Dasilva reflects on emotional return to the pitch

Dasilva reflects on emotional return to the pitch

Brentford midfielder Josh Dasilva reflected on an emotional first appearance since January 2024 as the Bees defeated West Ham United 3-0 on Saturday afternoon.

The 27-year-old replaced Mikkel Damsgaard, the goalscorer of the west Londoners’ third goal, late on, receiving a huge ovation from the Gtech Community Stadium faithful.

"I’m speechless," said Dasilva, shortly after his first appearance in 822 days.

"There are so many emotions. I’ve waited so long for this.

"Since I’ve been here, the fans and the club have shared a lot of special moments with me. The loyalty the fans have shown me as a player has been amazing.

"Whenever I see them in and around the stadium, they show me so much love, so I can’t thank them enough.

"I wouldn’t be here if it wasn’t for my faith, if it wasn’t for my belief in Jesus. I also wouldn’t be here without my family, my friends, the club, Matthew [Benham], Phil [Giles], Keith [Andrews], the boys with how they’ve been with me, and the fans."

During last season, Dasilva worked closely with Keith Andrews in his previous role as set-piece coach, a relationship that strengthened since the Irishman stepped up to become head coach in the summer.

"Keith has played a big part in the last couple of years," he continued.

"We had that relationship when he was set-piece coach and since he’s become the gaffer, he’s given me so much confidence and belief; I can’t credit him enough.