John Wenham says Thomas Frank has a decision to make on Tottenham youngster this summer

As Tottenham Hotspur players prepare to return to Hotspur Way in the coming weeks, signaling the official start of pre-season preparations, manager Thomas Frank faces a pivotal decision regarding the future of promising young forward Will Lankshear. The highly-rated prospect is on the cusp of a significant career step, with Frank set to determine whether he remains within the senior squad or is sent out on loan to gain valuable first-team experience. This critical assessment is expected to take place immediately following the club’s pre-season tour.

According to insights from John Wenham, a close observer of Tottenham's youth development, the upcoming pre-season will serve as Lankshear’s ultimate audition. The 19-year-old striker has steadily climbed through the academy ranks since his arrival from Sheffield United in 2022, impressing with his predatory instincts and physical presence in front of goal. His performances for the Under-21s have consistently highlighted his potential, making him one of the most exciting attacking talents within the club’s pipeline. The question now is whether his development is best served by training alongside established Premier League stars or by regular competitive minutes elsewhere.

The dilemma for Thomas Frank is a common one for managers overseeing top-tier academies. Keeping Lankshear within the senior setup offers him direct exposure to Frank’s tactical philosophy, the intensity of Premier League training, and the mentorship of experienced professionals. It also provides an immediate option for cup competitions or late-game cameos, offering a taste of the big stage. However, the alternative of a loan spell to a Championship or League One club could guarantee him consistent starting opportunities, allowing him to accelerate his development through the rigours of competitive football, something often seen as invaluable for young strikers needing to hone their craft.

The pre-season tour will be instrumental in Frank’s final assessment. Lankshear will have a prime opportunity to demonstrate his readiness, not just in terms of technical ability, but also his tactical understanding, physical conditioning, and mental fortitude. Frank and his coaching staff will be meticulously evaluating how the young forward integrates with the senior group, his work rate, and his ability to convert chances against higher-calibre opposition. The manager's decision, anticipated in the immediate aftermath of the tour, will be a defining moment for Lankshear’s trajectory at Tottenham.

This summer’s decision underscores Tottenham’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent while also ensuring optimal development pathways. For Will Lankshear, it represents a crucial juncture, with the outcome set to shape his immediate future and long-term prospects at a club where fans are increasingly eager to see academy graduates make their mark on the first team.