Brentford boss Dean Smith admits he's in a dilemma over Scott Hogan.

The hotshot travelled with the team for Saturday's defeat at Wigan, but was omitted from the match day squad after a phone call last night informing him of an imminent bid for his services.

West Ham have so far failed to agree terms with the Bees, who were holding out for £15million for their prize asset.

Speaking to Brentford's website, Smith said: “He had a phone call last night that has turned his head as there is a bid coming imminently.

“I have spoken to him and it is not the kid's fault – he wants to play football but he doesn't want to risk getting injured.

“I fully understand that but I think if he has a tight hamstring in February he plays. He is being starved of playing football at the moment when he wants to play.

“For me the transfer window has to be looked at as you can't have speculation preventing you picking your best team. All across the leagues that has been happening.

“I don't know if it is player power or agent power but it is very frustrating when you want to pick your best team but can't because of outside influences.

“Scott is a genuine lad and really wants to play. He had a whack in the back on Tuesday but came back and trained on Thursday.

“I understand him not wanting to risk it but getting phone calls the night before the game is not the best way to go about it."