Thomas Frank insists Brentford will always have “a big piece of my heart” as he begins life in charge of Premier League rivals Tottenham.

Spurs announced Frank as their new head coach on Thursday night on a three-year deal.

It ended Frank’s time at Brentford, where he won 136 of his 317 matches across a seven-year spell, with the Danish coach able to lead the club into the Premier League for the first time in 2021 via Championship play-off success at Wembley.

In an emotional message posted on Brentford’s official club website on Friday, Frank said: “The time has come for me to move on. But, even as I leave, I know I have left a big piece of my heart at Brentford, not just at the football club but with the community and, of course, the incredible and loyal supporters.

“I want to extend my profound gratitude to the club for giving me the chance to pursue my dreams and for everyone involved who made the journey such a memorable one.

“For my family and I, it has been a privilege to be allowed to be part of such a special community – it’s an experience and adventure that we will cherish for life. So, thank you.

“Whatever we have achieved, we have achieved together, and our success is built on unity, spirit, courage and ambition at every level of the club and amongst the fans.

“Everybody has contributed, and every contribution has been invaluable. I am not just leaving a football club, I am saying goodbye to friends whose support through good and bad times I will carry with me always.

“I would like to say a special word of thanks to Matthew Benham. His trust and friendship have meant so much and the fact he gave me a chance in English football means I will always owe him a debt of gratitude. Thank you, Matt.

“So, while this is a goodbye, I hope the relationships I have built with everybody will be lasting ones and, of course, we will meet again in the wonderful world of football.

“Thank you, Thomas.”

Spurs announced on Friday they would visit Luton for a pre-season friendly on July 26.

Further fixtures in addition to Tottenham’s tour of Asia towards the end of July are still to be announced, but Frank’s first fixture in charge will currently be at Kenilworth Road.