Premier League side Thomas Frank Tottenham have confirmed the appointment of Keith Andrews as their new head coach on a three-year deal. The move comes following the departure of Thomas Frank to Tottenham Hotspur.
Andrews, 44, was previously the club’s set-piece coach, joining the Bees last summer. The former Republic of Ireland international is now stepping into his first managerial role after coaching spells with MK Dons, Sheffield United, and the Irish national team Thomas Frank Tottenham.
Continuity Over Change at Gtech Community Stadium
Brentford owner Matthew Benham has opted for internal promotion in a decision that echoes the club’s earlier strategy. Thomas Frank was similarly promoted from assistant to head coach when Dean Smith left for Aston Villa in 2018.
Andrews’ appointment is a strategic move to maintain stability at the club while fostering a familiar environment for players and staff. Known for his analytical approach and focus on dead-ball situations, his tactical acumen will now be tested on a broader managerial level.
Andrews Beats External Candidates to the Job
Thomas Frank Tottenham reportedly considered several external managers including Ipswich Town’s highly rated Kieran McKenna and former Ajax boss Francesco Farioli. However, Andrews’ intimate knowledge of the club’s internal dynamics gave him the edge.
According to BBC Sport, the club’s top brass were particularly impressed by Andrews’ role in optimizing Brentford’s set-pieces, which ranked among the most efficient in the Premier League last season.
Brentford Face Transition on and off the Pitch
Andrews inherits a team undergoing significant changes. The club has signed Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher from Liverpool to replace Dutch international Mark Flekken, who has moved to Bayer Leverkusen Thomas Frank Tottenham.
In midfield, Christian Norgaard is expected to join Arsenal in a high-profile move, while last season’s top scorer Bryan Mbeumo is reportedly the subject of a £60 million bid from Manchester United.
This upheaval presents both a challenge and an opportunity for Andrews, who will have to quickly establish authority and rebuild key parts of the squad ahead of the new season Thomas Frank Tottenham.
Player Reactions and Fan Sentiment
Early reactions among the fanbase have been mixed. While some supporters welcomed the club’s commitment to continuity, others questioned Andrews’ lack of managerial experience at the top level. Still, comparisons to Thomas Frank’s similarly unconventional promotion offer a note of optimism.
On social media, Brentford captain Ethan Pinnock posted: “Congrats to Keith – excited to see where he takes us next. Big shoes to fill but we move forward together.”
Next Steps for Andrews and Brentford
Andrews’ first official duty will be leading Brentford in pre-season training next month. The team is also expected to make several signings before the transfer window closes, especially if Mbeumo and Norgaard’s moves are finalized.
He’ll be tasked with building on Brentford’s 11th-place finish in the 2024/25 Premier League season and ensuring a smooth transition from Frank’s successful tenure.
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Source: BBC Sport
