Brentford ‘almost starting from scratch’ in manager search

Brentford are almost “starting from scratch” in their search for Dean Smith’s successor, according to co-director of football Phil Giles.

Smith left to take charge of Aston Villa on Wednesday, leaving the Bees in need of a new boss.

Thomas Frank, who was assistant coach and has been placed in caretaker charge, is being considered for the job. 

Speaking at a fans’ forum on Thursday, Giles said the club do not yet have a detailed plan in place but he is hopeful progress can be made in the coming days.

Giles said: “Are we starting from scratch today? More or less, yes.

“We don’t have a detailed plan but we are pretty confident we can make good decisions over the next few days and move this club onto a new level.”

Brentford’s other co-director of football Rasmus Ankersen said they will not prioritise Championship experience when pursuing Smith’s replacement.

“We are pretty open-minded. We aren’t necessarily looking for someone with Championship experience,” he said.

“We want someone who can build on what has already been built.”

Brentford return to Championship action on October 20 when they host Bristol City.