Thomas Frank on FC Copenhagen: "I expect a tough, tactical challenge" | OneFootball

Thomas Frank says our UEFA Champions League MD4 clash against FC Copenhagen will be 'a little special' for him - not least because he once managed their fierce city rivals, Brondby IF.

Thomas spent three years at Brondby, finishing third in the Danish Superliga in 2013/14 and 2014/15.

"I think they would be pleased to meet me again," Thomas smiled after he was asked by Danish journalists how he would describe his relationship with FC Copenhagen fans.

Here's what he had to say on this evening's opponents during yesterday's pre-match press conference at Hotspur Way...

How much do you follow games in the Superliga (Denmark)? How much have you seen of FC Copenhagen?

Thomas: “Of course I follow the results and the league, so I know how the results are every week. I still have good colleagues, friends working in different clubs, knowing obviously also a lot of people in Copenhagen. So, I know of course Copenhagen is not in the best place, but it's a very good team. They have very good European experience. I expect it to be a difficult game, and always that's my little bit go-to, no matter a team, if they're in form or they are out of form, the next game is the one that everything can change in. So, we prepare like normal, very aware of the strength of Copenhagen and of course some areas we like to exploit. So that's how I take it. I know Jacob Neestrup very well. He's a very good coach. He knows what he's doing with his coaching staff, so I expect a tough challenge and a tough tactical challenge.”

How would you describe your relationship with the Copenhagen fans? They probably remember your time in Brøndby as well!

Thomas: “Yeah, I think they would be pleased to meet me again. Of course, there's a relationship because I was head coach of Brøndby. Obviously, not the biggest fan of me, but that's fair, that's part of it.”

Do you still feel like you still have some Brøndby genes in you and do you feel like an extra rival with Copenhagen - or is it in the past?

Thomas: “Of course, I was almost three years in Brøndby. If you are that, the fans get under your skin, and the club does as well. So, of course, it's Brøndby that got my support. Tomorrow, in some ways, it's a little bit special against the Danish team. I know quite a few who work in the backroom staff and in the club. Of course, I know some of the Danish players from different, whether it be a national team or whatever, how I came across them. That's why it's a little more special. Tomorrow, I just want to win, we play in the Champions League, play at home and Vic said it perfectly - the best way to get a little bit back on track is a good performance and win at home. So, that's the main bit.”