Brentford’s Ethan Pinnock will play against Aston Villa, Thomas Frank confirms
The central defender limped out of the Bees’ Carabao Cup clash against Forest Green with an ankle problem
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Brentford boss Thomas Frank has played down an injury scare for key defender Ethan Pinnock by declaring him to face Aston Villa on Saturday.
Centre-half Pinnock limped off during the latter stages of Tuesday night’s 3-1 Carabao Cup win over Forest Green with an ankle problem.
The 28-year-old was one of only two players to stay in the team following last weekend’s goalless draw at Crystal Palace as Frank rotated his squad against the Sky Bet League Two side.
It was a sentimental decision as Pinnock captained the Bees against the club he helped to promotion to the Football League in 2017, and one that looked like it might have backfired.
However, Frank said: “Ethan is fine. He had contact to the same ankle as last Saturday against Crystal Palace, so he will play against Villa.”
The Bees lost another defender, Mads Bech Sorensen, to a knee injury in the first half and Frank added: “Mads Bech we need to assess and see how serious it is.”
Brentford avoided an upset at the Community Stadium after falling behind to Jack Aitchison’s goal.
Second-half strikes from Yoane Wissa, substitute Bryan Mbeumo and Marcus Forss earned them victory against the League Two leaders.
Frank has brought in five new faces this summer for their maiden Premier League campaign, but would not rule out further transfer activity before the end of the month.
“I have a squad that I’m pleased with but we are always in the market,” he said. “The window is still open, so anything can happen.”