Frank ‘respects defending’ – Johnson picks out keys to strong start

In modern football, where the spotlight often falls on flair players, attacking combinations, and spectacular goals, the emphasis on defensive solidity can sometimes feel understated. Yet, as Brentford manager Thomas Frank has consistently shown, the foundations of any strong start to a campaign rest firmly on respecting the defensive side of the game. Recently, football pundit Glen Johnson pointed to this very principle as he broke down the reasons behind Brentford’s promising opening to the season, highlighting Frank’s clear respect for defending and the tactical structures that allow his side to thrive.

What makes Frank’s approach stand out is not just the cliché of “defense wins championships,” but the way in which he has embedded defensive responsibility into every player’s role. Johnson observed that Brentford are not only well-drilled at the back, but they also defend as a collective unit. Their attackers press intelligently, their midfielders cover space diligently, and their back line maintains discipline even under intense pressure. This cohesion is what allows them to frustrate opponents who often dominate possession but struggle to find clear openings.

 

Another point Johnson emphasized is that Frank doesn’t treat defending as a reactive task but as a proactive one. Brentford’s defensive structure often begins with shape and organization long before the opponent reaches the final third. Their ability to remain compact, limit space between the lines, and deny service to dangerous attackers has been key to their consistency. By “respecting defending,” Frank ensures that his side do not view it as a chore but as an equally important element of the game alongside attacking creativity.

 

The strong start Brentford have enjoyed also speaks to the psychological side of defending. Johnson highlighted that when players know their defensive system is reliable, they gain confidence to express themselves going forward. A solid backline provides the security blanket for midfielders and forwards to take risks in attack without fear that a single turnover will undo their efforts. This balance between security and freedom is at the heart of Brentford’s early momentum.

 

Respecting defending also means valuing the contributions of players who rarely receive headlines. Johnson pointed to the discipline of Brentford’s full-backs, the awareness of their holding midfielders, and the leadership shown by central defenders as crucial factors. These are not always the glamorous roles, yet they are the glue that holds the system together. Frank’s ability to recognize and reward these efforts has fostered a culture where defensive work is not only expected but celebrated.

 

The lesson from Brentford’s strong start is therefore twofold. First, it reinforces the timeless truth that a team’s success is built on its ability to stay organized, disciplined, and committed without the ball. Second, it demonstrates how a manager’s philosophy—when consistently communicated and respected—can turn defending into a source of strength rather than an afterthought. As Johnson rightly observed, Frank’s respect for defending is not just a tactical preference; it is the key that unlocks stability, belief, and long-term competitiveness in a demanding Premier League campaign.