Brentford head coach Dean Smith said there is all to play for ahead of tomorrow’s trip to the Stadium of Light.

With 15 games left of the Sky Bet Championship season, the next few matches will prove pivotal as the Bees fight for a play-off place.

Brentford lie tenth currently, eight points adrift of sixth-placed Bristol City. Sunderland, meanwhile, lie one place from the bottom with just 26 points.

After a recent run of poor form, however, Smith is cautious of overconfidence.

“We have to be wary of the threat that they pose,” he said.

“They’ve obviously got a lot of character in the team.

“It’s common knowledge that their home form hasn’t been great this year and we’re hoping to capitalise on that.

“Bristol City are a good team, so to go 3-0 down at Ashton Gate and come back to earn a draw shows that they’ve got plenty of quality.

“Whenever we play away from home our plan is to get on the ball and frustrate the opposition.

“Their fans might be expecting to see a win due to the size of our club, but we’re hoping we can go there and show what we’re about.”

The Bees have gone almost a month without a win, the last being a 1-0 victory over Reading on January 20. Last weekend they came from behind to draw 1-1 with a ten-man Preston North End side.

“The outcome of the last couple of games has been a bit disappointing, but the performance levels have been good and that’s all we can control,” said Smith.

“The team has been consistent this season but we haven’t got the wins that our play has deserved.

“There’s a lot of good players in the group; last week I was forced to make three changes but it didn’t change the shape, the way that we played or our performance levels.”

Following defender Chris Mepham’s return from illness, Smith will be taking a fully-fit squad to Sunderland tomorrow, hoping to get all three points. A loss could see them drop to 13th place this weekend.

“Our ambition at the start of the season was to finish inside the top six and there’s no reason for that to change with 15 games to go,” said Smith.

“Every time you don’t win it becomes a bit harder – particularly when the teams above you are picking up points – but we’ve always focused on the next game.

“The outcome of the last couple of games has been a bit disappointing, but the performance levels have been good and that’s all we can control.

“There’s still plenty to play for.”

With one eye on the play-off places, Smith has the other on his own future as he awaits contract talks with Brentford directors Phil Giles and Rasmus Ankersen.

Smith’s current deal is due to expire in 2019, but he is feeling positive about the club’s progress.

“I was due to speak to Phil and Rasmus this week but that’s been postponed until Monday,” he concluded.

“We work well together and I feel as though I’m improving as a coach.

“I’m challenged every day and I feel that both myself and the club are progressing.

“We’re a good fit at the moment so hopefully the talks are positive.”