Thomas Frank delivers Ivan Toney injury update before Sheffield United showdown

Brentford boss Thomas Frank has revealed that Ivan Toney will be fit to start in Saturday’s Premier League meeting with Sheffield United.

The Bees are currently experiencing a nine-game winless run after spurning the chance to claim all three points in Saturday’s away game against Aston Villa.

Brentford fought back from two goals down to establish a 3-2 lead, before Ollie Watkins netted an 80th-minute equaliser to leave his former club in 15th place and four points above the drop zone.

Toney only appeared for the final 10 minutes at Villa Park after he dropped out of the starting lineup due to a hip problem.

However, Frank is confident Toney will return to the starting lineup for Saturday’s crucial Premier League clash with Sheffield United at the Gtech Community Stadium.

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Toney set to start against Sheffield United

Speaking after the draw with Aston Villa, Frank told reporters: “If we would have been 2-0 up or 2-0 down I probably wouldn’t have put him on the pitch.

“He is fine and will be ready for Sheffield United. He could have played today but that would have been pushing it. He is a beast.

“He can play through everything but sometimes I need to be the sensible guy that can take a decision for him to make sure he performs at the top level.”

Toney scored four goals in his first five games back from an eight-month ban, but he has now failed to find the net in each of his last eight top-flight appearances.

However, the England international will still be a key figure in Brentford’s survival fight, having scored 36 goals in 79 Premier League appearances for the West London club.

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Brentford’s injury-hit squad

While Toney will be available for the weekend, Brentford will be unable to call upon the injured quartet of Josh Dasilva, Rico Henry, Ben Mee and Aaron Hickey.

Kevin Schade was believed to be in contention for the draw with Aston Villa, but the Germany international ultimately failed to make his long-awaited return from an adductor injury.

Brentford will now be hoping Schade will be declared fit in time to make the matchday squad for Saturday’s home fixture.

The Bees will also have to assess Ethan Pinnock and Christian Norgaard, who are working their way back from ankle and back injuries respectively.

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