Brentford snub Adams

Adams was troubled by injuries last season

Arsenal captain Tony Adams applied for the manager's job at Brentford, according to reports.

It is believed he put his name forward for the vacant post at Griffin Park after deciding to end his playing career.

But Brentford owner Ron Noades reportedly rejected the 35-year-old defender's application because the cash-strapped Second Division club could not afford his wages.

Career profile: Tony Adams

Noades instead chose to appoint former Wimbledon midfielder Wally Downes, who is currently a coach at Griffin Park.

"I know Ron spoke to Tony, but he went for continuity. I'm also aware of the difficult situation here," Downes told the Daily Express newspaper.

Adams was widely expected to hang up his boots after captaining Arsenal to the Premiership and FA Cup double last season.

'Proud

The injury-hit centre-back was rewarded for his 19-year service to the club with a testimonial against Celtic and said he would use the summer to reflect on his future.

He has been offered another year as a player at Highbury but is yet to sign a deal.

"If I think I can perform at the highest level, in the way I've been doing, I'll stay another year," Adams said in May.

"But the fans don't want to see an average Tony Adams out there - and I'm too proud to put in mediocre performances."