IRISH MIDFIELDER ALAN Judge scored his 12th goal of the season, as Brentford beat Preston 3-1 to go 10th in the Championship today.
Ex-Blackburn player Judge has been in fine form this season, and scored his 12th goal of the season today, making him fourth top scorer in the league overall.
The Dubliner, who has been affectionately nicknamed ‘The Irish Messi’ by Brentford fans, is also joint-top of the Championship assists chart, according to ESPN’s figures, having created seven goals so far this season.
Judge is reportedly valued at €10 million by Brentford, with the club already rejecting bids from Sheffield Wednesday and Burnley for the player.
A number of Premier League clubs, including Newcastle (see below), are also understood to be interested in the player, who has yet to win a senior Ireland cap but is expected to make his international debut prior to the Euros.
Meanwhile, in less positive news from an Irish perspective, full-back Greg Cunningham scored the own goal to give Brentford the lead.
Ex-Shamrock Rovers and Sligo striker Eoin Doyle also featured for Preston, but was taken off after 62 minutes, while 20-year-old Cork-born midfielder Alan Browne — who has been linked with moves to Crystal Palace and Bournemouth recently — was an unused sub.
Meanwhile, elsewhere in the Championship, Richie Towell made Brighton’s bench for the second consecutive game in the league since joining, but didn’t get on ultimately, as Brighton beat Huddersfield 2-1 to go third.
