Brentford attacking midfielder Fábio Carvalho is looking ahead to the 2026/27 campaign with renewed optimism, following the injury which brought a premature end to last season.

The former Liverpool midfielder had begun to build momentum with the Bees, finding the net on three occasions and scoring a memorable late equaliser against Chelsea at Gtech Community Stadium, before suffering the setback in November last year.

Carvalho admitted the timing of the ACL injury added to his frustration, having been eager to demonstrate his ability to head coach Keith Andrews, as well as the Brentford supporters.

“I wanted to play and I had a point to prove to Keith,” he said. “Not just to him, but to the fans as well.

“I really wanted it, and then the injury happened. But it’s life. I can’t really dwell on it.

“It was very emotional in the first few days and the first few weeks. I couldn’t really move my knee, but I’m here now and that’s all that matters.

“That’s in the past. I’ve just got to focus on the present.”

Carvalho was gradually reintegrated into training during the Bees’ pre-season camp in Portugal, describing his return to the grass as “a blessing” following a challenging rehabilitation.

He also praised the support he received from Andrews throughout that process, explaining that the Brentford boss made a conscious effort to ensure he and fellow long-term absentee Antoni Milambo continued to feel part of the group.

“Keith has been very good,” Carvalho continued. “I don’t think I’ve ever seen anyone care for players as much as he does.

“With me and Milambo, he would come and speak to us every day and you don’t see that often. He just makes everyone feel included.”

Carvalho and Milambo have also leaned on one another during their respective recoveries, sharing the difficult moments as well as encouraging each other through their progress.

“Being able to share it with Milambo has made it so much easier,” said Carvalho.

“I can lift him when he needs it and he lifts me as well. It goes a long way when you’re able to share a tough journey with someone instead of going through it by yourself.

“We sit next to each other in the changing room and we’re there to pick each other up when needed.”

The 23-year-old is currently working towards completing full sessions, building his sharpness, and regaining the rhythm required to return to match action ahead of the 2026/27 Premier League season.

Carvalho said his team-mates had initially been cautious around him in training, before he encouraged them not to hold back.

“I told them to train properly because I feel strong and I feel good,” he added. “I’m still trying to find my rhythm and my sharpness, but that will come with time. I’m really happy.

“I just want to do better than last season, not just individually but as a collective. I want to stay fit.

“I’m hungry for success, hungry to do well, and to show that on the pitch.”