Can Thomas Frank silence the N17 boos against Sunderland’s New Year giants?

Tottenham Hotspur and Sunderland head into Sunday’s meeting at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium having both drawn their previous Premier League fixtures, but the shared scorelines disguise very different emotional backdrops.

While each side were held to goalless draws in midweek, the reaction to those results could not be more contrasting, shaped by performance levels, expectations and current league positions.

Tottenham’s 0-0 draw away at Brentford was met with frustration rather than relief, as Thomas Frank’s side again struggled to impose themselves in the final third.

A lack of attacking cohesion and urgency defined the display, with Spurs failing to build on a run of improved defensive solidity.

Although clean sheets have become more frequent in recent weeks, the absence of cutting edge has left the club lingering in the bottom half of the table, an uncomfortable position given the ambition surrounding the squad and the pressure that comes with playing at home.

Home form, in particular, continues to weigh heavily on Spurs. The Tottenham Hotspur Stadium has not provided the expected sense of authority this season, with performances often flat and confidence fragile.

Sunday’s fixture therefore carries the feel of a test of character, as much as a chance to collect points. Spurs are searching for reassurance and momentum, and anything short of a convincing display is likely to be met with further scrutiny.

Sunderland arrive in north London in a more positive frame of mind after holding Manchester City to an impressive draw, a result that reinforced the structure and discipline that have defined their return to the top flight.

For a newly promoted side to sit above Tottenham in the table at this stage of the season speaks volumes about the work done under Regis Le Bris. Sunderland have shown an ability to compete against high-quality opposition without abandoning their identity.

That said, their away record remains a concern, with goals proving difficult to come by on the road.

The Black Cats have collected the majority of their points at the Stadium of Light, and translating that resilience into away performances remains the next step in their development. Even so, recent displays suggest they will travel with belief rather than fear.

The contrast in mood and circumstance sets up an intriguing contest. Tottenham will be under pressure to perform, not simply to control possession, while Sunderland will look to stay compact and opportunistic.

With one side seeking relief and the other chasing validation, the outcome may come down to who imposes their intent more convincingly on the day, offering the crowd a competitive and compelling encounter.