Brentfordvs.Arsenal

The German shot-stopper was forced off in the 36th minute of Friday's away meeting with Brighton & Hove Albion.

Hakon Valdimarsson came off the bench to replace Flekken, helping Brentford keep a clean sheet in a goalless draw at the Amex Stadium.

While the result ended a run of three consecutive defeats, Brentford have now gone four matches without a win since they beat Newcastle United 4-2 on December 7.

As a result of their recent dip in form, the Bees will head into the new year in the bottom half of the Premier League table, sitting in 12th position with 24 points to their name from 18 matches.

Frank provides Flekken update

Brentford will kick off 2025 with an almighty test against an Arsenal side that have won five of their last seven Premier League games (D2).

Frank is hopeful that Flekken will be fit for the New Year's Day fixture, although he will be unable to call upon the experience of Ben Mee.

Speaking at Monday's pre-match press conference, Frank told reporters: "Three players went off [against Brighton]. Christian Norgaard is no problem and can play against Arsenal.

"Ben Mee has a minor muscle injury and will be out for a couple of weeks; Mark Flekken is more positive, still too early to say he will play against Arsenal, but he can maybe, hopefully, be available."

Flekken has showcased his importance to Brentford this season, making 87 saves in his 18 Premier League appearances - more than any other goalkeeper in the top flight this term.

Van den Berg, Jensen to return to Brentford squad

Frank has confirmed that defender Sepp van den Berg and midfielder Mathias Jensen are available for selection after recovering from their respective injury issues.

"The news on Sepp van den Berg and Mathias Jensen is more positive and they will be available and in the squad," Frank added.

"They have been out for quite a while so we just need to take the decision as to whether they will start."

The Bees are still having to cope without the services of Josh Dasilva, Aaron Hickey, Rico Henry, Gustavo Nunes and Igor Thiago.

Written by

Ben Sully