After a successful return to the English top flight after 75 years in the 2021/22 campaign, maintaining Premier League status, Brentford punched above their weights this season and comfortably secured a top-half finish.
The Bees enjoyed their best season in the top flight post World War II and almost reached Europe under Thomas Frank, who has addressed some glaring issues and made his side a joy to watch. Frank guided Brentford to a memorable 4-0 victory over Manchester United at home, while they are the only team to do the double over champions Manchester City this season.
What should also give the Brentford fans joy is the fact that they finished as the highest-ranked club in west London, ahead of Fulham and Chelsea. In a campaign that will live long in the memory of the Brentford faithful, let us take a look at their three best players of this term.
#Ivan Toney
There were several impressive performers in a hugely successful season for Brentford. However, it is difficult to look beyond Ivan Toney as he takes the spotlight over the rest of his teammates after firing the Bees to a ninth-place finish with 20 goals while setting up a further four.
The Englishman’s eight-month ban for betting breaches shouldn’t overshadow his individual season. He has scored 20 goals for the third time in a league campaign—League One, Championship and Premier League. Toney’s unavailability until January 2024 gives Thomas Frank a big headache ahead of next season.
#Ben Mee
The signing of Ben Mee on a free transfer from Burnley last summer has proven to be a masterstroke for Brentford, if not more. He has started 37 of Brentford’s 38 league fixtures this term, adding security and nous to an already rigid backline.
The presence of Mee was a major reason why the Bees improved the defensive side of their game, letting in 10 goals fewer than they did last year. Plus, his invaluable leadership and experience played a key role in Brentford’s success story.
#Bryan Mbeumo
Bryan Mbeumo is criminally underrated in general and rarely gets talked about due to Ivan Toney’s exploits. The Cameroon international has really stepped up his game as a striker this season, registering 17-goal contribution.
The combination of Mbeumo and Toney up front has given many teams nightmares, with the duo bullying defences with their pace, power and physicality. With Toney’s eight-month suspension now in effect after breaching gambling laws, Mbeumo will have the chance to become the face of Brentford’s attack next term.
