Brentford’s surprise 2-0 win over Nottingham Forest on Thursday kept their European hopes alive, but manager Thomas Frank was quick to temper expectations despite climbing to within two points of eighth place.
Goals from Kevin Schade and Yoane Wissa secured the Bees a crucial victory at the City Ground, extending their strong recent form to just one defeat in 12 games.
With up to 10 Premier League teams potentially qualifying for European competition next season, Brentford’s late surge has put them in the conversation, though Frank insists their fate isn’t fully in their control.
“We need other teams to drop points and Manchester City to win the FA Cup,” Frank said post-match, acknowledging the fine margins still at play. “We’ll do our best, but there are things we can’t influence.”
Brentford’s run-in includes tricky fixtures against Manchester United, Fulham, Ipswich, and Wolves.
Asked if his team was ready for Europe, Frank stayed coy, citing injuries and financial limitations, but praised the club’s strategy and style of play as key factors in their recent rise.
With European football still a novelty for the West London side, Frank struck a cautious but proud tone:
“We’re growing, and what we’ve done has raised our level. But let’s talk again in three games’ time.”
