The Toon Army played out a 3-3 draw with Brentford on Saturday afternoon.
The Premier League game was Howe’s first as head coach, though he was not able to attend as he is isolating in a hotel room after testing positive for Covid-19 on Friday.
Frank – whose side knocked Steve Bruce’s United out of the Carabao Cup last season while in the Championship – was asked if there was a change in the home team, which is without a win so far this season.
“Yeah, 100%,” said Brentford’s head coach. “Definitely more front-footed. Definitely much more aggressive in the pressure, and I think you saw the first steps of a team that wanted to play a bit more.
"That’s the most difficult thing to train and improve, and I think you saw the first signs.
"I’m pretty sure Eddie would say ‘we need to do a lot better’, not because it was bad, but I think he would say ‘there’s bits and pieces we need to do even better’, but you see very aggressive, very front-footed, and on the ball much more willingness to keep possession.”
Asked about the atmosphere, Frank said: “The fans were unbelievable. Fantastic atmosphere. I think our fans did well. So a fantastic occasion, a fantastic atmosphere to be part of. What a game.”
On his own team’s performance at St James’s Park, Frank said: “When you score three goals you need to get three points.”

. LONDON, ENGLAND - AUGUST 04: The Premier League Nike AerowSculpt strike ball ahead of the Pre Season Friendly match between Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur at Stamford Bridge on August 04, 2021 in London, England. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images)
Premier League Nike AerowSculpt strike ball. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) Photo: Catherine Ivill

9. Camara in demand
Leicester City, Newcastle United, and Liverpool are credited with an interest in Olympiacos midfielder Aguibou Camara ahead of the January transfer window. He could cost around £20m. (The Sun) (Photo by LOUISA GOULIAMAKI/AFP via Getty Images) Photo: LOUISA GOULIAMAKI