+18 | Play Responsibly | T&C's Apply | Commercial Content | Publishing Principles
Thomas Frank Brentford 2023-24Getty

Thomas Frank 'flattered' by Man Utd links as Brentford boss responds to talk he could replace Erik ten Hag

Article continues below

Article continues below

Article continues below

  • Frank linked with Man Utd job
  • Achieved Premier League success with Brentford
  • Wants to remain in west London
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    The Brentford boss has reportedly been identified by the Red Devils' new-look hierarchy - headed by Sir Jim Ratcliffe - as a potential managerial candidate, with Ten Hag's future at Old Trafford uncertain. Frank is one of several names rumoured to be in the running alongside Ipswich's Kieran McKenna - who previously worked at United as one of Ole Gunnar Solskjaer's assistants.

  • Advertisement
  • Thomas Frank Brentford 2022-23Getty Images

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    Frank has helped turn Brentford into a Premier League mainstay after securing promotion from the Championship in 2021. The Bees finished 13th in their first season before securing ninth last term and while things have not gone as smoothly this time around, survival is guaranteed and Frank's stock in the managerial sphere remains high - as evidenced by the links with United.

  • WHAT FRANK SAID

    Ahead of Brentford's final game against Newcastle, Frank told Bold: "I am really happy where I am. It is close to being the perfect club to be at. I can see myself being here for many more years. I am close to the owner, to the sports director, everyone around the club. Brentford is a club where I really feel at home."

    When questioned on how it feels to be linked with one of world football's biggest jobs, he added: "First of all I think it is flattering and a recognition of the work I’ve done. And I’m glad that others are noticing the work we are doing at Brentford. But, having said that, what goes on at Brentford is not a one-man show."

  • DID YOU KNOW?

    Despite being without the services of star striker Ivan Toney for large chunks of the campaign, 16th-place Brentford have scored more goals than United this season. The Bees currently boast a total of 54, two more than Ten Hag's side.

  • Thomas-Frank(C)Getty Images

    WHAT NEXT FOR FRANK AND BRENTFORD?

    Frank seems determined to remain at Brentford beyond this season and it could be a pivotal summer for him and the west London outfit. Smart transfer business will be the order of the day once again, particularly with Toney looking likely to leave after being heavily linked with Arsenal and Chelsea in the January window.