Seven games, four wins, two draws and just a solitary defeat. Tottenham Hotspur’s start to the 2025/26 Premier League season has been a far cry from last term, with Thomas Frank certainly getting a tune out of this talented crop of players.

Having slipped to 22 top-flight defeats last season under Ange Postecoglou, the Europa League winners look like a different prospect this time around, with Saturday’s trip to Elland Road once again highlighting their newfound resilience this season.

With Cristian Romero and Micky van de Ven holding the fort defensively in that 2-1 win over Leeds United, the Lilywhites can also now rely on the likes of Mohammed Kudus to make the difference in attack, with the Ghanaian notching a goal and assist to maintain his red-hot form this term.

Eyebrows may have been raised following his £55m switch from London rivals West Ham United, although Kudus is quickly proving value for money, having fired home from just outside the box to secure the win in Yorkshire.

Elegant and electric down that right flank, the 25-year-old is swiftly taking on talismanic status in his new surroundings, carrying the mantle even when those around him aren’t exactly at their free-flowing best.

Kudus' game in numbers vs Leeds

Having teed up Mathys Tel for the game’s opener, before getting in on the act with his first goal for the club, Kudus now has six goals and assists to his name in just seven league outings in 2025/26.

Up against Daniel Farke’s stubborn side, the one-time Ajax man was a constant menace from his right wing berth, having also popped up centrally to convert what proved to be the decisive goal on the day.

The man of the moment could and should well have netted earlier following impressive work from Xavi Simons down the left, albeit with Kudus unable to direct his attempt goalwards after lashing over the bar from the Dutchman’s pullback.

That was a rare blot on the copybook on anotherwise eye-catching day for Spurs’ number 20, a fact that was also evidenced as he successfully completed all six of his attempted dribbles at Elland Road, as per Sofascore.

With an 88% pass accuracy rate to boot, the 51-touch playmaker also chipped in defensively for his side, winning ten duels in total – the most of any player for either side on the day.

Minutes played

89

Touches

51

Pass accuracy

88%

Goals

1

Assists

1

Dribbles completed

6/6

Duels won

10/19

That influence both in and out of possession was crucial in clinching the away side’s fourth league win of the campaign, with such a showing perhaps helping to mask the struggles of the man behind.

Why Frank may need to bench errant Spurs star

Battling. Hard-fought. Resilient. All words that could describe the visitors’ performance amid stormy conditions away in Yorkshire.

Chalkboard

Football FanCast’s Chalkboard series presents a tactical discussion from around the global game.

This wasn’t vintage Spurs, but a resolute defence – combined with fleeting moments of quality in attack – ultimately proved enough up against their newly-promoted hosts.

When reflecting back on Saturday’s win, Frank may also need to consider how his side can truly begin to kick on and thrive in the weeks ahead, with questions likely to be asked regarding Pedro Porro’s regular role at right-back.

With Destiny Udogie returning to his rightful place at left-back, there is now a straight fight between Porro and Djed Spence on the opposite flank, ensuring Frank could well make that change next time around following the international break.

While the typically influential Porro wasn’t a notable villain on Saturday afternoon, he was also far from his best, having been rather erratic in possession after losing the ball on 26 occasions – more than any player for either side.

That may have come amid his desire to create for his side, having teed up Kudus for the winner with a dinked pass in behind, although his 62% pass accuracy rate does make for grim reading.

Wasteful and erratic in possession, the Spaniard was also found wanting defensively at times, having struggled to contain the lively Noah Okafor down the Leeds left.

Indeed, the former Sporting CP defender ultimately won just four of his ten ground duels, while being dribbled past one two occasions, with football.london’s Alasdair Gold noting that it ‘wasn’t one of his best games’, despite showcasing his usual endeavour and commitment.

While Frank may be wary of changing a winning side, the presence of Spence waiting in the wings ensures that the Dane could make the change against Aston Villa in two weeks time.

There’s certainly no harm in keeping Porro on his toes.

Spurs already have dream Son heir who's yet to play in the Premier League

Tottenham Hotspur could save themselves millions with a Heung-min Son replacement within their ranks.

ByEthan Lamb