Even the news of Ivan Toney’s eight-month disqualification was not enough to slow down the pace of Brentford towards the end of the season. Four victories in their last five Premier League rounds have guaranteed the “Bees” an excellent chance of qualifying for Europe on the final day, provided they win and “Spurs” and “Villa” fail to earn tournament points. This is not bad for a team known as “just a bus stop in Hounslow.” Albion’s outstanding form was highlighted by a stunning 3-1 victory over Tottenham in the last away match, a result that concluded a series of victories against the Premier League’s “big six” teams. With 14 wins and draws in 37 rounds, the hosts have accumulated 56 points, placing them in ninth position in the league table. Toney, Norgaard, Lewis-Potter, and Jansson, who has a thigh injury, will not be able to play today.
The result of this game ultimately has no significance for the Premier League champions, who have crucial finals in the FA Cup and Champions League on the horizon that they need to win to secure the elusive treble. Pep Guardiola hasn’t been too strict with his players for their 1-1 draw against Brighton in the midweek, considering they “drank all the alcohol in Manchester” just last weekend, celebrating their glorious title achievement. The trip to the capital to conclude their Premier League campaign is unlikely to bother Guardiola’s men, who have already won five out of six away matches in London this season. In fact, they could become the first team in league history to win all six away matches in London in a single campaign if they manage to defeat Brentford, which is quite possible given City’s incredible unbeaten form. Mendy, Foden, and Ak? will be sidelined today due to a muscle injury.
