Thomas Frank opens up on Man United vacant job and makes Erik ten Hag admission

Brentford manager Thomas Frank expressed sympathy for Erik ten Hag, who was sacked as Manchester United manager, but distanced himself from the vacant position at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag’s tenure came to an end following a late defeat to West Ham on Sunday, which left United in 14th place in the Premier League and winless in Europe this season.

He was relieved of his duties on Monday.

In the interim, Ten Hag’s former assistant, Ruud van Nistelrooy, will take charge of the team and is currently the favourite to be appointed on a permanent basis.

However, the Red Devils are reportedly compiling a shortlist of potential candidates for the role, which includes Frank’s name.

Since achieving promotion to the Premier League in 2021, Frank has enjoyed a highly successful tenure with Brentford, currently leading the Bees to ninth place in the table.

Known for his tactical flexibility and adept handling of the media, Frank’s appointment would mark a departure from the usual high-profile names associated with the managerial role at Old Trafford.

Despite the speculation, Thomas Frank emphasised that he is very happy in his current position in southwest London and is not seeking to move on anytime soon.

“It is a delicate question. I have a big responsibility to Brentford, the fans, players and staff,” he told reporters on Monday.

“We will focus on Sheffield Wednesday [in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday].

“I am very happy here it’s one of the best clubs in the world.

“What happens in the future, who knows

“I will repeat myself. I’m very happy here and can see myself being here for a long time.

“If something comes up, let’s see. Now? No. Very happy.”

On the departure of Ten Hag, Frank 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.

“It’s a non-stop developing football world and that [record] is more than acceptable.

“At these big clubs, there are massive expectations but I also think there has to be a reality check.

“Clearly on paper, there are three clubs at the top of the table are in a better place [City Arsenal and Liverpool].

“When you are a head coach yourself, You always 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 that doesn’t help.”

Read more: Erik ten Hag spotted for the first time since Manchester United sacking

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer emerges as shock candidate to replace Erik ten Hag at Man Utd

Bruno Fernandes becomes first Man Utd player to break silence on Erik ten Hag sacking