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Tickets for Watford's pre-season friendly away at Stevenage on Saturday July 13 (3pm KO) will go on sale today (Friday June 21) at 12noon.
Fans can get their tickets from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 or in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Watford FC's Supporter Services team is pleased to be introducing, for the benefit of fans, an easier online user experience across the club's web-based channels: specifically relating to ticketing, the Hornets Shop and the official Watford app - which will be used to access a new Rewards scheme (more on this soon).
In order to access your ticketing account via tickets.watfordfc.com, you will need to activate your new Watford FC digital account. For more information, click HERE.
Other key information for the Stevenage friendly can be found below, including on-sale dates, the club’s Under-18s policy and more.
Off-Sale Date Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Stevenage will finish at 4pm on Friday July 12. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time. Any enquiries after 4pm on Friday July 12 relating to tickets purchased for this fixture should be taken up in person at the Away Ticket Office at the Lamex Stadium, located next to the club shop.
Ticket Prices * Adult: £15
- Adult with a disability: £12
- 60 & over: £12
- Full-time student: £12
- Defence Discount Service Card holder: £12
- NHS/Emergency Services worker: £12
- Under-18: £10
-
Under-12: £2
Coach Travel Official club coach travel is not in operation for this pre-season friendly.
Replacement Tickets Supporters who are without their tickets by Friday July 12, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking before 4pm on Friday July 12. We will arrange for replacement tickets for collection from the Away Ticket Office at the Lamex Stadium, located next to the club shop.
Under-18s Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023.
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Watford FC's Supporter Services team is pleased to be introducing, for the benefit of fans, an easier online user experience across the club's web-based channels: specifically relating to ticketing, the Hornets Shop and the official Watford app - which will be used to access a new Rewards scheme (more on this soon).
This article explains below what actions are required of supporters to activate a new online account. It would be a great time to combine this with also ensuring you've downloaded the very latest version of the club's official app.
The change sees the introduction of a new Watford FC digital account that will act as the management system for each of the listed online channels, meaning that - as part of the new offering - the same account details will be used to access tickets.watfordfc.com, shop.watfordfc.com and the official app.
By introducing this new online infrastructure, we are building the necessary foundations that will allow us to implement a new and bespoke club-wide supporter reward scheme that will be initially launched to Hornets' season ticket holders in its first phase. A pilot of the scheme will soon be live among our 5,000+-strong Junior Hornets membership.
However, there are some immediate benefits for fans to make use of.
Greater Convenience The new account will make for a smoother user experience and make purchasing tickets and club merchandise, in addition to managing your orders and account details, easier than ever before by using the same login details across the different platforms. Once logged in, users will be able to seamlessly navigate between both shop and ticketing sites.
Any changes to your personal details held within the account will also be reflected across the board, thus removing the need to update your personal details multiple times in instances such as a change of address.
More Control & Personalisation The newly-updated preference centre provides supporters with greater visibility and control to tailor their online experience. Supporters will have instant access to edit their communication preferences at any time to ensure they never miss out on the messages and club content that is most important to them.
The account also allows supporters to confirm a preferred method of communication and manage their opt-in/out status for club emails.
Action Required Firstly, before you can log into your various Watford FC platforms, all supporters are required to now create their own individual online account, with a junior account available to anyone aged 15 or under.
Click HERE and follow the sign-up process to create an official Watford FC digital account, being sure to input correct and up-to-date information. If a message appears stating the email address already exists, select the 'sign into existing account' option and follow the 'forgot password' flow. A step-by-step guide can be found HERE.
All junior accounts require an email address provided by a parent / guardian which, in turn, must be verified.
Junior accounts operate in the same way as an adult account, with some exceptions. As part of the registration process, a username will need to be created for the account. The username acts in place of the email address that would be used to log into an adult account.
Multiple junior accounts can be listed under the same parent / guardian email address, however the username must be different for each individual account.
Link Your Ticketing Account Once your account has been created, you must then link to your existing ticketing account. This step will ensure supporters can make any future ticket purchases and access any existing tickets held.
Once logged into the ticketing account for the first time using the newly-created login details, all supporters will be prompted to link their account by entering their Fan ID number: be sure to enter the correct Fan ID that is assigned to you.
Supporters without an existing Fan ID can create a new one by selecting the ‘create new’ option, however it is not advised to create a new Fan ID if you have an existing one or have used one in the past.
For any problems relating to linking accounts, please contact supporters@watfordfc.com, stating the Fan ID number being used.
More information on the new Watford FC digital account can be found HERE.
Our Supporter Services team is on hand to address any enquiries you may have in relation to setting up your new online account.
Simply email supporters@watfordfc.com, call on 01923 223023 or visit in-person at the Ticketing and Supporter Services Office at Vicarage Road Stadium. Opening hours for in-person visits are 10am to 4pm, Monday to Friday.
Club Website & Streaming Due to upcoming changes relating to the EFL's deal with Sky Sports and what this means for club streaming, video and audio streaming will remain separate from this club integration.
A brand-new official club website will be launching next week at watfordfc.com, while the club streaming service will change from the Hive Live brand to iFollow and therefore supporters who have used Hive Live previously will need to create a new iFollow login that will be separate from those used for ticketing, the club shop and app, although using the same email address is possible and indeed advised.
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Former Watford captain Robert Page has been sacked as manager of the Wales national team after three and a half years in charge.
It's been a solid start and still seven weeks left, but actual amount of money invested may be lower than Hornets fans thought.
Watford will be ball number 31 in the southern section of the Carabao Cup First Round draw next week.
At the top level of both the men's and women's game, coaches from black, Asian, minority ethnic and female backgrounds continue to be significantly underrepresented within key positions.
The FA has committed to developing more opportunities for people to gain essential experience to challenge for coaching and technical roles in football.
This season the number of placements in the Coach Placement Programme will double as investment in this critical area increases.
As part of the Coach Inclusion and Diversity Plan, a substantial number of professional clubs have partnered with the Programme, including the Hornets.
This initiative offers exciting Academy placement opportunities for coaches from historically underrepresented backgrounds.
Successful candidates will take on a part-time volunteer role within a club’s Academy.
And, through a carefully structured programme of learning and development opportunities, they will gain invaluable experience and exposure within a professional environment.
Applications are now open until Sunday June 30 and more information can be found HERE.
To apply for Watford, please download an application form HERE and return it to nicola.bandara@watfordfc.com.
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With Tom Cleverley, his staff and some of the players back at London Colney this week, it meant the new training wear was unveiled.
Watford Head Coach Tom Cleverley has welcomed players back to the training ground this week with Academy prospects and a handful of first-teamers returning after the end of season break.
The youngsters have been gaining a taste of the senior set-up while their more established team-mates have been keen to maximise their preparations before the new season.
“We’ve got first-team players that wanted to get a head start on the pre-season as well as a group of younger players, the ones we see as being really high-potential players,” Cleverley said.
“They are getting access to the first-team environment, the nutrition and the coaching staff as well.
“It’s important they familiarise themselves with that as hopefully one or two of them will be around it a lot more this year.”
Cleverley said that time with the first team was a chance for the Academy players to make their mark as he shapes his squad for the new campaign.
“Some young players have that fearless mindset where you throw them into a new environment and they take to it straight away,” he said.
“Some need a little bit of time to adapt, to become familiar and to settle in. This is just making that process a little bit easier for them.
“It’s likely only a couple will follow the first-team programme throughout the pre-season.
“It’s a chance for them to stake a claim for that.”
Cleverley knows all about the Hornets Academy after previously serving as Lead Coach of the Under-18s.
“I think we’ve got some very good potential in-house,” he said.
“I saw it first hand last season and selfishly I want those players ready to play for the first team when I need them.
“I grew up in an Academy where if you were good enough, you were old enough and that’s what I see here.
“Why look to recruit in a position we might have right under our nose?
“These players have to keep developing to become established first-team players but they have the potential and the attitude to do so.”
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With so many games being moved for live Sky coverage next season, the dates of confirmed matches chosen are going to be vital for fans.
Just who are Technocat, how did they become a regular for Watford at Vicarage Road, and why is Andrew French to thank/blame?!
In the 1-100 series, our Young Hornets choose seven numbers between 1 and 100, answering questions that correspond to each specific digit.
Next up is Zavier Massiah-Edwards.
17 – As a now famous influencer, you are able to advertise anything in the world, what do you select?
I would advertise football and make it even more popular around the world. I would show the joy and passion that comes with watching or playing the game.
**80 – You can play in any footballing side in history, which team do you choose and from what era?**
I would say the 2012 Chelsea squad that won the Champions League and then three years later won the Premier League. I would love to have played with Eden Hazard and John Terry, and been managed by Jose Mourinho.
97 – You’ve suddenly become a multi-millionaire, what is the first thing that you do with the money?
I would buy an island and put all my favourite people on it. I’d have a massive football pitch to play on, with a massive crowd including my parents watching on.
18 – You’ve been tasked with creating a boy band. Which team-mates (past or present) are you selecting to join you?
I would have Kash Odiase as the singer because I hear him in the changing room and he’s quality. I would have Hayden Barrett on drums because he likes making a lot of noise, and Prince Sikiru would be the dancer because he likes his African beats.
**45 – Who is the true GOAT in all sports and why?**
Messi is the GOAT because he does things nobody will ever be able to do again.
90 – What’s the one sport that you’ve never tried, but always fancied having a go at?
Basketball. I’m too short to play but I’m a fan of Michael Jordan and I think I’d enjoy it!
77 – What’s a fact about yourself that no-one else will know?
My middle name is Tyrone. Sometimes I get called Tyrone or T.
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Archive photos from the first peacetime meeting between Watford and Arsenal in a testimonial friendly played in April 1964.
We've selected five photographs from Hornets history, now can you answer a question about each?
It seems that half of Championship clubs have yet to sign a new player this summer, but Burnley have spent around €30m to keep two former loanees.
UEFA have handed the defender an extended ban for his red card against Germany which rules him out of both Scotland’s remaining Euro 2024 group games.
Several players from the Watford FC Academy, alongside a handful of first-teamers returning early, were at London Colney today for their first training session ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Check out some of the best pictures below:
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Just having Giorgi Chakvetadze and Ryan Porteous representing playing at the Euro 2024 finals will earn Watford more than £250,000.
Both Yaser Asprilla and Ismael Kone have had their places confirmed at the Copa America, which starts later this week.
It was a year ago today – June 15, 2023 – that Watford owner Gino Pozzo and chairman Scott Duxbury met with fans at the club’s London Colney training ground.
The FA have announced dates for each round of the 2024-25 competition, and there is a slight change to when the Third Round takes place.
With current Hornets Ryan Porteous and Giorgi Chakvetadze set to feature at Euro 2024, we've taken a look at some former Golden Boys who have also made their national squads for the tournament.
Andreas Weimann - Austria The Austrian attacker signed on loan for the Hornets from Aston Villa in 2011.
Weimann played 18 times in total during the second half of the season, scoring four goals for the Golden Boys.
He went back to his parent club and gained a new contract with the Villans, but shortly afterwards was back in a Watford shirt for his second loan spell.
This time he managed just three appearances before an unfortunate injury cut his loan short and he returned to Villa for recovery.
After leaving Villa in 2015, Weimann went on to play for Derby County, Wolves and Bristol City and he spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at West Bromwich Albion.
Currently unattached after leaving Bristol City at the expiry of his contract, Weimann has 24 caps for Austria and has scored twice.
Nathan Aké – Netherlands The former Chelsea youngster joined the Hornets on a season-long loan after promotion to the Premier League in 2015.
A successful spell under Quique Sánchez Flores followed, which saw him appear 24 times, predominantly as a left-back.
His first senior goal came in an emphatic 3-0 victory at home to Liverpool when he latched onto a goalkeeping error.
The following season Aké went on loan to AFC Bournemouth where he made 10 appearances and persuaded manager Eddie Howe to bring him in permanently as their then club record signing.
After more than 100 appearances for the Cherries, Aké signed for Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City in the summer of 2020 where he remains to this day, having won multiple trophies for the Sky Blues.
He has made 45 caps for the Netherlands, scoring five times.
Dodi Lukebakio - Belgium Before Dodi Lukebakio signed for the Hornets, the Belgian winger came through the Academy at Anderlecht.
The next step in his career was a loan to French side Toulouse but due to a lack of appearances, he made his way back to his parent club after six months.
The following season saw another loan spell to fellow Belgian side Charleroi, and after 19 appearances in the first half of the season he then made the switch across the water to the Hornets.
After six months, the Belgian had only made one appearance for Watford in an away fixture against West Ham United.
He went on to play for Fortuna Düsseldorf, Hertha Berlin and VfL Wolfsburg in Germany, before joining current club Sevilla in 2023.
Lukebakio has earned 15 caps for Belgium, scoring twice.
Juraj Kucka - Slovakia Slovak midfielder Juraj Kucka joined the Hornets on loan from Parma for the 2021/22 season but it was in 2005 when he started his senior career at ŽP Šport Podbrezová.
