What Tactical Changes Has Andrews Made to Transform Brentford?

Brentford's new manager Keith Andrews faced significant challenges upon his appointment, particularly following the successful tenure of Thomas Frank. Despite doubts about the team's ability to maintain last season's 10th-place finish after losing key players, Andrews has guided the Bees to an impressive start in the Premier League, demonstrating tactical evolution and individual player development. With standout performances from Igor Thiago and a strong home record, Andrews is carving out his path in the top flight.

Last updated: 18 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Keith Andrews has taken over the managerial role at Brentford as they navigate a challenging Premier League season. Following the departure of captain Christian Norgaard and star winger Bryan Mbeumo, the Bees' ability to replicate last season's performance was under scrutiny. However, a recent 3-2 victory against Liverpool, along with a strong home record, has provided a boost. Currently sitting in 11th place, the team has shown resilience, scoring 14 goals in their opening nine matches, ranking them among the top in the league.

Key takeaways

• Keith Andrews is navigating his first managerial role in the Premier League with emerging success.
• Brentford boasts the joint-fourth best home record in the league, aided by notable victories.
• Igor Thiago has become a key player, contributing significantly to the team's attacking prowess.

Timeline: how we got here

Since the start of the 2023–24 Premier League season, Brentford has undergone a transition period following the departure of key players. Key milestones include:

• August 2023: Andrews appointed as head coach after Thomas Frank's successful tenure.
• September 2023: Brentford starts the season with mixed results, facing challenges in maintaining form.
• October 2023: A turning point with a victory against Liverpool, marking a signal of the team's potential.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Andrews' tactical approach has emphasised individual brilliance and counter-attacking football, leading to a noticeable increase in fast breaks and a strong home record. Recent performances have shown the team's ability to adapt and score in critical moments, especially during matches against top-tier teams.

What was already established

Brentford was already recognised for its solid structure and attacking play under Frank. Key players like Mbeumo and Wissa were instrumental in their previous success, and the expectation was that Andrews would build upon this foundation. The team's defensive resilience has also been a hallmark of their gameplay since their promotion to the Premier League.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Brentford's performances have not only uplifted the club but also invigorated local fans and the community. With competitive ticket prices and a vibrant atmosphere at home matches, the Bees' success can positively impact local businesses around the Gtech Community Stadium.

Businesses and jobs

As Brentford performs well, local businesses may see increased patronage on match days. The club's strategic focus on retaining talent and developing players also opens opportunities for local youth engagement and training initiatives, fostering community ties.

Policy and regulation

The club is likely to maintain its focus on compliance with Premier League regulations, especially concerning player transfers and financial fair play. Upcoming discussions on player development policies may also influence how Brentford operates moving forward.

Numbers that matter

• 14 goals scored in nine matches, ranking Brentford among the top scoring teams this season.
• Six goals by Igor Thiago, placing him as joint-second top scorer in the Premier League.
• Brentford's home record is joint-fourth best in the league, with key victories against major clubs.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Counter-attack: A quick offensive play executed immediately after regaining possession of the ball.
• Set-piece: A method of restarting play in football, such as free-kicks or corner kicks.
• Gtech Community Stadium: Home ground of Brentford FC, located in West London.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Brentford will need to maintain consistency in their performances, particularly in upcoming matches against mid-table rivals. Monitoring player fitness and injury status will be crucial as the season progresses.

Medium term (1–6 months)

If Andrews can continue to evolve the team tactically while fostering player development, Brentford may aim for a top-half finish, potentially challenging for European competition spots.

Signals to watch

• Performance in upcoming matches against similarly ranked teams will be a strong indicator of their season trajectory.
• Tracking player statistics, particularly Thiago's goal contributions, will provide insights into the effectiveness of Andrews’ tactics.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support local businesses on match days to enhance community engagement.
• Stay updated on player performance and tactics through club communications.

Don’t

• Overlook the importance of player development and community initiatives supported by the club.
• Assume that early-season success guarantees long-term performance without considering fixture congestion and injury risks.

Checklist

• Monitor Brentford's upcoming fixtures and player fitness updates.
• Engage with local fan groups and community events.
• Keep track of statistics that highlight the team's attacking and defensive capabilities.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

While Andrews has shown promising signs, maintaining squad morale and performance levels is paramount, especially as injuries can disrupt momentum. The competitive nature of the Premier League means that any dip in form could lead to relegation concerns, particularly for a club like Brentford that has never been in the bottom three since promotion.

Bottom line

Brentford, under Keith Andrews, is demonstrating resilience and tactical adaptability in the Premier League. By capitalising on individual player strengths and maintaining a strong home record, the Bees are on track for a potentially successful season, provided they navigate the challenges ahead with consistency and focus.

FAQs

What has changed under Keith Andrews at Brentford?

Under Keith Andrews, Brentford has seen a tactical evolution focusing on individual player brilliance and counter-attacking football, despite having less possession.

Who are the standout players for Brentford this season?

Igor Thiago has emerged as a key player, being the joint-second top scorer in the Premier League, along with other significant contributions from the squad.

What is Brentford's current league position?

Brentford is currently sitting in 11th place in the Premier League, showing strong performances with notable victories over top teams.