Brentford midfielder Vitaly Janelt has explained what boss Thomas Frank has changed tactically to help him thrive this season.
The 25-year-old joined the Bees from VfL Bochum for £500,000 back in 2020, with the German going on to make over 100 appearances for the club.
He’s been a crucial player under boss Frank since his arrival, with Janelt forming a great partnership with Christian Norgaard and Mathias Jensen.
Despite multiple campaigns in the Premier League, Frank has kept a consistent midfield trio – a partial reason for their successes in the top flight.
Vitaly Janelt on what Frank has tweaked this season
Speaking to the Brentford media team, Janelt opened up about what the boss has changed tactically within the midfield trio this season.
“Us three are now that flexible – I know them, they know me. For example, if Christian wants to join the attack, he can join and I’ll stay.
“Playing like this, I think we have proved to be better on the ball, controlling more games, creating more chances in possession, counter-press and set-pieces, so I think we have improved a lot.
“Thomas has tweaked the role between Mathi and me, so I’m now next to Christian in the build-up and Mathi now has the license to be in a freer role and, basically, do what he wants.
“And I think this really fits me because I can do both. I’m very good at arriving in the box late, but also being in the first part, trying to build up.”
Janelt is key for Brentford
Only Bryan Mbeumo has played more minutes than the midfielder this season and he, along with Norgaard and Jensen, have been mainstays in the middle of the park.
No one could’ve predicted that Janelt would’ve been this crucial to the Bees three years ago after his arrival, but he’s been sensational and long may his good form continue at the GTEC Community Stadium.