He later turned out for Ružomberok, Sparta Prague and Genoa before a big move to AC Milan in 2015.
Kucka remained at the San Siro for two years, playing more than 50 times, before heading to Turkey to play for Trabzonspor and then returning to Italy with Parma.
His first season in the Premier League would see him play 26 times and score once for the Golden Boys, away at Everton in the emphatic 5-2 win at Goodison Park.
Following Kucka’s departure from Watford, he signed a contract with Slovakian champions Slovan Bratislava where he still plays.
His 107 caps for Slovakia is the third most for any player from the country, while he has scored 14 times.
Rey Manaj – Albania Albania-born Rey Manaj started his career in Italy with Cremonese, where he managed to rack up 22 appearances at the age of 17.
Inter Milan soon arrived on the scene to sign him on a five-year deal, but he found appearances at the club limited and went on loan to Pescara, Pisa and Granada.
After playing in Spain with Albacete, Manaj was given a chance with Barcelona B and was named as an unused substitute for the first team.
He would move from the Catalan giants to the Hornets in 2022, where he would make six appearances with one goal during an injury-hit spell.
Manaj moved on to Sivasspor in Turkey and boasts 33 caps and seven goals for Albania.
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Charlie Daniels and Dan Gosling will play "the odd game here and there" for non-league Westfield next season.
For more than a year, the Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline has been proud to collaborate with Watford Football Club and our Community Sports & Education Trust.
This partnership represents a significant step forward in addressing and combating domestic abuse within the local community.
The collaboration has involved a series of educational and awareness initiatives, benefiting the Watford FC community including coaches, staff and players.
As part of the ongoing efforts, the Helpline delivered specialised education and awareness sessions to Watford Women during the "16 Days of Action" campaign.
This initiative, aimed at eradicating violence against women and girls, was instrumental in equipping the team with the knowledge and tools to recognise and respond to domestic abuse.
Additionally, through webinars and virtual training sessions provided to staff from across the Club and Trust, we have been able to engage with a wider audience within the Watford FC community.
These sessions covered a range of topics, from identifying the different types of domestic abuse by understanding the signs, to learning how to offer support to those affected.
The partnership is particularly significant in the context of football, a sport that holds substantial influence and visibility.
By addressing domestic abuse openly, we aim to break the stigma and silence that often surrounds this issue, encouraging more victims to seek help.
“For the Watford FC community, this collaboration underscores a commitment to the well-being and safety of everyone involved with the club,” said Helpline Manager Hayley Star.
“By integrating domestic abuse awareness into the club's culture, Watford FC is setting a powerful example for other sports organisations.
“Coaches, staff and players are not only being educated but are also becoming advocates for change, fostering a supportive and informed environment.”
Dave Messenger, the club's Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Lead, added: “We’re fully aware of the role we can play in highlighting domestic abuse, as well as signposting staff and supporters to the most appropriate resources.
“Our collaboration with the Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline matters and we’re fully committed to continuing our focus on this issue and the essential service the Helpline provides.”
Domestic Abuse In The UK: A Statistical Overview Domestic abuse is a pervasive issue in the UK.
According to the Office for National Statistics, the Crime Survey for England and Wales estimated that 2.1 million people aged 16 years and over (1.4 million women and 751,000 men) experienced domestic abuse in the year ending March 2023.
These figures highlight the widespread nature of the problem and the urgent need for comprehensive support and intervention services.
Male victims of domestic abuse often face additional challenges, including societal stigma and a lack of tailored resources.
It is crucial to recognise that domestic abuse affects individuals of all genders and to provide inclusive support services.
Did You Know? Research has indicated a correlation between major football tournaments and a rise in domestic abuse incidents.
For instance, during the 2018 World Cup, reports of domestic abuse incidents increased by 26 per cent when the England team played.
On the eve of Euro 2024 there is a need to ensure people are aware of the potential signs of domestic abuse and where to go to report it or seek help.
Clubs that engage in domestic abuse awareness campaigns often see a positive impact, with increased reporting and support-seeking behaviours among their communities.
Through this partnership we hope to continue to tackle the fight against domestic abuse, fostering a community of awareness, support and proactive intervention.
Together, we can make a difference.
Get In Touch The Herts Domestic Abuse Helpline is dedicated to providing support and signposting options and resources to those affected by domestic abuse.
If you or someone you know needs help, please visit our website HERE or call our helpline at 08 088 088 088.
Our helpline is open from 9am to 9pm on weekdays and from 9am to 4pm on weekends.
You can also email us at kim@mailpurple.org for support seven days a week.
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The much-anticipated game with Scottish Premier League side Hibs has been added to Watford’s pre-season fixture list.
Watford will travel to Scottish Premiership side Hibernian for a pre-season friendly ahead of the 2024/25 campaign, the club confirms.
The Hornets will visit the Edinburgh outfit's Easter Road ground on Wednesday July 24, with a 7pm kick-off.
Hibs finished eighth in the league last season and are now led by new Head Coach David Gray.
Ticket details for the clash north of the border will be announced in due course.
Tom Cleverley's side now have seven pre-season fixtures confirmed, which are as follows:
• Saturday July 6, 11am: Reading (h) – Watford Training Ground (Behind Closed Doors)
• Wednesday July 10, 7.30pm: Boreham Wood (a) – Meadow Park
• Saturday July 13, 3pm: Stevenage (a) – Lamex Stadium
• Saturday July 20, 3pm: Gillingham (a) – Priestfield Stadium
• Wednesday July 24, 7pm: Hibernian (a) – Easter Road
• Tuesday July 30, 7.30pm: Wycombe Wanderers (a) – Adams Park
• Saturday August 3, 3pm: Brentford (h) – Vicarage Road
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Gianluca Nani has taken on a new job title with a wider remit that will see him working for both Watford and Udinese.
Watford Sporting Director Gian Luca Nani will immediately assume the role of Group Technical Director across both the Hornets and Italian Serie A side Udinese Calcio.
This broadening of Nani's role comes after he rejoined Watford during last season.
Udinese will at the same time confirm a further addition to their technical staff.
Nani first arrived at Vicarage Road in summer 2012 for a two-year spell as Technical Director, when the Pozzo family bought Watford Football Club.
His new wider remit will commence immediately.
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A look back to when Northern Ireland legend Pat Jennings left Watford for Tottenham Hotspur in June 1964 to mark his 79th birthday.
Trips to the likes of Kings Langley and Chesham united await for Charlie Daniels and his new assistant Dan Gosling.
In the This Or That series, the players and staff of Watford FC Women pick between two options and explain their choices, from films to food to favourite players! Taking on the questions this time is Harley Bennett.
Haaland or Mbappe?
Haaland. Top goalscorer last season, breaking records, it has to be him.
Promotion or Conti Cup?
Promotion, as it’s over the whole season so it means more.
Nike or Adidas?
Nike. Don’t even need to think about it, they do better stuff!
Beach or city holiday?
It’s a tough one because I don’t really like the beach, but I don’t mind sunbathing! I’ll say city break.
Current music or old school?
Old school all day long. Can’t beat 80s music!
**Local away day or overnight stay?**
Overnight stay, for the team bonding.
Sarina Wiegman or Emma Hayes?
That’s tough! I’ll say Sarina because I think I’d play better under her; she manages individuals well.
Instagram or TikTok?
Instagram for me, but I have both.
Champions League or World Cup?
World Cup; you see the underdogs do well and it feels more special.
Spotify or Apple Music?
I used to have Apple Music but I’d go with Spotify.
Night out or night in?
Night in for me, I’m getting old!
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Runners, climbers and walkers raised more than £8,000 for West Herts Hospitals Charity and Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust after taking part in an epic stair climbing challenge at Vicarage Road.
The event saw participants running and walking their way up and down the stands of the stadium to raise vital funds.
Hornets goalkeeper and club captain Daniel Bachmann – an ambassador for the hospital charity – cheered on from the sidelines as around 150 participants took part in the challenge, which included a shorter route option too!
The first to cross the finish line in the under-18s category was eight-year-old Leo from Dunstable.
“We are extremely proud of Leo winning the Step Up challenge and raising money for a good cause, that will benefit the local community,” said Leo’s mum Tara.
Mima Moore, 23, from Watford, won the adults’ challenge.
“I didn’t expect to win as I only signed up on the day but it was a fantastic feeling when I completed the challenge and crossed the finish in first place,” she said.
“Plus, Dan Bachmann was there to greet me at the finish line so that was an added bonus!”
The event was supported by AMYA UK – the Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association.
West Herts Hospitals Charity CEO Alison Rosen said: “I am delighted so many people came along to support both West Herts Hospitals Charity and Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust.
“The energy and enthusiasm from everyone, including the children, was incredible. It’s so great to see our local community come together.
“Huge thanks to our sponsors and to our ambassador Daniel Bachmann for opening the event and cheering on all our participants all morning.
“I personally joined the Step Up challenge with my daughter and grandson, and it was a lovely surprise when my daughter Mima won the adults’ race!”
Special prizes were awarded to the first 10 participants to cross the finish line and the top 10 fundraisers.
Winners received a copy of Watford Forever and the top fundraisers were also treated to a tour of the dressing rooms.
The event was sponsored by Anytime Fitness clubs in Croxley Park and Bushey, and CMR Surgical, a supplier of surgical robots to the Trust.
A warm-up session at the stadium was held by Anytime Fitness before the challenge began.Participants received goody bags with gym passes from Anytime Fitness, products from Lush in Watford and more.
Local supermarkets including Morrisons and Tesco Extra in Watford, and Tesco in Rickmansworth and Maylands, donated water and cereal bars for those involved.
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Watford Under 21s have confirmed their fixtures for pre-season which will prepare them for the 2024/25 campaign.
Charlie Daniels’ side will first travel to AFC Dunstable on Tuesday July 9, with the clash against the Southern League Division One Central outfit kicking-off at 7.45pm.
They will then visit opponents in the same division with a friendly against Kings Langley on Tuesday July 16, this time with a 7.30pm kick-off.
Next up will be a trip to Bedford Town on Saturday July 27 with a 3pm kick-off, which will see the young Hornets take on a team recently promoted to the Southern League Premier Division Central through the play-offs.
This will be followed with a visit to Chesham United – the Southern League Premier Division South champions – on Tuesday July 30.
It will be a 7.45pm kick-off against a side preparing for life in the National League South in the new season.
Daniels’ men will then round-off pre-season with a trip to Isthmian League Premier Division side Wingate & Finchley, with a 3pm kick-off on Saturday August 3.
Confirmed Under-21 friendlies:
Tuesday July 9, 7.45pm: AFC Dunstable (A)
Tuesday July 16, 7.30pm: Kings Langley (A)
Saturday July 27, 3pm: Bedford Town (A)
Tuesday July 30, 7.45pm: Chesham United (A)
Saturday August 3, 3pm: Wingate & Finchley (A)
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Contrary to reports, sporting director Gianluca Nani will not be leaving Watford to take up a job at Udinese.
Archive photos from when Watford completed a Christmas home-and-away league double against Luton Town in the 1960s.
Relegation and promotion means Hornets fans who go to every away game will probably spend about two hours less travelling.
Tickets for Watford's pre-season friendly away at Gillingham on Saturday July 20 (3pm KO) arenow on general sale.
This fixture will be taking place at the Gills' Priestfield Stadium.
Tickets are available for purchase on the Sky Bet League Two club's website HERE, with prices as follows:
Adult: £14
OAP: £11
Young Adult (18-23): £8
Under-18: £6
Under-14: £4
All tickets are downloadable either through eTicket or Apple/Android wallet, and will be on sale until 15 minutes after kick-off.
Information regarding ticket sales for the Hornets’ other pre-season fixtures will be available in due course.
The following games have so far been confirmed:
• Saturday July 6, 11am: Reading (h) – Watford Training Ground (Behind Closed Doors)
• Wednesday July 10, 7.30pm: Boreham Wood (a) – Meadow Park
• Saturday July 13, 3pm: Stevenage (a) – Lamex Stadium
• Saturday July 20, 3pm: Gillingham (a) – Priestfield Stadium
• Tuesday July 30, 7.30pm: Wycombe Wanderers (a) – Adams Park
• Saturday August 3, 3pm: Brentford (h) – Vicarage Road
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Ryan Porteous and Giorgi Chakvetadze have been in action in international friendlies over the past week, which meant both Hornets players gained vital minutes in the lead up to their Euro 2024 campaigns.
Scotland faced Gibraltar on June 3 in Faro in Portugal, where Porteous had a helping hand in their 2-0 victory after playing 90 minutes in the Scottish defence. The goals were scored in the second half by Ryan Christie and Ché Adams.
Steve Clarke's side then played a second friendly on Friday, facing Finland at Hampden Park. Porteous was an unused substitute for the game which ended 2-2 after a late comeback from the Finns.
An own goal from Finland defender Arttu Hoskonen and a strike by Lawrence Shankland saw Scotland claim a 2-0 lead, but Benjamin Källman and an Oliver Antman penalty levelled the game.
