Brentford predicted lineup vs Watford - Premier League
By Max Parsons
Brentford will look to continue a splendid run of form when they travel to Watford on Saturday afternoon.
Four wins in their previous five Premier League fixtures have seen the Bees pull away from the relegation scrap, and they now sit 12 points above the dreaded drop zone. A loss against Leicester last month might have curtailed their spirits but impressive 4-1 and 2-0 victories over Chelsea and West Ham respectively have restored the immaculate vibes in their corner of west London.
A trip to lowly Watford awaits them, with the Hornets looking certain for the drop. Here's how Thomas Frank could line his men up.
1. Goalkeeper & defenders
David Raya (GK) - Brentford's number one looks set for a tenth successive league start since returning from injury.
Kristoffer Ajer (RB) - Frank could stick with the system that worked so well against the Hammers last week, meaning another start at right-back for Ajer.
Zanka (CB) - Did well in Pontus Jansson's absence last time out and, in the skipper's likely continued absence, should retain his spot.
Ethan Pinnock (CB) - A brilliant performance against Europe-chasing West Ham will inevitably earn him a start for this one.
Rico Henry (LB) - Can be such a threatening presence from deep, as he demonstrated last time out.
2. Midfielders
Christian Norgaard (DM) - Will surely start a 32nd Premier League game this campaign after putting in a dominant showing at the heart of the side against West Ham.
Christian Eriksen (CM) - An inspiration leading this Brentford side on a fantastic run of form. It's phenomenal to see him bossing things on the pitch again.
Vitaly Janelt (CM) - A dynamic presence in midfield, Janelt should be set for an eighth start in nine league outings.
3. Forwards
Bryan Mbeumo (RW) - In fantastic form and was deservedly back on the scoresheet after a long absence from it last time out, making it one goal and four assists in his previous three.
Ivan Toney (ST) - Partners the Frenchman so well and heads into the weekend with six goals and two assists in his last five Premier League appearances.
Yoane Wissa (LW) - Will certainly keep his place if Frank decides to persist with this evidently fruitful formation.