Brentford FC Director of Football Rasmus Ankersen on Keith Andrews promotion to head coach. He’ll replace Thomas Frank in this important role. Andrews, formerly the club’s set-piece specialist as a player, has inked a three-year deal. He will now be the one to lead the team into its next chapter. His long service in and around the club encourages significant respect from players and staff alike. Combined with his previously established knowledge of all aspects of the club’s systems, this enhanced his reputation.
Andrews has been part of Brentford’s coaching staff since last summer, playing a vital role in the team’s success. Under his supervision, Brentford netted 13 times from set plays last campaign. What’s more, they actually created 16.71 xG from those situations, ranking them 3rd best in the Premier League. His influence is more than just set-piece wizardry. He worked a little magic of his own as one of the masterminds for the team’s early explosion in matches.
Andrews said he is thankful for the opportunity being given to him.
“Pretty humbled would be the overriding feeling, honoured that I’m the person that’s been chosen to take the club into the next chapter,” – Keith Andrews
Coaching Philosophy and Vision
Andrews has put down his ambition for the club in black and white, showing a clear long-term vision that is hugely attracting to fans and players. He aims to create a team that embodies the spirit and passion of its supporters, stating:
“I want a team that the fans feel represents them and what they want to see on a Saturday.” – Keith Andrews
Additionally, he made a point to talk about what he wanted in terms of competitiveness in games. For him, success all comes from a playing style that embraces verticality and dynamism without losing the core tenets of organizational structure and discipline.
“We want to play winning football, we want to be competitive, we want to have an edge, we want to play dynamic, relentless football but we want to be organised,” – Keith Andrews
This philosophy doesn’t just shoot for a home run right away, but rather represents a commitment to long term progress. Andrews insists that keeping a pitbull, never-rest-on-your-laurels approach to progress is key to the future health of the club.
“We want to have huge moments, huge games, and I think the big one is that we want to have an attitude and a relentlessness of progression,” – Keith Andrews
Transitioning from Player to Coach
Prior to his coaching responsibilities, Andrews enjoyed a successful 16-year playing career. He displayed that special flair at stages with Wolverhampton Wanderers, MK Dons, Blackburn Rangers and Bolton Wanderers. He made 35 appearances for the Republic of Ireland while still on the field of play. His journey from player to coach was accompanied by the evolution of a desire to see Brentford succeed.
As he embarks on this latest challenge, Andrews is deeply appreciative of the trust, freedom, and encouragement that he has received from Brentford’s upper management and support staff.
“I’m very appreciative of the owner, the board and the staff that have supported this decision. It’s an opportunity I feel I’m very capable of doing and ready to do,” – Keith Andrews
Four members of Andrews’ coaching staff are still awaiting clearance. This comes soon after Thomas Frank’s departure to Tottenham Hotspur. Nevertheless, his familiarity with the existing squad and club dynamics will serve him well as he settles into his new position.
Looking Ahead
Andrews’ inaugural match in charge will be against Nottingham Forest on August 17, a highly anticipated encounter that will be broadcast live on Sky Sports. Brentford fans can hardly wait to see what his plans lead to on the pitch. As he prepares for this fight, so too will everyone be watching him closely.
Few have a better handle on the tactical side and player potential than Keith Andrews. He’s clearly the right man to take Brentford into what promises to be an exhilarating new era in the club’s history. His focus and commitment to creating a more competitive landscape is in tune with the wishes of players and fans both.
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