Keith Andrews

Keith Andrews is an Irish football coach and former midfielder, best known for a long playing career in English football and his recent appointment as head coach of Brentford in June 2025. Born in Dublin, he played for clubs including Wolverhampton Wanderers, Hull City, MK Dons, Blackburn Rovers, and West Bromwich Albion, and earned 35 caps for the Republic of Ireland. He transitioned into coaching after retiring in 2015, taking on roles with MK Dons, the Republic of Ireland national team, and Sheffield United before taking the top job at Brentford.

Andrews, born on 13 September 1980, was once described as a “midfield enforcer” and became captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers at just 20 years old. His journey from a steady Premier League and Championship midfielder to a head coach in the Premier League reflects a career built on discipline and leadership.

What clubs did Keith Andrews play for during his playing career?

Key Insights About His Playing Days

• Keith Andrews began his senior career in 1999 and retired in August 2015.
• He made 412 appearances across all competitions during a 16-year playing career, according to the BBC.
• He became captain of Wolverhampton Wanderers at just 20 years old.
• He played in the Premier League for Wolves, Blackburn Rovers, and West Bromwich Albion.
• He earned 35 caps for the Republic of Ireland and represented his country at UEFA Euro 2012 under Giovanni Trapattoni.
• His club career included spells at Wolverhampton Wanderers, Hull City, MK Dons, Blackburn Rovers, and West Bromwich Albion, among others.

Snapshot Facts

What is Keith Andrews’ coaching career and his path to Brentford?

After retiring in August 2015, Andrews moved immediately into coaching. He joined MK Dons as a first-team coach under Karl Robinson. This role marked the beginning of a rapid rise through the coaching ranks.

How did Keith Andrews start his coaching career?

His first coaching role was at MK Dons, where he worked as a first-team coach. He later served as assistant manager to Stephen Kenny with the Republic of Ireland national team from 2020 to 2023.

What is Keith Andrews’ coaching role at Brentford?

He joined Sheffield United as a set-piece coach in July 2024. His work there led to his appointment as Brentford head coach in June 2025, succeeding Thomas Frank who left for Tottenham Hotspur. Andrews had previously been part of the Brentford coaching setup.

What is known about Keith Andrews’ personal life and family?

Keith Andrews was born in Dublin, Ireland, on 13 September 1980. He grew up in Dublin before moving to England to pursue his football career. Very little reliable public information is available regarding his marital status, spouse, or children, as he keeps his private life largely out of the spotlight.

How old is Keith Andrews?

Born in 1980, he was 34 when he retired from playing in 2015, 44 when he was appointed Brentford head coach in 2025, and 45 as of 2026.

Where was Keith Andrews born?

He was born in Dublin, Ireland.

What is the latest news about Keith Andrews as Brentford head coach?

The most significant development in Andrews’ career came in June 2025, when he was appointed head coach of Brentford. He succeeded Thomas Frank, who departed to manage Tottenham Hotspur. Andrews had been part of the Brentford coaching setup as a set-piece coach before being promoted.

When was Keith Andrews appointed Brentford head coach?

He was appointed in June 2025.

Why did Keith Andrews join Brentford?

He was already at the club as a set-piece coach and was promoted internally following Thomas Frank’s departure. The internal promotion is seen as a move to maintain continuity within the club.

What is the timeline of Keith Andrews’ career?

1. 1980: Born in Dublin, Ireland.
2. 1999–2005: Played for Wolverhampton Wanderers (youth and senior).
3. 2005–2008: Spells at Hull City, MK Dons, and Blackburn Rovers.
4. 2008–2012: Played for Blackburn Rovers and West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League.
5. 2008–2012: Earned 35 caps for the Republic of Ireland, playing at UEFA Euro 2012.
6. 2012–2014: Played for Watford.
7. 2014–2015: Played for Ipswich Town before retiring.
8. 2015: Retired from playing and became first-team coach at MK Dons.
9. 2020–2023: Assistant manager of the Republic of Ireland under Stephen Kenny.
10. 2024: Joined Sheffield United as set-piece coach.
11. 2025: Appointed head coach of Brentford.

What is confirmed and what remains unclear about Keith Andrews?

What is the background and meaning of Keith Andrews’ career trajectory?

Andrews’ career trajectory follows a common path for British and Irish footballers who transition into management. He began as a steady, disciplined defensive midfielder, a role that likely informs his coaching philosophy, which may prioritize defensive organization and discipline. The Brentford appointment represents a significant step up, moving from assistant and specialist roles to a head coach position in the Premier League. His international experience with Ireland provides a broader perspective. The internal promotion at Brentford signals the club’s trust in his abilities and their desire for continuity after Thomas Frank’s departure.

What do the sources say about Keith Andrews?

“Keith Joseph Andrews (born 13 September 1980) is an Irish football coach and former player who played as a defensive midfielder.”

— Wikipedia

“Keith Andrews was appointed Brentford head coach in June 2025 following the departure of Thomas Frank to Tottenham Hotspur.”

— Brentford FC

For more details on his playing career, statistics, and coaching history, sources such as Wikipedia, Brentford FC, and BBC Sport provide comprehensive coverage. Additional biographical data is available from Pantheon and On Cloud Seven.

What is the overall summary of Keith Andrews’ career?

Keith Andrews is an Irish football coach and former professional player who played as a defensive midfielder for clubs including Wolverhampton Wanderers, Blackburn Rovers, and West Bromwich Albion, and earned 35 caps for the Republic of Ireland. After retiring in 2015, he moved into coaching, eventually becoming head coach of Brentford in June 2025. For more on football careers, see the profile on Crysencio Summerville.

Frequently Asked Questions About Keith Andrews

For further reading, check out the profile of Elliot Anderson – Record £116m Transfer and Career Profile.