19 games played, making qualification for next season's Champions League a daunting task.

'I texted Alexander Isak to say sorry - this is how Liverpool striker responded'

Alexander Isak suffered an ankle injury and a fractured fibula during Liverpool's 2-1 win over Tottenham and Micky van de Ven has reached out to the Sweden striker since then.

Tottenham Hotspur defender Micky van de Ven has disclosed a text conversation between himself and Liverpool's Alexander Isak after the latter's crushing injury blow. The club's record signing is anticipated to remain out of action for several months at a minimum.

The ankle problem occurred when Isak was caught by van de Ven while netting the Reds' opener in a 2-1 win over Spurs at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. He has subsequently gone under the knife to fix the problem, which also involved a broken fibula.

The setback represents another hurdle for Isak, who has struggled to cement his place at the club following his £125million switch from Newcastle this summer. Van De Ven has now detailed the message he sent to Isak after the high-octane Premier League encounter.

Chatting to Sky Sports, the Spurs centre-back revealed: "Yeah, I've text him. Of course.

"I've sent him a text because I didn't want to injure him, I didn't want to do something to hurt him. I just tried to block the shot and I think it was a bit unlucky how his foot landed between my legs.

"So I sent him a text afterwards. I want to wish him all the best in his recovery.

"That's what I said to him. And I hope we can see him back on the pitch very soon again."

When pressed about whether Isak responded, he continued: "Yeah, he really appreciated the message. He texted back."

While van de Ven chose not to reveal the exact details of Isak's response, it's reasonable to presume the Liverpool star welcomed the gesture and accepted the apology. His complete attention will now turn to regaining full fitness at the earliest opportunity.

Speaking about Isak's return, head coach Arne Slot expressed his confidence the striker will feature, again, before the current campaign concludes.

"Yeah, [he'll play again this season]. I'm confident.

"It's been a really challenging and difficult period for him, I think. Maybe no-one understands, but if you haven't trained for three or four months on a serious level with the team and you're playing in this league... in this league you need to be on the top of your game to impact the games.

"That took, which we all knew, months before we could bring him there. Because there was no pre-season, there were games, games, games.

Thomas Frank has spoken out about Tottenham's plans ahead of the January transfer window with the club looking to be active next month after reports of agreeing a deal

Thomas Frank expects Brennan Johnson to play for Tottenham against Brentford on New Year's Day, despite a £35million fee being agreed for the Wales star.

Johnson has been the subject of interest from Crystal Palace and Bournemouth, with the transfer window days away from opening. Multiple reports claim the Eagles have now made an offer agreeable to the Lilywhites, while Johnson has been touted as a potential replacement for Antoine Semenyo.

The 24-year-old, Spurs' top goalscorer last season, has yet to greenlight a move, however. Johnson has four goals in 21 appearances this term under Frank.

The ex-Nottingham Forest ace has been in and out of the team under the Danish coach. Regardless, Frank has declared he expects Johnson to face the Bees later this week, however.

"Again, this is the third time I think I've got this question," Frank said in his press conference on Tuesday. "There are rumours out there, in general I'll not comment on that, no matter if we want to sign or sell a player, or get a staff member in or out. I've no interest in commenting either way.

Pushed on whether he will be involved in Spurs' squad against Brentford, Frank was adamant. "He contributed to a very good and important win against Crystal Palace," he said.

"He trained very well today. I expect him fully to be available and able to play against Brentford."

"Brennan is a very important player for us," Frank added. "Sometimes things change if another player comes in. Unfortunately, Kudus came in for him and played on the right side and has done well. So it's been a little bit more tricky to get enough starts. He started the season also quite well from the left.

"I think Brennan has a lot of attributes. Very good running in behind, very good scoring goals. That's a good quality. So some of those key things is fantastic. Also working hard for the team, but you need more than just 11 players. That's the way it is. I think Brennan has been a top professional, is a top professional, trained well today. He's ready for two days' time.

Spurs boss Frank also revealed that Spurs will be active in the transfer market. The head coach noted that he wants to see his squad improve before allowing outgoings.

"We are, we will be in the market. We are definitely interested in, if we can, strengthening the squad," he said.

"We will do that, I've said it a few times before, that I think it's very important, of course, there are different types you can add to a squad. But the main bit is that the ones we add need to be the ones we really think can improve the team. And then, like normal, there can be outgoings if you want to try to make a sharp squad."

Antoine Semenyo is expected to leave Bournemouth in January with Manchester City leading the race for the forward, who politely declined Tottenham's interest but could still help Spurs in the transfer market

Despite being snubbed by Antoine Semenyo ahead of the January transfer window, Tottenham could still profit from his anticipated departure from Bournemouth.

The 25-year-old forward is tipped to be the star attraction of this winter's transfer market, thanks to a £65million release clause that can be activated until January 10. Given his stellar performance for the Cherries this season, it's no wonder he's attracted interest from top Premier League clubs including Spurs, both Manchester teams, Liverpool and Chelsea.

However, recent reports suggest Semenyo has set his sights on joining Manchester City. Pep Guardiola's squad, currently embroiled in a title race with Arsenal, would undoubtedly receive a significant boost from Semenyo's arrival, enhancing their chances of outdoing the north London club come May.

According to The Athletic, despite a competitive wage offer from Spurs, Semenyo respectfully declined their advances. It later emerged that his preferred destination is the Etihad Stadium, with City now stepping up their efforts to seal the deal by January 1.

Despite the odds, Spurs haven't abandoned their hopes of strengthening their attack in the upcoming transfer window. Semenyo's move to City could trigger a transfer domino effect that benefits the London side, reports football.london.

Spurs were previously linked with City winger Savinho during the summer, but no deal materialised before the deadline.

Potential departures at Spurs could free up both funds and squad space for new attacking additions, with Brennan Johnson's name being floated as a possible exit. Sky Sports News reports a handful of Premier League clubs are eyeing the Welshman, with Bournemouth being the latest to consider him as a potential replacement for the departing Semenyo.

The report suggests that Johnson's name has been mentioned at the Vitality Stadium as they brace for Semenyo's exit, while Crystal Palace also have a strong interest in the 24-year-old. However, it remains unclear whether Spurs are ready to approve a sale or loan move in January, even though they're on the hunt for a new forward, which could impact the winger's future.

Johnson made the switch to Spurs from Nottingham Forest for just under £50million back in 2023. To date, he has clocked up just over 100 appearances across all competitions, netting 27 goals and providing 18 assists.

This season under Thomas Frank, he has only made six starts in the Premier League, with a total of 16 appearances. He's netted four goals and hasn't provided any assists across all competitions.

He did play in Sunday's narrow 1-0 victory over Palace, but once again began the match on the bench. He came on for Mohammed Kudus in the final 10 minutes at Selhurst Park as Frank's team clung to their slim lead, secured by Archie Gray's maiden goal for the club.

Spurs return to action midweek with an away fixture against Brentford. They then have to prepare for Sunderland's visit in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon.