Brentford’s Rico Henry Set for Premier League Return After Injury

BRENTFORD, England — Brentford defender Rico Henry is poised to make his first Premier League appearance since September 2023 after recovering from a serious knee injury. The left-back returned to action in Brentford’s FA Cup defeat to Plymouth on Saturday and is expected to feature in their upcoming league match, though he is unlikely to start.

Henry’s return comes as Brentford prepares to face Manchester City on Tuesday, January 14, 2025. The Bees, currently 11th in the Premier League, will also welcome back defender Ben Mee, who has recovered from a muscle injury and is set to make his first appearance of the year.

Manchester City, sitting sixth in the league, faces uncertainty over defender Kyle Walker‘s inclusion. Manager Pep Guardiola has yet to decide whether the unsettled player will be part of the matchday squad. City will also be without key players Rodri, Ruben Dias, and John Stones, who remain sidelined due to injuries.

Brentford manager Thomas Frank has named a 4-3-3 formation, with Mark Flekken in goal and a defensive line including Mads Roerslev, Nathan Collins, Sepp van den Berg, and Keane Lewis-Potter. Midfielders Christian Nørgaard, Mathias Jensen, and Vitaly Janelt will support forwards Bryan Mbeumo, Yoane Wissa, and Mikkel Damsgaard.

Guardiola, meanwhile, has opted for a 3-2-4-1 formation, with Stefan Ortega in goal. Defenders Manuel Akanji, Nathan Aké, and Joško Gvardiol will anchor the backline, supported by midfielders Mateo Kovačić and Matheus Nunes. Phil Foden, Kevin De Bruyne, Bernardo Silva, and Savinho will provide attacking support for striker Erling Haaland.

The match, officiated by referee Anthony Taylor, will be a crucial test for both teams as they aim to climb the Premier League table. Brentford has won four of their last 13 matches across all competitions, while Manchester City has secured eight victories in the same period.

Historically, Manchester City has dominated recent encounters, winning their last three matches against Brentford, including a 2-1 victory on September 14, 2024. However, Brentford will look to capitalize on their returning players and home advantage to challenge the reigning champions.