Brentford Football Club have once again demonstrated their unique approach to football management by appointing Keith Andrews as their new head coach, following the departure of Thomas Frank to Tottenham Hotspur. The decision, announced on June 27, 2025, continues the club’s well-established tradition of promoting from within, but also marks one of the boldest moves yet in the club’s Premier League era.
A Club That Defies Convention
Brentford’s rise through the English football pyramid has been characterized by unconventional thinking and a willingness to embrace risk. Owner Matthew Benham’s data-driven philosophy has seen the club make a series of decisions that, while often questioned at the time, have generally paid off. Whether it was selling key players like Neal Maupay and Ivan Toney and trusting in internal replacements, or pioneering the use of set-piece coaches, Brentford have rarely followed the crowd
The appointment of Keith Andrews, who served as the club’s set-piece coach last season, is in keeping with this ethos. While the move may appear risky—Andrews has no prior experience as a head coach—Brentford’s leadership believes that continuity and internal promotion are the keys to sustained success. This belief was echoed by Director of Football Phil Giles, who emphasized that Andrews was always seen as a future leader within the club.
Who is Keith Andrews?
Andrews, 44, is a former Republic of Ireland international with a 16-year playing career that included spells at Wolverhampton Wanderers, MK Dons, Blackburn Rovers, and Bolton Wanderers. After retiring as a player, he began his coaching career as an assistant at MK Dons, before working with the Republic of Ireland Under-21 and senior sides, and most recently, as part of Sheffield United’s coaching staff.
He joined Brentford last summer as set-piece coach, quickly making an impact. Under his guidance, Brentford became one of the Premier League’s most effective teams from dead-ball situations, scoring 13 goals from set-pieces last season and generating the third-highest expected goals from such scenarios in the league. His influence extended beyond set-pieces, contributing to the team’s tactical planning and training ground culture.
The Rationale Behind the Appointment
Promoting Andrews is not just about rewarding loyalty or maintaining the status quo. Brentford’s hierarchy sees him as a coach who understands the club’s philosophy, has built relationships with the squad, and can provide the stability needed during a period of transition. After Thomas Frank’s seven-year tenure, the club faces significant challenges: the departure of key players like Christian Norgaard and the possible exit of Bryan Mbeumo, as well as the need to rebuild the backroom staff after several followed Frank to Spurs.
Brentford’s leadership considered external candidates but ultimately judged that an internal appointment posed less risk than bringing in someone unfamiliar with the club’s methods and culture. This approach mirrors the decision to promote Frank himself from assistant to head coach in 2018, a move that proved highly successful.
A Risky but Calculated Gamble
Despite the club’s confidence, supporters and pundits have expressed reservations. The Premier League is an unforgiving environment, and appointing a manager with no prior head coaching experience—especially amid squad upheaval—represents a significant gamble. Some fans worry that the club’s stability could be undermined, especially if further key players depart before the new season.
Yet, Brentford’s track record of making bold, internally-driven decisions gives reason for cautious optimism. The club’s commitment to a top-down approach, where the head coach fits into a broader footballing philosophy rather than dictating it, could help smooth Andrews’ transition. His three-year contract underlines the club’s faith in his long-term potential.
Looking Ahead
Keith Andrews’ first Premier League match in charge will be against Nottingham Forest on August 17. The coming months will test both his tactical acumen and his ability to manage a squad in flux. If history is any guide, Brentford’s willingness to back their own processes and people may once again prove the doubters wrong.
In a league where short-termism often prevails, Brentford’s decision to appoint Andrews is a reminder that there are many ways to build a successful football club. Whether this latest gamble pays off remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Brentford will continue to do things their own way.