FRANK KEEN ON LONG STAY FOR MAUPAY

BRISTOL CITY

Pisano 20

BRENTFORD

Maupay 53 THOMAS FRANK won’t even contemplate losing ace marksman Neal Maupay during next month’s transfer window.

But the Brentford head coach may have to fend off plenty of interest after the 22-year-old Frenchman produced another superb finish to earn a point from a closely-fought clash.

Maupay’s 15th goal of the season was a sweet right-footed volley on 53 minutes that sent the ball arrowing into the roof of the net following a build-up down the right.

It cancelled out Eros Pisano’s opener (above) for City, a header from Jamie Paterson’s 20th-minute corner that went in with the aid of a deflection.

Asked if he was worried about losing Maupay next month, Frank said: “We are confident of keeping Neal. I don’t want to even think about anything else.

“He is really on fire at the moment, scoring with a brilliant half-volley against Bolton and now – bang! – with a great volley.

“Neal is so important to us. He is still young, but is very driven and has leadership potential.”

Brentford still haven’t won away in the Championship this season, but Frank added: “If we keep playing like that, the first victory on the road will soon come.”

Both teams had chances to win an open match. City have won only three of their home league games this season, but head coach Lee Johnson said: “There were a lot of positives for us.

“We need a touch more steel and sparkle. Today we couldn’t find the right final pass, even though Brentford held a high line.

“Maybe we can add that bit extra in the transfer window.”