After last season's play-off final disappointment, Brentford's ability to deal with the departures of some key men was always likely to be key this season.

Their two most dangerous attacking weapons, Ollie Watkins and Said Benrahma, both left the club in the summer window but the Bees are no stranger to this situation, having seen Neal Maupay leave the season before.

Among the reinforcements brought in by the west London club were striker Ivan Toney and centre-back Charlie Goode, who helped Northampton Town secure promotion to League One last term.

Toney has fired in five goals in seven games for the Bees but how is Goode getting on?

We investigate just that as part of our new The Hat-Trick feature...

How's it gone so far?

The central defender's only opportunities so far this season have come in the Carabao Cup, where he started the Bees' first three games – helping them to win all three and even grabbing an assist against West Bromwich Albion.

Goode has averaged 0.7 interceptions, 0.7 tackles, and 6.3 clearances per game, as well as winning 67% of his ground duels and 76% of his aerial duels (Sofascore).

Chances have been hard to come by recently, however, and the 25-year-old hasn't featured or been named in a matchday squad since September.

What issues does he face?

Goode's issue is his place in the pecking order and the quality ahead of him.

Brentford had one of the best defensive records in the Championship last season and with Pontus Jansson, Ethan Pinnock, and Mads Sorensen all fit, it's tough for their summer signing to get a look in.

On top of that, his ability in possession isn't Goode's strongest point and with the Bees likely to be in the ascendancy in many games that may count against him.

What's next?

Games are coming thick and fast over the next few weeks and Thomas Frank's side have six Championship matches in the next 17 days.

That may provide an opportunity for Goode to get some minutes and try to force his way into the side.

Beyond that, the 25-year-old just has to bide his time and work hard in training. If he can impress on the training ground, he may work his way up the pecking order.