The first three months of this season have yielded two versions of Brentford: one that plays well and does not pick up points, and one that plays well but does.
After a tough start, they have really clicked into gear since the October international break, beating Burnley, Chelsea and West Ham.
Here, Standard Sport assesses how the Bees are faring.
Season so far in one word: Improving
Verdict compared to pre-season expectations: Improving on last season’s brilliant ninth-placed finish was always going to be a tough ask, especially without Ivan Toney.
Brentford went two months without a win but have risen to 11th after three straight wins before their defeat by Liverpool on Saturday, and are moving in the right direction.
How is the manager doing? Thomas Frank continues to do a brilliant job.
Despite losing Toney to a betting ban and then goalkeeper David Raya to Arsenal, his side punch above their weight and Jurgen Klopp last week called him a “cool guy”. The Dane remains a real asset.
Reason to be cheerful: Bryan Mbeumo is in fine form, leading the Brentford attack in the absence of Toney.
Mathias Jensen is on track to have his best goalscoring season for the Bees, while summer signing Nathan Collins has slotted in superbly at centre-back.
And they are keeping possession better than ever, just as Frank wanted this season.
Reason to be fearful: The possible departure of Toney in January, just as he is available to return from his ban. The striker has made no secret of his desire to test himself at the highest level and is wanted by clubs including Chelsea and Arsenal.
Fans’ mood: Besides the looming possibility of Toney’s exit, Brentford fans are relieved their team has turned a corner after a run of six games without a win from the end of August to mid-October.
Some are dreaming of European football, others are simply enjoying the Bees’ positive brand of football.
Overall grade: B+
