FRANK’S LATE THREAT ALERT

THOMAS FRANK feels his Brentford side must be ready for a “big battle in every way” when they head to Luton.

The Hatters sit in 18th place but just a point from safety heading into the weekend’s Premier League fixtures.

Rob Edwards’ injury-hit squad have looked to punch above their weight following promotion but remain deep in the relegation scrap after eight defeats in their last 11 league matches.

Frank, though, feels those statistics do not tell the full story, with Luton pushing plenty of teams close at a packed-out Kenilworth Road.

“I like Rob Edwards and the coaching staff and the club, everything about the club, I like and admire,” Frank (inset) said.

“Rob has done a top job, together with his coaching staff and the players, with most likely the lowest budget.

“They have been quite impressive in terms of how they are hanging in there in games and how they are scoring goals in the last 15 minutes.”

The Hatters have hit 18 goals after the 76th minute this term, which is only bettered by Liverpool’s 27.

Frank added: “That is hugely impressive.

“They more or less make it very difficult in every game for every opponent.

“We know we will be going there where the atmosphere is very good and it will be a big battle in every way.

“At home especially, they have been really good. They have drawn with Liverpool, lost narrowly to Manchester City and were close to getting something from the Arsenal game.

“They have been able to score at least one in many of their games. We need to be up for it.”

Brentford put some breathing space between themselves and the fight for survival by beating bottom club Sheffield United last weekend, which ended a ninematch winless run.

Forward Ivan Toney is in contention to return and Frank said: “Ivan is pressing. He is desperate and I am desperate, so let’s see tomorrow.”