Porteous will be looking to play a big part in Scotland’s Euro 2024 campaign, which begins on Friday (8pm KO) when they face tournament hosts Germany at the Allianz Arena in Munich.
Scotland will then play their second Group A game against Switzerland, at the RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne on June 19.
Their final game in the group stages will see them face Hungary on June 23 at the MHPArena in Stuttgart, as they hope to make it through to the knockout stages.
Meanwhile, Chakvetadze played 66 minutes in the heart of midfield in Georgia's friendly in Montenegro yesterday.
His side gained a valuable 3-1 win over their hosts thanks to first-half goals from Otar Kiteishvilli, Georges Mikautadze and Budu Zivzivadze.
Georgia will be looking for success in the first major tournament in the country's history, with their first Group F fixture coming against Turkey at the famous Signal Iduna Park in Dortmund on June 18.
Chakvetadze's side will then face Czech Republic at the Volksparkstadion in Hamburg on June 22.
The team's final Group F fixture will be against Portugal at the Veltins-Arena in Gelsenkirchen on June 26.
We wish both Ryan and Giorgi the best of luck at the Euros!
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Ismael Kone was given Canada’s Performance of the Match in the 0-0 draw against the world champions in Bordeaux last night.
Members of the Hornets squad talk us through their careers so far, in their own words.
This time, it's James Morris...
Southampton Beginning I grew up in Fareham in Hampshire which is close to Portsmouth, and I was the only Southampton fan in my school. I was known as the ‘Saints fan’. I think a lot of people just knew me as that and I also played for them as I joined Southampton when I was nine. I quite liked it, I took all the stick and also gave it back as Southampton were doing a lot better than Portsmouth at the time!
Before joining the Southampton Academy, I was playing for my local Sunday League side. A scout approached my mum and dad and asked if I wanted to come down for a trial. As I supported them at the time, and my whole family supported them, it was obviously a big thing for me. I did well at the trial and was signed, and I stayed there for 10 years until I was 19 which is a long time.
I was scouted as a winger but at Southampton I was moved to left-back and I’ve stayed there ever since. When I first joined we were only playing seven or eight-a-side so I didn’t start out as an actual full-back, but the coaches there did put me into the defence. When we started playing 11-a-side I was put to the side of the centre backs into the traditional full-back role.
When I joined Southampton the first team had been down in League One, so I saw things progress as the club climbed up to the Premier League and the facilities got better and better. In the 2015/16 season, the club finished sixth in the Premier League so I experienced a steady rise. It was an amazing training ground and they had great staff and great players.
I remember the year I joined, the under-18s team had players like James Ward-Prowse, Luke Shaw, Callum Chambers and Jack Stephens, so this was obviously a great age group for me to look up to. That’s one of my biggest memories, the players above me.
Watford Switch I was released by Southampton when I was 19 and in the pre-season that summer, I received a phone call from Watford inviting me to a trial. Obviously, this was a great opportunity so I jumped at the chance.
During the trial, I luckily came on as a substitute in a friendly against West Bromwich Albion at Vicarage Road. Adam Masina was injured after around five minutes, and it meant I had the opportunity to come on and impress.
This was my first ever experience of any type of first-team football, so I think coming on unexpectedly almost helped as I was thrown in at the deep end and it was sink or swim. I didn’t have time to be nervous, it was just ‘you’re on’ and then all of a sudden I was playing.
I think being released is a good thing to go through. It has helped me as you learn how to deal with setbacks.
Nobody is going to have it easy throughout their footballing career and it cannot just be plain sailing, so to have a setback at a young age is only going to benefit you in the long run.
Happily, Watford signed me after the trial and it’s been good ever since.
Hornets Progression Although I made my debut for Watford against Leicester City in the third round of the FA Cup during my first season with the club, I mainly played with the under-21s after signing in 2021.
It was only really at the beginning of the 2022/23 season, when Slaven Bilić came in, that I was moved permanently over to the first team. My debut against Leicester was under their former manager Claudio Ranieri and I remember him coming up to me the day before to tell me I was going to play.
I had been with the first team but this was my first competitive game so it was a big thing for me.
As a young kid you are always watching games on TV and then all of a sudden you are involved in one, so it was a bit surreal! Unfortunately we lost the game 4-1, but it was a great experience and I played the full 90 minutes - I thought I did well.
Since then I’ve racked up a few first team appearances and I always want to play more and more.
In April 2023 I signed a new three-year deal with the option for a further year. As a player it’s always nice if you are doing well to be rewarded with a new contract, and it’s also nice to know that I can be settled here. I’ve enjoyed every minute I have been here with the staff, players and fans, and I’ve felt a really good connection since I’ve been here.
I think I’ve played under eight managers in my three years here which can be a good thing, as I have learnt different styles of play and different tactics.
At such a young age I think that can only benefit me. I can’t see it hindering me as I have learnt different things from all of the different managers. I can combine all of that and it has helped me become the player I am today.
Replay Return In February, I started the FA Cup third round replay with Southampton at St Mary’s, which I admit did feel a bit weird. I have played there a few times with under-18s teams, but never with fans in the stadium.
Despite our 3-0 defeat it was a nice experience to go back to the club I have always supported but also the club I got released from, to be able to say “I’ve managed to do alright since I’ve come away from here”.
I managed to get my mum and dad into the away end, even though my dad is a massive Saints supporter! I had family and friends dotted all around the ground which was nice to see, and I went on to play in the Championship game at St Mary's too.
Next season I would like to kick on, play more than this season, win more games and hopefully try to get this team back into the Premier League.
Competition for places is always good and I don’t think you are ever going to be completely comfortable in football. It helps you as you always want to improve and keep moving forward.
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Clubs in the Football League will now be required to produce and deliver a Fan Engagement Plan from the 2024/25 season onwards.
James Garrett looks at the different parts of the world where past and present Watford players and managers have originated from. This time, it's Czechoslovakia...
Juraj Kucka
Tamás Priskin
Daniel Pudil
Matěj Vydra
Technically, four players who have played for the Hornets were born in Czechoslovakia before the country’s official dissolution in 1992. However, between them they played international football for three different countries.
Tamás Priskin was only 19 years old when he signed for the club in the summer of 2006 from Hungarian side Gyori ETO. He was born in the border town of Komarno in modern day Slovakia, to Hungarian parents.
It was a tall ask for the striker, joining the club as they prepared for an unexpected season in the Premier League following a remarkable rookie campaign for manager Adrian Boothroyd.
Priskin made his debut on the first day of the season away to Everton off the bench, and despite a couple of strikes towards the end of the season, it proved to be a difficult start to his career in England.
His struggles continued into the following season, but Priskin looked every bit the Hungarian international he had become when Watford hosted Chelsea in an FA Cup fifth round match in early 2009, with thr striker putting the Hornets 1-0 up after an hour.
We only saw glimpses of Priskin’s best form as he joined fellow Championship side Ipswich in August 2009 for nearly £2 million, and went on to play over 60 times for Hungary during his career.
Juraj Kucka was also born in the Slovakian region and has gone on to have a successful playing career in Italy and for the Slovakia national team. When the Hornets signed him the summer of 2021 as a combative midfielder it looked initially like he would be a force in the Premier League.
His first performance against Aston Villa gave supporters the early belief that the team would be comfortable once again in the top tier. An imperious header away to Everton in October helped the Hornets to a famous 5-2 win but then the wheels fell off both the team and Kucka’s form.
Perhaps his age of 34 didn’t help with the extreme pace of Premier League football and he returned to Slovakia at the end of the season.
There can be no doubting the club’s greatest player from the region, and surely one of the best strikers to have played at The Vic. When Matěj Vydra signed on loan from Udinese in 2012 – at the same time as fellow Czech Republic native Daniel Pudil – he was an unknown 20-year-old, but he pretty quickly became a Watford hero and was voted Championship Player of the Year.
After scoring on his debut at Crystal Palace, he never looked back. The Czech formed one of the best strike partnerships in the club’s history with Troy Deeney. An excellent finisher who could score goals from anywhere, he was particularly deadly at making runs to get in behind defences to score.
That season, He formed one of the best strike partnerships in the club’s history with Troy Deeney. An excellent finisher who could score goals from anywhere, he was particularly deadly at making runs to get in behind defences to score.
His best goal for the club is generally forgotten in a game that is otherwise famous for that Deeney goal. ydra scored an outrageous left-footed volley from the corner of the penalty area to bring Watford level on aggregate, kickstarting the series of events that resulted in the greatest ending.
After season on loan in the Premier League with West Brom in the Premier League, he returned to The Vic on loan again at the start of the 2014/15 campaign. Despite some fantastic moments, and scoring 16 goals, he played a slightly smaller role due to new signing Odion Ighalo’s impressive partnership with Deeney.
However, he will always go back in Watford history for his wonderful strike on a glorious spring day at Brighton in the 95th minute, confirming three points a couple of hours before promotion back to the Premier League was confirmed thanks to results elsewhere.
It was slightly ironic that it was only that summer that Vydra finally signed permanently, but just a matter of weeks later agreed a year-long loan move to Reading. He then had spells at Derby and Burnley before returning last year to the Czech Republic to play for Viktoria Plzen.
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Watford FC is delighted to confirm the appointment of Alberto Garrido to the position of First Team Coach.
The 48-year-old joins from his role as Assistant Head Coach at Real Madrid Castilla, where he worked for more than 15 years in the reserve team for one of the most recognisable, and successful, clubs in the world.
He is the latest addition to Head Coach Tom Cleverley's backroom team, which also includes Assistant Head Coach Damon Lathrope and First Team Development Coach Armand Kavaja.
Garrido's position at Real Madrid Castilla saw him work closely with the prestigious club's younger players, helping them evolve to the point where they could effortlessly fit into the first team's winning setup.
Starting in 2008, he played a big part in the development of Martin Ødegaard, Achraf Hakimi, Dani Carvajal, and recent Champions League-winning captain Nacho.
Players such as Vinícius Júnior and Rodrygo also featured for the B team during his stint.
The Spaniard worked alongside Zinedine Zidane for two years when the Frenchman was at Castilla's helm, and he was most recently assistant to another Real Madrid legend in Raúl.
On the appointment, Cleverley said: "Alberto brings a wealth of coaching experience and has a real knowledge of how to develop top young players.
"We are trying to rebuild a winning culture around the club again and he comes from the most successful culture in world football."
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Every Watford who was at Wembley to watch the Play-Off Final victory over Bolton Wanderers 25 years ago will have their own memories of that very special day, but for some supporters they are much more personal and poignant than others.
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of Watford’s Play-Off Final victory over Bolton Wanderers on Friday, we asked fans for their memories of one of the greatest days in Hornets’ history.
Trio of Hornets bidding to secure a place in their national squads for the upcoming Copa America finals next month.
**In the build-up to the 25-year anniversary of Watford's 2-0 play-off final victory over Bolton Wanderers on May 31, we will be reproducing some of Mike Walters' Party Like It's 1999 articles which have appeared in this season's matchday programme.**
Mike looks back on the key individuals from the squad which secured promotion to the Premier League. This time, it's Allan Smart...
Three straight wins for starters followed by three consecutive defeats. Would the real Watford please stand up?
The mini-slump included a 2-0 defeat at Huddersfield, with former Hornets striker Wayne Allison among the scorers, and next up at The Vic was a local derby with QPR.
After Keith Millen's early goal had been cancelled out by Steve Slade's second-half equaliser for Rangers, Watford banked the first dividend on their £250,000 investment on Carlisle strikers Allan Smart and Nick Wright.
Smart popped up at the far post to hook Nigel Gibbs' cross into the roof of the net just four minutes from time, and the Hornets were deservedly back to winning ways.
Graham Taylor's decision to go shopping in deepest Cumbria had raised eyebrows – Wright and Smart were, frankly, not the names on everyone's lips over the summer.
But the Golden Boys messiah often signed forwards who had given Watford a hard time, Sunderland's Colin West and Tottenham's Mark Falco being two examples in the 1980s.
Taylor had been impressed by Wright and Smart's movement in the Hornets' laboured 2-1 win against Carlisle the previous season, and he was convinced they were equipped to prosper in the second tier.
It turned out to be the best quarter of a million quid he ever spent.
They knew all about fairytale finishes in Carlisle, after goalkeeper Jimmy Glass had kept the Cumbrians in the Football League with his far-fetched injury time winner on the last day of term the previous year, but nobody could have envisaged the impact of GT's double deal.
Smart had been about to sign for Northampton when his Carlisle chairman Michael Knighton (of ball-juggling fame in front of the Stretford End at Old Trafford) told him Watford were offering him a trial with a view to signing him.
With 24 goals in 79 appearances for Preston and Carlisle, Smart – then aged 24 – was intrigued by Taylor's interest. And he was startled when the great man skipped the trial and delivered this opening gambit in their first conversation: “Do you want a three or four-year contract?”
