Thomas Frank delivered a mixed injury update before Brentford’s Premier League game against Bournemouth.
Defender Kristoffer Ajer was withdrawn during the goalless draw against Fulham last weekend due to a facial injury, while midfielder Mathias Jensen wasn’t included in the squad. But the Bees boss revealed that the duo are in contention for Saturday’s game at Vitality Stadium.
“There were two doubts,” Frank began. “Kristoffer Ajer went off with a broken nose, and Mathias Jensen had a minor injury, but both of them should be available. [Ajer] will wear a mask.”
Frank confirmed that full-back Aaron Hickey (hamstring), who last appeared in the 2-0 win over Chelsea in October, will not play again this season and his chances of representing Scotland at Euro 2024 are "not positive".
Having helped Bournemouth to a record points tally (48), Cherries boss Andoni Iraola is a nominee for Premier League Manager of the Season.
And Frank was full of praise for the Spaniard ahead of Saturday’s meeting on the south coast.
“He’s done well this season,” he said.
“Praise to him and everyone around Bournemouth. He had a tricky start and it’s just another example that there are a lot of good coaches out there and that football is brutal and unpredictable.
“But the best leaders are there with a calm head and a steady hand – they keep going.
“They’ve done well in many ways, definitely.”