Why Brentford can prove doubters wrong and stay up this season
With Yoane Wissa potentially following the likes of Thomas Frank, Christian Norgaard, and Bryan Mbeumo through the exit door at Brentford, some Bees fans are understandably concerned heading into the new Premier League season. However, some encouraging signs could be seen in the bees staying up.
Of course, nothing is guaranteed in a highly competitive competition like the Premier League. Still, those of a Brentford persuasion shouldn’t be resigning themselves to a relegation dogfight before a ball has been kicked. In the same way that fans who bet on the NFL and watch the NBA struggle to select a clear winner given the unpredictable nature of the competition, Brentford are heading into the campaign as somewhat of an unknown quantity, meaning they could easily become a surprise package this season.
In case you need further convincing, we highlight some positives for the Bees faithful heading into the new season.
Keith Andrews is highly rated at the club.
Keith Andrews might be inexperienced in football management, but Brentford’s hierarchy sees something in him. The former set-piece coach has impressed both senior club officials and Thomas Frank during his time at the club, and while it’s his first full-time managerial position, he appears to have the know-how and the cool head needed to put his stamp on things. While it won’t be easy, Andrews has been described as a “perfect fit” for the club by Brentford’s director of football, Phil Giles. Given the array of correct decisions the club has made over the years, Andrews’ appointment could easily prove another shrewd move.
A tough place to go
Home form is always key for any side potentially facing a scrap down at the bottom. When asked by fans, managers, and players alike how they rate their Gtech Community Stadium experience, it’s widely regarded as a tough place to go. However, if the fans keep making it a cauldron of noise, it could play a key part in Brentford’s season.
Jordan Henderson’s leadership
While Jordan Henderson isn’t the most outstanding player the world of football has ever seen, the natural leader could be a key cog in Brentford’s wheel this season. Likely to fill the void left by Christian Norgaard, Henderson will be able to perform a similar role in the team while leading from the front. For both Liverpool and England, Henderson was known to be a highly influential figure, and while his best years are probably behind him, his experience and leadership skills could come in handy during what could be an up-and-down season for the Bees. At 35, Henderson will surely relish another opportunity in the top flight.
Expect further signings
Alongside Henderson, Brentford acquired the services of Antoni Milambo, Michael Kayode, and Caoimhín Kelleher for their first team squad this season. Given the club’s shrewd transfer business in recent times and the clever data-led approach they take, much like clubs such as Brighton, there is no reason why the Bees can’t unearth some more future stars. Losing Mbuemo is a blow, but it isn’t the end of the world. Players always depart the club, but Brentford has repeatedly shown that they can come again.
Newly promoted sides tend to drop.
Another reason the Bees can stay up is that the Premier League could be weak at the bottom this season. Additionally, we could see the newly promoted sides go down once again, like Leicester City, Ipswich, and Southampton did last time around.
