Igor Thiago says Brentford CAN qualify for Champions League and sets sights on Man City

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Igor Thiago is convinced Brentford WILL get into the Champions League next season.

Brentford face Treble-chasing Manchester City at the Etihad with Thomas Frank’s side full of belief they can squeeze into Europe. Sixth place could be a passport into the Champions League if Aston Villa win the Europa League and finish fifth.

Brazil star Thiago says victory over City will only strengthen Brentford’s belief that they can turn into a fantastic season into an unforgettable one.

Thiago said: “Yes, absolutely because it will give us extra confidence. There’s no doubt. Being able to beat such a big team would be a huge achievement, an incredible achievement.”

And if that happens, can Brentford get into Europe? There is simply no doubt in Thiago’s mind they can achieve the unthinkable. “I believe so because we have been working hard for that every day,” said Thiago. “I believe this is going to happen.”

Thiago is already on 22 goals, he has been one of the success stories of the Premier League season as the £30m signing from Club Brugge is another tribute to the club’s smart progression and recruitment.

Brentford has a proud history of strikers like Ollie Watkins and Bryan Mbeumo. Thiago says he was fully aware of them when he arrived - and uses them as inspiration for his own career.

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Thiago added: “Looking at these players, that’s what inspires me to score these numbers. At the beginning, this was a source of pressure because they all scored so high, 20 goals or more.

“It felt tough to make that same level but it was pressure but not in a negative sense. It was a source of inspiration.

“It has been an amazing season for me and a chance to show who I am. It’s been incredible. We just need to keep going now and keep our belief.”