Thomas Frank has confirmed that both Kristoffer Ajer and Aaron Hickey are nearing a return to first-team action - but won't be available for Brentford's trip to West Ham United.

The Bees head coach revealed that the duo could be back for the FA Cup third-round tie against the Hammers at the Gtech Community Stadium on Saturday 7 January.

When asked about Ajer and Hickey's availability, Frank responded: "They're not ready for selection, unfortunately. Ajer trained fully with us today, so it’s very nice to have him in the training group.

“Hickey is getting closer to full training with us, so they’re progressing well and they’re actually a little bit ahead of schedule, so that's positive, the medical guys have done a top job. 

“[Thomas] Strakosha is getting closer, he was involved in the bigger squad against Tottenham but didn’t make it to the bench. 

"Shandon [Baptiste] is still out with a groin injury and Frank [Onyeka] won’t play - he’s got a hamstring injury.” 

Frank added: “With Hickey, we can hope for something against West Ham [in the FA Cup] but it’ll still be tough to make. Kristoffer, he’s more likely to make that West Ham game.” 

Despite their poor form, Frank was keen not to underestimate Friday's opponents.

The Hammers have lost their last four Premier League games - as well as an EFL Cup tie with Blackburn Rovers on penalties - which leaves them in 16th, just one point above the relegation zone.

When asked if that meant it was a good time to play West Ham, Frank replied: “Or a very bad time!"

The Dane admitted that he is still wary of the threat that David Moyes' side possess, before praising the work the Scot has done in east London.

“When a team has lost four games and they’re playing at home, they want to bounce back," Frank said.

"I don't know any manager or any player that doesn't want to do that and come flying out. 

“On that note, I will say that I’ve read some of the stuff people have written about West Ham - it's a huge club. I think David Moyes and his staff have done a top job over the last three years.

“They have maybe over-performed, but definitely top-performed, in terms of stabilising them and then getting sixth and then seventh - two unbelievable positions.” 

Frank added: “They’re also performing in Europe, they reached the semi-final of the Europa League and, now, they are also in the next stages of the Conference League.  

“I understand it's about results, but this league is on a knife's edge depending on if you are winning enough games or not winning enough games.”