Norwich clash is an opportunity for Brentford just like QPR and AFC Wimbledon, insists Smith

Brentford head coach Dean Smith sees tonight's Carabao Cup tie with Norwich as an opportunity, rather than a distraction.

The Bees, who are yet to win in the league this season, have enjoyed success in the competition, beating League One side AFC Wimbledon and Ian Holloway's QPR away from home in the first two rounds.

And, with the sides competing in Europe now in the competition, a place in the fourth round for only the third time is the reward for Brentford tonight.

Smith said: “It's an opportunity. We felt it was an opportunity against AFC Wimbledon and QPR. It's a chance to make changes with Bolton in mind.”

While the league form must be seen as the priority, Smith was also keen to point out that the Bees haven't gone without a win this season with their cup triumphs.

He added: “We've won in the cup and we all know that we should have won a game in the league and, for whatever reason, it hasn't happened.”