Brentford's Michael Kayode: I don't play just because I have a long throw you have to watch me'

"The 21-year-old walked towards the West Stand, the frame of the goal covered in balloons, and after wiping the ball with a towel, it was time for his trademark long throw, though on this occasion only from the edge of the D. After the ball rippled the net, pink smoke confirmed his partner, Eleonora, is expecting a girl. Given Kayode launched the ball 65.4 metres last September further than any other player in the Premier League since Opta began recording such data in 2019-20 it is hard not to think he was underselling himself."

"“I didn't want to miss,” he says, breaking into laughter, “so I just kept it easy. Family, friends, a videographer and photographer, plus the couple's pomeranian, Kiri, were the only ones present. It was a really special moment and celebrating like this was unbelievable I just have to say thanks to Brentford for giving me use of the stadium.”"

"“Significantly, there is substance to Kayode's long throw: of the 157 he has hurled into the box in the Premier League this season, 40 have resulted in a shot and five have culminated in goals, almost 10% of Brentford's goals scored tally.”"

"“It is simple. Obviously it is a weapon, but across 90 minutes, in that period the ball is out for maybe not even five minutes for throw-ins. Does he practise throw-ins? No, no, not at all.”"

Michael Kayode marked his partner Eleonora’s pregnancy with a gender reveal at an empty Gtech Community Stadium, using his long throw to trigger pink smoke confirming they are expecting a girl. The 21-year-old’s throw-in ability has measurable impact in the Premier League, with many of his long throws leading to shots and some resulting in goals. Kayode’s long throws have reached 65.4 metres, the longest by any Premier League player since Opta began tracking in 2019-20. Brentford’s set-piece approach includes hiring a specialist coach, and long throws have become a regular tactical feature. Kayode credits the weapon as part of his game while downplaying the need for extra practice.

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