Not since the early 1960’s have Leeds United and Brentford competed in a competitive match, so I thought there may be some point to doing a match preview for this one. That day saw Leeds progress to the next round of the League Cup with a 4-1 victory at Elland Road.

The last time these two clubs played in the same division however was 1954, which is more an indication of Leeds United’s recent demise, as opposed to Brentford’s success. Indeed, League One is common ground for Brentford. It’s been more than 50 years since Brentford competed in the top flight of English football and although they made a quick visit to the Championship in the early 90’s, much of their existance has been spent yoyoing between the third and forth tier.

After promotion last season from League Two, Brentford will have been early favourites for relegation this term, but they’ve faired quite well against the top teams with home victories over 3rd place Norwich and 4th place Colchester. They also drew away to Huddersfield, but were soundly beaten away to Charlton 3-0. Brentford are also unbeaten in the last four home games so are unlikely to be handing an easy three points to the Whites. The London-based team currently sit 18th in League One.

After former England captain Terry Butcher was fired at the end of 2007, his former assistant, Andy Scott took over as caretaker. After a successful spell in the caretaker role, Scott was appointed on a permanent basis and went on to guide Brentford to the 2008-09 League Two title. An unusual “Wikipedia fact” (I tend to use other sources, but was struggling) states that Brentford are the only team to have won the fourth tier under all three of it’s names, namely, the 4th Division, Division 3 and League Two.

Griffin Park

Griffin Park

On Saturday, Leeds fans will be visiting Griffin Park, the home of Brentford for over a century. Plans are afoot to construct a new 20,000 seater stadium to help secure the long-term financial needs of the club, but have ironically been delayed due to the current recession.

Leeds fans will be housed in the Brook Stand which is known as the ‘Wendy House’ by home fans. It’s a double tiered stand made up of both seating and standing areas. The stadium is underneath Heathrow’s flight-path and as such, the roofs of stands are sold as advertising space. The stadium is also used for Chelski’s reserve and youth games.

Although a little early, team news so far for Leeds United is all positive. Both Shane Higgs and Bradley Johnson have resumed full training, although I think it’s unlikely they’ll play any major role, so with Luciano Becchio already back in contention, the injury list finally seems to be shortening (aside for Aidy White of course). However, it’s alledged Leicester may be planning to recall on-loan winger Max Gradel, which would be a major blow for the Whites.