By Bruce Archer
Brentford centre back Ben Nugent would be happy to extend his stay at Griffin Park, because he has the perfect mentors.
The 20-year-old, on loan from Premier League Cardiff City, netted his first goal in only his third appearance for the Bees in Tuesday’s 5-3 Johnstone’s Paint Trophy triumph over AFC Wimbledon.
Nugent, who is in west London until January having signed two days after playing for his parent club against Brentford in pre-season, is delighted with his progress at the club even though his first team appearances have been limited.
The youngster was Cardiff City’s young player of the year last season in a campaign that saw the Welsh club promoted to the top flight.
However, after strengthening their squad with more than £30m worth of talent, the 6ft 5in player has moved on to find regular first team football.
Nugent believes Bees assistant manager Alan Kernaghan – the former Republic of Ireland centre back – and boss Uwe Rosler will be key to his development.
And he revealed he would jump at the chance if an offer to extend his loan deal came his way – even if he expects to play second fiddle to first choice central defensive pairing Harlee Dean and Tony Craig.
“Alan obviously played my position and has got a lot of experience, so he’s been helping, and Uwe Rosler has played for some big clubs and has a lot to offer,” said Nugent on Tuesday.
“It’s great to have them around to get some guidance from.
“I think I’ve progressed since I came in. I’m getting stronger and getting fitter.
“I know my position, I know where I am and I feel like I’m progressing so it’s just a case of waiting for my chance and grabbing it with both hands when it comes.
“If the situation to stay comes around, then it’s something I’d want; I’ve started the season so I’d like to finish it.”
Veteran Spanish defender Javi Venta bagged his first goal for the club on Tuesday to go with Farid El Alagui’s double and development squad graduate Luke Norris’s first senior goal in only his second first team appearance.
Nugent’s effort equalled his tally for last season. It was a nice moment,” he said.
“They don’t come around too often, so it was really nice.”
Things are looking up: Farid El Alagui enjoys one of his goals against AFC Wimbledon last week Picture: David Purday
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