Thomas Frank has revealed how disappointed Ivan Toney was not to make his England debut during the international break.

Speaking to the media ahead of the Bees’ trip to Bournemouth this weekend, Frank described the experience as a ‘setback’ while expressing his sympathy for Gareth Southgate.

“It’s a big thing for Ivan to go away with the England camp. Even if he didn’t get on to the pitch, it’s still a big moment for him in his life.

“Of course he wanted to play, I wanted him to play, all the Brentford fans wanted to see him on the pitch. But it’s Gareth’s decision and I know how it is as a coach – there are a thousand things to consider and you need to think about the best thing for the team and not individuals. I think there are quite a few other players who didn’t get on the pitch.

“I think in life and in football the way you get success is to show resilience and come back from smaller setbacks. Of course he hoped to get on the pitch, this is a minor setback for him. But you need to move forward and prove people wrong by performing well, that’s the only thing you can do. Ivan has a strong mentality and he will do everything he can to perform well.”

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Frank confirmed that there are no new injury worries for the Bees, but nobody returning from injury yet either.

“The players that were available Arsenal are available for Bournemouth.

“Ethan Pinnock is getting a lot closer and looking sharper. Probably still a bit early. We know Ethan is an important player for us and we would love to have him back in the team but he just needs a bit more sharpness first.

“Christian Norgaard is still unavailable. We’re still talking weeks.

“Keane Lewis-Potter will be out for another few weeks still.”

On Bournemouth

Brentford have had the better of the Cherries in recent times, beating them at home and away in their promotion season of 2020/21 before getting the better of them in the play-off semi final. However, Frank is under no illusions about the size of the task facing them against Gary O’Neil’s side.

“It will be another big challenge, like every game in the Premier League. I think Gary has done a very good job since taking over. Obviously, on the results side with two draws and a win, but with their performances as well, they’ve been difficult to play against and I think they look good.

“I remember playing them in the Championship two years ago, it’s many of the same players. Two very even games in the Championship, two even games in the Playoffs, and I expect another even game. 

“We will attack and do what we can to get three points, although they have players who can hurt us – Solanke is a very good striker, Christie has done well as well.

The Dane was also quick to praise caretaker boss O’Neil for their positive response to their heavy defeat to Liverpool.

“Very impressive. Either you fall apart after a game like that or you stick together. It’s an experienced squad with good players and we know the difference in the Premier League is tiny. 

“All 14 teams outside the top 6 can end in a situation where it’s tricky, and Bournemouth is a good side.”

On Bryan Mbuemo’s Cameroon Debut

The international break was not so disappointing for all of Frank’s squad, as Bryan Mbuemo made his debut for Cameroon, for whom he qualifies through his father.

Having seen the forward complete the full 90 minutes in both Cameroon’s friendlies against Uzbekistan and South Korea, Frank feels the experience can only benefit him.

“I think that’s another kind of experience for him. Playing international football is crucial – different football, styles and exposure will only develop him. If he goes to the World Cup that will be a massive experience that will only develop him in many ways.

“He came back with a bounce in his step and a smile in his eyes, happy and proud. That’s a fantastic and positive energy to bring in.”