Brentford

Image source, PA Media

Brentford boss Thomas Frank, speaking to TNT Sports: "I think we did a lot of things right and overall it was a good performance. The first half was extremely good and I liked the way we played - we were brave on the ball.

"We were brave under high pressure as well and overall I think we did well. The finest of margins we have to do better.

"We need to do better than one more goal. If you want to beat Arsenal we need to do everything right."

On Arsenal's set-piece threat: "I need to look more into it, but they are very good at it and it's something we need to learn from."

On the loss at home: "I think today we played a top team and you cannot expect to just beat Arsenal, but we did very well and that's the performance.

"Nottingham Forest was a bit different - I would have loved to have more from that game."

On Bryan Mbuemo possibly leaving Brentford: "Bryan was really good and I was really pleased with that.

"For me he shouldn't be a problem to hold."

Emma Smith
BBC Sport journalist at Brentford Community Stadium

Image source, Reuters

Brentford are eight points off the Premier League's top five and nine above the relegation zone. Their season risks fading into obscurity.

That was what happened to them in this game - once Arsenal took the lead, the hosts never looked like getting back in the match.

While Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa are enjoying individually impressive seasons, as a unit Brentford are flagging.

Since beating Newcastle 4-2 on 7 December, they have scored just twice and have lost back-to-back home matches.

Thomas Frank must now find a way to ensure that Brentford's season does not mirror their performance in this game - strong start, poor middle, lacklustre finish.

A salve could be their next two games coming against Southampton away then Plymouth at home in the FA Cup - the sides bottom of the top two divisions.

Were you at the game or following from elsewhere?

What did you make of that display, Brentford fans?

Arsenal fans - let us know your thoughts on your side's performance

Come back to this page on Thursday to find a selection of your replies

We asked you to tell us what Brentford's New Year's resolution should be.

Here are some of your replies:

Rob: This year's resolution must be to get to the root cause of the injuries which take out so many of the squad players for so long. Is it the way we train, recover, warm up and warm down or our diet, training facilities, medical equipment and facilities? We desperately need to improve the frequency of injuries and the recovery periods. Thomas Frank needs a fit and game-ready team.

David: Add to the medical team, especially a specialist physio.

Steve: We need some fit full-backs and we need to understand why we have suffered so many injuries in the past two seasons. We should also take some time to reflect and enjoy the amazing job the whole club is doing - we are punching well above our weight.

Anna: To fix up Rico Henry and get him tearing down the left again. He was nearly back, had been involved in part of a training game and then was set back. We have been without an expert left-back for over a year now and he would have been pushing for an England call-up. We fans love him and I hope to see him back to his best. That's the dream for us all at Brentford.

Andrew: I'm in a state of deja vu from this time last year because we still need a specialist left-back, with the ongoing injury problems affecting Rico Henry and Aaron Hickey. We could even get Sergio Reguilon back on loan or, failing that, Ben Chilwell (if he is fit).

Tom: Get all of our players fit for at least one game in 2025.

Steven: We need to start winning away. If our away form was better, I think we could be challenging for the Europa League or Conference League.

Katie Stafford
BBC Sport journalist

Image source, Getty Images

It has been another entertaining year in the Premier League, so with 2025 just a matter of hours away let's take a look at the clubs that have topped the charts.

Manchester City became history makers in 2024 as they sealed their fourth successive Premier League title in May and their sixth in seven seasons.

Pep Guardiola's possession based football continued to dominate as they maintained the ball for an average of 64.5% per game and had a 90.6% passing accuracy over the year.

Brighton were the closest to matching their accuracy at 87.5% and Ange Postecoglou's similar high-risk football saw Tottenham retain 61.3% possession.

Under Jurgen Klopp and new head coach Arne Slot, Liverpool scored 92 goals in 2024 which is three more than Arsenal and nine greater than City.

The Reds registered 741 shots in total, which is a stark contrast to Leicester City who recorded the least with 170. Albeit that is only since their promotion back to the top-flight in the summer.

Of those shots, 286 of Liverpool's were on target. But it is Thomas Frank's Brentford that have proven to be the most clinical.

The Bees had a conversion rare of 15.3% after scoring 62 goals in the Premier League. Yoane Wissa found the back of the net 17 times, while Bryan Mbuemo registered 12 goals.

From goal scoring to conceding - West Ham turned over the most goals with 79.

