Brentford Injury Crisis! Kelleher & Schade Race Against Time!
Brentford fans are on edge as key players Caoimhín Kelleher and Kevin Schade face late fitness tests ahead of their Premier League opener against Nottingham Forest. The Bees are looking to start the season strong, but injuries are threatening to derail their plans.
Kelleher's Fitness Crucial for Brentford
Goalkeeper Caoimhín Kelleher, a recent £18 million signing from Liverpool, is a major doubt after picking up a knock in training. Kelleher missed the pre-season friendly against Borussia Mönchengladbach, and his absence would be a significant blow to Brentford's defensive stability. He's also a popular pick in Fantasy Premier League, so many fans are watching his status closely.
Schade also a Doubt
Forward Kevin Schade is also battling to be fit for the clash at the City Ground. Schade also missed the Borussia Mönchengladbach game. Head coach Keith Andrews has confirmed both players are back in training, but their readiness remains uncertain.
"Caoimhín and Kevin Schade are back on the grass," Andrews stated. "Whether they will be absolutely ready we’ll see over the next day and a half, then we’ll make that decision."
Wissa Ruled Out, Future Uncertain
Adding to Brentford's woes, forward Yoane Wissa will miss the game due to a disrupted pre-season and ongoing transfer speculation. Wissa has been linked with a move to Newcastle United, and while Andrews wants him to stay, his availability is compromised. "We’ve made a decision that he’s not [available] after a very disrupted pre-season," Andrews explained.
Further Injury Concerns
Gustavo Nunes (hamstring), Vitaly Janelt (heel), and Paris Maghoma are also sidelined, further depleting Brentford's squad. The Bees will need to dig deep and rely on their squad depth to overcome these challenges. The start of the Premier League season is always exciting, but for Brentford, it begins with a significant injury headache.
- Kelleher and Schade face late fitness tests.
- Wissa ruled out amid transfer speculation.
- Nunes, Janelt, and Maghoma also injured.