From Griffin Park to the Gtech, Rico Henry bombing up and down the left flank has become a familiar sight for Bees fans.
Signed from Walsall in August 2016, the full-back is now the club’s longest-serving outfield player. Having started nine of Brentford’s last 10 matches, the 28-year-old says he is feeling like himself again after a challenging chapter of his career.
“It was a bit staggered at the start of the season, playing 10 minutes here and 15 minutes there. Coming in, coming out - it’s hard to get into a routine,” Henry said in an interview for the Brentford v Arsenal matchday programme.
“Coming on in the Premier League for the last 10 or 15 minutes is not easy, especially when the game is open and there are a lot of transitions. You have to focus, and you have to be prepared to come on.
“There are a lot of people who can play in my position: Kris [Ajer], Keano [Lewis-Potter], Aaron [Hickey].
“The gaffer [Keith Andrews] has been good to me. He kept saying that we have good squad depth. He told me to keep doing what I’m doing and that my time would come.
“That’s what I did. I’ve been pushing the boys. It’s a team effort. Even when you’re not playing, you still want to help the boys and try and win.”
Henry added: “Now I’m back playing a bit more, it’s easier. I’ve been able to build connections with the boys. Nathan [Collins] is playing left centre-back now, and I’d never played with him like that before - it had been Sepp [van den Berg] or Eth [Pinnock].
“Building connections again is good. I really feel back and confident again.”
Also in your Brentford v Arsenal matchday programme
From the Dugout: Head coach Keith Andrews shares his thoughts ahead of Arsenal’s visit to TW8
In Opposition: An in-depth look at the Premier League leaders
Big Ben Burgess’ Big Match Preview
The Nathan Caton Column: Brentford-supporting comedian provides his thoughts
100 Years in Red and White: An extended interview with former Bees defender Andy Frampton
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