Brentford boss Thomas Frank delivers verdict on Man United vacancy after Erik ten Hag’s sacking – just months on from holding talks with the club

Brentford head coach Thomas Frank appeared to distance himself from the vacant Manchester United hot seat after Erik ten Hag was sacked.

Frank has emerged as one of several potential candidates to replace Ten Hag on a permanent basis after he was dismissed in an amicable meeting this morning.

The dismal defeat at West Ham proved to be the final straw for the club’s hierarchy and Ten Hag, who has boarded a private jet back to the Netherlands, was informed he would be axed by CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth. 

Ruud van Nistelrooy has been placed in interim charge on a short-term basis while the Red Devils work on making a permanent appointment and Frank, who has impressed since taking the reins at Brentford in 2018, is on the shortlist again.

The Dane was initially approached by United for talks over the summer before Ten Hag’s services were retained at the end of a lengthy end-of-season review. 

Erik ten Hag was dismissed by United this morning after his side’s poor start to the season

However, while seemingly opening the door for a big move in the future, Frank has underlined his commitment to his current project in west London.

Speaking ahead of his side’s Carabao Cup tie on Tuesday, he told Sky Sports: ‘I’ve got a big responsibility to Brentford, their fans, the leadership, players, staff and I have one focus – to beat Sheffield Wednesday tomorrow in the Carabao Cup.

‘I’ve said many, many times, I’m very happy here. I think it’s one of the best clubs in the world. What happens in the future, who knows? But I’m very, very happy here.

‘I always try to be as transparent as possible. I would repeat myself. I’m very happy here and I can see myself here for a long, long time.

‘I’ve also said that maybe if something comes up, an opportunity I’d like to try, OK let’s see. But now? No. I’m very, very happy here.’

Frank also shared sympathy for Ten Hag after his two-and-a-half year reign at Old Trafford came to an end.

He added: ‘Of course I feel for Erik. He is a great coach and has a great career. 

‘He did a good job at Man United, two trophies in two years.

Ten Hag’s record at Manchester United across all competitions since his arrival in 2022

Frank held talks with Old Trafford figures during the summer before Ten Hag was kept on

Ruud van Nistelrooy is in charge on an interim basis while a permanent successor is appointed

‘It’s a non-stop developing world and that is more than acceptable. At these big clubs, there are massive expectations but there has to be a reality check. Three clubs at the top of the table are in a better place [City, Arsenal and Liverpool].

‘You feel for guys who lose their jobs and I’m sure Erik gave everything.

‘There are better people to judge that [improvement]. He had a very good first season and had more than a few injury problems.’