Sunderland will hope the cup competitions continue to serve them well as they host Brentford in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup on Wednesday evening.
The Black Cats currently prop up the Premier League after just one win all season. But it’s been a much brighter picture when it comes to the cups. Regis Le Bris’ side are unbeaten in the Europa League, with two wins and a draw so far in the league phase of the competition. And Wednesday sees them attempt to go further in the League Cup too, having seen off fellow top flight side Hull City in the previous round last month.
Le Bris is hoping a win over the Bees can see them heading into next weekend’s league assignment with Coventry in high spirits.
Speaking after a dogged performance in the goalless draw at home to Leeds last time out, the Frenchman said: “We saw Sunderland on the pitch today so I am confident with the team spirit and confident with the way we are working hard together to get better and consistency is still key. We have another game on Wednesday then Coventry and the objective is to get better.”
Sunderland last reached the quarter-finals of this competition five seasons ago whilst Brentford are looking to reach the last-eight for a third campaign running. They’ve been dumped out by the eventual winners in each of the last two seasons: Newcastle in 24/25 and Manchester City last year.
“It’s as important of a game to us as Hull was and Nottingham Forest is on Saturday,” said Brentford chief Andrews ahead of Wednesday’s trip to the North-east.
“We got to the quarter-finals last year and if we come through this game then we’ll get to the same point. We want to go as far as we can go in this competition and there’s no reason that we can’t, but we’ve got a very difficult game tomorrow.”
In terms of team news for Brentford, Andrews delivered an update on the trio of Antoni Milambo, Kaye Furo and Josh Dasilva.
Andrews said: “Kaye is doing really well. He’s out of his boot in a week, ten days, maybe something like that. He’s not on grass yet, but making really good progress, so that’s good. He’s in good spirits.
“Antoni trained with the group (on the grass) a couple of days ago. He’s involved, so he’s in and around it.
“Josh, similarly to Antoni, was involved in sessions. He’s building. He was involved in a bigger session midweek last week as well. Again, making really good strides.”
