Sky Sports pundit David Prutton has claimed that losing out on the automatic promotion spots to West Bromwich Albion and Leeds United may not be bad news for Brentford as they could suit play-off football. 

The Bees' recent run of five games without a win has seen them lose a lot of ground on the top two and leaves it looking very unlikely that they will secure an automatic promotion place this season.

Thomas Frank's side are now 11 points back from second-placed Leeds with just 10 games left of the Championship season.

Their recent form has seen them sucked back into the play-off mix as they now have just a three-point cushion over Bristol City in seventh.

Speaking on the Sky Sports EFL Podcast, Prutton suggested that missing out on the top two may not be the end of the world for the Bees given the way the side is set up.

He said: “They’re in a position where maybe play-off football would suit them.

“If you can defend stoutly but play free-flowing football, maybe it’s set up for a team such as Brentford to creep in through the back door of the Premier League.

“It’s about holding their nerve and keeping their balance.

“We like to get a bit excited in the media, but Brentford seem to be adjusting their sights accordingly with regards to what their expectations are.”

The play-offs are by no means secured for Frank's side yet as there are six teams within six points of them all chasing for a top-six finish.

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The Verdict

Prutton makes a strong point here. Brentford's strength this season has been the solidity of their defensive line and the frightening quality of their attacking players–the combination of which would be very useful in the play-offs.

The Bees chances of automatic promotion are dwindling but at this point, they'd have to be one of the favourites to win the play-offs, particularly if Pontus Jansson can return.

Before that, however, they need to secure a top-six place.

Their recent form is a concern, particularly considering they have games against Fulham and West Bromwich Albion coming up.