Frank admits Hickey is progressing but can’t promise he’ll see any game time for the Bees before the end of the season.
Even if Aaron Hickey’s prospects of making the Euros “aren’t fantastic,” Thomas Frank isn’t ruling out the possibility that he will play for Brentford again this season.
Prior to Euro 2024, Scotland does not have any injury concerns, particularly with regard to Hockey’s role. Following an injury he sustained while playing for Everton in their 6-0 loss to Chelsea earlier this month, Nathan Patterson’s season was cut short. Due to a hamstring issue, he will require surgery, and his window of opportunity to be ready for Germany is closing.
Another player who has decided not to participate for his team this season is Stuart Armstrong. The Southampton player has a quad muscle injury, but even though the Saints are aware they will be without the former Dundee United and Celtic midfielder, manager Russell Martin has promised they will do everything in their power to get him back into Clarke’s lineup. Furthermore, a knee injury Lewis Ferguson sustained while playing for Bologna has dashed his hopes of competing in Europe.
Frank acknowledges that at this late point in the season, it’s doubtful that Hickey will play for the Bees again after missing out on games in October. Although the Dane acknowledges that Hickey’s prospects of qualifying for the tournament won’t exactly be enhanced by a lack of playing time between now and the summer, he will let Clarke make that decision.
“He’s progressing,” said Frank. “As he’s been out for so long I’m not counting on him playing this season but let’s see what happens in the next weeks – right now I’m not expecting it. I guess it’s not fantastic (for his Euros chances) but that’s not for me to judge”
