Brentford host Preston in a mid table clash

15th placed Brentford will host fellow mid table side Preston in their final league game of the season.

The West London side have had an up and down campaign. having started the season very strongly with only one defeat in the first 10 games, they went on to win just one game in the next 16 league games. Earlier in the season they lost manager Dean Smith to Aston Villa and they replaced him with Thomas Frank who was already in the coaching staff. Despite this, the Bees will be happy to have avoided relegation this season. They just about missed out on a playoff off spot last season so they will have their eyes set on that going into next season.

In their last outing, Brentford shocked automatic promotion chasing Leeds, beating them comfortably 2-0 at Griffin Park. They will be looking to impress their home supporters one last time this season. Striker Neal Maupay has been a bright spark scoring 24 goals in the league this season. Victory will guarantee them a top half finish.

Preston manager Alex Neil would like to see his side finish the season in style but but he realises the threat Brentford pose. In his pre match press conference he said, “Brentford are a good side aren’t they?

They have some really good technical players who play in a manner which is hard to pin down. On their day they are a match for anyone they took Leeds apart down there but equally went to Reading and lost 2-1.”

The Lilywhites have somewhat been similar to Brentford this season with ups and downs and they currently sit 12th place. They’re currently in poor run of form having won just one in their last seven games.

Team news:

Defender Henrik Dalsgaard is set to return  for the hosts after serving a suspension. Romaine Sawyers should be available after a knock. However, Yoann Barbet and Lewis Macleod are doubts.

Preston have Ben Pearson available after serving a three game ban. He however may not be risked as one more booking would see him miss the start of next season. Midfielder Ryan Ledson is still unavailable as he serves the second of his four game ban.

 

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