Smith could hand MacLeod debut after year-long lay-off

Brentford midfielder Lewis MacLeod could make his debut against Brighton on Friday – 13 months after he joined the club.

McLeod was signed from Glasgow Rangers in last January’s transfer window but a series of setbacks have delayed his return from a hamstring injury.

However, the midfielder could be given a place on the bench at the Amex Stadium, after failing to make the last two squads.

Head coach Dean Smith said: “He’s looking better and better in training and pushing hard for a place in the 18 [man-squad].

“He’s a really good guy, down to earth, gets involved with the players and works hard every day.

“He’s a talented boy. He comes in off the left and has a good nose for goal but he can open the game up for people as well.”

Alan McCormack is likely to be out for another couple of weeks with a calf injury, while Scott Hogan and Andreas Bjelland remain long-term absentees.