Brentford are, naturally, gutted for Lewis Macleod after the Scottish midfielder was ruled out until at least the start of next season after a serious knee injury.

The club are keeping the specifics of the injury quiet for the moment but expect Macleod to be out for nine months after picking up the injury against QPR.

And Brentford head coach Dean Smith expressed his sympathy towards the former Glasgow Rangers midfielder.

Smith said: “We're really disappointed for Lewis. He was starting to show the potential he's got and is a talented footballer and we wouldn't have wished that on him at all. He's had a catalogue of injuries previous to that. We're disappointed for him.

Scott Hogan

“He's come through this period before. He was out with hamstring for a long period. He has to look no further than Andreas Bjelland and Scott Hogan – in Scott's case two serious injuries.

“He can see the club have been supportive to them. There will be a light at the end of the tunnel and he already knows the process. Hopefully he'll come back stronger.”

Hogan, who suffered two anterior cruciate ligament injuries, led the support for Macleod on Twitter and Smith backs him to return to full fitness.

“He knows the feeling around the camp. He was really pleased with the result and played a part in the second goal. Unfortunately it came at a cost for us and he'll be sorely missed,” the head coach explained.

“He's a strong kid and has a lot of support here who will help him on his road to recovery. I think he'll come back stronger”

Josh McEachran, speaking ahead of the game with Fulham, also gave his backing to Macleod after spending time with him in the treatment room last season after breaking his foot twice.

He said: “We're gutted for him. I've been texting him. It's part and parcel of the game. I just feel sorry for him.”

Lasse Vibe is available to face Fulham after an ankle injury, while Callum Elder has returned to non contact training after being forced off at Brighton.