Honest keeper Ben Hamer has thanked Brentford fans for sticking by him despite making a few errors this season.

The on-loan Reading rookie is desperate to return to Griffin Park next season, once he has secured his future with the Royals.

The youngster has had a roller-coaster season with the Bees this term and admitted: "It's been a steep learning curve".

But the 20-year-old, who returns to the Madejski this week, is anxious to come back on a season-long loan next term to continue his education.

He has been a firm favourite with Brentford fans, who have more forgiving to errors like gifting Bury's Andy Bishop a 40-yard lob more than for Simon Brown's bloopers between the posts.

Hamer said: "The fans are a key reason why I'd love to come back. They've been superb to me and have stood by me when I've made mistakes.

"I've had runs in the side and have made silly errors. I've then lost my place on a couple of occasions.

"But that is part of the learning curve, and it makes you more determined not to let it happen again." [25a0] Alan Connell has promised Bees fans more goals next season.

The striker admitted he was disappointed with his haul of 12 goals this season, but was pleased with the way his game had developed under Andy Scott.

"He's been a big influence on me.He's made me more aggressive, but I would have liked to have got a few more goals," said the 25-year-old.

"I have worked hard on my game this season and enjoyed it. I have another year on my contract and want to keep learning.

"The way we have finished has been really disappointing.

"But overall I am very happy here and next season I can promise the supporters we will give it a right go."