Brentford boss Thomas Frank believes Charlie Goode can strengthen his team’s bid for a spot in the top flight for the first time in over 70 years, after the Northampton Town captain became the Bees’ first signing of the summer. 

The 25-year-old defender has signed a four-year-deal with the option of an extra 12 months with the West Londoners, having led the Cobblers to promotion from Sky Bet League Two last season with a 4-0 play-off final win over Exeter City in June. 

Goode started his career at Fulham, but having been released as a teenager he spent time in non-league before being picked up by Scunthorpe United in 2015, ahead of a move to Sixfields in January 2019, initially on loan.

And having demonstrated his prowess in his year and a half at Northampton, Goode has persuaded Frank that he has the tools to enhance Brentford’s prospects in 2020/21, following their play-off final defeat to Fulham earlier this month. 

Frank said: “Charlie is an aggressive defender and a big aerial threat in both boxes, which is a big thing for us, and he has good quality on the ball which we feel we can develop further within our style of play. 

“The pathway through the non-league and lower leagues develops you hugely as a person and builds your character in ways that I really like. I feel Charlie can add something to the team in that regard, especially given his leadership qualities. 

“We are sure that he will grow and develop further with us over the coming years and that, in turn, he will help us go forward as a club too.” 

Speculation continues to surround the futures of Saïd Benrahma and Ollie Watkins ahead of Brentford’s return to training, as preparations begin for a season in which Frank will be desperate to combat their Wembley disappointment by securing a Premier League place for the first time ever this year. 

Ahead of the release of the EFL fixtures for 2020/21, the Bees have been dealt a Carabao Cup first round tie against fellow Championship club Wycombe Wanderers, with the clash scheduled to be played on the weekend of September 5/6.