Frank: Battle to clinch promotion will be a tight one

THOMAS Frank believes it will be a “dogfight” between Watford, Swansea City and Brentford for the second automatic promotion spot from the Championship.

Norwich City have opened up a 14-point gap between themselves and the play-off places following a run of nine consecutive wins before the international break, a sequence that was ended when they drew 1-1 with Blackburn Rovers.

Swansea and Brentford faltered in the final week before the break, although both sides boast a game in hand over Watford who are currently second.

Brentford boss Frank says Norwich will end the campaign as champions, although he believes the race for second place remains firmly up for grabs.

“Norwich will definitely win the Championship this season,” said the Dane.

“I think it’s going to be a dogfight between Watford, Swansea and ourselves for the last automatic promotion spot.

“I obviously hope and still believe we can get that.

“It will be a hard-fought battle right till the very last game.”

Swansea occupy third spot in the table ahead of their clash with Birmingham City on Friday evening.

Steve Cooper’s men are six points adrift of Watford, while Brentford are a further point behind in fourth.

The Hornets, who have won their last five league games in a row, play six sides currently in the top 10 during their run-in.

Promotion to the Premier League is expected to be worth in the region of £200 million, a significant sum given the recent loss in revenue for clubs because of the coronavirus emergency.