Brentford manager Thomas Frank has distanced himself from speculations surrounding the possibility of succeeding Jurgen Klopp at Liverpool.
Frank made it clear that he is focused on his current role and is not entertaining discussions about taking over from Klopp who will step down as the Reds boss at the end of the season.
However, the 50-year-old says he has ambitions to further his managerial career.
Having successfully steered Brentford into the Premier League in recent years, Frank has become one of the early names speculated upon since the announcement of Klopp’s departure from Liverpool after nine years at the end of the current season.
Among the early frontrunners is Bayer Leverkusen boss Xabi Alonso, while speculation has also linked Brighton’s Roberto de Zerbi and Sporting’s Ruben Amorim to the position.
However, Liverpool officials have emphasised that the managerial search is still in its early stages, with Klopp’s final months at the helm offering much to play for.
Asked about the potential vacancy job at Anfield, Frank acknowledged his aspirations to advance in his managerial career in the future. However, he carefully avoided explicitly expressing interest in succeeding either Klopp at Liverpool or Xavi at Barcelona at this point.
“Yeah, I keep up with things and have seen that Xavi and Klopp are leaving,” Frank told Danish magazine Tipsbladet. “[They are] two big coaching personalities for two fantastic clubs, both of whom have done well.
“Regarding myself, I’m insanely happy to be here. I’ve said that before. I have the opportunity to pursue many of my ambitions. Like everyone else, I also have ambitions, but it’s hard to say exactly what they are.
“I’m focused on doing well right now. I have no doubt that we need to finish the second half of the season strongly. I understand that we need some good performances and to win some football matches, and that’s my main focus right now.
“There are a few more thoughts if things don’t go the right way. If things go well, there are still plenty of thoughts about planning because you want to win the next game and climb higher in the table. It’s just a bit more positive then.”
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