Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has expressed sympathy and respect for Thomas Frank following the Tottenham Hotspur boss’s dismissal on Wednesday morning.

Naija News reports that Frank was relieved of his duties after a disappointing spell at Spurs, with the club struggling badly in the Premier League.

Tottenham currently sit 16th in the table, having managed just two wins in their last 17 league matches, a run that has heightened fears of a potential relegation battle.

The decision to part ways with Frank comes only eight months into his tenure, as the Spurs attempt to steady their season and arrest their decline in form.

Had he remained in charge, Frank would have faced Arteta in the highly anticipated North London Derby on February 22.

Reacting to the news, Arteta spoke warmly of his counterpart, highlighting both his coaching ability and character.

He said: “Well, it’s obviously very sad news when you have a colleague who doesn’t continue doing his job, because Thomas is an excellent coach, and an extraordinary man as well, and he has proven that in the league.

“We know where we are, and how our responsibility is beyond just performance, and I wish him all the very best with whatever he decides to do next.”