Josh Clarke is looking to feature in Brentford’s final two games as he hopes to be rewarded for his fine recent form with a new contract.
The 21-year-old has made 10 appearances for the Bees this season, with six of those coming in the last seven games, and has impressed when starting or coming on as a substitute.
The club have started to speak to him regarding a new deal, although Dean Smith will be giving a positive reference to directors of football Rasmus Ankersen and Phil Giles.
The head coach said: "His representative has been in touch with me and the directors of football and we're dealing with that as we speak.
"I hope he signs a new deal. He's impressed me and he's still learning the game. He's adapted very well to Championship football."
The full back is not letting speculation over his future get in the way of his performances on the pitch.
Clarke said: “I’m focusing on getting the games out of the way and hopefully something happens.
“I want to get as many minutes as possible before the end of the season.
“I see the comments and I’m happy that I’m impressing the gaffer and the staff at Brentford.
“I can’t get too excited about that. I just have to focus and get the games out of the way.”
Clarke was one of the biggest positives from Brentford’s 2-0 defeat at Hull on Tuesday night, in what was the biggest challenge of his career so far, as he battled manfully to keep a superior Tigers team at bay.
He added: “Tuesday was a big game and I had the chance to prove myself as they were in the Premier League last year.
“It was a great experience playing against ex-Premier League players and I think I did well. I’m full of confidence now.
“I just had to stay in the zone and focus on myself and the team and just play.
“If I started off nervous, it would have got to me.
“I just wanted to play my game and be relaxed.”
Brentford take on west London rivals Fulham at Griffin Park on Saturday and Clarke is desperate for the chance to play in the derby.
“I’m hoping for another start on Saturday,” he said. “It’s going to be a big atmosphere and a big game.
“I think we’ve just got to go out there and get three points. We’ve just got to focus on our play with tackles flying in. We’ve just got to give it our all.”
