Brentford are set to welcome West Ham United to the Gtech Community Stadium this weekend, with the Bees desperate to turn their dominant displays into much-needed Premier League points. Despite controlling possession in their recent 2-1 defeat at Old Trafford, Keith Andrews' side have struggled to find a clinical edge in front of goal. A similar pattern emerged in their 2-0 loss to Nottingham Forest, despite enjoying 66% of the ball. However, history suggests that Brentford thrive when playing as underdogs against top-tier opposition, and they'll be hoping to channel that spirit once again.
With only four games remaining, European qualification remains the ultimate target for the west Londoners. Sitting in ninth place, they trail sixth-placed Brighton by just two points. To close that gap, they must address a concerning home record that has seen them go six matches without a win. Three consecutive draws at the Gtech Community Stadium have frustrated fans, but there's a silver lining: both of their recent London derby victories have come against this weekend's opponents.
Injury concerns continue to plague the Brentford squad, with Keith Andrews managing a lengthy list of absentees. Antoni Milambo and Fabio Carvalho are both sidelined with knee issues, while Rico Henry remains out with a thigh complaint. Vitaly Janelt is also recovering from an ankle problem, and Jordan Henderson—who has missed the last four games—will be assessed ahead of kickoff. In midfield, Mathias Jensen and Yehor Yarmolyuk are expected to anchor the side, providing stability and creativity.
There is positive news, however, as Josh Dasilva returns to the squad after a significant injury layoff. While he's unlikely to start, his presence on the bench offers a major emotional boost. Up front, Igor Thiago will lead the line as he aims to add to his impressive tally of 21 league goals this season. Interestingly, only one of those strikes has come in a London derby, so the Brazilian will be eager to change that statistic. Supporting him on the wings will be Dango Ouattara and Kevin Schade, tasked with providing the width and service needed to unlock West Ham's defence.
Brentford predicted XI: Kelleher; Kayode, Van den Berg, Collins, Lewis-Potter; Jensen, Yarmolyuk; Ouattara, Damsgaard, Schade; Thiago