Nathan Collins has received public backing from Brentford manager Keith Andrews after the captain’s costly error in the 2-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion last weekend.
The Republic of Ireland defender came on just before half-time for the injured Aaron Hickey but inadvertently gifted Danny Welbeck Brighton’s second goal moments later. The mistake compounded a difficult afternoon for the Bees and intensified scrutiny around team selection ahead of their trip to Burnley.
Speaking before the clash at Turf Moor, Andrews made it clear that his confidence in Collins remains intact.
Nathan Collins backed after Brighton error
Collins has been a regular presence at the heart of Brentford’s defence for much of the 2025/26 campaign. However, he has been left on the bench in the last four Premier League matches, with Sepp van den Berg and Kristoffer Ajer preferred as the central pairing.
Andrews acknowledged the difficult circumstances under which Collins entered the Brighton match but insisted the defender has the mentality to respond positively.
“Possibly, but it’s the levels that we’re at and he’s our captain and I have absolute trust and faith in him as a player and a person to come into that without blinking an eyelid really.” — Keith Andrews
The Brentford boss framed the error as part of the learning process rather than a defining moment.
“It was a clear mistake, which we have to learn from, I suppose. The aftermath, what that looks like is, I just speak with Nathan, like I do with most of the players, whether it’s good, bad or somewhere in between and we try and learn from it. As a group and more importantly as the individuals involved, learn from whatever happens on the pitch.” — Keith Andrews
Selection decisions and defensive balance
Since that defeat, Andrews has opted for continuity in central defence. Consistency and trust, he explained, are key factors when determining his starting XI.
“I think it’s always a balance, always a combination of things when I pick the team. I think consistency is important, I think form is important, performances are important, trust is important.” — Keith Andrews
Having followed Brentford’s defensive patterns this season, stability has often been central to their strongest performances. The Van den Berg–Ajer partnership has provided structure in recent weeks, though Collins’ leadership qualities remain valued within the squad.
However, it remains too early to suggest the captain has permanently lost his starting role. Much could change depending on form and injuries over the coming fixtures.
What’s Next?
Brentford travel to Turf Moor this weekend aiming to respond after the Brighton setback. Squad rotation may depend on fitness updates closer to kick-off, particularly with Aaron Hickey’s status still uncertain.
Collins’ pathway back into the starting line-up will likely hinge on training performances and match context over the next fortnight.
Can Brentford rediscover defensive solidity at Burnley, and will Collins seize his next opportunity when it arrives?
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