He was even more impressed when Taylor sent him a telegram on his wedding day, with a gift voucher on behalf of Watford. He returned from his honeymoon to find voicemails from the Hornets boss assuring him he would have a big part to play in Watford's season. Not for the first time, Taylor's words proved stunningly prophetic.
“I remember my debut at Portsmouth, and I didn’t feel it had gone well,” Smart told the Watford Legends website.
“But Graham Taylor spoke to me on the Monday morning, and explained that I was here not just for one game but for a few years, and just to enjoy the football.
“After that I went on something of a scoring run, starting with the winner at home to QPR in the last few minutes.”
The fans warmed to Smart, especially after that poacher's goal in the nearest thing to a local derby in the 1998/99 campaign, although it remains unclear why the chant about him being wonderful was qualified by the clause “even though he comes from Scotland”.
When promotion was sealed, in glorious shades of yellow and red, at Wembley, the Independent's Phil Shaw observed Watford's triumph had been built on the two forwards Taylor “all but stole from Carlisle”.
And we all remember Smart's tearful celebration when the clinching goal against Bolton arrowed into the bottom corner.
If he was not the most prolific Watford striker of modern times, Smart retains a special place in the affections of this parish because although his goals may not have been plentiful, they were often significant.
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Coldplay frontman Chris Martin sang one-off track Orange for Luton Town FC after calls to change Yellow lyrics.
Watford’s Under-15s made it back-to-back victories at the Camon International Tournament as they retained the trophy the club won last year in France.
The young Hornets defeated Crossing Schaerbeek of Belgium 2-0 in the final.
French amateur club US Camon hosted the event which also included teams from Albania and Romania.
Congratulations, lads!
Photo credits: Audrey M.Lou & J.Marwan.
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This Friday is 25 years to the day since Watford beat Bolton in the Play-Off Final at Wembley, and we're celebrating with five days of special content.
Club photographer Alan Cozzi, who has worked for Watford for more than 40 years, picks his favourites photographs from Wembley 1999.
Having worked alongside Slaven Bilic at Vicarage Road, Julian Dicks has been appointed manager of Heybridge Swifts for the third time.
The benefits of Udinese staying in Serie A, thanks to a Keinan Davis goal, outweigh the perceived comedy value of a Pozzo relegation.
The Golden Boys reveal some of the footballing firsts from throughout their career.
This time, it's Yáser Asprilla...
**First game you watched live?**
The first game I saw was Envigado, the team I played for in Colombia after coming through the youth ranks there, against Nacional. It ended in a 2-1 defeat.
First football boots?
My first pair were Nike Mercurial boots, just like Cristiano Ronaldo!
First football kit?
I remember having an Envigado kit – everything back then was always Envigado!
**First professional game?**
My first game was for Envigado against Medellín, which ended in a 4-1 defeat.
First professional goal?
I will talk about my first goal for Colombia! It was against Guatemala. I received the ball outside, cut into the middle and shot across into the far corner.
First red card?
I have never had a red card in my career, only yellows. My first yellow card was for a handball.
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Watford will predominantly play with a formation of 3-4-2-1 or 3-4-1-2 and are recruiting players with that in mind.
Watford legend Lloyd Doyley will be assistant Under-18s coach alongside new lead coach Matt Bevans, while Dan Gosling will work with the Under-21s.
Watford FC is delighted to confirm three new coaching appointments within the club’s Academy ahead of the 2024/25 season.
Hornets legend Lloyd Doyley returns as Under-18 Assistant Coach, supporting new Under-18 Lead Coach Matt Bevans, who has most recently served as Watford FC Women’s Interim Head Coach.
Dan Gosling – another ex-Hornet – takes up the Under-21 Assistant Coach position, working alongside former Bournemouth teammate Charlie Daniels, who has been Watford’s Under-21 Lead Coach since the start of the 2023/24 campaign.
On the new appointments, Academy Director Richard Johnson said: “With Tom Cleverley and Armand Kavaja jumping up to the first team, it left a few positions free and I couldn’t be more pleased in terms of the calibre of coaches we’re getting in.
“I’m sure the Watford fans will also be pleased to see some popular former players returning to the club.”
Needing no introduction to supporters, Doyley came through the club’s youth ranks before making his professional debut in 2001. His 443 outings – the last of which came in 2014 – place him fifth in the club’s all-time appearance rankings.
Since hanging up his playing boots, the former right-back has been part of the coaching staff at Boreham Wood.
Another graduate of the club’s Academy, new Under-18 Lead Coach Bevans was himself a scholar from 2010 until 2013. After leaving Watford he embarked on a playing career with the likes of Oxford United and Farnborough.
With previous experience coaching the Hornets’ Under-16s, Bevans was appointed Watford FC Women’s Assistant Coach two years ago and took caretaker charge of the Golden Girls during the closing weeks of 2023/24.
Johnson said: “The fans will remember Lloyd fondly. He was a young lad coming through when I was playing here, so to see him back involved in a coaching capacity is fantastic. He’s had some good experiences at Boreham Wood and doing his own private coaching, and to have him around the club again will give a boost to everybody. He’s a great character and a great person.
“It’s also great to have Matt back on board. He’s a very talented coach and he knows a lot of the players within the Under-18 group, so it will be a seamless transition. He did a fantastic job with the Under-16s and the women’s team and he understands the club, having come through as a Watford lad. To have that connection is fantastic for us.”
Gosling joins the Under-21 setup having featured 37 times during two-and-a-half years at Watford. The former Everton, Newcastle United and Bournemouth midfielder left Vicarage Road in the summer of 2023 and spent part of last season in League Two with Notts County.
He now returns to the club in a coaching capacity, having called time on his playing career.
Johnson said: “We’ve supported Dan through his A Licence and he did a bit of coaching with us during the season that’s just finished, so it’s brilliant to have him back.
“He’s made the decision to retire and get involved with coaching full-time, so it’s a great coup for us. He’s played at the club and he understands the club, and we’re very lucky to have him.”
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Midfielder Jake Livermore and goalkeeper Ban Hamer leave the club, while Ngakia's stay at Vicarage Road has been extended.
Jeremy Ngakia has signed a new three-year contract at Watford – with the club holding the option to exercise a further 12 months.
The Hornets have said farewell to a trio of first-team players, with their deals ending on June 30.
Experienced duo Jake Livermore and Ben Hamer are leaving, with the Hornets extending warmest thanks and best wishes for their future career pursuits.
Also departing after a series of loan spells away from Vicarage Road will be striker Ashley Fletcher. The club wishes him well, too.
Player updates from inside the Academy can be expected to follow soon.
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Plans for the Hornets’ 2024/25 pre-season schedule are well underway, with six friendlies confirmed so far as Tom Cleverley prepares his squad for the new Sky Bet Championship campaign.
Read on for a breakdown of each match, with additions to the schedule likely and all fixtures subject to change.
The Hornets will begin their pre-season with an opening friendly fixture against Sky Bet League One side Reading.
This will take place behind closed doors at the Watford FC Training Ground on Saturday July 6 (11am KO).
The first pre-season fixture open to the public will be played soon after, with the Golden Boys making the short trip to Meadow Park to face National League South outfit Boreham Wood on Wednesday July 10 (7.30pm KO).
This fixture will see Cleverley come up against a former Watford team-mate in the dugout, with Ross Jenkins recently taking over as the Wood's manager.
The Hornets’ next match sees them back on the road to face another Hertfordshire outfit as they travel to play Stevenage of League One at the Lamex Stadium on Saturday July 13 (3pm KO).
There will then be a trip to Priestfield Stadium to play Gillingham on Saturday July 20 (3pm KO), setting up a reunion with club legend Kenny Jackett who works as the League Two side's Director of Football.
A midweek trip to Buckinghamshire follows this, with the Golden Boys squaring off against League One side Wycombe Wanderers at Adams Park on Tuesday July 30 (7.30pm KO).
Pre-season will then be rounded off with a game against Premier League Brentford at Vicarage Road as preparations ramp up before the return of Championship action the following weekend.
Watford players and fans alike will make their return to The Vic on Saturday August 3 (3pm KO) to see the Hornets take on the Bees.
Ticket information for the clashes open to supporters will be confirmed in due course.
Selected friendlies will be available to stream at watfordfc.com via iFollow – which is replacing Hive Live as the club’s streaming service – with more details to be announced in the near future.
Friendly schedule - subject to change, with additions likely:
• Saturday July 6, 11am: Reading (h) – Watford Training Ground (Behind Closed Doors)
• Wednesday July 10, 7.30pm: Boreham Wood (a) – Meadow Park
• Saturday July 13, 3pm: Stevenage (a) – Lamex Stadium
• Saturday July 20, 3pm: Gillingham (a) – Priestfield Stadium
• Tuesday July 30, 7.30pm: Wycombe Wanderers (a) – Adams Park
• Saturday August 3, 3pm: Brentford (h) – Vicarage Road
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Games again Reading, Boreham Wood, Stevenage, Gillingham and Wycombe Wanderers before a home friendly against Brentford.
The defender joins Georgia's Giorgi Chakvetdaze as being Watford's representatives in this summer's finals in Germany.
At Watford’s Academy, thoughts rarely stray from how players can be improved and how they can make the first team.
With coaches working in close proximity, it leads to long and detailed discussions about the young hopefuls who are under the club’s wing.
“We’re always in dialogue every single day, for hours, about who’s doing well and who needs improving,” said Under-21s Lead Coach Charlie Daniels to watfordfc.com.
“What’s going on, how do we improve this player, what do we need to do?
“We try to plan two or three games ahead, and try to predict who the first team might need.”
The Hornets Academy has experienced success this season with Zavier Massiah-Edwards and Albert Eames both making their full debuts and the likes of Alfie Marriott, Jack Grieves, Amin Nabizada and Leo Ramirez-Espain also being around the first team.
“It’s a sign of progression, it’s a sign that the Academy is doing its job,” said Daniels.
“The aim of the Under-21s is to get players into the first team, whether that’s our first team or another first team. That’s our job, that’s our goal, that’s our main focus.
“Giving youngsters a chance to see if they’re ready. Some will be, some won’t be.”
Daniels moved up to the Under-21s after previously being Lead Coach of the Under-18s side, guiding the team to sixth in the PL Professional Development League South.
Results are often seen as of secondary importance in Academy football, however, as developing players is the primary aim.
“As a season as a whole with the Under-21s, it’s always difficult because there are so many players moving in and out, up and down,” Daniels said.
“But from my perspective I’ve seen all our players grow and all our players develop.
“We’ve had some really good games, we’ve had some really bad games, but this is part of development football.
“All in all I think it’s been good and it’s been successful. I hope the players feel like they have progressed from where we started to where we are now.”
Tom Cleverley’s appointment as Head Coach of the first team, after he previously held the Under-18s role, has given hope to Academy players as the boss is well aware of what they can offer.
Cleverley’s backroom team of Armand Kavaja and Damon Lathrope have also worked with the Academy so provide a further link with the senior set-up.
“There are some really good players in the Academy and we’re trying to push them to make that next step,” said Daniels.
“With Tom’s appointment it should be more streamlined than it has ever been, more seamless than it has ever been.
“The coaches know everyone, so the players should feel positive about it and feel that if given the opportunity they are going to get to the first team and they will be welcomed.
“There will be no going into it blind, they will know what’s coming and what’s expected of them.
“Working with Tom is going to be good for the Academy as we’re going to make it a lot more together and a lot closer than it has been.
“If you are good enough, you are old enough.”
An example of the closer relationship could be Academy sides mirroring any tactics and formations Cleverley might bring in for the first team.
“We will try and mirror the first team as much as we can,” said Daniels. “We talk about development, and when players get to the first team we want it to become less of a jump, and a gradual progression.”
Daniels, who said that telling players they were no longer in the club’s plans was the hardest part of the job, believes that first-teamers dropping down to play with the Under-21s can also be hugely beneficial.
“For me, as someone who has been there and had first-team players come down to play with us, it is powerful,” he said.
“It helps the young players a lot more to watch how they play and act – why would they move there, why wouldn’t they move there?”
With players moving up to the first team or going out on loan, it means Daniels oversees different-looking squads on a weekly basis.
“It’s a good challenge to have,” he said. “If we’re losing players to a loan or the first team then we’re doing our job properly.
“It gives an opportunity for the next player to come in, and I always say that you have to be ready.
“You have to be ready to be picked as, in football, 24 hours is a long time.”
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A family fun day will be held on Sunday (May 26) in memory of young Watford fan Ossie Robinson - who tragically passed away in 2017 aged just 11.
Ossie died from neuroblastoma, a rare childhood cancer, and fundraising has now begun for a garden in his name.
The youngster was an inspiration to many and was posthumously awarded the Hornets' Supporter of the Season prize shortly after he passed away.
Ossie's Garden is planned for Watford General Hospital, with the hope it will be used by children and their families.
Everett Rovers, the club Ossie played for, will be hosting the fun day which begins at 10am.