They should look to North London for tips on how to tighten up their defence as Arsenal proved to be the most solid across all aspects of their back line.

The Gunners conceded just 25 goals across the course of the year and kept an impressive 18 clean sheets.

Sean Dyche's Everton, renowned for being stubborn to break down, kept 14 clean sheets despite only winning eight of their 36 games.

All stats are supplied by Opta

Chris Sutton is making predictions for all 380 Premier League games this season, against a variety of guests.

This week, he takes on musician Emma-Jean Thackray, who is a Leeds fan.

Sutton's prediction: 0-1

I am worried about Arsenal without Bukayo Saka, who has been ruled out for more than a couple of months.

On top of that, Brentford away is obviously a very tough test when you consider how phenomenal the Bees have been at home this season.

But I am backing the Gunners to run Liverpool close in the title race this season and, because of that, I am going with them to win this game, somehow.

Emma-Jean's prediction: 1-1

Something is telling me this is not going to be a good watch, it could be quite stodgy. Most of my friends are Arsenal fans so I hope they don't give me any stick for this prediction, but I am going for a draw.

Read the full predictions and have your say

Brentford boss Thomas Frank has been speaking to the media before Wednesday's Premier League game at home against Arsenal (kick-off 17:30 GMT).

Here are the key lines from his news conference:

• Frank confirmed that Christian Norgaard "can play", while Sepp van den Berg and Matthias Jensen will also be in the squad. However, Ben Mee will be out for "a couple of weeks" with a muscle problem and Mark Flekken will be assessed on Tuesday.

• On if injuries mean Bees will need to be active in the January transfer window: "We will assess it. We have got a plan for every scenario that can happen. We will be ready to act if we need to. I have said many time we have a very strong squad when everyone is fit and available. We won't do anything early, but if it doesn't improve in the next month then we might need to do something."

• On what he would say to those interested in trying to sign Bryan Mbeumo: "In January? I would say good luck. We love Bryan. He loves playing here. He has had a fantastic season so nothing will happen."

• The Brentford boss still believes that Joao Pedro's attempted elbow on Yehor Yarmoliuk in their last match should have received a red card, but accepted: "Mistakes happen from the referee and VAR and everyone is very focussed on trying to improve things. Howard Webb and his team want to do everything to improve it so hopefully there will be improvements going forward."

• Frank said it has been a "good year for everyone involved in the club and for every Brentford fan" as they try and "find the balance" between being happy for every year they are in the Premier League but still having "ambitions to do more".

• He therefore sets achievable and incremental targets: "To have layers, to develop the team and club, to play some interesting football, develop players and people and keep moving forward. I think we do that. There have definitely been more ups than downs this year so I am pleased with that."

• On how it would feel to kick-off 2025 with a win over Arsenal: "It would be amazing. That is the aim - to do what we can to try and win the game. We are facing a very good Arsenal team. In a way, they have gone a little under the radar. There has been much talk about Manchester City, [Manchester] United, Liverpool because they are doing fantastic and Chelsea as they have done more than people expected, but I think Arsenal have performed consistently well. A well run machine and team."

Listen to commentary of Brentford v Arsenal from 17:30 GMT on Wednesday, 1 January on BBC Radio 5 Live

Christmas is boxed off.

We're almost through the confusing days before New Year and January is within touching distance.

And we need your help - what is Brentford's New Year's resolution?

It could be a new player to sign, a tactical system to implement, an off-the-pitch matter or something else entirely.

Let us know

Image source, Getty Images

We asked for your thoughts after Friday's Premier League game between Brighton and Brentford.

Here are some of your comments:

Ian: Another statistical triumph but only one point gained. We need to be more dynamic rather than trying to work a perfect goal. We end up toothless in the box in terms of striking at the opponent's goal and rarely take a chance from long range.

Washy: Frustrating! We generally played OK, but seemed to slow our play down when we got to the edge of their box, allowing them to get organised and close down the space. Julio Enciso missed a few, but at least he had a go. Good to see Solly March back.

Bill: Since Danny Welbeck has been injured, the forwards couldn't hit the goal if they were twice the size!

Sarah: We headed to Amex Stadium quietly confident we would end our bad run. The first half looked promising, especially when they lost their goalkeeper too; we had most of the possession and were passing well, then it all fell apart. Again and again, we had the ball, in the box but missed opportunities to shoot, preferring to pass out to the right. I have no idea why, unless lack of confidence to score. On the final whistle, their goalie celebrated the 0-0 scoreline - Brighton fans were not so happy!

