Bees boss Andy Scott reckons Carl Cort is going to be key to his side’s chances of bettering last season’s ninth place League One finish.

The 32-year-old former Newcastle United striker finally put pen to paper on a new one-year deal with the club on Wednesday to help lead a potential play-off charge next season.

The news comes less than a week after veteran Nicky Forster agreed a sensational return to Griffin Park to bolster Brentford’s goalscoring resources.

Cort, who has long-standing knee problems, started just 17 games last season, but a tailor-made fitness regime got the best out of him towards the end of the campaign as he finished with seven strikes to his name.

Scott is confident fans will see more of the £7million frontman next season and is no doubt he will be needed.

“Carl was real benefit to us last season and although he didn’t start all games, he gave me an option to change things for particular matches,” he said.

“If we are to continue to drive the club forwards we are going to need both his experience and ability.

“I’m delighted he has decided to commit himself to the club for a further season.”