Brentford defender Andreas Bjelland is putting his upcoming rivalry with centre back partner John Egan on the backburner for now.

The pair could face off for their countries with Bjelland's Denmark taking on Egan's Ireland with a place at the 2018 World Cup in Russia at stake.

The duo have been at the heart of Brentford's backline in the past two games but a misunderstanding gave Lewis Grabban a goal in the 3-3 draw with Sunderland.

That error was a rare moment at the back in recent weeks with the Bees being much more solid in general and Bjelland enjoys playing alongside Egan.

BRENTFORD, ENGLAND - JULY 22: John Egan of Brentford tries to tackle Charlie Austin of Southampton during the Pre Season Friendly match between Brentford and Southampton at Griffin Park on July 22, 2017 in Brentford, England. (Photo by Ian Walton/Getty Images)

“We had a little misunderstanding against but in general we play well together. I think we understand each other well and we build on every game,” he said.

“We're waiting for that as we have important games before then. We'll be looking forward to it and, hopefully, Denmark will win and we can talk about it for the rest of the year.”

Egan, who has made two appearances for Ireland this year, will know a run of form could see him line up against the Danes and Bjelland would enjoy an inter-club battle.

He added: “I'd be happy for John and it'd be fun to play against each other but the focus is the next game for Brentford.”