It will include the Ossie Cup, a now-regular six-a-side football tournament which has raised money for various charities over the years.
A fundraising auction and raffle will also be part of the day, as well as live music, inflatables, a barbecue and a bar.
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Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust joined forces with more than 200 young people from across England and Wales as part of this year’s Premier League Inspires Challenge.
The initiative aims to create a mentally healthy environment at football clubs and in the local community.
It is one element of the Premier League Inspires programme, which clubs run on a weekly basis to support 11 to 18-year-olds who may be at risk of not reaching their potential as they move through the education system and into early adulthood.
Participants are empowered to take on a social action project and make a difference to the world around them.
This season, young people were tasked with raising awareness of mental health and wellbeing in their communities.
The Trust’s representatives included five young people from Sacred Heart Language College who teamed up to develop a programme called Mindful Athlete, which focuses on improving people's mental wellbeing through workshops and physical activity.
As part of Mindful Athlete, the youngsters developed a workshop to deliver to participants at the Trust’s Premier League Kicks sessions at Cedars Youth & Community Centre in Harrow, as well as to their peers at school.
The workshop emphasised the need for people to take part in physical activity to improve their mental health, social lives and friendships.
In addition, the pupils hosted a mental health football tournament and interviewed young people before and after the event to see what the impact of physical activity was. More than 40 young people took part and benefited from the event.
Having come up with and delivered their mental health social action ideas, the team of Trust participants then joined hundreds of young people at the Premier League Inspires Challenge celebration event at Wembley Stadium on April 25.
They shared details of their activity with teams of peers who were representing 45 clubs from across the Premier League and EFL.
The Challenge builds upon the Premier League’s ongoing Inside Matters mental health campaign and its commitment as a signatory of the Mentally Healthy Football Declaration in 2020.
“The Premier League and Premier League Charitable Fund are committed to working with professional football clubs, fans, players, communities and partners to remind everyone that it is okay not to be okay and that it is vitally important that we keep up the conversation on mental health,” said Premier League Charitable Fund Chief Executive Ruth Shaw OBE.
“Through the Premier League Inspires Challenge young people from across England and Wales have developed some brilliant ideas to create positive, mentally healthy environments at their football clubs and in school, at home and in their communities.”
Launched in 2019, Premier League Inspires creates life-changing opportunities for young people who have been identified by their schools as needing extra support to engage with activities, helping them to develop the personal skills and positive attitudes needed to succeed in life.
Using the power of football, the programme helps to prepare young people for further education and employment through a series of face-to-face mentoring sessions, workshops and social-action projects.
This season, 45 professional football club community organisations across the Premier League and EFL delivered Premier League Inspires sessions at their stadiums, in local schools and at alternative educational settings, with support from the Professional Footballers’ Association.
More than 29,000 young people from across England and Wales have received more than 125,000 hours of targeted support through the programme to date.
To find out more, please visit the Premier League's website HERE.
To get involved in the Trust’s localised delivery in Hertfordshire and Harrow, please contact Elliot Bird via email at Elliot.Bird@watfordfc.com or Jessica Doran at Jessica.Doran@watfordfc.com.
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Had he not got the head coach role on a permanent basis, the chances are Clevs would have been using the summer to look for a new club.
For the second year running, Watford FC were honoured to be able to send two representatives to take part in the March of the Living event in Poland.
Alan Silver, Chair of the Jewish Hornets supporters’ group, and Carol Robinson from the club’s operations department, joined 10,000 people from across the world to march from Auschwitz to Birkenau, the largest World War Two concentration camp complex.
The delegation spent five days learning about the Holocaust and visited other sites across Poland in the lead-up to the march.
They also heard from a number of Holocaust survivors including Eve Kugler, who has shared her remarkable story with Academy players and club staff a number of times across the last two seasons.
"I have supported Watford for 37 years and it has always been my dream to represent the Hornets," said Alan.
"As a teenager I dreamed it would be as a striker. What Watford fan does not dream of scoring in front of the Rookery end!
"More recently, after managing a local grassroots club, I had hoped this would propel me to greater heights as manager of Watford.
"When I was asked to represent Watford on this year’s March of the Living trip to Poland, an annual event which educates people about the Holocaust, I was initially very conflicted.
"Did I want to miss Middlesbrough away? At the time when we had to book for the trip, we still had faint hopes of the play-offs. Did I want to visit camps and other sites in Poland connected to the Holocaust for five days?
"After a lot of soul searching, I decided that I would go and represent our club along with Carol, who had agreed to go after she’d listened to Eve."
Carol said she had missed Eve's story the first time around and didn't want to do so again.
"Her life story set me on a course of self-discovery and eager learning for which I will be forever grateful," she said.
"We took on the challenge and found a common goal – to learn what life is like for a Jew, but we also managed to find ourselves, as we started to develop a bond as a group.
"We answered each other’s questions without malice, adding in our own thoughts and fears - why did so many have to die, and could it happen again?
"What was unique about the group of people on our coach is that most of the people were not members of the Jewish community and were drawn from the world of football.
"We were known as the football coach. Chelsea, Spurs, Fulham and Man City were all represented.
"For me it was also an opportunity to reconnect with my other religion other than Watford FC, which is Judaism.
"It’s not a great time to be Jewish and being in a death camp brings home the history of the persecution of European Jewry.
"Being with others who have little or no knowledge of Judaism and its history beyond six million people being exterminated at the hands of the Nazis was an incredibly moving experience."
People who lost relatives in Auschwitz were among those on the trip.
"We learnt about the horrific crimes, and stood in the places where some of these crimes took place," Carol added.
"But what brought it home more was there were members of our group who had lost relatives in Auschwitz.
"Being able to connect to a person whose relatives were murdered was very powerful.
"I am sure some people went away from this trip with a new understanding of Jewish history and heritage which in our world these days can only be a good thing.
"It wasn’t all doom and gloom, in fact that was why this trip was so special. It also celebrated being Jewish. We had a fantastic Friday night service in the most spectacular synagogue in Kraków.
"On the Saturday we had a lovely meal in the Jewish quarter of Kraków. In fact, I would say that meal and the time we spent together was the highlight.
"Getting to know people and understanding their motivations for coming on this trip in many ways was inspirational.
"Standing in gas chambers, seeing mass graves and hearing the stories were moving, horrific and upsetting. However, the Jewish people are still here, some of whom are Watford fans, and Nazi Germany was ultimately defeated.
"One of the points the non-Jewish participants made was being Jewish seemed a bit like supporting a football team. Everyone knew the songs; everyone knew the history, and no-one agreed on the best way forward.
"We even agreed going on the march with the heavy security provided for us was like going to an away game where the fans are not very welcoming.
"Having said that the people we met all over Poland were very friendly and welcoming. I guess the security was more to do with the world we live in.
"As I walked out of Birkenau on those famous train tracks, I reflected that this Jew and Watford fan had walked out.
"I would like to thank Watford FC for giving me this opportunity to represent them on such a special occasion."
To find out more about the March of the Living, click HERE.
To join the Jewish Hornets, please email watfordjewishfans@gmail.com.
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**In the build-up to the 25-year anniversary of Watford's 2-0 play-off final victory over Bolton Wanderers on May 31, we will be reproducing some of Mike Walters' Party Like It's 1999 articles which have appeared in this season's matchday programme.**
Mike looks back on the key individuals from the squad which secured promotion to the Premier League. This time, it's Nick Wright...
It was supposed to be the first time that two former England managers crossed swords at club level.
Back at the clubs where their managerial careers blossomed, Terry Venables and his successor as Three Lions coach, Graham Taylor, were due to collide at Selhurst Park.
But Taylor, who had been evacuated to hospital days earlier with blue lights flashing and siren wailing, was unable to attend the game as he recovered from a severe throat abscess, and it's probably just as well.
The rotten penalty decision which denied Watford all three points at Crystal Palace in 1998 was enough to make you scream so loud it would shed your larynx to bits.
The Hornets had surged into an early two-goal lead through Nick Wright's superb header from Allan Smart's cross and Peter Kennedy's predatory finish at the back post.
But David Tuttle's deflected header gave Palace a foothold in the contest, and a quarter of an hour from the end Sasa Curcic's spot-kick earned the Eagles a deserved point, although it was hotly-disputed and a travesty of fair play.
Curcic, trying to go past Darren Bazeley, hung his leg out like a fisherman casting his line, and referee Steve Bennett, from nearby Orpington, bought it hook, line and sinker.
Wright's third goal of the season, and his second in successive games, had been exemplary in its execution, although his finest hour would be six months down the track on a momentous date at Wembley.
Never prolific but always industrious and threatening, Wright will always be revered at Vicarage Road for the overhead kick which put the Golden Boys on course for the Premier League in the play-off final against Bolton Wanderers.
“Every time I bump into a Watford fan, it's the first thing they want to talk about,” said Wright.
“But I don't mind – it's not a bad way to have your memory jogged and, fortunately, I still recall everything about it vividly, from watching it go in through a defender's legs to Paul Robinson nearly ending my career with his rugby tackle in the celebration!”
Sadly, the party in 1999 was as good as it got for Wright. At 23, it was the beginning of the end of his playing days.
Already managing a groin injury which restricted him to four Premier League appearances the following season, he suffered another blow in a reserve team game against Coventry which was intended to build his fitness.
Barely 90 seconds into the match he collided with the Sky Blues' veteran goalkeeper Steve Ogrizovic and came off decidedly second-best.
The resulting damage to Wright's knee cartilage was so severe that he made only one more appearance, in a League Cup defeat by Notts County, in September 2000 before he was forced to retire three years later after an ill-starred trial at Bristol Rovers.
There was only an 18-month gap between his league debut for Carlisle in 1997 and that glorious, acrobatic volley dipping into the Bolton net at Wembley. Regrettably, there were only 16 months between the promotion triumph and Wright's last game at Vicarage Road.
But his place in Hornets legend is safe forever as the scorer of one of the most famous goals in the club's history.
And he will always be grateful that Taylor waited by the visitors' dressing room, after Carlisle's narrow 2-1 defeat at The Vic in March 1998, to shake each player's hand, tell them how well they had played, and to let Wright know his card was marked.
Within four months, he would be a Watford player.
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In the This Or That series, the players and staff of Watford FC Women pick between two options and explain their choices, from films to food to favourite players! Taking on the questions this time is Drè Georgiou!
Haaland or Mbappe?
Haaland. Proper number nine.
Promotion or Conti Cup?
It’s promotion, and that’s not even close.
Nike or Adidas?
Nike, I don’t even need to hear the whole question! I prefer Nike.
Beach or city holiday?
Beach holiday. Last holiday I went on was Mexico, really nice.
Current music or old school?
Old school. I like R&B.
**Local away day or overnight stay?**
Local, I don’t like overnight stays, it knocks me back a bit!
Sarina Wiegman or Emma Hayes?
I think Emma Hayes is class, I’ll say her.
Instagram or TikTok?
They’re so different! I can scroll endlessly on TikTok at night but I use Instagram in the day.
Spotify or Apple Music?
Spotify, 100 per cent. I’ve never tried Apple Music though!
Tea or Coffee?
Coffee, I can’t survive without it.
Night in or night out?
I’m past it now, 28 years old. Definitely a night in.
More From This Series This Or That: Helen Ward This Or That: Charlotte Fleming This Or That: Coral Haines This Or That: Annie Rossiter This Or That: Sophie McLean This Or That: Megan Chandler Watch Now SEO Image
As Tom Cleverley looks at the loan market, we spoke to journalists across the country to get suggestions for good possible options.
After a manic end to the 1998/99 First Division season, the Hornets confirmed a play-off position with seven wins in their last eight matches. It guaranteed that Watford would take on Birmingham City in the play-off semi-finals.
Graham Taylor’s Golden Boys were in fine form and carried that guile and craft into the first chapter of the two-legged story at Vicarage Road.
Although narrow, a 1-0 victory gave the Watford faithful confidence when entering St Andrew’s for the return fixture. A place at Wembley Stadium awaited the victor.
The build-up was far from straightforward as before a ball had been kicked the team bus had got stuck in traffic, eventually arriving less than an hour before kick-off.
"I suppose looking back it was surprising we didn’t have a police escort as sometimes in big cities you did," said Hornets goalkeeper Alec Chamberlain.
"Unfortunately, the M6 misbehaved and we got stuck on there for a fair bit of time.
"We had to quickly get stripped and get out and warmed up. It was a bit of a microwave warm-up and before we knew it we were back in - quick preparation and then back out for the game."
This setback was coupled with a ferocious atmosphere inside St Andrew’s once the whistle blew for kick-off.
With the away fans eventually making their way into the stadium, they were greeted by the worst possible start. Birmingham wiped out Watford’s one-goal lead from the first leg after just two minutes through Dele Adebola.
"Unfortunately it did transpire that we didn’t start the game very well," said Chamberlain.
"We conceded the goal in the first few minutes and after that it was a bit of a battle, obviously with them with their tails up."
