Goalless Thiago backed ahead of Brentford’s derby clash
Brentford boss Keith Andrews has backed Igor Thiago ahead of the west London derby against Chelsea, with the striker having yet to score in the new Premier League season.
Thiago was Brentford’s top scorer last season but has been without a goal since returning from the World Cup with Brazil.
Andrews insists he is unconcerned by the barren run and has praised Thiago’s contribution beyond his goal output.
Andrews said: “It’s always important not to let the noise impact what you do, how you do it and why you do it – whether that’s good noise or slightly negative noise.
“I’m really comfortable with where he is and how he came back from the World Cup.
“We shouldn’t lose sight of what he achieved last season and the mountain he climbed to do what he did for us.
“We value him so much as a player, not just because of his goals. He’s in a good place and he’s enjoying his football. He loves being here and we love having him here.”
Meanwhile, Andrews has also spoken on Kevin Schade’s strong start to the campaign – form that has earned the winger a call-up to the Germany squad.
“He’s been in there before so he’s used to that set-up. A different manager now of course (Jurgen Klopp), one that’s very used to the Premier League, so I’m sure he’d have been very aware,” head coach Andrews said.
“Kev has been in a really good rhythm, a really good place in his game. He’s working really hard with the coaches to improve certain parts of his game and I think we’ve seen that in how he’s been performing.”
Bees midfielder Vitaly Janelt has also been included in Germany’s squad for the first time.
“Since I took over as head coach, I’ve loved working with him,” Andrews said.
“His value to me is huge. He absolutely deserves it. The levels he’s produced in the toughest league in the world is pretty remarkable.”