Speculation has been swirling around Callum Wilson’s desire to have his West Ham contract terminated this month. Yet, he made a compelling return from the bench, dramatically altering the narrative and casting further doubt on Thomas Frank’s tenure at Tottenham.

Despite assurances from Tottenham’s higher-ups that Frank’s position remains secure, the atmosphere post-Wilson’s last-minute goal suggested otherwise. Fans were vocal, chanting predictions of Frank’s dismissal, almost turning it into a directive rather than a mere forecast.

Although Frank is expected to withstand this particular setback, his long-term future appears precarious. The dissatisfaction is palpable; neither his style of play nor his management has won over the supporters. The chorus of boos as he exited the pitch served as a stark reminder of the mounting discontent, a sentiment unlikely to dissipate soon.

In a match characterized by frenetic energy and 38 total shots, Frank could have benefited from a forward like Wilson. Tottenham managed 21 attempts, yet none involved his striker, Randal Kolo Muani. Wilson, in stark contrast, made an immediate impact, scoring the decisive goal within just two minutes of entering the game.

Wilson’s frustration with Nuno Espirito Santo’s selection preferences is understandable, especially considering his pay-as-you-play contract. This was his first appearance in two weeks, and it was Frank who ultimately bore the cost of Wilson’s brief but effective performance.

Thomas Frank’s Tottenham side lost at home against lowly West Ham on Saturday 

Spurs’ hierarchy insist the Dane won’t lose his job but the writing is on the wall 

Nuno, when asked about Wilson’s future, chose to focus on the present, remarking, “Every player in the building needs to help us, and we need to support them. I’m so happy for him.”

This Desperation Derby had looked like ending in the one outcome that both teams could live with but neither would enjoy, entering stoppage-time at 1-1. But West Ham, sensing that Tottenham’s race was run, mounted one last charge.

Wilson, only just on as a substitute, had the chance to win it when Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s cross dropped kindly inside the area. He thought that chance had gone when his low blast was blocked in the goalmouth by a sliding Pedro Porro. It felt like an intervention to save his team a point and Frank the home scorn.

Not so. From the resulting corner, and amid the panic of a crowded six-yard area, Wilson pounced to poke in. He and 3,000 happy Hammers celebrated with relief and great relish, but it wast the aggravation of the home crowd most audible of all.

The frustration had been simmering all afternoon. It was to their credit that, during a woeful first half, they waited until the 27th minute before the booing began. 

There was ample opportunity to hiss their discontent before Xavi Simons passed the ball straight out of play, but that was the moment their restraint was broken. 

Moments earlier, Conor Gallagher had played a short free-kick to the feet of a West Ham player. It being the midfielder’s debut saved him the ignominy of the opening jeers.

Come half-time, and with West Ham deservedly in front thanks to the outstanding Crysencio Summerville’s 15th-minute effort, none of those in white were spared. They were groaning again just after the hour when Frank replaced Mathys Tel with Dominic Solanke. 

Callum Wilson scored a late winner for the Hammers on a miserable day for Spurs 

Tottenham fans are seen protesting the owners of the club prior to kick-off 

The irritation was not because of the player introduced, but the withdrawal of one who had shown some attacking purpose. Within two minutes, and with Frank having reshaped his forward unit, Spurs were level, even if it was two defenders who combined. Pedro Porro crossed from the right and centre back Cristian Romero climbed to score a captain’s goal, a header of ferocity and authority.

Suddenly, from anxiety, there was belief. Yves Bissouma, on at half-time for his first appearance under Frank, offered bite and energy from midfield, and Gallagher belatedly showed the same. 

When, in the 84th minute, he bustled into the area, it looked as if his endeavour would be rewarded with a penalty after the ball brushed the hand of defender Oliver Scarles. A VAR review deemed it accidental.

There was a VAR check after Wilson’s goal, too, but that would have been a get-out-of-jail that Spurs and Frank did not warrant. Indeed, goalkeeper Vicario needs locking up for not being stronger in claiming the corner. And so their unhappy season continues. The morning will not bring the change supporters want, either. For now, at Tottenham, all remains the same.