Phil Giles, Brentford’s director of football, has outlined the journey leading to Keith Andrews’ appointment as the new head coach. Andrews, who previously served as the set-piece coach, is taking over following Thomas Frank’s recent move to Tottenham Hotspur.
Giles explained that planning for a successor began years prior to Frank’s departure. Reflecting on past transitions, he noted the foresight of having Frank lined up to replace Dean Smith, highlighting a proactive approach to leadership positions within the club. “When we appoint coaches, we always have an idea about whether they could potentially step up,” he stated.
The appointment process for Andrews involved discussions with both internal staff and external candidates well before Frank’s formal exit, underscoring a strategy to maintain continuity while preparing for future changes.
Before his time with Brentford, Andrews held various coaching roles, including assistant manager to Stephen Kenny during his tenure with the Republic of Ireland national team and assistant at MK Dons. Giles praised Andrews’ character, noting his commitment to growth and alignment with Brentford’s culture. “He is a very good person with good values,” Giles said. “He gets on with everyone and is open to learning.”
Andrews has notably excelled in enhancing Brentford’s set-pieces, particularly on the defensive side, and is recognized for his clear communication and understanding of player dynamics. Giles expressed optimism about Andrews’ ability to build on the established team foundation while implementing gradual improvements rather than a complete overhaul.
With several key coaching positions vacant following Frank’s departure, Giles emphasized the importance of assembling a talented support team around Andrews. He described the opportunity as an exciting project, one that involves carefully curated hires to ensure the right mix of skills and experience.
The club appears hopeful about a seamless transition, aiming to improve upon last season while fostering a constructive environment for both players and staff. This focus on detail and thoughtful evolution within the team provides a promising outlook for Brentford’s future.