When Thomas Frank takes a look at the options in his squad, defence is the area he’s probably most comfortable with.

As the injuries build – Tottenham currently have eight players unavailable – just one of those sidelined is a defender – Ben Davies, who recently suffered a broken ankle.

Across the back line, Frank has depth. At left-back alone, he has Destiny Udogie, who’s just returned from injury, Djed Spence, who can play right or left-back and Brazilian Souza, who joined the club for £13m on Thursday.

So going for Andy Robertson may seem a little surprising given what Tottenham actually need, with their depleted midfield a constant problem.

But what Spurs don’t have in the squad is experience. Joao Palhinha is the only available player who is 30 years old or above. Four of their oldest seven players are injured.

Robertson, at 31, offers that experience and – as Scotland’s captain – brings a leadership Spurs are arguably desperate for.