Yoann Barbet admits it was a frustrating four months sitting in the sidelines for Brentford – but he is loving being involved once more.

The summer signing from Chamois Niortais made his bow in the 4-0 Capital One Cup humiliation by Oxford, then got more tastes of first team action against Middlesbrough and Preston while James Tarkowski was suspended.

Then came a four months kicking his heels before Tarkowski's refusal to play against Burnley and subsequent banishment from the side saw him earn a recall .

Big chance: James Tarkowski's departure has opened the door again for Barbet

Barbet has now played in the Bees' last three games, and his cultured style means Tarkowski, who has now left the club , is not yet being missed.

He said: “It's difficult when you're not playing. You have to work hard, be patient and take your chance when you get it.

“Four months without playing was difficult because I played all the season last year. It was difficult but good for the mind to work hard, and now I'm ready.

Rival for the shirt: Jack O' Connell

“The lads made it easy, they helped me a lot. I played a few games with the U21s to be ready, and I think I have done okay. I try to play football, play short or play a long pass if I have the space to.”

Jack O'Connell was initially favoured as Tarkowski's replacement, but he lasted just one game before the Frenchman was given another go.

Barbet added: “We all compliment each other as defenders. It's nice, we are all friends. There are no problem between us, we all give our best.”