Despite a run of good results, Brentford boss Thomas Frank feels the international break came at a good time for his squad.

Four wins in their last five games catapulted the Bees up to ninth ahead of the break, but with the Championship so intense, the team was starting to suffer.

Forward Joel Valencia will be out for a few weeks with a shoulder problem, but Frank confirmed apart from long-term injuries the rest of the squad should be ready for Saturday’s clash at home to Reading.

The Royals sit in 17th place but - unbeaten in their last four - have been much improved since Mark Bowen took over from Jose Gomes, and Frank is wary of the threats their opponents pose under the former Wales defender.

“I think the international break came at a good time because we had a few injuries,” he said. “We need to get back on track because we have been quite unlucky with knocks so far this season.

“It is really important, for example, to get Said Benrahma back to fitness and he should hopefully be available for Saturday.

“All the stats and goals show Reading should’ve been higher in the league just like us. Unfortunately, they weren’t so he [Gomes] left the club.

“Bowen has done well, especially in the last four games. They are another team in form coming to Griffin Park doing everything they can to get a point, and on a good day maybe three.”

Reading are a well organised side under Bowen and Frank is expecting them to stay that way against his team.

And despite Brentford’s recent attacking success - scoring three goals in each of their last four victories - Frank is not taking a win for granted.

He said: “Every team that comes to Griffin Park this season respects us, which we are pleased with as it means we are doing something good.

“But we need to be better at opening up opponents that are defending well.

“It’ll be a tough game against a team who are hard to break down and have quick counters.

“But we have belief, the atmosphere will be good, and we just need to make sure we stay focused.”