Brentford boss Thomas Frank provides injury update on Bryan Mbeumo ahead of Burnley clash

Brentford's head coach Thomas Frank wants his squad to keep striving in their fight against being pulled into the Premier League relegation danger despite an injury-hit campaign. Following a late 2-1 loss at leaders Arsenal last time out, the Bees have seen six defeats in the last eight matches, putting them in 15th place and only five points clear of relegation.

Preparations for Saturdays game against struggling Burnley were dented with the news that captain Christian Norgaard wouldn't be ready due to the back issue he picked up during the Arsenal match. Despite the setbacks, Bees boss Frank praised those that stepped in but admitted the club is looking into why they are faced with so many selection issues, saying: «We have definitely had too many injuries. We are looking into it.»

«In this competitive league, it has been incredible what the players have been doing, stepping in for others and competing,» Frank added. «We gave Arsenal a more or less even game and were very unlucky not to get something out of it.»

Frank emphasised the need for resilience despite their predicament, saying: «Yes, I prefer to have the best players available, but we can't feel sorry for ourselves. We need to keep going, keep fighting and keep doing our best to perform.»

Brentford were dealt a hammer blow in December after an injury to Bryan Mbeumo, but the winger is returning to fitness. Frank, though, was cautious over rushing back the Cameroon international, who has seven Premier League goals so far.

«I need to find out if it is just a touch too early, or to bring him for the game against Burnley,» Frank said. «He was on track for a really remarkable season. Everyone wants those good numbers for offensive players in terms of goals and assists.»

R