Thomas Frank backed to land Aston Villa job after update via Sky – pundit

Noel Whelan has heaped praise on Brentford manager Thomas Frank amid interest from Aston Villa.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Premier League striker suggested the “very intelligent” 49-year-old is a good option for the Midlands club.

On Thursday (20 October), Aston Villa sacked Steven Gerrard following a 3-0 defeat to Fulham.

Aston Villa

Sources have told Football Insider (22 October) that Brentford are braced for an approach from Villa for Thomas Frank.

The Danish manager is believed to to have a release clause of around £3million in his contract.

His current deal runs until the end of June 2025.

Speaking to Sky Sports (23 October), Frank distanced himself from the vacancy at Villa Park.

When asked by Football Insider if Frank would be a good choice, Whelan said: “He has done a fantastic job at Brentford, there is no doubt about that.

He has assembled a very good, competitive side. They have consolidated themselves in the Premier League after last year.

I think he has earned the right to have his named linked with the job. He is a very intelligent manager.

Villa is a step up. It is a bigger club than what he has been at.

Brentford manager Thomas Frank

£3million is not a great deal to give an opportunity to a promising manager.

I think he deserves it but whether he takes it or not is another matter.”

In other news, an ex-Premier League referee has claimed Douglas Luiz is ‘lucky’ to escape an extended ban as Aston Villa controversy is analysed.