Thomas Frank has paid tribute to Brentford following his departure to Tottenham Hotspur on Thursday, after nine years at the club.
Frank, 51, was appointed by Spurs on Thursday as a replacement for Ange Postecoglou who was dismissed from his role despite ending the club’s 17-year trophy drought.
Spurs appoint Thomas Frank
The Dane was appointed as Postecoglou’s successor on Thursday on a three-year deal, becoming Spurs’ fifth permanent manager in six years under chairman Daniel Levy, since Mauricio Pochettino in 2019.
“In Thomas we are appointing one of the most progressive and innovative head coaches within the game. He has a proven track record in player and squad development and we look forward to him leading the team as we prepare for the season ahead”, Spurs released on Thursday.
What Frank said
The Dane joined Brentford initially as assistant manager in 2016, before he was promoted to the role of head coach in 2018.
Frank led the Bees to English Premier League promotion for the first time in the club’s history in 2021, while they almost secured European qualification for the first time last campaign.
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He said; The time has come for me to move on. But, even as I leave, I know I have left a big piece of my heart at Brentford, not just at the football club but with the community and, of course, the incredible and loyal supporters,” he said in a statement on Friday.
I want to extend my profound gratitude to the club for giving me the chance to pursue my dreams and for everyone involved who made the journey such a memorable one.
For my family and I, it has been a privilege to be allowed to be part of such a special community – it’s an experience and adventure that we will cherish for life. So, thank you”, he continued.
Brentford narrowly missed out on a place in Europe last season, ending the campaign with 56 points.
“Whatever we have achieved, we have achieved together, and our success is built on unity, spirit, courage and ambition at every level of the club and amongst the fans,” he said.
“I would like to say a special word of thanks to [owner] Matthew Benham. His trust and friendship have meant so much and the fact he gave me a chance in English football means I will always owe him a debt of gratitude. Thank you, Matt.
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So, while this is a goodbye, I hope the relationships I have built with everybody will be lasting ones and, of course, we will meet again in the wonderful world of football”, he concluded.
Will Frank succeed at Spurs?
The 51-year old takes over his most high-profile job in Spurs, a team that ended last campaign with their worst-ever Premier League record, accumulating just 38 points.
Frank will guide the team to the UEFA Super Cup and the UEFA Champions League next season, while he is also tasked with taking the club back to the top six in the league.
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Spurs gamble on Frank will be tested as the club navigates European and league balance next season, hoping it eventually pays off.
Olakitan is a young writer with a strong passion for sports, having gained experience with IndyPress and Nimelssa Press. His enthusiasm for sports inspired him to cover events both within his school and beyond. With a deep understanding of the game and a refined skillset, he brings sports coverage to a broad, global audience in a way that’s engaging and accessible.
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