How Keith Andrews Has Transformed Brentford’s Style Without a Revolution

Keith Andrews & Brentford: Evolution, Not Revolution

When Keith Andrews stepped into the Brentford hot seat this summer, few expected a seamless transition from the long-serving and much-admired Thomas Frank.

With captain Christian Norgaard and talisman Bryan Mbeumo both gone, and doubts swirling over the club’s attacking depth, expectations were tempered.

Fast forward to now, and Brentford’s 3-2 win over Premier League champions Liverpool has lifted them into 11th place, boasting one of the league’s strongest home records — with wins over Manchester United and Aston Villa highlighting their resilience.

Tactical Tweaks, Not Overhauls

Andrews, a former Republic of Ireland midfielder and Brentford’s previous set-piece coach, has embraced a philosophy of subtle adaptation rather than imposing a brand-new system.

“We’ve got individual brilliance. My job is to give them the environment to express that,” said Andrews.

Though Brentford now see less of the ball, their core statistics mirror those under Frank. However, there are distinctive shifts:

• Set-Piece Goals: Surprisingly at their lowest since 2021, despite Andrews’ background.

• Long Throws: Michael Kayode’s missiles are a major threat. Even Erling Haaland compared the style to “Stoke City and Rory Delap.”

• Headers: 10 of 22 shots vs West Ham came from headers – a league record this season.

Fast Break Bees

Under Andrews, Brentford’s counter-attacking threat has doubled:

• Four counter-attack goals already — matching their entire 2024/25 tally.

• Only Bournemouth have more in 2025/26.

• Quick transitions and aggressive vertical play now define their attacking blueprint.

Players like Kevin Schade, Dango Ouattara, and Yoane Wissa are flourishing under this dynamic system.

Igor Thiago: From Injury to Inspiration

The standout so far? Igor Thiago, who’s already netted six goals — trailing only Erling Haaland in the Premier League scoring charts.

“He’s a nightmare to play against,” said Andrews. “He’s courageous, committed, and hungry.”

After a debut season blighted by injury, Thiago has emerged as Brentford’s new No.9, rekindling memories of Ivan Toney’s explosive rise.

His chemistry with Schade and Ouattara was on full display in the win over Liverpool — the trio scored in the same match for the first time.

Data Snapshot (2025/26 Premier League)

Unbroken Premier League Record

Since being promoted in 2021, Brentford have never ended a PL matchweek in the relegation zone. Andrews, in his first Premier League managerial job, is on track to maintain that streak — and maybe push for more.

As his side continues to punch above their weight, Brentford’s evolution looks like one of the most tactically interesting stories of the season.