‘No money will tempt us’
THOMAS FRANK has slapped a ‘not-for-sale’ sign on Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock.
Only two weeks ago, following Pinnock’s powerful performance and goal in the 2-0 win at Chelsea, Bees manager Frank said the Jamaica star was good enough to grace ANY of the Premier League’s elite sides.
Frank even expressed surprise that none of the English giants had targeted Pinnock, 30, who has another opportunity this afternoon to put his manager’s glowing verdict to the test when he faces Liverpool’s attack.
But no matter how well he fares at Anfield, the ex-forest Green and Barnsley man will be going nowhere even if the big boys come calling in January.
Frank said: “No, no, no. He’s not for sale.
“I’m very impressed with Ethan. He just continues to perform at such a high level.
“I think he had a good first season in the Premier League, then last season he took it a level up. Or he definitely added layers and has kept that high level of consistency.
“I’m biased because I work with him every day and look through his games with such detail, but the more I see of him – and then other teams’ centre-backs – the more I think he’s underrated .
“Especially, as a defensive centre-back. He has the ability to defend in every aspect of a football match. He’s incredible.”
And, citing Chelsea’s evergreen Thiago Silva, still shining at 39, Frank added: “Look at Thiago. The biggest respect for him. He’s one of his generation’s best centre-backs, and there’s more room for development for Ethan, I have no doubt about it.
“He’s 30, so can add a bit more in the next couple of years, then keep it at that level for a long time yet.”