Keith Andrews Named Brentford Manager as Club Continues Internal Promotion Philosophy
Brentford have appointed former Republic of Ireland international Keith Andrews as their new manager, continuing their tradition of promoting from within. Andrews replaces Thomas Frank, who departed earlier this month to take over at Tottenham Hotspur, bringing an end to a successful six-year spell in charge of the West London club.
Andrews, who has been serving as Brentford’s set-piece coach for the past season, steps into his first senior managerial role on a three-year contract. His appointment signals a clear vote of confidence from the club’s leadership in both his tactical understanding and ability to lead a Premier League side despite his lack of top-flight management experience.
A Natural Transition for Brentford
Brentford’s Director of Football, Phil Giles, said the decision to promote Andrews was influenced by his strong relationships with players and staff, as well as his deep understanding of the club’s footballing philosophy.
“Keith is a very good fit,” said Giles. “He gets on with everyone, he’s very open and he’s a learner. He understands the players in the building and the way we’ve played and trained under Thomas Frank.”
“Keith will bring his own evolution but isn’t starting from scratch, so hopefully we can make some quick progress.”
This mirrors Brentford’s previous managerial transition in 2018, when Frank himself was promoted from within after serving as an assistant coach under Dean Smith. Frank guided Brentford to Premier League promotion in 2021 and helped establish them as a competitive force in the English top flight.
Competitive, dynamic, relentless football.
Keith Andrews wants to create a team that the fans feel ‘represents them’ as our new head coach pic.twitter.com/7pnF0ck4Mj
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) June 27, 2025
A Coaching Career on the Rise
Andrews, 43, made 35 appearances for Ireland during his playing days and spent time at clubs such as Blackburn Rovers, MK Dons, and West Bromwich Albion. Following his retirement in 2015, he began his coaching career as assistant manager at MK Dons before joining the Republic of Ireland Under-21 set-up under Stephen Kenny.
When Kenny was promoted to manage the senior Ireland national team in 2020, Andrews followed as his assistant, gaining valuable experience at the international level. After Kenny’s contract ended in late 2023, Andrews quickly found work, joining Chris Wilder’s backroom staff at Sheffield United.
He left Sheffield United at the end of the 2023–24 season to take on a role at Brentford, initially focusing on set-piece strategies—a key component of the Bees’ tactical approach. His sharp attention to detail and ability to translate strategy into results earned him high regard within the club.
Big Shoes to Fill
Replacing Thomas Frank is no easy task. The Danish coach ended Brentford’s 74-year absence from the top flight and led the team to respectable Premier League finishes with a distinctive, high-intensity playing style and a strong sense of team identity.
Frank’s departure to Spurs saw several key staff members follow him, including assistant coach Justin Cochrane, head of athletic performance Chris Haslam, and first-team analyst Joe Newton. Andrews’ decision to remain with Brentford during this transition period suggested his growing influence within the club’s structure—and perhaps foreshadowed his elevation to head coach.
“I’m very appreciative of the owner, the board, and the staff that have supported this decision,” said Andrews during his unveiling. “It’s an opportunity I feel I’m very capable of doing and ready to do.”
“I’m humbled to be the new head coach of an amazing football club that’s touched me in a lot of ways.”
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Keith Andrews as our new head coach
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) June 27, 2025
A Culture of Internal Growth
Brentford’s strategy of promoting from within has become a hallmark of the club’s modern identity. The decision to elevate Andrews reflects a commitment to long-term stability, trust in staff development, and maintaining the club’s footballing culture.
This continuity will be vital as Brentford prepare for another Premier League campaign. While expectations may be tempered due to Andrews’ lack of managerial experience at this level, his familiarity with the players and the club’s tactical systems could help ease the transition and avoid the turmoil often associated with managerial changes.
Support from Inside the Club
Reports from within the club suggest that Andrews has quickly earned the respect of the players and technical staff. His clear communication, tactical discipline, and willingness to evolve have impressed those around him.
While Brentford fans might be cautiously optimistic about the appointment, many will appreciate the club’s measured, progressive approach. Andrews, too, appears fully aware of the task at hand and eager to make his mark in a high-pressure environment.
As pre-season looms, the new manager will face immediate tests: rebuilding the backroom team, finalizing summer transfers, and preparing the squad for a competitive league where margins are tight and the stakes are high.
Brentford’s bet on Keith Andrews is bold but consistent with a philosophy that values loyalty, development, and structure. If the former midfielder can build on the foundation laid by Thomas Frank, the Bees may once again punch above their weight in English football’s top flight.
READ NEXT:
