Ethan Pinnock has arguably established himself as one of the most underrated Premier League centre backs this season. The Jamaican international is Mr reliable for Thomas Frank's men and having appeared in all thirteen games so far in the competition, the question remains to whether his consistent run of form can bring Brentford any success?
Ethan Pinnock had to work his way up from the lower divisions of English Football. Kickstarting his journey playing for Dulwich Hamlet, Pinnock went from being a young prodigy to an influential element in Hamlet's Isthmian League South triumph. With his dominant displays Pinnock was signed to Forest Green Rovers where during his 45 appearances for the club he supported the side back into the EFL. Once again Pinnock impressed and in 2017 was picked up on a three-year contract by Barnsley. His second season at the club saw him named in both the PFA and EFL League One team of the season. This achievement for Pinnock ignited the interest from the Bees who wasted no time to put pen to paper. Pinnock became a key starter for Frank and played an important role in earning the Bees their well-deserved promotion to the Premier League.
Now at the age of 30 Pinnock has settled to Premier League life superbly, he is a role model to all inspiring footballers that they shoulder never give up as it's never to late to turn professional. You could say his story is the pinnockle of football and what the game is all about.
Pinnock was the man of the match in Brentford's 2-0 win over Chelsea at Stamford Bridge four game weeks ago, his performance was flawless and demonstrated the strengths he brings to a Brentford side who have kept three clean sheets this season. Pinnock is a major aerial threat both offensively and defensively, is height helps him to cover distance and win most ball that come flying towards his direction. His performances have rewarded him with an international position for Jamaica where he recently played 90 minutes in a pivotal win against Canada in the CONCACAF Nations League. Pinnock has grown into a mature and composed defender and with the absences the Bees have sustained this season he has stepped up to the plate as a key leader for his teammates.
Brentford face Luton Town at home on Saturday where Pinnock will be looking to play in his 14th game of the campaign. He will have an interesting battle on his hands facing Carlton Morris, but Pinnock has got the experience and knowledge on how to deal with physical strikers. Frank trusts Pinnock in the system he plays, the 30-year-old has had to adapt by playing with new teamates such as Nathan Collins who has slotted in alongside Pinnock with ease. Pinnock's story is remarkable, it represents his will power and determination to play his best every game as he didn't get to Premier League by not working hard. Now being a competent knowledgeable defender Pinnock can educate those around him. Vocalising his opinions both on and off the pitch, it goes without saying Pinnock is a man who knows the simplicity behind playing the game of football.
It's been positive start for Pinnock and Brentford fans will hope he continues to thrive. The Bees will be pushing for another top ten finish and maybe European football if they can get a good string of points. Pinnock will be a key player for Frank this season in all competitions, he would have had another clean sheet last game week against Arsenal but unfortunately was denied by a late Kai Havertz winner. Nevertheless, Pinnock is a player to watch for weeks to come as he has the opportunity to build upon the consistency and levels of performance he has set himself. The bar is high, but Pinnock is one to rise to the challenge and give his all.
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