Fulham manager Marco Silva has been impressed by how difficult Brentford have made themselves to beat in the Premier League this season. The Bees are currently enjoying the division’s longest unbeaten run, having last tasted defeat back in October.
Marco Silva said: “They have been really consistent. They are a really solid team, they are compact as well. They have some players in the attack line that can be a threat to any team in this competition, but at the same time they are solid, they are compact, they are strong in the duels as well. I think it will be a really tough one and I think it will be a proper derby again. We are going to face a team in very good form, unbeaten in their last 11 games in the Premier League. I think the numbers speak for themselves but they know as well that they are going to face a strong Fulham side, a team that is going there to fight for the three points.”
It’s a fixture that holds great significance for both clubs – and is one that Silva relishes.
Marco Silva said: “It’s always good. The players enjoy it. I like intense games, I like these type of games where everyone is with full focus in the game and the environment around is good. It is important, definitely, for both football clubs, for the fanbases as well. But at the same time, we have to prepare ourselves the best we can in that moment, and after that enjoy the game. Enjoy what the game is giving you, and prepare our players as best we can for them to enjoy. It is a match that is growing, in terms of the rivalry. This rivalry between Fulham and Brentford has grown a little bit more than it was in the past, and of course it will be a special one.”
Our local rivals have improved in every season to date under the stewardship of Thomas Frank, with Silva acknowledging the work done by his counterpart.
Marco Silva said: “He’s doing a very good job. After some seasons fighting to be promoted, finally they got it [in 2021]. Very good season last season, growing during the season, finished in a good spot. And this season they are reaching different standards as well. They keep the same consistency, you can feel it. As I said before, they are solid, they are compact, but they keep that consistency, and at other times they can be really ruthless in the attack line as well. They are a good side, with a very good job done from Thomas.”
