Flekken: Why I chose Brentford

Brentford goalkeeper Mark Flekken has explained why he joined the club this summer.

Many fans in Germany were surprised that Flekken moved on from Freiburg, who are on an upward trajectory.

He decided that competing in the Premier League was the better career move, rather than staying in the Bundesliga.

It's a new challenge," he told club media.

I turned 30 in June, and I was in a moment where I had to choose to stay for several years or do something new.

Brentford had made some really big effort to get me here over the last one and a half years.

I'd had contact with Manu [Sotelo] and the coach [Thomas Frank]. The whole process of trying to get me here gave me such a good feeling. They were so invested in me, and really wanted me to be here.

They showed me good things, and they also showed me things that I can improve. I always want to try to improve myself I want to become the best possible version of me so that perspective got to me.

They didn't just try to put honey around my mouth to spoil me; they were honest, and I liked that level of detail and the way they spoke with me.

It's a big challenge, and a dream to play in the Premier League."