Brentford stars fire guns and throw axes in unusual team building activity

Brentford stars prepared for Monday's meeting with high-flying London neighbours Fulham with a unique team-bonding trip on Wednesday afternoon.

A handful of Bees players took time to work on their shooting skills this week, but left the balls at home for a trip to a rifle range.

Danish internationals Christian Norgaard and Mads Roerslev were joined by goalkeeper Matt Cox, Swede Pontus Jansson and winger Yoane Wissa in posting a series of videos on Instagram showing one another getting their range in what looked to be a private session.

In one clip Wissa can be seen trying his hand at axe throwing, the latest activity to become a trend nationwide, but failing to land the blade on the target. In response the forward spun around and shouted out in frustration.

Meanwhile, Roerslev cut a more composed figure as he filed a rifle whilst being complimented on his aim by onlookers before having a go at clay pigeon shooting.

Norgaard opted for a more old-fashioned weapon, arming himself with a bow and arrow. A coach warned the star it would "take five to six arrows to get a feel for it", but the midfielder hit the target straight away.

Big Pontus Jansson is better known for his crunching tackles rather than sharp shooting, but also received a round of applause as he made contact with the clay pigeon shooting.

The Brentford players seemed to be supervised by Brentford Head of Athletic Performance Chris Haslam who also shared a clip from the shooting range.

Despite their unusual activities, it is not the off-the-pitch story from the West London club that has fans talking this week.

Striker Ivan Toney has spoken out as details of the FA investigation into 232 alleged breaches of gambling rules were made public. It was reported the talisman could face being banned for six months.

Toney replied: "I was shocked and disappointed to see press speculation yesterday and today about the FA investigation process concerning me after I have been told by the FA that it is a confidential process until any decision has been made.

"It is especially disturbing for me to read that the FA is saying I shall be banned from football for six months before there has even been a hearing and it does make me worried about the process.

"My lawyers will be writing to the FA to request that they conduct a leak inquiry, as this is the second time stories have appeared in the newspapers - the last time was just before the selection for the England World Cup squad.

"As I continue to be told the investigation is meant to be confidential, I am unable to provide any further comment and shall continue to concentrate on my football."