Glenn Poole might have the hump being on the sidelines, but rising Brentford FC star Sam Wood isn't losing any sleep over it.

Last season's top scorer has been left waiting in the wings while former Bromley youngster Wood has become a revelation on the left flank.

And the 22-year-old, who worked in a clothes shop before Andy Scott plucked him from non-league in the summer, insists he's loving every minute of it.

He said: "Me and Pooley get on great. It's football and everyone wants to play, but it's up to the gaffer.

"This is what I've wanted my whole career. At the moment, I'm playing and we're top of the league. It can't get any better."

Scott took a gamble on Wood when he signed him on a two-year deal from the Blue Square South outfit.

The Bees boss has also helped resurrect the careers of the likes of Marcus Bean, Marvin Williams and Mark Phillips last summer.

And former Cray Wanderers junior Wood wants to repay Scott by helping them to League Two glory.

"Scotty's been a massive help," said Wood. "He took a chance on me, and I'd like to think I proved a point and am worth a place in the team.

"I'm really thankful, and I'm repaying him.

"I believe I could make the step up to League One. I've adapted pretty well to League Two, so I don't see why not. I was a bit nervous at first playing in front of big crowds. Now I'm full of confidence."
Wood has formed an exciting partnership down Brentford's left with Ryan Dickson.

And while he was brought in primarily as a left-back, he's loving life further up the pitch.

He added: "Dicko's doing a good job at full-back. We've got a good understanding, and I sometimes sit in and we swap.

"It makes it difficult for defenders, especially when he overlaps me. He's more skilful than me, and I'm a bit more direct."

Wood and Brentford have another busy week ahead when they visit Rotherham on Saturday before hosting Barnet on Tuesday night.