Italy Under-21 international Michael Kayode expressed his appreciation for departed Brentford boss Thomas Frank after his national side progressed to the knockout rounds at the U21 European Championships on Tuesday.
The 20-year-old was brought to London by Frank back in January, on loan from Fiorentina. He impressed enough with the Bees to land a permanent deal, which was signed at the end of May.
Now, the Italian will work with a new manager at the Gtech Stadium, but he told Flashscore that he did send a message to the departed Dane following his move to Tottenham Hotspur last week.
He explained: "I spoke with Thomas, just to say thank you. Brentford is for him.
"I don't know yet who is the new coach."
In Trnava, Kayode played tirelessly across the full 90 minutes in Italy's 1-1 draw against Spain to wrap up Group A.
It meant Italy finished second in the group with only the Spaniards above them on goals scored.
Speaking about the draw, Kayode said: "I think it went very well. I was so happy to play with the team. With the draw, I am disappointed with that, but I am happy because they (Spain) are a very good squad."
They will head to Dunajska Streda for their last-eight clash, where Germany or England are the likely opponents.
Speaking about the quarter-final, he added: "Tomorrow, we recover and get ready for the quarter-finals. We will see if it is Germany or England and prepare for the match."