Adebola and his teammates continued to pepper Chamberlain’s goal during the first half. The shot stopper, who had been an ever-present throughout that campaign, produced a plethora of important saves in-between the sticks to keep Birmingham to just one.
It meant that by the interval Watford had been inspired to fight back as Richard Johnson and Nigel Gibbs tried their luck from range but were unable to test the Birmingham keeper.
Once the attending supporters had enjoyed a chance to catch their breath, the whistle was blown to commence a vital second half.
The Golden Boys started brightly as Peter Kennedy drifted a ball towards Tommy Mooney, but the Watford legend was unable to guide it goalward when unmarked at the near post. The game swiftly turned on its head as it became hard-hitting and aggressive - the pressure began to boil over.
David Holdsworth was awarded two yellow cards and received his marching orders, reducing Birmingham to 10 men and breathing life into Watford’s crusade.
Now in the temporary ascendency, the Hornets began to return the pressure that had been exerted on them in the first half.
Mooney, Johnson and Darren Bazeley were key components to unlocking the Blues, but were unable to create any meaningful, clear-cut opportunities despite the advantage in numbers.
With the all-important winner alluding Watford going into the final quarter of the encounter, the St Andrew’s crowd reinvigorated the Birmingham City players.
Chamberlain was once again pivotal in denying the Blues with a spate of saves, as the travelling Watford contingent held their breath.
The keeper's most vital stop denied Michael Johnson's header in stoppage time at the end of the second half.
"It was a sharp save," Chamberlain said. "You don’t like to big yourself up but it was really important at the time as it kept us in the tie.
"From the significance of the save it was as good a save as I made."
As both sides were inseparable, extra-time was called upon and followed ultimately by penalties.
Going into the shootout, Chamberlain’s penalty-saving history had delivered mixed fortunes, having only saved three out of 37, despite a more than impressive clean-sheet record.
This statistic proved to be motivation for the Watford goalkeeper as he rebuffed former Hornet Paul Furlong’s spot-kick, Birmingham’s first, to set the tone for the shootout.
"Kenny Jackett came up to me before the penalties started and told me he hadn’t any idea about anyone else, but he thought he knew where Paul Furlong would go, and that was to my right," said Chamberlain.
"He struck it quite well but with that knowledge from Kenny I committed to it and I got a good hand to it. I have to take my hat off and give credit to Kenny for that information."
Although that save would put the Golden Boys 1-0 up in the shootout, that season’s Player of the Season Steve Palmer would miss the second from 12-yards and after 11 more heart-aching penalties, the score was equal at six-a-piece.
Watford’s Alon Hazan converted the next penalty meaning that Chris Holland had to score to keep the Blues in the game.
That once fierce atmosphere was now palpably nervous. The Golden Boys’ man of the moment Chamberlain denied the Blues’ midfielder, sparking wild celebrations on the pitch, in the away dugout, and among the travelling supporters.
"It came to sudden death and our lads had been incredible," said Chamberlain.
"I just had a feeling that he [Holland] was particularly feeling the nerves, it was written all over his face and he looked very, very tense.
"He placed the ball down and his body language wasn’t confident. It was just a matter of going the right way. I knew I was going to save it and I started smiling before the ball got to me."
That incredibly vital stop confirmed Watford’s place at Wembley Stadium to take on Bolton Wanderers with a place in the Premier League up for grabs. More on that HERE.
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Since 2001, the Mental Health Foundation has been leading Mental Health Awareness Week - bringing together the UK to focus on good mental health.
Each May, millions of people from every part of society take part. They include people in schools and further education, the private, public and charity sectors and families and individuals.
‘Movement: Moving More for our Mental Health’ was the theme of Mental Health Awareness Week 2024, which took place between May 13 and May 19.
At Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust, movement and mental health are two very important themes to the ongoing charitable work in Hertfordshire and London.
This is achieved through programmes that provide safe and accessible opportunities for physical activity, which is well-reported to improve general mental wellbeing.
It includes various football courses delivered to youngsters, as well as projects such as the adult weight management courses in Shape Up.
Moreover, there are projects targeted at improving the mental health of individuals and their communities. These include:
- Positive Minds – a 10-week wellbeing programme combining classroom and practical-based activities to engage Year 6 students in the topic of mental health. Contact: taylor.morrison@watfordfc.com.
See the feedback from a teacher at Parkgate Junior School: “I absolutely believe this should be delivered to all pupils in Year 6 to support the changes they are going through to ensure the children understand how to cope when transitioning into secondary school.”
- Man On! - a sports-based mental wellbeing programme designed to support men aged 18 years and over through physical activity and facilitated conversations with qualified staff and fellow attendees. Sessions are run in Watford, Rickmansworth and Harrow. Contact: taylor.morrison@watfordfc.com.
- Empower - a six-month project that aims to improve young people’s mental health using physical activity. Empower is suited for young people between the ages of nine and 12 years old with a mild to moderate mental health diagnosis, or individuals who show poor mental wellbeing.
Click HERE to watch a video filmed at a recent Empower graduation event. For more information, contact caoimhe.walker@watfordfc.com.
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Youth Link - a social prescribing service which creates connections and links children and young people, from the ages of 10 to 24 years old, to access sustained activity to improve their physical and mental wellbeing. Contact: ines.pereira@watfordfc.com.
Mental health initiatives recently completed across the Trust’s many other programmes include Premier League Inspires, where secondary school pupils were empowered to build their own campaign around mental wellbeing.
Pupils from Sacred Heart Language College even represented Watford FC on the national stage at Wembley Stadium after building mental health workshops and tournaments for their peers. You can read more about this HERE.
Another project delivered by the Trust, Premier League Primary Stars, hosted two tournaments at Meriden Community Centre and Cedars Youth & Community Centre for local primary schoolchildren.
The tournaments included mental health workshops with movement activities and a paper-based exercise called ‘My voice matters’.
Congratulations to the tournament's two winners – St Josephs (Cedars Youth & Community Centre) and Yorke Mead (Meriden Community Centre).
To find out more about the Trust you can visit their official website HERE, follow them on social media by searching @WFCTrust, or email community@watfordfc.com.
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Members of the Hornets squad talk us through their careers so far, in their own words.
This time, it's Ryan Porteous...
Boyhood Dream I started at Aberdeen, but being from Edinburgh there was a lot of travel involved in that.
I grew up supporting Hibernian, and when they approached my Dad when I was 12, it was a no brainer to move closer to home, and play for the team that I supported.
I managed to get my shot when I was about 17. It was a dream come true for my family and myself, because we are such avid Hibs fans. Getting to play for them, it was always a dream, so I was lucky to do that for several years.
I remember my debut was away from home at Ibrox against Rangers. I was 17 at the time, and I remember Neil Lennon, the manager, pulled me into his office and he basically said "I have to play you" because he had no-one else.
That was his way of keeping me grounded - he was a brilliant man-manager and someone I have always got to thank for giving me that opportunity to go and play. To play for Hibs in front of the fans, it was a bit surreal at the start. There is always a lot of pressure being homegrown, but it was brilliant.
Looking back I was probably a bit naive to what was going on, I was young and at the time the team were doing so well.
We had several quality players in the squad, including John McGinn. I was obviously nervous going into the game but not overly so, and played with that freedom of youth, and it all went well.
We won 2-1 on the day. It could have gone horribly wrong but I was thankful the manager had the faith to chuck me in. It was a nerve-wracking time but being young helped.
Crossing The Border Coming here was a big opportunity, and I think it was the right time to leave Scotland. I wanted to come to a club that had everything and after seeing the training ground and the stadium, as well as the quality in the squad, it was a no brainer.
Since I’ve come here, I’ve loved every minute of it - where I live, the people, the staff, the fans are brilliant as well home and away, so it was a no brainer. It is a great club and that’s why I chose it.
It’s a cliché but in Scotland you need to give 100 per cent every game given the gulf in quality between some of the teams.
In the Championship it is the same. Giving 100 per cent in every game is imperative, so being able to do that is probably what I learnt the most from Scotland to take over here.
Yes Sir, I Can Boogie I made my Scotland debut shortly before joining Watford and I think coming down here and playing every week developed the trust with the Scotland gaffer Steve Clarke and showed that I can do it at international level.
There is no better feeling in football than representing your country and hearing the national anthem - nothing comes close to that, and I think everybody who has played internationally will say the same thing.
Clarke has shown a lot of faith in me. He’s been calling me up since I was 18/19 and it’s good to repay that faith.
We had a good qualifying campaign, and I’m really looking forward to the Euros. We can do something special there, we’ve got a tough group, but we’ve got the quality if we’ve got everyone fit to really go and try to impress there.
There was a bit of relief when we qualified, as we put in a lot of hard work to get us in a position with two/three games to go.
It was a great feeling, and we did a great job of celebrating that night as well. It was a good old-fashioned Scottish way of dealing with things, and that was brilliant.
This is only the second time in my lifetime that Scotland have qualified for an international tournament, so to be a part of that is a dream come true.
We’ll go to the Euros high in confidence, hoping we can put on a show.
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The Hornets boss knows he could be seen as so grateful for the job he's happy to do as he's told, but says that simply isn't the case.
A day which started with excitement and hope ended in disappointment 40 years ago today when Watford’s first appearance in an FA Cup Final ended in a 2-0 defeat to Everton.
Forty years have passed and some of the memories may still be painful but Kenny Jackett is philosophical about the outcome of the 1984 FA Cup Final.
This is another special retrospective episode of From the Rookery End.
In these podcasts we take an in depth look back at some of the most pivotal moment in Hornets history, having previously covered the 1997 thrashing of our friends up the M1, the breathless Play Off Semi Final victory at St Andrews in 1999 and of course, our tribute to THAT goal by friend of the podcast, Troy Deeney.
Well, they say you never forget your first time, so on this podcast we are going to make sure, by going back 40 years to the day (if you are listening on release day!) to look at Watford’s first ever appearance in the FA Cup Final.
Of course, the result didn’t exactly go to plan (we don’t think this is a spoiler!) but it was still a historic day, and one which is looked back upon fondly by generations of the Hornets faithful. In this podcast we try to encapsulate what it was like to be a Watford fan during that famous cup run, culminating in that sunny day at Wembley in May 1984.
This show ahs been brought to life by a wide range of contrinbutiors, without whom this simply wouldn’t have been possible, so a huge thanks to Olly and Geoff Wicken, Frances Lynn and Adam Cummigs - the voice of Vicarage Road’s Radio Hornet during the 70’s and 80’s.
You’ll also hear from three familiar voices - men who were boys back in 1984 - Matt Rowsson, author Lionel Birnie and our very own Jason Bailey. Thanks to them all for their amazing contributions, which we’re certain you’ll enjoy. It’s 1984, and thi is From the Rookery End.
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It was a day that ended in disappointment but the pride at Watford reaching an FA Cup Final for the first time remained undimmed, as further evidenced by the thousands of fans who congregated in the town centre the following day to salute their Hornets’ heroes as they paraded on an open-top bus.
The grandeur and the spectacle of a final is something truly unique. And on May 19 1984, the bar was set. Watford took on Everton in a sold-out Wembley Stadium with 100,000 supporters in attendance at the FA Cup final.
Watford’s meteoric rise under the tutelage of Graham Taylor and Sir Elton John had earned them the special opportunity to walk out at the national stadium, something that wouldn’t be matched until the 2019 edition when the Hornets took on Manchester City in the showpiece event.
GT’s Golden Boys had certainly enjoyed a memorable path to the final. Entering at the third-round stage, the Hornets were drawn against Luton – quite a notable way to start an FA Cup campaign.
The match was even forced to go to a replay after the sides were unable to be separated during an opening 2-2 draw at Kenilworth Road. At The Vic, Watford came out victors in a seven-goal thriller – a record for the most goals in the derby – as Nigel Callaghan and George Reilly set the stall out in the first half before John Barnes and Mo Johnston’s extra-time effort secured a 4-3 win.
A much more straight-forward affair followed as Watford pushed past Charlton Athletic and Brighton & Hove Albion in respective 2-0 and 3-1 victories, making it to the sixth round where they faced Birmingham City.
A brace from Barnes, one of which was a Goal of the Season contender, and a goal from Les Taylor at St. Andrew’s secured another 3-1 victory on the way to the final four.
Matched against Plymouth Argyle at Villa Park, the fixture was a tense affair with both sides yet to have featured at Wembley. The nerves were soon lifted as Reilly headed home within 15 minutes, but Argyle refused to turn over and remained a stern test until the 90th minute when Watford were confirmed finalists.
Facing Everton would never have been an easy task with the Toffees having finished above the Hornets in the First Division that term, and in previous meetings that season the blue side of Merseyside were unbeaten against Watford.
GT’s Golden Boys started the match with great vigour as Barnes went closest within the opening stages. The dynamic winger almost made it one goal to the good soon after, if not for an impressive block from Everton defender Derek Mountfield.
Despite the early promise, it would be the blue side of Wembley that would be cheering as Graeme Sharp scored just before the break, with Andy Gray somewhat controversially finding their second after the interval.
