Christian Eriksen progress and Ivan Toney update as Newcastle United prepare for Brentford trip

Just two points separate Brentford and Newcastle United, who will meet on Saturday in a clash that clubs in the bottom half of the Premier League may be keeping a close eye on.

The Bees have not tasted victory in the league since early January but will be coming up against a Magpies side in a rich vein of form.

Fortunately for Thomas Frank's men, they could have marksman Ivan Toney available after being without the injured forward for three consecutive games.

Speaking to BBC Sport after Brentford's defeat to Arsenal, Frank said: "I would say we knew it was very tough to have him ready for this game.

"I would say it is much more realistic to be part of the team on Saturday."

The former Newcastle forward may not have been a hit on Tyneside but has shone in West London and has scored 41 goals across 77 outings for Brentford.

Frank may also be able to call upon Danish playmaker Christian Eriksen, who came through nearly 80 minutes of a friendly match against Rangers unscathed.

The 30-year-old has not yet made his Brentford debut and has instead been allowed time to build up match fitness in friendlies, having had a lengthy spell away from football after suffering a cardiac arrest at Euro 2020.

He completed 78 minutes for the Bees against the Scottish giants behind closed doors, registering two assists in a 2-2 draw.

His involvement and contribution suggests he could be ready for a return to competitive action and Bees boss Frank has claimed the club are aiming for Eriksen to be available when Newcastle visit.

If both Toney and Eriksen are fit, it will be an important lift for a side occupying a precarious position in the league.

Although two points clear of Eddie Howe's side, Brentford have played two games more than