Frank made the admission when asked whether Tottenham remain an appealing option for players during the January transfer window.

Spurs' struggles this season have left them languishing in 13th place in the Premier League table, a position that underlines the scale of the challenge facing the club.

Tottenham sit nine places below fourth-placed Liverpool, 11 places behind second-placed Manchester City and a significant 12 places adrift of league leaders Arsenal.

"I think we are very attractive in many ways," said Frank. "I think Spurs is a fantastic club with huge potential.

"I think some of the boxes you need to tick are the stadium, the training ground and the potential. Of course, if we compete against the three teams that are clearly ahead of us, City, Arsenal and Liverpool unfortunately, then those three clubs are probably more attractive right now.

"It's not the same that we can't attract some of the players that also want to go to those clubs. It depends on if there's a spot available for the player to play in, in those clubs compared to here for example."

The Dane's comments came amid a period of transition in north London, with the club already active in the market. Winger Brennan Johnson has been sold to Crystal Palace during the January window, a move that further reshapes Tottenham's attacking options for the remainder of the campaign.

Frank was also pressed on team news, particularly regarding injuries that have hampered Spurs' season. Mohammed Kudus picked up an injury in a recent match against Sunderland, adding to the manager's concerns as he looks to stabilise performances and results.

In addition, Frank was questioned about the potential return of Dejan Kulusevski. The Swedish international has not featured for Tottenham since sustaining a patella injury in May of last year, and his prolonged absence has been keenly felt.

"He is a key player and he's been such a key player for us," Frank added. "I completely agree on that and I would love to have him back soon.

"Unfortunately, it was a tricky injury he got, so it just takes time and they're working very hard and he's working very hard to come back on pitch."

Frank Schmidt's Heidenheim win hearts despite Chelsea defeat