Thomas Frank believes Said Benrahma is close to where he should be as he drew plaudits for his “man of the match” performance against Barnsley.

The Brentford star, who courted interest from several clubs during the summer, produced an impressive 90-minute performance at Oakwell.

Despite not scoring a goal or providing an assist, Benrahma formed part of a devastating front three which picked Barnsley apart in the 3-1 win.

Speaking to Sky Sports News after the match, Frank said: “He’s [Benrahma] been training like a beast the last couple of weeks. Especially the last week, unbelievable. With high intensity in the training, doing extra after training, finishes and stuff like that.

“I have been a little bit after him and this is what we want from him and what we need from him. If he can continue like this then I think we will be fine.”

Sam Saunders, who was a pundit for the televised game on Sunday, was in awe of the winger’s showing as he helped engineer a series of scoring chances - especially during the second half.

The Brentford B team assistant coach said: “He has the attributes to run games like the Knockaerts, like [Fernando] Forestieri for Sheffield Wednesday. The way he drives with the ball and creates things, he can nutmeg a mermaid.

“He was a joy to watch. He did not get an assist or a goal but, for me, he was the man of the match.”

Frank agreed with that assessment and believes there is more to come if the Bees talisman can get up to full speed this season.

Another player who undoubtedly impressed was Watkins, who grabbed a hat-trick of headers to bring Brentford back from a goal down to win.

Asked whether he will keep Watkins as a central striker for the rest of the season, even if new signing Nikos Karelis gets fit, he said: “I think if he continues playing like that then I will keep him as a central striker!”