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 step away from Manchester United’s vacant 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 boarded a private jet back to the Netherlands, was told by CEO Omar Berrada and sporting director Dan Ashworth that he would be sacked.

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

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

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

Although Frank appears to be opening the door for a big move in the future, he has underlined his commitment to his current project in West London.

Ahead of his side’s Carabao Cup match on Tuesday, he told Sky Sports: ‘I have a huge responsibility to Brentford, their fans, the management, the players, the staff and I have only one focus: to beat Sheffield Wednesday tomorrow in the Carabao. Cup.

‘I have said many times: I am very happy here. I think it’s one of the best clubs in the world. What will happen in the future, who knows? But I am very happy here.

‘I always try to be as transparent as possible. I would repeat myself. I am very happy here and I see myself staying here for a long time.

“I also said that if something comes up, an opportunity I’d like to try, okay, let’s see. But now? No. I am very happy here.’

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

He added: “Of course I feel sorry for Erik. He’s a great coach and has a great career.

‘He has done well at Man United, two trophies in two years.

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

Frank held discussions with Old Trafford figures in the summer before Ten Hag was appointed

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

‘It is a non-stop developing world and that is more than acceptable. Expectations are enormous at these big clubs, but a reality check needs to take place. Three clubs at the top of the table are in a better position [City, Arsenal and Liverpool].

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

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