Keith Andrews is in contention for the Brentford job. Photo: Eóin Noonan/Sportsfile
©Press Association
Former Ireland international Keith Andrews has emerged as a strong candidate to replace Thomas Frank as Brentford manager.
Dubliner Andrews, currently the club’s first-team coach, is a candidate for the vacant head coach role at Gtech Community Stadium, but it is an ongoing process and there is not expected to be an imminent appointment.
The 35-times capped Andrews (44) joined Brentford last summer and while largely credited with the club’s set-piece success, his role is all-encompassing and the former midfielder has built up a strong reputation following coaching roles with the Ireland, Sheffield United and MK Dons.
Frank’s successor will not work with Danish coach Claus Norgaard, though, after he left this week following two-and-a-half-years.
Norgaard’s departure was confirmed on Monday, four days after Frank left to take over at Premier League rivals Tottenham.
After Norgaard worked with Frank at Brondby, the pair reunited at Brentford in 2022 and the 45-year-old helped establish them as a Premier League club.
“I have loved my time at Brentford and leave with fond memories,” said Norgaard.
“Brentford will always have a place in my heart. I will look out for their results and wish everybody associated with the club the best of luck for the future.”
Director of football Phil Giles added: “Claus has been with us for the last two and a half years and has played a major role in our success.
“In fact, in the three seasons Claus was a Brentford coach, we finished in the top half of the Premier League twice. That is the legacy he leaves at Brentford.
“Everybody at the club wishes him well in his next role and I’m sure he will be just as successful at whichever club is fortunate enough to employ him.
“He will always receive the warmest of welcomes at Brentford.”