Thomas Frank Hails Brentford’s “bounce-back mentality” in Win At Southampton – Sport Grill

Brentford manager, Thomas Frank has hailed the “bounce-back” mentality of his players in their 2-0 Premier League win at Southampton. 

Having seen their 12-match unbeaten run in the Premier League ended at Everton last weekend, Brentford bounced back with a comfortable victory at Southampton in their rearranged clash last night (15 March) – courtesy of goals from Ivan Toney and Yoane Wissa.

Frank however was most ecstatic about how his players responded to a first defeat since late October, as he hailed their “bounce-back mentality”, which enabled players to deliver “extra” determination and focus “in the 50-50 duels,” as well as in their press, ball recoveries and one-on-one duels.

Reflecting on both halves individually, Frank added: “I think in the first half, we pressed very well, we created some good chances, and we scored a well-deserved goal.

“Second half, it was a scrappy game, not the most beautiful! We weren’t top on the ball but that happens sometimes in the Premier League, every game is difficult, especially away from home.”

Frank’s Bees now have a tricky home clash against a dangerous yet struggling Leicester to come on Saturday 18 March, of which the Dane is “very pleased” with his squad’s “mentality” heading into that match before the international break.

Captain, Pontus Jansson meanwhile made his first appearance since Brentford’s victory at West Ham in their final match of 2022, as he came on as a second-half substitute.

Reflecting upon Jansson’s return, Frank commented: “We’re pleased that our captain is back and available – he’s been available the last couple of games, but now he’s got the minutes that he needs which is very important.”

On what Jansson will bring to a team who are now in serious contention for European qualification, Frank added: “We know we can go to the 3-5-2 and close the game down if needed, and the boys did that very well again today.”

Brentford currently sit eighth in the Premier League and just seven points off a top-four finish, currently held by Tottenham.