Brentford boss Thomas Frank hailed his players’ “comeback” mentality in their 2-0 Premier League win at Southampton.
Having seen their 12-game unbeaten run in the Premier League come to an end at Everton last weekend, Brentford bounced back with a comfortable win against Southampton in last night’s (March 15) replay thanks to goals from Ivan Toney and Ioan Visa.
Frank, however, was delighted with how his players responded to their first defeat since the end of October, as he hailed their “comeback mentality” which allowed players to show “extra” determination and focus in “50-50 fights”. : as well as their press, ball recoveries and tackles.
Reflecting on the two halves individually, Frank added: “I think we pressed very well in the first half, created some good chances and scored a deserved goal.
“The second half was a bad game, not the prettiest. We weren’t the best with the ball but that happens sometimes in the Premier League, every game is difficult, especially away from home.”
Frank’s Bees now have a tough home clash against dangerous but struggling Leicester on Saturday March 18, with the Dane “very pleased” for the “mentality” of his side going into that match until the international break.
Meanwhile, captain Pontus Jansson made his first West Ham appearance since the win over Brentford in the final game of 2022 as he came on as a second-half substitute.
Commenting on Jansson’s return, Frank commented: “We are pleased that our captain is back and available. he has been available for the last two games, but now he has the minutes he needs, which is very important.”
On what Jansson will bring to the team, which is now seriously fighting for European qualification, Frank added: “We know we can go 3-5-2 and close the game out if we need to, and the boys did that again. today.”
Brentford are currently 8th in the Premier League and are just seven points behind the top four currently occupied by Tottenham Hotspur.