The striker appeared to head the ball out of the hands of Watford goalkeeper Steve Sherwood. The Hornets continued to press for some sort of consolation as Johnston had a goal ruled out for offside, but on that day the Toffees were the victors.
An open-top bus parade concluded the memorable cup journey as the town of Watford welcomed back their finalists with proud faces lining the street.
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Playing in a game of the stature of an FA Cup Final places extra pressures on the players involved, including satisfying the demands of the media.
James Garrett looks at the different parts of the world where past and present Watford players and managers have originated from. This time, it's Argentina...
Cristian Battocchio
Fernando Forestieri
Roberto Pereyra
Ignacio Pussetto
Mauro Zárate
Watford had never signed any Argentinian players before 2012.
It was during that summer that the club signed virtually a new squad, with many arrivals on loan from Udinese, and embarked on what was to be one of the most memorable seasons we have ever enjoyed.
Two of those players had left Argentina as teenagers to try and pursue a career in Europe. Fernando Forestieri was a maverick forward and Cristian Battocchio was an all-action midfielder.
It didn’t take too long for the pair to be playing first-team football and impressing the home fans. Forestieri was somewhat of an enigma who could do the most amazing things with a football.
There were plenty of ups for the players in the first year. Forestieri scored the winner at home to Leicester City in the league and scored three in two matches against Sheffield Wednesday as he helped the Hornets move into the play-off spots after a slow start to the Championship season.
Battocchio didn’t get as much game time until the Christmas period that year but came in and gave the team much-needed energy.
His first Watford goal was memorable although it was only a neat close-range finish against Huddersfield. It came after 22 Watford passes and has to be a contender for the best team goal ever scored by the Golden Boys.
Forestieri had endeared himself to the fans for embracing his new club and town and being way more consistent in the second half of the season.
Both players featured in the famous play-off semi-final match against Leicester and it was of course Forestieri’s cross for Jonathan Hogg’s cushioned header which set-up Troy Deeney for his iconic goal.
Battocchio got more of a run in the side during his second season as Almen Abdi was forced to miss much of the campaign. The Hornets, however, under-performed and finished 13th.
Forestieri was in and out of the team all season, largely due to the outrageous striking options the team had with Deeney, Matěj Vydra and the newly signed Odion Ighalo all scoring goals for fun.
For Battocchio, it was clear early on that new head coach Beppe Sannino was not a fan of him so he went to play for a season on loan in Serie B. Since then, Battocchio has played in France, Israel, Mexico, Greece, Japan and India.
Forestieri didn’t get the chance to play in the Premier League after the Hornets’ promotion in 2015 and joined Sheffield Wednesday. He went on to play well there over four seasons before a return to Udinese during the COVID-19 pandemic. After a couple of seasons playing in Serie A, he made a surprise move to the Malaysian Super League.
There is no doubt that the best Argentinian player to represent the Hornets is maybe one of the best ever to play for the club.
On his day, Roberto Pereyra made the game look easy and the attacking midfielder could glide past opponents and pick out passes which not many others could see. When he joined from Juventus he made an impressive debut at West Ham and very nearly scored a wonder goal.
He did score a screamer against Leicester but damaged his ACL away to Man City, meaning months out of the game. It took him a while to get back to his level again but it was in the 2018/19 campaign under Javi Gracia where we saw the best of him.
He scored two fantastic goals at the start of the season against Brighton and then the winner against Crystal Palace in the next home game.
He then scored another good goal in an away win at Wolves before a superb individual strike against Huddersfield. At the time, early form had taken Watford into the top seven of the Premier League.
Pereyra also had a famous ‘what if’ moment in the first 10 minutes of the 2019 FA Cup final when Man City keeper Ederson saved his one-on-one when the score was still 0-0.
When the Hornets got relegated on the last day of the prolonged COVID campaign, it was clear Pereyra was not going to stay and he left for Serie A and Udinese.
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Make a note in your diaries for Friday, June 14 – but don’t expect it to be busy with Watford news.
A great deal of expectation would have been placed on the back of Josh Mullins when he signed on loan for Bedford Town at the end of March, despite the defender only having turned 18 a few months earlier.
The Eagles were locked in a battle for promotion from the Southern League Division One Central, and turned to Watford-born Mullins to help their efforts at the business end of the season.
Despite this being his first taste of senior men’s football, Mullins was well-aware of the high hopes those involved with Bedford had for him.
“Coming down from a Championship club, there is a bit of pressure from the fans and the players, because you are expected to have that little bit of extra quality on the ball,” he admitted.
To say he took it in his stride would be an understatement. His debut saw him contribute to a solid defensive display in a 1-0 win away to table-topping Biggleswade Town, kick-starting a seven-game winning run for which Mullins was ever-present.
The final two games in the run were the play-off semi-final and final, with a 2-1 win over Waltham Abbey in the latter securing Bedford promotion to the Southern League Premier Central.
“I feel like I have embraced the pressure and I did well,” Mullins said.
He played a key role in the play-off final, providing the assist for the winner as the Eagles secured a return to step three of the English non-league pyramid.
The defender was glad of the chance to experience the play-offs, explaining: “We just missed out on winning the league. It went down to the last day, but for me personally it is probably better that it went to the play-offs for the experience.
“That was my first time playing knock-out football, and that’s my first final and the first silverware I’ve picked up, so it was a good experience.”
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In the 1-100 series, our Young Hornets choose seven numbers between 1 and 100, answering questions that correspond to each specific digit.
Next up is English and Australian defender Aidan Coyne.
4 - With a friend or partner, what is your one deal breaker?
If you know that they are not honest and trustworthy. You want to be able to speak to them, tell them stuff, and know that your best interest is in their heart.
**7 - The rest of the world has banned all international travel from Great Britain and we’re stuck on this island. You have a two-week break, where are you going?**
I would probably go to Brighton. I have been there before and it is nice on the beach there, but I wouldn’t go in the sea here though.
54 - What was the first single or album that you purchased?
It was an A$AP Rocky album, but I can’t remember the name. I listened to a sample on Apple Music, and that made me want to buy it.
70 - It’s October 31st (or any other fancy-dress outing), what are you wearing?
I’m going to be so cliché and say Tommy Shelby from Peaky Blinders. I like the show and I already have most of the outfit, bar the hat.
**40 - Do you have any tattoos? If the answer is yes, what are they and what’s the reason behind them?**
I have a few tattoos. All of them have meaning, some more than the others. I have got a few quotes that I don’t necessarily live by, but they are good to not forget. I have also got a portrait of my family.
30 - What is the one sporting profession that you admire the most for what they go through?
Boxing, not only for the obvious struggles, like the physicality and the risk, but also the fact that it is a very lonely sport. They win and lose by themselves, and there is a lot of pressure because they are not part of a team.
62 - You’ve been told to meet someone at 7pm, what time are you actually getting there?
Probably 7.05pm! I’m late for most things other than football - I will always be on time when it comes to things that are important.
More From This Series Academy 1-100: Max Smith Academy 1-100: Amar Sanghrajka Academy 1-100: Ollie Stephenson Academy 1-100: Jonathan Lawson Academy 1-100: Jake Watkiss Academy 1-100: Alistair Gould Academy 1-100: Victor Wachowicz Academy 1-100: Laken Torres Watch Now SEO Image
Watford FC and the club’s Community, Sports & Education Trust have been busy marking Dementia Action Week, which runs until Sunday (May 19).
The annual campaign is supported by the Alzheimer’s Society, a UK charity which provides support and research for those affected by dementia.
This year, the campaign’s focus is on bringing the UK together to act on improving dementia diagnosis rates. Diagnosis is vital to give people access to the care, treatment and support they desperately need.
Yet, incredibly, one in three people with dementia do not have a diagnosis, even though 91 per cent of people affected say there are benefits to getting one.
If you're worried about yourself, or someone close to you, you can get help by clicking HERE for support and advice.
You can also complete a checklist, provided by the Alzheimer's Society, which contains 20 questions about possible symptoms or behaviours relating to dementia and may help you raise those concerns with your GP.
To mark the start of Dementia Action Week, the club welcomed both familiar faces and many new people from the community, including Mayor Peter Taylor and Dean Russell MP, to celebrate with us at a special coffee morning held in the Sir Elton John Suite at Vicarage Road Stadium.
The guests enjoyed live music from Denis Cook, as well as the Phoenix Choir, and seated exercise provided by Councillor Sam Summer from Sam PT.
Refreshments including sweets were generously donated by Suren Vis from Sweets For All and professionals from the town’s Dementia Steering Group, which is run by Watford Council, were on hand for a chat.
“It was wonderful to collaborate with Shona, Joanne and Conor from Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust to make this event a success,” said Sarah Turnbull, a Community Wellbeing Officer for Watford Council.
“We have received positive feedback from people living with dementia, their caregivers and members of the Dementia Steering Group who attended.”
Across the course of last season, the club worked with local coordinators from the Alzheimer’s Society who visited the stadium to provide tips and suggestions which have helped make Vicarage Road a more dementia-friendly environment.
The Society has also provided dementia awareness training for staff, with refreshers planned before the 2024/25 season gets underway.
“We’re very grateful for the continuing support we receive from the Alzheimer’s Society and it’s our pleasure to promote this vital campaign,” said Dave Messenger, the club’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead.
“The experience we’ve gained from working with the Society means we’re well placed to ensure supporters living with dementia can continue to enjoy their football as safely as they can.
“We encourage anyone who needs some additional support to attend matches to contact us, and we’ll be more than happy to discuss their requirements.”
The Trust also continues to run its hugely successful programmes for people living with dementia. Golden Memories is a weekly reminiscence event for those impacted and their carers and/or loved ones.
The session’s content utilises the history of Watford FC, including general reminiscence, former players, memorabilia, music therapy and dance through the eras.
It evokes memories, creates connections and brings comfort to both guests and carers.
The Trust also offers a respite area for carers during the sessions and now runs monthly excursions in the local community.
A second Golden Memories group runs every week on a Wednesday at the Holywell Community Centre.
This session focuses on reminiscence and mental and physical wellbeing.
If you or a loved one are living with dementia and need additional support from the club to attend matches, please contact disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com with your details, and one of our team will call to discuss how we can help.
To find out more about Golden Memories, please click HERE or contact Shona McHale, the Trust’s Older Adults Project Manager at shona.mchale@watfordfc.com.
To find out more about what’s happening across the town, and the Council’s work to make sure Watford remains dementia-friendly, please click HERE.
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While Watford’s squad and team may look very different next season, don’t expect the number of players to increase.
Former Watford Head of Scouting Helena Costa has made it clear on social media that she will not be joining her former boss Ben Manga at his new club Schalke.
The team sit down to discuss who they’d keep, loan or sell from the current crop of the 23/24 season as they look ahead to another Championship campaign coming up in 2024/25 season.Follow The Voices of the Vic Podcast:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheVoicesOfTheVicTwitter/X - https://x.com/voicesofthevic?s=21Instagram - https://instagram.com/voicesofthevic?igshid=Nzd2YXZoamd1cDM1Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6LWkbl2NkQbl1nTbBSllOn?si=RQQPSoG2TPeeDSWQtIJlYgApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-voices-of-the-vic/id1518372507Contact us: thevoicesofthevic@gmail.comThanks for listening!Sponsored by Beer 52. To claim your FREE case of 8 beers visit www.beer52.com/VICLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Members of the Hornets squad talk us through their careers so far, in their own words.
This time, it's Mattie Pollock...
Footballing Family I come from a footballing background which has obviously been helpful. My dad Jamie was a footballer who played for Middlesbrough, Manchester City, Bolton Wanderers and Crystal Palace, and my brother Ben also plays at a good level.
I grew up in Middlesbrough and my dad also worked at Middlesbrough FC’s Academy. This opened a few doorways for me around the area and I was at the club from a young age. All of my mates are from Middlesbrough and growing up was good craic. I went to school with all of my mates and did footy with all of my mates, and actually signed for Middlesbrough with a lot of my mates as well.
That made it a lot easier but I wasn’t actually at the club very long, as I was released around the under-9s. My brother then signed for Leeds and I went with him. I was there from about the under-10s to the under-16s and I loved every minute of it. It’s a really big club and I have no bad words to speak about it. They’ve got great fans, a great training ground and a great everything really.
I learnt a load there but when it came to scholarships I didn’t get offered one which was obviously hard. But in the same breath I think the two releases probably helped get me to where I am as it was an eye-opener. It was like ‘get your eyes into it’ because things were changing and football is a tough industry. I had thought it was easy, so the rejections put me in the right position to push on and kick-start my career.
When I finished with Leeds I played my under-16s year with Polton which is a Sunday League team. My dad ran them and it kept my fitness up while I tried to find another club. At that time I was a little bit nervous as I was finishing school without a team. I had been on trial at a few clubs but I was thinking maybe I should have just stuck in at school. I just needed to play football again and kick-start my career, and I ended up at Grimsby Town where I was able to push on.
