Portugal Colonial - Frank confident Van de Ven has 'big future' at Spurs

The centre-back scored twice in Sunday's 3-0 win at Everton to take his tally for the season to five goals in 13 appearances, with Spurs now third in the table -- five points behind leaders and arch north London rivals Arsenal.

Van de Ven has become a leading figure in the absence of injured club captain Cristian Romero and could lead the side out again in a League Cup match away to holders Newcastle on Wednesday.

Frank, attempting to retain the senior players in a squad that won the Europa League in May, was relaxed about keeping hold of van de Ven, who joined Spurs on a six-year deal in 2023, for all the talk that Real are tracking the progress of the 24-year-old.

"Yeah, very happy with Micky. I think he has been brilliant for the club since he signed and he has taken some steps up this season," Frank said.

"I think he actually defends even better. I think he is still very good on the ball, he added the goals and the headed goals, which I am very happy with. He's a threat from set-pieces.

"Character and leadership also growing and as far as I know, we have a good contract with him but definitely a player I see with a big future at the club.

"I think he is happy here, that is very important and we're happy with him, so let's see what happens in the future.

"I think the most important thing is it looks like he really enjoys his football, he really enjoys his time here, I am very happy with him, everyone is really happy, so that's a good sign."

M.A.Vaz--PC