Thomas Frank responds to Man United speculation as he emerges as “early favourite” for the job

Brentford boss Thomas Frank has refused to completely shut the door to the prospect of potentially replacing Erik ten Hag at Manchester United.

Having endured tumultuous cycles of highs and lows with plenty of false dawns, United finally pulled the trigger and sacked Ten Hag.

A club statement on Monday morning confirmed as much, with the final straw being the 2-1 Sunday loss to West Ham.

The result left the Red Devils in 14th position in the Premier League table, just seven points above the relegation zone.

Ruud van Nistelrooy is set to take caretaker charge until a permanent manager is identified and his services secured. Some of the names being floated around include Julian Nagelsmann, Gareth Southgate, Thomas Frank, Xavi Hernandez, Ruben Amorim and of course, Frank.

According to The Guardian’s Jamie Jackson, Frank has “emerged as an early favourite” to succeed Ten Hag at Old Trafford.

Frank was on United’s radar during the summer but a move never materialised as Sir Jim Ratcliffe and INEOS elected to afford Ten Gag more time to turn the situation around at the club.

ESPN explains that the 20-time English champions are “set to enquire” about Frank’s availability in the near future.

Ahead of Brentford’s Carabao Cup clash against Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday, Frank was asked about the United hot seat.

The 51-year-old replied, “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.”

He added, “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.”

The Bees are currently ninth, having gained 13 points from a possible 27 so far.
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