Nigel analyses Brentford's start to the 2023/24 Premier League season where they seem to have picked up where they left off in May!
The new English Premier League season is already upon us and Brentford FC look to be picking up from where they left off last campaign. An impressive top half finish in 22/23 for Thomas Franks team saw them light up the EPL with stellar performances as well as completing an infamous league double over treble winning Manchester City, the Bees certainly punched above their weight.
Two games in this time round and Franks’ squad boast four points from two games after the thrilling 2-2 draw at home to Tottenham Hotspurs was followed up by a 3-0 mauling of fellow rivals Fulham FC. This is equaling a club record for the longest unbeaten run in London Derbies after not losing in their past 11 games against any of their home-town rivals. Surely London is red and white?
The club has also managed to recruit well in positions that needed addressing. David Raya who has been a stalwart between the sticks has been replaced by Mark Flekken. The dutchman is in the same ilk as that of a shot-stopping goal keeper who is also comfortable playing with the ball at his feet. He managed to secure a clean sheet in the derby this past weekend which will do his confidence a world of good.
Still thinking about that Nathan Collins tackle on Saturday ❌ pic.twitter.com/b7V4ZLzRaL
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) August 22, 2023
Nathan Collins is another addition that looks to have slotted in seamlessly in Franks’ setup. In the absence of Ben Mee, the Bees still look as solid defensively as ever. The Irishman is still just 22 and is very comfortable on the ball. An exciting signing indeed and someone who adds strong depth to their defence.
Bryan Mbuemo and Yoane Wissa have also stepped up big time in the attacking third. The loss of a star striker would be catastrophic for most teams in the world and the fact that the goals keep hitting the back of the net is testament to these two. Mbuemo and Wissa have been excellent in the final third and complement each other so well it is almost telepathic on the pitch.
Brentford encapsulate all the values of a well-established Premier League outfit and play scintillating football at the same time. It is no wonder they have won over the hearts of many neutrals let alone the massive support in South Africa as a result of the title sponsorship of leading sportsbook operator, Hollywoodbets, who hail from the African country. This club is infectious.
Fans can expect another successful season from the Bees. Frank and his technical team have been nothing short of excellent and a first European birth looks to be on the cards, be it in the Conference League or Europa League.
