Ryan Woods believes he is establishing a strong partnership with Josh McEachran after the former Chelsea man returned from injury and replaced the departed Toumani Diagouraga.

The midfielder, who scored a sensational goal at Reading, has become a dependable player for Brentford since joining from Shrewsbury in the summer.

And Woods believes he and McEachran have similar characteristics and, over time, will become an effective partnership.

He said: “I'm enjoying it. I like Josh as a person. He's a good lad off the pitch. I think we both like to get on the ball and we'll see what happens.

“I think we both enjoy trying to make things happen. We've shown that well in a few games and not so well in others. Time will tell but I think it'll be a good partnership.

“He's different to Toumani. Toums was a big lad and a bit stronger but Josh and I love to get on the ball and make things happen. You want to play alongside people like Josh.”

Josh McEachran and Anthony Knockaert

Woods has pressure for his place with Lewis Macleod reaching full fitness, while Alan McCormack is returning to training next week.

He added: “Lewis is a good lad and has been working hard to get back to match fitness. There's no harm in having competition for places.

“It drives me on as I want to be the best player I can be. I want that starting shirt so I have to do so.”

Woods is determined to right the wrongs of Brentford's 3-0 defeat to Brighton last Friday when they make the trip to Sheffield Wednesday on Saturday.

He explained: “There was a bit of anger and frustration but I think that's good sometimes. We all want to take Brentford to the Premier League so it's a good characteristic to have.”