Spurs have slipped to 12th after losing 2-1 at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, a result that handed Fulham their first away win of the season and deepened frustration among supporters.

Despite their struggles at home, Spurs arrive at St James' Park with a small boost. Cristian Romero is available again after serving a one-match suspension, and Frank has confirmed that the squad remain in the same physical condition as they were before the Fulham loss.

"All the players who were available for Fulham are ready for Newcastle," Frank said. "Cristian has served his suspension and is ready to help the team."

Frank Calls for Connection with Fans

The Spurs head coach admitted that recent performances have stretched the relationship between supporters and the team, but insisted he values open dialogue.

"There are two sides, performing and connecting," Frank said. "If we go into every game, I'm pretty sure every fan wants to win and support. If it's not going to plan, some get more frustrated than others. We would like to get everyone on board."

He added that supporters are entitled to express their feelings: "They are allowed to be disappointed. We are nothing without our fantastic fans."

Formation, Fitness and the Heavy Schedule

With fixtures arriving every few days, Frank acknowledged that preparation is limited.

"With two-two-two between games, it's very minimal what you can coach because it's mainly recovery," he said. "But we need to find a way."

He stressed that his guiding principles remain consistent regardless of formation and emphasised the need for character.

"Every player makes small mistakes, sometimes crucial ones, but you keep going no matter what," he said.

Frank also praised goalkeeper Guglielmo Vicario for his response to Saturday's setback: "Vic is remarkable. His character is fantastic. Everyone makes mistakes, but the way he carries himself impresses me."

Newcastle Threat Identified

Frank highlighted the form of Newcastle forward Nick Woltemade, who has scored key goals since arriving from Werder Bremen earlier in the year.

"He has the physicality and offers something different," Frank said. "He links the play well and attacks the box with good timing."

He also underlined Newcastle's formidable home form under Eddie Howe.

"They have been good for a long time," he said. "I admire Eddie and his staff. They are intense, aggressive and they have won their last six home games. They are good, but not unbeatable."

Xavi Simons and Squad Expectations

Frank urged patience with Xavi Simons, who joined Spurs in the summer on loan and is still adjusting.

"There is a reason why we brought Xavi here," he said. "He is a very good player and he has trained well. It is normal that some players need time to adapt to the Premier League."

As Spurs prepare for another demanding test, Frank underlined the need for unity.

"If any club wants to be successful, you need to create a fortress," he said. "That can only be done together, fans and team. There is nothing we want more than to make them proud."

Tottenham now face a Newcastle side who have dominated this fixture in recent seasons. With pressure rising, tonight's trip to St James' Park offers Spurs an opportunity to reset, but only if they show the character their manager has demanded.

Dates and times for CAF Champions League semi-finals confirmed