Brentford head coach Thomas Frank provided an update on full-back Aaron Hickey ahead of the Bees’ Premier League game against Fulham on Sunday.

Hickey, who hasn’t made a first-team appearance since October 2023 due to a hamstring injury, assisted Paris Maghoma’s goal in Brentford Under-21s’ 3-0 victory over Barnsley Under-21s earlier this month.

“Hickey is getting closer,” Frank revealed.

“He could be [involved against Fulham]. He is pushing. There are two games to go.

“It’s fair to say there are a few full-backs who are more in-form than him right now, but I know what Aaron can give.

“When he’s fully firing, he will more than compete to get into the team.

“We want him in the squad, he also needs to perform to get in the squad, so it’s a fine balance. He’s training well, which is the most important thing.”

Fellow defender Kristoffer Ajer was absent as the Bees beat Ipswich Town 1-0 at Portman Road last weekend.

“He is much better,” said Frank.

“He trained today and will train Friday and Saturday. He will be available for Sunday.”

Midfielder Vitaly Janelt will not play again this season having had surgery to address an issue in his heel.

Fábio Carvalho (shoulder) is also unlikely to feature again this campaign, while Josh Dasilva (knee) remains sidelined.