Ex-Ireland star and coach becomes shock favourite for Brentford job

An interesting decision by the Bees.

Former Brentford manager Thomas Frank was announced as Tottenham's new manager on Thursday night. Frank signed a three-year deal with the Lilywhites and ended his successful seven-year stint with the Bees.

Bees director of football Phil Giles thanked the Dane for his incredible role in the club's history in a Brentford statement.

Giles said: "We will never forget Thomas, but now it is time to thank him and take the next steps in our journey with a new leader who we believe can be just as successful and influential."

The 51-year-old's departure has led to multiple names being linked in the search for Brentford's new successor to Frank, to continue their steady growth in the Premier League since being promoted in 2021.

Names that have been touted for the position include Ipswich boss Kieran McKenna and ex-Tottenham manager Ange Postecoglu, who was sacked despite winning Spurs' first trophy since 2008 by winning the Europa League.

An unexpected favourite has emerged from within the club also, with Brentford set-piece coach and former Ireland international Keith Andrews now linked with the job.

Andrews, who played 35 times for Ireland between 2008 and 2012, joined the Frank's coaching set-up last summer. The 45-year-old has previous experience in coaching roles as assistant manager of Ireland and a coach for Chris Wilder's Sheffield United.

Andrews has no previous experience as manager and this will be his first taste of the role if Brentford decide to give him the reigns. The former defensive midfielder would also become the first Ireland international to manage in England's top flight since Chris Hughton with Brighton in 2019.