Thomas Frank: Brentford boss expects Onyeka to feature in league opener after contract extension

Frank Onyeka managed 23 appearances and registered 2 assists for Brentford in all competitions last campaign 

Brentford manager Thomas Frank has delivered a positive update on the availability of Frank Onyeka for the opening weekend of the Premier League season, Soccernet.ng reports

The Super Eagles midfielder was withdrawn midway through the first half at Gtech Community Stadium in Brentford’s goalless draw with Lille on Saturday afternoon.

It was feared that Onyeka will not be available for the Bees’ opening game of the Premier League season at home to Tottenham Hotspur next weekend.

Onyeka is not the only injury worry for Brentford from the friendly goalless draw with Lille as Cameroon international Bryan Mbeumo was also withdrawn before half-time.

We expect both players to be involved next Sunday, Frank said to the club’s official website 

Of course, we need to access them over the next couple of days

It was deadly for Bryan, so that’s why we subbed him off early. We’re not talking risks, and that was the same with Frank. They should be fine.

The 25-year-old, who joined Brentford in the summer of 2021 from Midtjylland, has signed a new contract that will keep him in the club till 2027. He has 41 Premier League appearances for them

Onyeka has been involved in some of Brentford’s most iconic wins over the last two seasons, including starts in their maiden Premier League win over Arsenal at Gtech Community Stadium and victory away at champions Manchester City.

I’m very pleased that Frank has signed a new contract, said Head coach Thomas Frank 

He has helped the team a lot during our time in the Premier League.

During both seasons he has been unlucky with injuries, which have prevented him from taking an even bigger step forward in terms of minutes, but I really like his energy.

Frank is a great pressing player. He runs into half-spaces and in behind,  progressing up the pitch. He’s a very important player for us and we’re looking forward to continuing the journey with him.

He has 12 caps for the Super Eagles after making his debut in a friendly 1-0 loss to Algeria on 9 October 2020.