Ethan Pinnock picked up a recent knee injury while training and won’t be available for Brentford’s season opener. Pinnock will not need surgery, but he is expected to be sidelined for multiple weeks. According to our algorithm, Pinnock’s injury is a grade 2 (moderate) in severity. He still has a High Injury Risk (25%) and a Below Average HPF (Health performance Factor – aka projected performance). These numbers will improve significantly as Pinnock has more time to recover.

Brentford manager Thomas Frank has a tough decision looming as he is left with limited options at centre-back.

Kristoffer Ajer will also miss their opening match against Leicester as he is still recovering from hamstring surgery. Ajer was injured in the final game of the 2021/22 season. While he is believed to be ahead of schedule, he isn’t ready to return just yet. Brentford recently signed Ben Mee on a free transfer to fortify the back line while Ajer and Pinnock get healthy. This should provide some much needed depth.

Some positive injury news: Christian Norgaard should be available for their opening match. The 28-year-old missed the final game of last season against Leeds with a minor injury.