Thomas Frank confirms star Brentford striker could be back to face Manchester United

Thomas Frank has revealed Brentford striker Yoane Wissa could be back to face Manchester United this weekend.

The striker had netted three in four matches prior to the ankle injury he sustained against Manchester City last month, and the issue caused Wissa to miss four matches prior to the international break. But he could be available once again for Saturday’s trip to Old Trafford.

“Everyone who was available for the last game is available for this one as well. Touch wood, everyone is fit and healthy,” Frank said in Thursday’s pre-match briefing.

“Wissa is training on the grass with the team which is positive. I need to find out if he is ready for Saturday or if it is too soon.”

The 28-year-old was Brentford’s top scorer last season with 12 goals and his return would be a huge boost for the London club ahead of the Premier League meeting with United. The Bees are currently two points and three places better off than this weekend’s opponents.

However, while Wissa is a back, Mathias Jensen and Igor Thiago won’t be risked for the trip to Manchester. “Both of them had minor issues,” Frank explained. “We could’ve pushed them through the international games but then problems might’ve come down the line.

“Mathi [Jensen] is training very well and training with the team. It’s just too soon to risk him but it’s looking very positive for Ipswich [next week]. Igor is a big character in a positive way. It’s still a bit early for him to be involved.”

Rico Henry also won’t make his long-awaited return from injury against United, despite stepping up his rehabilitation in recent weeks. The left-back hasn’t played a competitive game in over a year due to a long-term knee injury, but was involved in a behind-closed-door friendly this week.

“He won’t travel,” said Frank. “It’s too early to involve him for Manchester United so it will be more clever to get him involved over the next two weeks.”

As for United, Erik ten Hag will give an update in Friday’s press conference, with uncertainty surrounding the fitness of Manuel Ugarte, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount Alejandro Garnacho and Amad.