Dean Smith paid tribute to Alan McCormack ahead of his last Brentford game before leaving for pastures new, but would not let sentiment come in the way of his team selection.

The Bees will finish in the top 10 in the Championship for the third year running with victory over Blackburn.

But with a spot in the second tier next season assured, an argument has been made to select the popular Irishman and let him have a farewell match.

However, Smith will not let sentiment come into his team selection.

“Sentiment doesn't come into it. I try not to get emotionally involved in games. I'll pick a team to win and Sunday will be no different,” he said.

“He's been a brilliant servant to the football club. He got player of the season in his first year as the club went up to the Championship.

“They've been in the Championship ever since. I was aware of him before I came here.

“He went to Leyton Orient on loan; one of his first loans from Preston. Martin Ling spoke highly of him.

Dean Smith

“I've enjoyed working with him but he's had a couple of niggles so he's been unavailable to me.

“We won't be offering him a contract and he'll be looking elsewhere but we wish him well and he goes with my utmost respect.”

McCormack has been studying for his coaching badges and has spoken with Smith about moving into that field.

The Bees head coach added: “He'll have to take a few chill pills on the sidelines. We've spoken at length about it.

“He's been doing his coaching badges and we've discussed it with him. We've been open with him and I wish him well on that line but I believe he's got a couple of years of playing in him.”