Brentford fans

George: While few neutrals will be clamouring to watch the highlight-reel of a 0-0 draw compared to our usual home game fireworks, this performance was exactly what our fans needed. We were resolute and focussed defensively against an away team that, quite frankly, is a more successful version of ourselves in terms of its financial and managerial mindset.

Mitch: Absolute heroes this evening. Every player gave every piece of energy in their bodies. Could have nicked it, but happy with a point.

David: What a fantastic match. So frustrating to not score on any of the brilliant counter-attacks, injuries worrying as always, but some standout performances with Mikkel Damsgaard man of the match.

Matt: Accomplished performances from the back-up players but the fact we have a starting XI in the physio room is by far our biggest concern. Another point on the board but with our run of fixtures there won't be too many more in the next few weeks.

Michael Emons
BBC Sport journalist at the Amex Stadium

Image source, Reuters

Iceland international goalkeeper Hakon Valdimarsson made his Premier League debut - and earned praise from Brentford boss Thomas Frank for the role he played in his side's hard-fought goalless draw at Brighton.

The 23-year-old, who joined the Bees in a £2.6m transfer from Swedish side Elfsborg in the summer and who only made two appearances in the Carabao Cup, against Colchester United and Leyton Orient, got his big chance when Mark Flekken suffered an injury to either the top of his right thigh or his hip late on in the first half.

Flekken picked up the injury when he had to twist sharply to save Kaoru Mitoma's deflected cross and the hosts would have fancied their chances of getting a win, especially with Brentford's poor away record.

But Valdimarsson kept a clean sheet and was not overly troubled as Brentford picked up only their second point on their travels this season.

"I said to our goalkeeping coach that I thought Hakon had been doing very well in training and then he gets on the pitch," said Frank. "I was very impressed. I thought he was composed and a calming influence when dealing with crosses."

With the extent of Flekken's injury not yet known, Frank may have to rely on Valdimarsson in some big matches, with Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool all set to face Brentford in the next month.

Image source, Getty Images

Thomas Frank spoke to Amazon Prime after Brentford's draw against Brighton: "I never play for one point in any game but sometimes you have to look into the circumstances. We played a good Brighton team who I think were better in the first half - we were better in the second.

"They had some chances in the first half but not clear cut. I think we were really on top in the second. We just missed that clear cut pass.

"When you lose your number one keeper - I was just lacking a keeper to have a full team out injured but now I have 11 out - and then Ben Mee it is tough.

"The mentality to dig in when needed is remarkable."

On being difficult to break down: "We definitely work on it. We should have worked on it more this year because we need more clean sheets. Today we were very good at it in spells.

"When we are low block we are good but high pressure situations we need to improve.

"Our front four have a lot of pace and ability going forward but I must demand a bit more to win games like this. It was not disappointing, I just want a little more."

On whether Joao Pedro should have been sent off: "I've seen it. I think it's a red card. You can't swing your arm like that. It's like if you want to swing your arm - hit or no hit - it's a red card.

"My obligations to you guys [the media] mean I haven't been able to speak to the referee yet. I'll have a good conversation. I understand it's not easy to get everything right."

On support from fans: "It's not about me, it's about the players first and foremost. They can recognise when players are trying hard. The bottom line is work ethic and they are showing that."

Image source, Getty Images

Brentford goalkeeper Hakon Valdimarsson spoke to Amazon Prime about making his Premier League debut: "It was unbelievable. It's always surprising coming on as the second goalkeeper.

"Coming into a fast game, my first Premier League game, it was quick but I managed to figure it out. Getting a clean sheet is nice too."

Bees defender Nathan Collins also spoke to Amazon Prime about Valdimarsson's debut: "He was class and a top professional.

"In this squad we work so much together and are best friends off the pitch, so having that relationship really helps."

Image source, Getty Images

Brentford's Mark Flekken made six saves before having to be substituted in the 36th minute with an injury. Of goalkeepers to play 45 minutes or fewer, this is the most saves made on record (since 2003-04) in a Premier League match.

Were you at the game or following from elsewhere?

Have your say on Brighton's performance

What did you make of Brentford's display?

Come back to this page on Saturday to find a selection of your replies

There are two matches in the Premier League on Friday, and we will bring you every moment.

