BY CHRIS GALLAGHER

It's been a frustrating start to the season for Brentford fans.

Although performances haven't been too bad, they sit second from bottom and without a win, and also saw a trio of big players leave on deadline day – all to Birmingham City.

Defenders Harlee Dean, who had played over 200 games for the Bees and Maxime Colin left to join Harry Redknapp, but it was Blues' record signing of Spanish playmaker Jota that could be the biggest loss to Dean Smith.

After his blistering start to life in England, Jota returned to Griffin Park from a loan to Eibar in January and came back even better.

Twelve goals in twenty-one games followed as Brentford ended the season well.

However, with one-year on his contract remaining, the West Londoners were always likely to sell, even if he surprised many by joining Birmingham City.

For Dean Smith now, the challenge remains to replace the Spaniards productivity and the immediate return of Sergi Canos could be pivotal.

A fellow Spaniard, Canos has played over 50 games for Brentford in two spells, and impressed throughout.

After returning from Norwich in January, Canos was also key to the Bees impressive end to the season.

His direct play and sheer pace make him impossible to deal with and he contributed with assists and four league goals in eighteen league games.

At 20-years old, the ex-Liverpool player has plenty of time to improve and this could be the year he really steps up.

Injury has prevented Canos from playing so far this season, although he was on the bench for the 0-0 draw with Wolves last time out.

The pre-season optimism may have disappeared from the terraces of Griffin Park with results and the transfer activity, but Sergi Canos could be the man to bring it back.

With Jota departed, it will be his fellow countryman that Brentford look to supply the magic.

When you look at the other forward options Dean Smith has including Ollie Watkins, Neal Maupay and Lasse Vibe, the Bees could yet make a big impression on the division this season.

What do you think Brentford fans? Will Sergi Canos be the man to replace Jota? Let us know with comments below.