Andrews provides Thiago update before Tottenham clash | OneFootball

Brentford head coach Keith Andrews provided an update on top goalscorer Igor Thiago ahead of the Bees’ Premier League game against Tottenham Hotspur on New Year’s Day (8pm kick-off GMT, live on Sky Sports).

Thiago has scored 11 goals in 18 Premier League appearances this season, and Andrews praised the forward for playing through some pain in recent weeks.

“Thiago had a bit of an issue, but nothing to do with his injury last season at all,” said Andrews.

"This time of year takes its toll, and we need to be careful with some players at times.

“He showed a lot of bravery and courage to play against Wolves and gave us that platform.

“He played really, really well against Wolves and gave us that base to win the game. Players fed off him: Keane Lewis-Potter with his goals and Kev [Schade] was looking dangerous that day.

“There’s nothing too much to worry about. He’s shown a lot of courage and put the team before himself going into the last couple of games.”

Andrews added: “Again, this time of year, naturally you pick up little bits and bobs. The games are coming quite frequently.

“We’re still a couple of days out so we’ll see how everyone is tomorrow and make decisions about the team.”

Defender Sepp van den Berg will be assessed having missed Brentford’s 4-1 win over Bournemouth due to a knock.

Josh Dasilva (knee ligament) remains sidelined, while Fábio Carvalho and Antoni Milambo will both miss the rest of the campaign due to ACL injuries.

Frank Onyeka and Dango Ouattara are also unavailable due to their involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria and Burkina Faso, respectively.