Keith Andrews sets out Brentford ambitions after impressive Tottenham win

Keith Andrews believes Brentford are ready to build on last season’s progress after making an impressive start to the new Premier League campaign.

The Bees opened with an emphatic 3-0 victory over Tottenham and now travel to Elland Road to face Leeds United in their first away fixture of the season.

After narrowly missing out on a Conference League play-off place on goal difference last term, Andrews believes Brentford now have the foundation and squad depth required to keep pushing forward.

Last season represented a period of transition for Brentford following the departures of Thomas Frank, Yoane Wissa and Bryan Mbeumo.

Despite those changes, the Bees exceeded expectations and came extremely close to securing European football.

Andrews believes the work completed during that campaign means Brentford can approach this season from a stronger position.

“Last year was a season of stabilisation, of regrouping and trying to build a new team, new dynamics, trust,” Andrews said.

“We got there and this season is slightly different. We’ve got a really good foundation in place.”

Brentford have also strengthened their squad, giving Andrews greater flexibility when managing his team throughout the campaign.

“We have added some really good players into the equation that give us that depth to be able to make changes and freshen things and look after players,” he added.

Brentford's victory over Tottenham provided an early demonstration of their potential, but Andrews expects a very different challenge against Leeds.

“The boys are feeling really confident, enjoying the football, enjoying being together, so we will hopefully keep that going,” he said.

However, the Brentford boss stressed that nothing will come easily at Elland Road.

“We’ve come up against a really good side, competitive, aggressive, Elland Road, what that brings, the challenges it brings.”

Leeds also started their Premier League campaign with a victory, beating Nottingham Forest 1-0 away from home, setting up an intriguing early-season meeting.

Andrews also highlighted the competition available in his squad, particularly on the left side.

Keane Lewis-Potter impressed during pre-season and last term, while Rico Henry is continuing to push following his recent injury problems.

“We love Rico to bits as a player and what he brings,” Andrews said, highlighting Henry's understanding of Brentford's culture after his long spell at the club.

Henry also faces competition from El Hadji Malick Diouf, giving Andrews several different options in the position.

That depth and versatility could prove particularly important as Brentford attempt to improve on last season and push themselves into European contention.

Brentford travel to Elland Road for their first away fixture of the season knowing Leeds will provide a demanding test of their early momentum.

For Andrews, the objective is to build on the foundation established last year. After narrowly missing European football, Brentford's strong start suggests they are determined to push one step further this season.