Injury update: Henry, Nørgaard and Thiago

Brentford head coach Thomas Frank gave a squad update ahead of the Bees’ Premier League game against West Ham United on Saturday.

Christian Nørgaard missed last weekend’s defeat at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium due to a “minor injury” and Frank revealed the captain could return against the Hammers.

“It will be a close decision,” said the Bees boss. “He trained today and yesterday so we’ll have to see if he’s ready to go.”

Frank was also asked about Igor Thiago (knee), Paris Maghoma (ankle) and Rico Henry (knee) during his pre-match press conference on Friday afternoon.

“Paris will play a game next week,” he said.

“Rico is a little further along – no setbacks, but he’s not ready yet.

“[Thiago] is making progress, but it’s still too far away for me to look forward to its return. He’s not on the pitch.”

Frank continued: “I would definitely prefer fewer injuries. We were unlucky, but it happens and it’s part of football. Some teams can be hit harder than others.

“How can we get them to play again?” How can we speed up this process? We are working on that.

“But it’s up to me and the players who are fit and available to perform and find the best solution.”

Saturday’s opponents West Ham have had a challenging start to the season under new head coach Julen Lopetegui, picking up just one league win at Crystal Palace last month, but Frank was quick to highlight the Hammers’ attacking talent.

“West Ham have some really top players,” he said.

“Your front four – no matter who plays. The signing of [Crysencio] Summerville was very good; I always liked him.

“[Michail] Antonio, [Jarrod] Bowen, [Mohammed] kudu, [Lucas] Paquetá. They have players at the highest level.”

Frank added: “We have to make Gtech a fortress. I’m really pleased that we started with two wins in the Premier League and one in the cup.

“Last year we were fine at best at home; The year before we were really, really good.

“We know when it’s our turn and the fans’ turn – it has to be both – it’s a difficult goal.”