Southampton travel to Championship side Brentford on Saturday, in what will be their second pre-season fixture ahead of the 2017/18 campaign.
Mauricio Pellegrino’s side were held to a 0-0 draw by St Gallen in Switzerland last week, as their training camp in Austria was brought to a close.
Now, the focus has been shifted towards Saints’ first friendly of 2017 on English soil, and they will look to claim a victory against Brentford.
Manager Dean Smith, the former Walsall boss, led Brentford to a 10th place finish last season, as the Bees tried to challenge for a play-off spot.
Founded 127 years ago, Brentford play their home matches at Griffin Park, which has been the Bees’ home since 1904. The ground has an official capacity of 12,573, however in the early 1900’s it could fit many more inside.
One of Brentford’s key players was previously in the Southampton ranks. Skipper Harlee Dean was a Saints player between 2010 and 2012, however he failed to register an appearance for the club at senior level. At the end of the 2011/12 season, the centre-back was released. He has since signed for Brentford, and has become a vital part of the set up for the Bees, making 195 appearances. His commitment was rewarded at the beginning of last season, when manager Smith made him captain.
Another star man at Griffin Park is undoubtedly Spanish playmaker Jota. The 23-year-old joined Brentford back in 2014, and has made 68 appearances for the club, netting 23 goals. He was sent on loan to La Liga outfit Eibar for the second half of last season, and is the subject of much speculation, with West Ham heavily linked.
Two attacking players that Saints also need to be aware of are 30-year-old winger Lasse Vibe, who scored 15 goals last season, and midfielder Josh McEachran, who was a product of Chelsea’s youth academy.
Brentford’s major honours include:
- Second Division champions (1934/35)
- Third Division champions (1991/92)
- Fourth Division champions (2008/09)
In what will be a good test for both sides in this match, Pellegrino will be hoping for a confident display that will prepare Saints for the upcoming season.
