Thomas Frank Addresses Brentford Future and Carabao Cup Preparations

Brentford manager Thomas Frank addressed the media ahead of Tuesday’s Carabao Cup last-16 fixture against Sheffield Wednesday, scheduled for a 20:00 GMT kick-off. The following are the main points from his press conference: Frank stated that “everyone is available from the Ipswich game” for the upcoming cup match on Tuesday. Commenting on the dismissal of fellow Premier League manager Erik ten Hag, the Brentford boss expressed that he does “feel” for the Dutchman, noting the “massive expectations” at Manchester United. However, he also suggested a need for a “reality check” regarding those expectations, considering the teams currently leading the Premier League. When asked if he would be open to discussing the vacant position at Manchester United, Frank responded: “It is a very delicate question. I have a big responsibility to Brentford, the fans, leadership, players, staff and one focus is to do the very best in the Carabao Cup. I have said many times I am very happy here, it is one of the best clubs in the world. What happens in the future? Who knows, but I am very, very happy here.” Addressing a question about whether there are opportunities in English and world football that are impossible to decline, he stated: “That is a hypothetical question. I always try to be as transparent as possible. I am very happy here, I can see myself being here for a long time in the future. If something came up that was an opportunity I would like to try then OK, let’s see, but right now I am very happy.” Frank emphasized his desire to “focus” solely on the Sheffield Wednesday fixture, asserting that their approach would be “very strong and we will take this very seriously”. He further commented: “I don’t know if you’ll be surprised, but maybe you will when you see the line-up we put out there tomorrow. It will be a very strong team. We’ve got big respect for the competition, we’ve got big respect for Sheffield Wednesday.” He anticipates a “difficult game,” noting that the Owls are “very good on the counter” and “have great physicality.”