Stephen Kelly Calls for Improved In-Game Management at Brentford

Former Premier League defender Stephen Kelly has stated that Brentford’s “in-game management” requires enhancement. The Bees have not secured a clean sheet in 12 consecutive matches and have squandered 14 points from leading positions during the current season. Speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live, Kelly remarked, “It’s funny because there’s a lot of talk about Brentford and their early goals, their set plays, and how they’ve been so well organised.” He acknowledged, “There are loads of positives, but then there is the in-game management and in-game play because they seem to be conceding quite a lot.” Kelly elaborated on the defensive issues, stating, “At times, they are caught out of position and teams put crosses in against them, get behind their full-backs, and get into those areas where they can be dangerous. So it’s something they’re going to have to work on.” Despite the current challenges, Kelly praised manager Thomas Frank, noting, “But Thomas Frank has done amazingly since he’s been there. Every other week he’s getting linked with a job somewhere else.” He concluded with optimism for the club, adding, “So I think Brentford will come good in the end but they’ve given up a lot of leads this season and it’s something that has to change if they want to get that consistency back.”