Riley Owen previews Brentford B's Premier League Cup semi-final against Southampton U21s | OneFootball

Brentford Under-21s midfielder Riley Owen reflected on the team's hard work this campaign ahead of a Premier League Cup semi-final clash against Southampton.

Neil MacFarlane's side travel to St Mary's Stadium to take on the Saints on Thursday evening (7pm kick-off BST).

Owen has enjoyed a successful season with the B team this term, with his 48 appearances in all competitions this campaign highlighting his importance to the team.

The Bees midfielder confirmed the squad is fully focused and motivated for the trip to the south coast.

“The team is really ready for Thursday,” said Owen.

“It’s a big game and one everyone is up for. We’ve prepared well and we know what qualities we bring, both as individuals and as a group.

"The staff believe in us, and that gives us even more confidence.”

MacFarlane's side have been in strong form in the Professional Development League, something Owen believes has helped build momentum heading into the latter stages of the cup.

“Our performances have been solid, and that gives us belief when facing top sides like Southampton," he continued.

"We know they’re a good team, but if we do the basics right, work hard for each other, and play our style with the quality we have, we believe we can come out on top.”

Owen also recognised the club’s history in the competition and expressed the squad’s desire to leave their own mark.

“There’s been a lot of success in the past, and we’re proud of that, but now we want to create our own history," he affirmed.

"The belief is there - from the players, the staff, and everyone around the team - and we’re determined to take that next step.”

Last time out in the PL Cup

Brentford B secured their place in the Premier League Cup semi-finals with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Nottingham Forest Under-21s.

Iwan Morgan’s powerful header from a Max Dickov cross midway through the first half proved decisive, while Forest were reduced to 10 men before the break after Joshua Powell was sent off.

MacFarlane’s side managed the second half well, creating further chances through Morgan and Adam Poliakov, but the solitary goal proved to be enough as they saw out the game professionally to reach the last four of the competition.

About Southampton U21s

Southampton U21s are seventh in Premier League 2 and they have qualified for the play-offs in that competition. They have picked up 10 wins, four draws and six defeats.

In the PL Cup, the Saints defeated Charlton Athletic 5-3 in their quarter-final to set up Thursday night's clash.

The other semi-final in this competition will see Burnley take on Queens Park Rangers.

Match coverage

The club will have updates of the game against Southampton on social media, as well as a match report on the club's official website and app.