Bees defender Ajer edging closer to return

Kristoffer Ajer is back in full training as he nears a return to first-team action.

The Brentford defender underwent surgery on his hamstring during the summer and missed the entirety of pre-season, as well as the first three Premier League games.

But boss Thomas Frank says the 24-year-old will be back in action soon.

“Kristoffer Ajer is in full training now but it’s too soon for him to join the squad,” he said.

“He needs to play a reserve game, one or two, depending on how he’s looking.”

Sergi Canos, who is also out with a hamstring injury, is close to making a return to full training, while Ethan Pinnock is continuing to build up his fitness as he recovers from a knee problem.

“Sergi is almost in full training, so they are progressing,” Frank added.

“Ethan is saying that Matt, one of our fitness coaches, is killing him – so that’s good news. I’m pleased with that.”

Frank has no other injury concerns for the Carabao Cup game against Colchester United, with new signing Mikkel Damsgaard set to start.