Thomas Frank is optimistic that Brentford can regain their scoring touch without Ivan Toney as they prepare to face Southampton at the Gtech Community Stadium this Saturday. The Bees narrowly defeated Colchester United in the EFL Cup on Wednesday, thanks to Keane Lewis-Potter's first-half goal. However, without their top scorer Toney, Brentford struggled offensively against Liverpool and suffered a defeat at Anfield.

Frank is enthusiastic about his new signings but acknowledges it will take time for them to adapt to his playing style. He confirmed that Toney would not be available for the upcoming fixture. "We played three average-plus games. Definitely still players growing into it. We still have some players coming back, some new signings, so I'm still understanding how I will put the best squad out there, how I will use new signings," he said.

Southampton also had midweek action, securing a 5-3 win against Cardiff in the EFL Cup's third round. This victory marked their first win of the season after losing their initial two Premier League matches, including a defeat to Nottingham Forest at St. Mary's.

Despite the win, Southampton head coach Russell Martin was frustrated by the chaotic nature of the game and hopes for a more controlled performance against Brentford. "I'm really happy with the win and I'm pleased for my young players. But there is also a lot to be annoyed about," Martin stated.

"We conceded three goals and the game descended into chaos in the second half. It was a moment of brilliance for their first goal from a player I have admired for a long time (Rubin Colwill), but we took our foot off the gas and dropped to their intensity," he added.

Players to Watch

Brentford - Yoane Wissa: Yoane Wissa has been involved in six goals in his last seven home Premier League starts for Brentford (four goals and two assists). He has scored and assisted in each of his last two home appearances.

Southampton - Jan Bednarek: Jan Bednarek has completed more passes than any other Premier League player this season (198), averaging 104 per 90 minutes. His highest previous average was 49 per 90 minutes during the 2020-21 season.

Match Prediction: Brentford Win

Brentford have won their last three Premier League games against Southampton without conceding, winning both home games by a 3-0 scoreline. They aim for consecutive home wins in the Premier League for the first time since last November after beating Crystal Palace on opening day.

Southampton have struggled away from home against Brentford, winning just one of their last nine league visits (D3 L5). Their only victory came in April 2011 while both teams were in League One.

The Saints have won both of their league games in London last season (1-0 against Millwall and QPR). However, they have only one win in their last eight Premier League visits to London (D1 L6), defeating Chelsea 1-0 in February 2023.

Possession Statistics

Despite having an average possession of 70.6% this season, Southampton lost both of their games 1-0. They have completed 1,175 passes under Martin's management so far. Only Thomas Tuchel (1,459) and Maurizio Sarri (1,223) saw more passes completed by their teams in their first two Premier League games at Chelsea since 2003-04.

"Ivan is training well and in good spirits," Frank mentioned regarding Toney's absence. "I would be happy to have more questions on Toney next time."

{INSTAGRAM_1}{INSTAGRAM_2}{INSTAGRAM_3}{INSTAGRAM_4}{INSTAGRAM_5}{INSTAGRAM_6}{INSTAGRAM_7}{INSTAGRAM_8}{INSTAGRAM_9}{INSTAGRAM_10}