Brentford head coach Thomas Frank has highlighted Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse as a player his side will need to keep a close eye on ahead of the Bees' visit to St Mary's on Wednesday.

The 28-year-old, who is also the Saints' captain, has six goals and two assists this campaign, and sits sixth in the division for key passes (2.2 per 90).

And, speaking at his pre-match press conference, Frank insisted that the England international is someone his team 'need to close down', as well as highlighting some other opposition players he is wary of.

"Over the last couple of seasons, it's been Ward-Prowse. He's definitely the man we need to close down," said Frank.

"We know he's good on set-pieces, direct free-kicks, but also his crosses, balls in behind, and his finishing skills.

"I think [Kamaldeen] Sulemana has done very well, I know him a bit from the Danish Superliga. I think he was good.

"And it always seems like [Che] Adams... he is a good striker and, with a bit rhythm and if he continues to play, he's a strong option."

Frank also praised new Southampton manager Ruben Selles, who was given the job until the end of the season after their former boss Nathan Jones was sacked earlier this year.

And Frank, who is aware of Selles' work due to the Spaniard's time in Denmark with Aarhus GF and Copenhagen, believes that it will be a 'very difficult' game for Brentford.

"I see it as any other game in the Premier League: very difficult," said the Bees boss.

"I think they have become more solid. Ruben has done a good job with the coaching staff in the short amount of time he's been in charge.

"It seems as though they are just a bit more together, running a bit harder, and a bit more tight in every area.

"It also seems like he's found his starting team, which is always good.

"You have the nine or 10 players, then sub one in or out, and you go with them, you trust them, and they have to do the job.

"It's going to be a tough test. Of course, I trust us. If we go out and perform, we'll have a very good chance to win.

"But away, again, it's very difficult."