Frank expects ‘bite’ in battle of high-flying rivals
Thomas Frank is revelling in the prospect of Brentford or Fulham being the top dogs in west London this season. The two sides meet for only the second time in the top flight tonight, having developed a fierce rivalry in the lower leagues dating back to the 1920s.
But both clubs now harbour European ambitions and sit above big-spending neighbours Chelsea in the Premier League. Victory for Fulham would push them back into the top six while Brentford, who are unbeaten in 11 league matches, will move to within a point of marco silva’s side with a win.
Frank said: ‘What a moment in Fulham’s history and our history to face each other, in the best league in the world with us both in the top half of the table. I am so pleased with that and also for Fulham. It will add some real bite to the game.’ With Chelsea languishing in 10th under Graham Potter, despite a transfer outlay in excess of £600million this season, Frank admitted the pressure of expectation is lower at clubs like Brentford, Fulham and Brighton — who are all sitting above the Blues. ‘I understand if the so-called Top six clubs are not where they are supposed to be and are behind smaller clubs like us, Brighton and Fulham, it creates a wrong narrative,’ he said.
‘It certainly creates some challenges and I don’t envy Graham Potter and his staff.’ Brentford will welcome back captain Pontus Jansson and Frank onyeka after injury but Fulham will be without powerhouse midfielder Joao Palhinha, who is starting a two-match ban. Frank admitted the absence of the Portugal international will be a boost to his team, as the 27-year-old has been a key factor in Fulham’s excellent campaign so far.
‘Palhinha being out is of course a blow, like if we had Christian norgaard out, but they will have other good players to step in and do well,’ Frank insisted.
‘It means something but you never know with the dynamic. I just know we play the team seventh in the table, who are flying.’