Former Brentford development squad coach Lee Carsley has revealed his surprise at being named head coach at Griffin Park this week.

Head coach Mariunus Dijkhuizen and assistant Roy Hendriksen were sacked after Saturday's 2-1 defeat to Sheffield Wednesday that left the Bees 19th in the Championship table with only two wins from eight league games this term.

Dijkhuizen has overseen wholesale changes in the playing staff - including the departure of star striker Andre Gray - since taking over from Mark Warburton, as the squad has suffered a string of injuries to key men.

Carsley, who will be in charge until the end of the campaign, admitted many new faces still needed to settle and refused to rule out a promotion charge this season despite the slow start.

"I was surprised to be given the job and there was a bit of shock," he told the club's wesbite on Monday.

"I was preparing the development squad for a game at Sheffield Wednesday on Tuesday and then I was asked ot take charge of the first team.

"It is always tough news when the manager gets changed and I'm sure the players and staff are feeling that, so it was important to make my first training session as energetic as we could.

"I want to see us dominate the ball and playing fast football. I want to see plenty of shots and crosses and to enjoy watching them play with enjoyment and enthusiasm."

He added: "There is no reason to write this season off. I still think there is a lot to come from this group of players. There are a lot of good players here.

"The players that have been brought in are very good and need a bit of time to settle in. I'm sure there is a lot of good things to come.

"It is important we do not feel sorry for ourselves and we try and kick on."

Dijkhuizen's exit after such a short spell at the helm may seem like a knee jerk reaction, but ex-Everton midfielder Carsely - who will be assisted by Paul Williams - has impressed during his spell in charge of the club's youngsters.

And chariman Cliff Crown believes his appointment is key to the club's ambitions.

"The club has moved swiftly and decisively in order to maintain its long-term vision and philosophy," he said.

"That's why Lee Carsley has been appointed as head coach for the remainder of the season.

"Lee has shown with the U21s he is an outstanding leader.  His work at the training ground has been hugely impressive while coaching the development squad and has demonstrated he understands the club's philosophy and ambitions. 

"We believe these qualities will help Lee settle into his new role effectively and quickly. Rest assured, we are determined to do everything possible to achieve the success the supporters desire."