What did we learn from Brentford's 3-2 defeat by Sheffield United?

Little Man-Little Man-Little Man

We’ve all heard of the big man-little man combination, Brentford however have three ‘little-men’ playing up top. Without doubt they are talented, but when you look at the sides in the higher echelons of the league they all seem to have a physical spearhead.

Obviously it worked for Barcelona with Lionel Messi, David Villa and Pedro, but could they do it on a wet and cold Tuesday night against John Egan and Chris Basham?...Probably, but the point is Alan Judge, Sergi Canos and Neal Maupay look light-weight going forward and sometimes the attack looks a little blunt with no direction. It certainly did against the Blades.

READ: Player ratings from Brentfords 3-2 defeat

Pressure Grows

Another defeat signals Brentford’s six defeat in seven, the home win over Millwall being the exception. And, although Brentford aren’t a club to hire and fire managers like other west London clubs, Thomas Frank must surely be feeling the pressure. Having seen his side as title contenders earlier this season, fans are now looking down the table rather than up it.

Options off the bench - sticking to Plan A

When Thomas Frank chased the game he turned to Emiliano Marcondes and Josh Dasilva.

Despite Marcondes performing well it was pretty much a like-for-like swap with Sergi Canos, relying on his intricate passing or a piece of skill looking for an opening.

When in desperate need of a goal other clubs turn to a big burly centre-forward looking for a knock-down or a melee in the box.

Brentford don’t have that option, which implies they don’t have a plan B.

Dasilva will be a star, but he needs time. If you are pinning your hopes on a 20-year-old finding his way in the game to get you out of trouble, there are problems ahead.

READ: Report: Brentford 2-3 Sheffield United

Get on Board

Frank speaks well, more of an Arsene Wenger than an Alex McLeish. He does fill you with confidence when he dissects the game, knowing where his problems lie and assuring you they are ‘working every day’ in training to rectify the issues.

I hope the players respond to his methods and what he’s trying to achieve, it will take time, which he will be given, but he needs the players and fans to all be on board, which doesn’t seem to be the case at the minute.

Sharp Blades

Chris Wilder’s team were impressive.

Solid, organised and clinical, what you’d expect from a team challenging for promotion.

They fully deserved the win at Griffin Park and don’t be fooled that they are a lump it long outfit, I’d agree with what Mr Wilder said in his post-match interview, “I’m enjoying watching the team play,” he said.

They were a far cry away from the Neil Warnock Blades’ style of play days.