Hogan substitution was planned, says Smith

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Brentford head coach Dean Smith explained Scott Hogan’s half-time substitution in the win over Fulham was pre-planned as part of the player’s recovery process.

Hogan scored twice in the first half as the Bees eased into a 3-0 lead against their west London rivals, but he did not reappear after the break.

Smith joked that the striker was not happy at being taken off – but insisted it would benefit Hogan’s long-term fitness.

He said: “I don’t think he’s speaking to me at the moment for taking him off at half-time having scored two goals!

Hogan's goals helped the Bees secure a superb derby victory
Hogan’s goals helped the Bees secure a superb derby victory

“But it was always a plan between me and the medical staff because of the injuries that he’s had. You have to go softly-softly and he’s had a couple of soft tissue injuries as well.

“When I came out for the second half, I knew he was angry with me but I saw him with ice on his knee, ice on his hamstring and ice on his head, so I knew it was the right decision.

“We have to manage him in the correct way so we can get the best out of him.”

THIS SEASON’S WEST LONDON DERBIES
                          W     D    L      F     A    Pts
Brentford        2      1     1      6      5      7
Fulham            2      1     1      9      6      7
QPR                  1      0     3      3      8      3

Smith added he was pleased with the way his young team had collected 19 points from a possible 24 during a busy April, having had poor results in the previous two months.

The Bees boss said: “There were lots of positives – a good performance and a super result against local rivals.

“After [poor form in] February and March, to turn April into six wins, a draw and a defeat is a credit to the players.”