We see out January with the visit of Brentford, as the Eagles look to continue their mighty fine run of form.
Ahead of the fixture, we had a chat with our pals at TalkBees about their season so far, January transfer needs, views on the game and much more.
TEB – From a neutral perspective, it has been a solid half of the season for Brentford. How would you rate the results and performances so far as the club sit 11th in the Premier League?
TB – It’s been an interesting season indeed. We’ve shown signs of being a really great side who can push on to the European positions, however, we are incredibly inconsistent. Despite our decent league position, we are yet to win consecutive league games this season.
TEB – In the reverse fixture, Brentford won 2-1 at the Gtech Stadium. Looking back, what were your thoughts on that game?
TB – Looking back, it was a fantastic win against a quality side. You guys were coming into this season with huge amounts of optimism, and rightly so. It’s not gone quite to plan, however, results are seriously picking up for you, and I expect an incredibly tight game once again this weekend.
TEB – From a cup perspective, Brentford were knocked out by Newcastle in the League Cup Quarter-Finals and Plymouth in the FA Cup Third Round. Was there a lot of disappointment from the fans with these results?
TB – Not huge disappointment with the Newcastle game as it wasn’t expected that we would get through, however, Plymouth was quite outrageous to be honest. It was a far too weak side put out by Thomas Frank against Championship opposition who, rightly so, would absolutely go for it. And they did. We felt the consequences of that.
TEB – The January transfer window is well underway. Have Brentford made any signings so far? What areas of the squad do you feel need strengthening?
TB – We’ve agreed a deal for Fiorentina’s Michael Kayode at right-back, a position we needed strengthening hugely which is fantastic news. To add to what is a great signing, we’ve also had Keane Lewis-Potter and Mikkel Damsgaard sign new long term contracts – two of our better players this season being tied down long term is unbelievable news. Finally, rejecting a £23million bid from Nottingham Forest for Yoane Wissa is a statement of intent, and proof of his high value he has to us.
TEB – Expectations for the rest of this season?
TB – Comfortably mid-table. Starting to become a sustainable Premier League team. The dream.
TEB – Early ambitions for next season?
TB – Europe. It has to be. A big summer window to bulk up the squad as well as retaining our top players, and having long term injuries return, there’s no reason why we can’t reach for the stars.
TEB – If you could sign one current player from Palace, who would it be and why?
TB – Marc Guehi. Our defence still doesn’t look secure enough. My word, he would help sure us up.
TEB – Expectations for the game this weekend including final score prediction?
TB – Very tricky game for us, it always has been away at Selhurst Park. I’ll go for 1-1, however I do think either team could easily pinch it with a late goal.
