Brentford manager Thomas Frank responds to Manchester United speculation

Brentford manager Thomas Frank has insisted that he is "really happy" at the club, but has admitted that he is 'flattered' by the rumours linking him with Manchester United.

Speculation over the future of current Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag is rife following an underwhelming 2023-24 campaign in which they have failed to qualify for the Champions League.

Under Ten Hag, Man United have lost a total of 14 Premier League games this season - a club record - and they currently sit eighth in the table three points behind the Europa League positions with only two games remaining.

Reports have suggested that even if Man United were to beat rivals Manchester City in the FA Cup final later this month, Ten Hag will still be relieved of his duties at the end of the season.

With new minority shareholder Sir Jim Ratcliffe in complete control of football operations, Man United have been linked with a number of potential candidates to succeed Ten Hag, including Brentford boss Frank.

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Frank "really happy" at "perfect club" Brentford

A recent report claimed that Frank has emerged as a strong contender to replace Ten Hag this summer, with senior Old Trafford executives said to be impressed by the Dane's work during his six-year spell in charge of the Bees.

It is understood that Frank already has an existing relationship with United's minority owners INEOS and their director of sport Sir Dave Brailsford, who is now on the board with Ratcliffe at Old Trafford, and the 50-year-old is an admirer of their data-led approach to management.

Frank has since responded to the speculation surrounding his future, insisting that he is content in his current role at Brentford, where he is under contract until 2027.

Speaking to Danish news outlet Bold, Frank said: "I am really happy where I am. [Brentford] is close to being the perfect club to be at. I can see myself being here for many more years."

"I am close to the owner, to the sports director, everyone around the club. Brentford is a club where I really feel at home."

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Frank 'flattered' by Man United links

When asked specifically about rumours linking him with top clubs such as Man United, Frank added: "First of all I think it is flattering and a recognition of the work I've done.

"And I'm glad that others are noticing the work we are doing at Brentford. But, having said that, what goes on at Brentford is not a one-man show."

Frank continued: "I am not going to comment on the rumours that have been about me. You shouldn't believe everything that is in the 'newspaper'."

Since his appointment as manager in 2018, Frank has taken charge of 273 Brentford matches across all competitions, winning 114, drawing 68 and losing 91.

Frank, who was linked with Liverpool earlier this year, has steered the Bees clear of the Premier League relegation zone for a third successive season in 2023-24, with his side currently sitting 16th in the table, 13 points clear of the drop zone.