• Brighton v Brentford (19:30)

• Arsenal v Ipswich (20:15)

Kick-off times GMT

Follow all the action and reaction

Chris Sutton is making predictions for all 380 Premier League games this season, against a variety of guests.

This week, he takes on Eats Everything, aka DJ and producer Daniel Pearce.

Sutton's prediction: 2-1

Brighton have been patchy of late but they should have beaten West Ham on Saturday and I don't feel like they have dropped off quite as much as their run of five games without a win suggests.

There will be goals in this game, because the Seagulls are leaking them and Brentford always look dangerous, but I am going for a narrow home win.

Eats Everything's prediction: 1-1

Brentford have been terrible away and unreal at home - at least until they lost to Nottingham Forest on Saturday anyway. I was going to give this to Brighton but they have been so hit and miss that I am actually going to go for a draw.

Read the full predictions and have your say here

Image source, Getty Images

Brentford boss Thomas Frank was in full praise of Brighton before Friday's Premier League game between the teams at Amex Stadium.

The Seagulls have not won since 23 November, but the Bees remain without a league victory on the road this season and Frank is expecting a competitive match.

"They have so many threats going forward so I expect a difficult game," Frank said.

"Every away game is a chance to turn the away form. We go there with belief that we can win. That said, Brighton are a strong team.

"Fabian Hurzeler has done a good job, They've got a very good squad, a more or less fully firing squad, available.

"[Kaoru] Mitoma is finding his form again. [Joao] Pedro we know is a top player.

"[Carlos] Baleba is an excellent midfielder. He will go to one of the bigger clubs in the future, for sure."

Image source, Getty Images

For me, wherever I played, I'd always see where the first game was, where the last game was, and where we were at Christmas.

There is such a big difference between being at home on Boxing Day versus being away because, depending on what your manager is like, if you've got an away game there is a chance you're training on Christmas Day.

Some of the toughest times I had was when we had away games on Boxing Day and we had to come in to train at four or five on Christmas. That's when everything is just starting at home and everyone is really enjoying themselves and you have to leave.

If you lose you are sat in the hotel having walked away from friends and family all for no points. It's not the best feeling and as a consequence you bring home some of that disappointment with you.

But, in reality, you just know it is the busiest time of the year. The floodlights are always on for the games, the conditions get that little bit tougher, you've got games it feels like every three or four days.

I think it's an exciting part of the season because you can gain real, significant momentum but ultimately it comes down to are you winning games.

I think the Christmas period itself can be tough if you have got family but in reality it always feels nicer when you get that win on Boxing Day. The atmosphere in the stadiums is a little bit different, the atmosphere among the players is a bit different.

You're very thankful to get the chance to do what you do, but if you end up losing on Boxing Day or around that spell it is rubbish because it almost feels like it was a waste of time with all the efforts you put in.

But, I get it. The fans love it, there is a lot of clamour around it. You lose track of days just like everyone else does after Christmas and before New Year but it is great to play in front of those types of crowds and it just does feel different playing during that week or two.

Nedum Onuoha was speaking to BBC Sport's Nat Hayward

Ian Westbrook
Fan writer

Image source, Getty Images

Brentford's moment of the year has to be when we scored in the first few seconds of a game for the third week in a row.

Yoane Wissa at Manchester City and Bryan Mbeumo at Tottenham had put us ahead within 25 seconds of the first whistle in each of those matches.

So, when we returned home to face West Ham the following week, nobody really expected another rapid start.

We all laughed when there were cries of 'shoot!' from the crowd within seconds of the kick-off against the Hammers. But, with only 37 seconds gone, that was exactly we did do as Mbeumo's hooked volley, from close to the penalty spot, found the back of the net.

I was at all three games and the feelings ranged from shock at Manchester City, to shock and amazement at Spurs, to laughter against West Ham.

Nobody could believe we had done it again and that our opponents had not learned from our previous two games.

The only shame was that our fast start did not lead to a win in any of the above matches, with defeats at City and Spurs and a draw against the Hammers.

We were only a bit slower the following week, when Nathan Collins scored the opener against Wolves after 75 seconds, but at least we won that match.

We have gone on to score other goals straight from kick-offs this season but they have been when we have restarted the game after conceding, rather than right at the start.

Find more from Ian Westbrook at Beesotted podcast, external

Image source, Getty Images