Speaking after Brentford's 1-0 defeat to Manchester United, head coach Thomas Frank insisted his side 'did everything they could' to force an equaliser against the Red Devils.

After a difficult first half for the Bees at Old Trafford, Frank was pleased with his side's performance in the second 45 minutes and thought they were unlucky to not score on Wednesday evening.

“I think it's big praise to the players and the team that we feel disappointed after losing 1-0 to Manchester United at Old Trafford," Frank began.

“It shows you how well we have done through the season that we really believed we could get something out of this game, coming here.

“Unfortunately, we didn't hit the highest level first half, especially on the ball – I know we can do more, I’m in no doubt about that.

“United came with everything we expected and I think we controlled that quite well, without them having massive chances.

“We had to defend well and I think, from the last game [against Brighton], we really upped it, in terms of defending.

“Of course we are disappointed that we conceded from a set-piece that we normally are so good at. But that's football, that can happen.

“Second half, we were much more the team we know, even more aggressive, even more front-footed.

“We created the biggest chance of the game to Kevin [Schade] and we did everything we could to force that equaliser - that could have turned the game around.

“Now we have to bounce back and be ready for Newcastle.”

The Bees face Eddie Howe's in-form Magpies on Saturday, and Frank believes his side can take lessons from the defeat at Old Trafford into the weekend's clash.

"We always take the positives," he said.

“From the last game against Brighton, I think we really upped the defensive side of the game. I think, in spells, there were some things better offensively.

“Now it's about recreating the energy and being ready to come flying out against Newcastle.”