Thomas Frank 'so happy' about Arsenal transfer as Tottenham boss reflects on 'emotional' reunion

For the first time in the new Spurs manager's career, Frank came up against Christian Norgaard - a player he had worked with at Brentford, Brondby, and more - in their 1-0 pre-season win over Arsenal on Thursday. The ex-Bees captain headed to the Gunners for £9 million, shortly after the Dane made the switch to Tottenham. Now, Frank has expressed his delight about the 31-year-old joining the Premier League giants.

He told reporters: "It’s a little bit emotional [coming up against Norgaard]. I’ve known him since he was 15. He’s 31 now and I’ve coached him for 12 of those years, so I can say that I know him pretty well. This is the first time I’ve played against him. It was a bit strange to see him in another team. He’s a top player – I understand why Arsenal went for him. I'm so happy he got this opportunity late in his career."

Both Frank and Norgaard have secured moves to two giants of English football after making a name for themselves at Brentford. While Tottenham have the bragging rights after this pre-season win in Hong Kong, there is no guarantee that will continue for the upcoming Premier League season.

Norgaard, who started in Arsenal's defeat to Spurs, will hope to get more game time for his new team ahead of their final pre-season friendlies against Villarreal on Wednesday and Athletic Club three days later.