Brentford Prioritises Squad Unity Over Toney Speculation As Transfer Deadline Approaches

Thomas Frank chose not to discuss Ivan Toney's future, focusing instead on the current Brentford squad. Toney has attracted interest from Saudi club Al-Ahli and Chelsea, but Frank avoided the topic after Brentford's EFL Cup win over Colchester. "Similar to yesterday. I am not speaking about Ivan," he stated. "I want to speak about the 21 lads in the dressing room who did well to get through to the next round of the EFL Cup against a Colchester team who deserve a lot of praise and made it difficult for us."

Brentford have had a mixed start in the Premier League with one win and one loss from their first two matches. They now face Southampton, who have yet to secure a point this season following 1-0 defeats to Newcastle United and Nottingham Forest. When these teams last met in March 2023, Brentford won 2-0 at St. Mary's Stadium, with goals from Toney and Yoane Wissa.

Southampton recently showcased their attacking prowess in a thrilling 5-3 EFL Cup victory over Cardiff City. Russell Martin, who rotated his squad for that match, was pleased with his younger players' performances, including new signing Cameron Archer, who scored twice. However, Martin acknowledged defensive issues: "I'm really happy with the win and I'm pleased for my young players. But there is also a lot to be annoyed about," he said.

Brentford - Yoane Wissa: Wissa has been instrumental for Brentford, contributing six goals in his last seven home Premier League starts (four goals, two assists). He has both scored and assisted in each of his last two home games. The last player to achieve this feat in three consecutive home appearances was Leroy Sané for Manchester City in September/October 2017.

Southampton - Adam Armstrong: Armstrong had a challenging game against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, receiving a booking before being substituted. Despite this setback, he was crucial in Southampton's promotion back to the top flight last season, earning the Player of the Season award. This match presents an opportunity for him to kickstart his campaign.

Match Prediction: Brentford Win

Brentford have dominated recent encounters against Southampton, winning their last three Premier League meetings without conceding a goal. They have also won both home games against Southampton by a 3-0 scoreline. Conversely, Southampton have struggled away from home against Brentford, winning just one of their last nine league visits (D3 L5), with their sole victory coming in April 2011 while both teams were in League One.

Despite having the highest average possession in the Premier League this season (70.6%), Southampton have lost both of their games 1-0. Historically, they have only once lost their first three league games of a campaign without scoring, which occurred in the 2001-02 season.

OPTA Win Probability:

The upcoming match between Brentford and Southampton promises excitement as both teams aim to improve their standings early in the season.

The focus remains on how each team will perform under pressure as they seek crucial points early on.