Brentford manager Keith Andrews is from Dublin, Ireland. The former Republic of Ireland midfielder was born and raised in the Irish capital before moving to England as a teenager to pursue a professional football career.
The Brentford boss is sometimes mistakenly referred to as “Keith Edwards,” but his correct name is Keith Andrews.
Keith Andrews’ Irish Background
Andrews grew up playing both association football and Gaelic football in Dublin. His performances earned him an opportunity with Wolverhampton Wanderers, and he moved to England in 1996 at the age of 15.
Despite spending much of his playing and coaching career in England, Andrews has maintained a strong connection to Ireland. He has spoken openly about his patriotism and the pride he feels in representing his country.
Did Keith Andrews Play for Ireland?
Yes. Keith Andrews earned 35 senior caps for the Republic of Ireland between 2008 and 2012.
The midfielder was part of Ireland’s squad at UEFA Euro 2012 and played under Italian manager Giovanni Trapattoni. His international career began relatively late—at the age of 28—but he became an important member of the national team.
Andrews later returned to the Irish setup as a coach. He worked with several national youth teams before becoming an assistant with the Republic of Ireland Under-21 and senior sides.
Keith Andrews’ Playing Career
Andrews began his professional career at Wolverhampton Wanderers and went on to represent several clubs in England. These included:
- Hull City
- Milton Keynes Dons
- Blackburn Rovers
- West Bromwich Albion
- Bolton Wanderers
He made 85 Premier League appearances during a professional playing career that lasted 16 years.
After retiring in 2015, Andrews moved into coaching. His early roles included working as an assistant at MK Dons and within the Republic of Ireland national-team system. He later joined Sheffield United’s coaching staff under Chris Wilder.
How Did Keith Andrews Become Brentford Manager?
Andrews joined Brentford as the club’s set-piece coach in July 2024. His work in that position earned praise, particularly for its impact on the team’s defensive organisation and dead-ball performance.
Brentford promoted Andrews to head coach in June 2025 following Thomas Frank’s departure for Tottenham Hotspur. The appointment continued the club’s preference for developing coaches internally.
According to Brentford, Andrews impressed the club with his communication, leadership and clear ideas about how the team could improve.
Is Keith Andrews Irish?
Yes. Keith Andrews is Irish and comes from Dublin. He represented the Republic of Ireland as both a player and coach before becoming Brentford’s head coach.
His appointment also placed him among a small group of Irish-born managers to lead a club in the Premier League.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where was Keith Andrews born?
Keith Andrews was born in Dublin, Ireland.
Is Keith Edwards the manager of Brentford?
No. Brentford’s head coach is Keith Andrews. “Keith Edwards” is a mistaken version of his name.
When did Keith Andrews become Brentford manager?
Brentford appointed Keith Andrews as head coach in June 2025.
Which country did Keith Andrews represent?
Andrews represented the Republic of Ireland, earning 35 senior international caps.
The Short Answer
Keith Andrews is from Dublin, Ireland. The former Irish international moved to England as a teenager, built a long playing and coaching career there, and eventually became Brentford’s head coach.