Keith Andrews hails Brentford mentality after dominant Chelsea victory

Keith Andrews believes an “unbelievable calm” has developed within his Brentford squad after they maintained their unbeaten Premier League start with an impressive 3-0 victory over Chelsea.

Goals from Jaidon Anthony, Igor Thiago and Fabio Carvalho secured the points at the Gtech Community Stadium as Brentford recorded their best start to a Premier League season since earning promotion in 2021.

For Andrews, the result was another indication of the confidence and mentality developing within his team.

Brentford had to remain patient before taking control of the west London derby, with Anthony finally breaking the deadlock in the 61st minute.

Poor Chelsea marking from Mikkel Damsgaard’s corner allowed Anthony to head home from close range before Brentford quickly punished their opponents again.

Kevin Schade raced clear and was initially denied by Emiliano Martinez, but Igor Thiago converted the rebound for his first Premier League goal of the season.

Substitute Carvalho then completed the victory in stoppage time from another Schade delivery.

“I felt there was something bubbling tonight,” Andrews said. “I have this unbelievable calm around our team because I trust them.”

The Brentford manager highlighted the “humility and hunger” within his squad as important factors behind their strong opening to the campaign.

Andrews is determined to make sure his players appreciate nights such as the Chelsea victory rather than immediately looking towards the next challenge.

“There’s some tough days in the game,” he said. “You’ve got to endure lots of different emotions.”

That made the performance and result particularly satisfying, especially given how ruthlessly Brentford took control once Anthony opened the scoring.

Andrews also believes the connection between his players, staff and supporters is helping drive their momentum.

“The club and the fans and the players are so invested in the journey,” he added. “I love what we’re doing and the way we're going about it. We should enjoy it.”

Brentford will look to protect their unbeaten start and turn their early momentum into a sustained run of Premier League form.

For Andrews, the Chelsea victory provides another significant sign that his players are responding to his approach and growing in confidence together.