Keith Andrews breaks silence on Thomas Frank exit as Brentford surge continues

Keith Andrews admitted he felt “really sad” after learning of Thomas Frank’s dismissal at Tottenham, offering a heartfelt tribute to his former Brentford colleague.

Frank was sacked on Wednesday with Spurs sitting 16th in the Premier League table, just five points above the relegation zone. The Dane had only taken charge last summer, leaving Brentford to replace Ange Postecoglou in North London, but a difficult run of form ultimately ended his tenure.

While Tottenham have struggled under Frank, Brentford have moved in the opposite direction. Under Andrews, the Bees have enjoyed their strongest-ever start to a top-flight campaign and are firmly in the mix for European qualification.

Andrews’ appointment was questioned last summer, given he had not previously managed at senior level. However, the club hierarchy backed the former set-piece coach to build on the foundations laid by Frank.

Speaking to talkSPORT after the Spurs decision was confirmed, Andrews paid tribute to his former boss.

“Really sad was what I was feeling. The industry that we work in is very unforgiving at times,” he said.

“He's someone that as a friend, he was part of the reason why I came to Brentford. I really wanted to come to this football club.

“I loved working with him. I really enjoyed working with him last season, learnt a lot. We're in touch pretty frequently so I'm sure I will catch up with him pretty soon.”

Andrews also highlighted how deeply Frank shaped Brentford’s identity.

“He was so ingrained in this club, the values of this club, the way the club played and his team was playing. Obviously set-pieces was a big part of that, I came as the set-piece coach so it was a huge part of my day to day life.

“By that stage Thomas was a very experienced manager and did things in a certain way. You're always learning, I'm a big learner. For sure I learnt a lot.”

Having followed Brentford’s progression this season, Andrews has retained much of the structural discipline introduced under Frank while adding his own adjustments. The continuity in style has been noticeable, particularly in organisation and attacking efficiency from set plays.

It remains too early to project where Brentford will ultimately finish, but the current trajectory reflects a smooth transition rather than a reset.

For Frank, the Tottenham chapter ends abruptly. For Andrews, the comments underscored respect and loyalty in an often ruthless industry.

Tottenham will now accelerate their search for a successor ahead of upcoming fixtures. Brentford, meanwhile, aim to sustain momentum in their push for a European place.

Frank’s next move is uncertain, but his reputation within the game remains strong.

Has Brentford’s smooth transition under Andrews justified the club’s faith last summer?