Grimsby Breakthrough Grimsby put a lot of trust in me and gave me a platform with my debut against Exeter City in 2018, where we won with 10 men. I believe I repaid that trust over my three seasons there. Neil Woods, the academy manager, and coach Callum Lester were huge for me. I arrived during a pre-season and they put me in the right condition, they got me playing football how I should.
They gave me everything to push on and once I did push on, they were still around and constantly giving me advice and tips. In the first team I played under some different managers – Michael Jolley, Paul Hurst and Ian Holloway – so I learnt a lot. The one most people know is Ian Holloway. He is a bit of a character but he was massive for me. He showed me football in a different way and put belief in me.
We were in a bit of a sticky situation when Ian was appointed in 2019 and he could have come in and gone for his own players, but he stuck by me and I think I repaid the favour. I actually ended the season as top scorer which isn’t bad for a defender! The team kept changing with nobody getting a clean run, and I got five or six.
Scottish Adventure I joined Watford in May 2021 and spent some time on loan at Cheltenham Town, before joining Aberdeen on loan last year. Aberdeen is a huge club in Scotland and playing in front of that fanbase every week was massive. It was a huge learning curve because that was probably the first time I’d played for a club as big as that, week in, week out.
The club gave me everything. They put me in for every game and I loved every minute of it. I fitted right in straight away and we had a good season – finishing third in the Scottish Premier League and qualifying for Europe. That was good for the club and good for me as well as it was something to put on the CV. I scored a couple of goals, both against Hearts, and it put me in good stead to come back to Watford.
Playing away against teams like Celtic and Rangers was good, the crowds are crazy there and Aberdeen playing at home was always a good atmosphere. We beat Rangers at home and should have beaten them away as well. I think people underestimate how big some of the clubs are in Scotland. It was a real eye-opener for me because it’s a great league. It’s a lot better than what people think.
I had been given the chance to go to another couple of teams in Scotland which I’d turned down, not knowing what the level was like. In a way I got pushed into going to Aberdeen but it was one of the best things I’ve ever done in my career.
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Watford Women’s midfielder Alli Palisch says she fulfilled her childhood dream and hopes her teammates remember her “for my smile, my personality and all the good things” after announcing her retirement from football.
On Season 3, Episode 31 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews the 2023-24 Watford FC men's first team's season.
Episode published: May 11, 2024
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There are certain mementoes that are considered ‘must haves’ for some Watford fans – and one of those was launched 40 years ago today.
Watford FC Women midfielder Alli Palisch has announced her retirement from football after a fantastic career spanning five countries.
The 29-year-old was born in Texas but became a full international for the Republic of Ireland who she qualifies for through her grandparents.
She joined Watford in August 2022 after a spell with London City Lionesses and made 31 appearances for the Golden Girls last season as they earned promotion to the Barclays Women’s Championship.
Palisch, a versatile player in the middle of the park who can also help out at the back, signed a new 12-month contract in July.
The 2023/24 season saw her make 12 appearances and she ends her Watford career after featuring 43 times in all, scoring once against Crawley Wasps in October 2022.
Before coming to England, Palisch had played in the United States, Sweden, the Netherlands and Iceland.
"Before I leave, all I want to say is thank you to the fans, you guys have been amazing," she said.
"What a ride it’s been from last year to this year, through the good times and the bad times I think you guys have always been there for us, and it’s meant so much to us.
"After wins and great highs you were there, but even after some losses that were disappointing I would just go over to the fans and you guys make it all better. I just want to say I appreciate that.
"I’ve achieved the dream that I had as a little girl, I couldn’t think of anything other than being a professional when I was a little kid, it’s really been a dream come true.
"To my team-mates, it’s been a joy to be here every day with you guys, you’ve kept me going through some hard times and I hope that when I leave, you remember me for my smile, my personality and all good things because that’s all I ever wanted to do, be the best team player and professional."
Thank you for everything and good luck, Alli!
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Leo Ramirez-Espain belted out a classic from a Hornets legend before taking his place on the bench for the first time in his senior Watford career.
The 17-year-old midfielder turned to Honorary Life-President Sir Elton John when performing a song in front of the entire squad and staff as part of his initiation.
“I chose I’m Still Standing,” he said to watfordfc.com.
“It’s a song I know quite well. I messed it up a little bit, but it was quite funny.”
Although he didn’t get to make his debut, just being named among Tom Cleverley’s substitutes for the Sky Bet Championship trip to Middlesbrough was a major achievement for the teenager.
“I’m really proud,” he said. “It’s been a long time in the making.
“The whole thing was really great but it was quite different.
“Obviously there were a lot more people there watching – the stadium was full so that was new, and there were a lot more cameras around.
“It was a bit intimidating at first but you just drown it out in the end and get on with it.
“Hopefully there are a few more experiences like that to come at Vicarage Road.”
Cleverley became Head Coach of the Hornets after making the step-up from the Under-18s, so he already knew all about Ramirez-Espain and the club’s other academy hopefuls.
“Obviously he has that extra little insight, playing at the highest level,” the youngster said.
“You can see it in some of his coaching styles. Everything he says makes perfect sense and the team plays so much better under him.
“Clevs was great for us for the Under-18s and obviously our results showed that.”
Training with the first team means a clear rise in standard but Ramirez-Espain believes he belongs in that company.
“The first team lads have been great, they’ve all been really nice and really welcoming,” he said.
“They are always trying to integrate us into conversations. It’s been a really good experience so far.
“Obviously training is more intense and more physical but after a few times you are able to adjust and you find you have a bit more time.
“If I grow a little more, hopefully I’ll be able to physically keep up.”
Ramirez-Espain joined the Hornets in October 2016 as an Under-10, having previously played at Brentford.
He moved from the Bees alongside Zavier Massiah-Edwards, who did come off the bench against Middlesbrough to make his debut.
Academy product Albert Eames was also introduced for his first game, while Amin Nabizada was another unused sub.
“I’ve been with Zav now since Under-7s, so 10 years,” Ramirez-Espain said.
“For me to be on the bench while he made his debut was obviously a really great moment.
“Having the boys around really took some of the nerves away and made it a really fun experience.”
Cleverley’s appointment means there is a clear pathway for academy players so it promises to be a big few months for those hoping to break into the Head Coach's plans.
What next for Ramirez-Espain?
“A little break to give the body some time to recover but then I think it’s going to be quite an intense pre-season,” he said.
“We come back a week earlier than the first team to get our fitness levels back up, and then I just want to try and prove myself.
“Who knows from there?”
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**In the build-up to the 25-year anniversary of Watford's 2-0 play-off final victory over Bolton Wanderers on May 31, we will be reproducing some of Mike Walters' Party Like It's 1999 articles which have appeared in this season's matchday programme.**
Mike looks back on the key individuals from the squad which secured promotion to the Premier League. This time, it's Tommy Mooney...
Every Tuesday evening, when I worked in the north-east as a cub reporter, a bunch of us would convene at Norton School, on the outskirts of Stockton-on-Tees, for an hour of five-a-side.
On a couple of occasions, when somebody couldn’t make it, one of the lads roped in a 14-year-old schoolboy called Tommy to even up the numbers.
Feisty little rascal, he was. Didn’t pull out of any tackles, left his foot in, didn’t mind a little dig with his elbows, either. Hard as nails, top lad.
Years later, I discovered this robust teenager with a decent left peg was none other than Watford legend Tommy Mooney, and we had a laugh about the good old days before reverting to business as usual – reverence and unfettered worship for one of the most important goalscoring runs in the Hornets’ history.
Mooney had scored only twice all season – away at Huddersfield and Ipswich – when he embarked on a sensational run of seven goals in six games which sent Watford on a turbo-charged run into the play-offs and, ultimately, to Wembley glory.
His golden streak began on Easter Monday in the 1998/99 season at Birmingham, where the former Aston Villa youth team and reserve player took exceptional pleasure from converting a cross from another ex-Villa refugee, Tony Daley, with a stooping header at the far post.
Mooney returned the compliment, standing up a cross for Daley to double the Golden Boys’ lead, and it was enough to give Watford a 2-1 win at St Andrews. Suddenly, after six points from two games over Easter, the play-offs didn’t seem such a distant target.
When the Hornets made it three wins in a row against Bolton, the faint scent of promotion became a pungent fragrance.
Mooney saw an early penalty saved by Steve Banks before Micah Hyde launched an exquisite opener into the top corner from 25 yards, triggering the new father’s rock-a-bye goal celebration.
And by the time Mooney’s glorious, salmon-leaping header from Darren Bazeley’s cross made it 2-0, furtive text messages were being exchanged between Vicarage Road and the church nine miles away in Latimer where your correspondent’s sister was getting married.
Hope the bush telegraph’s occasional crackle didn’t spoil your enjoyment of the big day, sis!
Back at the Home of Football, Watford were on a roll and the excitement was almost tangible.
Mooney’s goalscoring run would continue against Crewe, Crystal Palace, Port Vale and Barnsley, and in the play-off final at Wembley he was inches away from scoring against Bolton again with an identikit header like his bullseye on Claire and Simon’s wedding day.
“It was a special time, and if I could go back I would do it all again in a heartbeat,” he said.
“The one thing that would have made it extra special was scoring at Wembley.
“Micah picked me out with a fantastic cross to the far post, and instead of heading it back across the keeper – like the coaching manual tells you – I tried to cushion my header into the bottom corner.
“It couldn’t have been much closer, and the keeper wasn’t getting there, but it drifted the wrong side of the post.
“That was my big chance to score at Wembley, with all my family there watching me, and for a couple of minutes afterwards I was devastated, but then Allan Smart made it 2-0 and you forget about your individual dreams and celebrate what we had achieved as a team.”
Boyhood Liverpool fan Mooney would enjoy the ultimate satisfaction of scoring the winner at Anfield early the following season, laughing at the memory of taxi drivers who watched the squad arriving at Lime Street station and transferring to their waiting coach, jeering: “There they go, like lambs to the slaughter.”
Watford’s 1-0 win would ultimately cost Liverpool a place in the Champions League.
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In the This Or That series, the players and staff of Watford FC Women pick between two options and explain their choices, from films to food to favourite players! Taking on the questions this time is General Manager Helen Ward!
TV series or movie?
I prefer a TV series, just finished Hijack – that was great.
Under the lights or early kick-off?
Under the lights, I’m not a morning person. I peak at night-time!
Home kit or away kit?
Home I think in general.
FC or Football Manager?
I played a lot of FM in lockdown, so will say that.
Text or phone call?
I’m rubbish over the phone, definitely text.
**Messi or Ronaldo?**
Can’t we just enjoy them both? If I had to pick, probably Messi.
Haaland or Mbappé?
I’d say Haaland because of the type of player I was. He scores goals.
Current music or old school?
Old school. R&B, Motown, Queen, Beatles, you name it! I was never in charge of the music in the changing rooms!
Fight a duck-sized lion or a lion-sized duck?
Duck-sized lion, you could just kick it very far. Would it roar or quack?
Star Wars or Star Trek?
Neither for me I’m afraid, not a fan.
More From This Series This Or That: Charlotte Fleming This Or That: Coral Haines This Or That: Annie Rossiter This Or That: Sophie McLean This Or That: Megan Chandler Watch Now SEO Image
The List. Every player to have been linked with moves in or out since the closure of the January window. To be kept up to date until the closure of the window so bookmark if you Like This Sort Of Thing. A very low bar of credibility is employed, but a mere “I think Watford […]
With the 2023/24 season done and dusted, Jon, Jas, DCW and Mike convened to dish out the season awards…in (very) alternative categories.
Awards were dished out in the categories from the 1989 Smash Hits Poll Winners Party (kids ask your parents or head for Google). Expect to hear who scooped Best Group, Best Solo Singer, Best Single, Best Pop Video and Most Horrible thing on Earth, amongst a plethora of other pop culture themed categories.
You know what, it’s proving hard to describe, so it’s best you just listen. Welcome to the Alternative, alternative 2023/24 end of season awards. Welcome to From the Rookery End.
Come on you ‘Orns.
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In the final part of the review of the 2023/24 season with Wes Hoedt, the defender discusses the January transfer window and sums up the campaign as a whole.
Ben Aiton is joined by Caity Kirkley, Cameron Smart, Joe Thomas & Mike Duffy in the end of the season VOTV awards as they discuss various categories.Follow The Voices of the Vic Podcast:Facebook - / thevoicesofthevic Twitter/X - https://x.com/voicesofthevic?s=21Instagram - https://instagram.com/voicesofthevic?...Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6LWkbl2...Apple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast...Contact us: thevoicesofthevic@gmail.comThanks for listening!Sponsored by Beer 52. To claim your FREE case of 8 beers visit www.beer52.com/VICLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The crazy transfer stories have already started, and Watford are unlikely to look to keep Dennis or Lewis next season.
In the 1-100 series, our Young Hornets choose seven numbers between 1 and 100, answering questions that correspond to each specific digit.
Next up is forward Max Smith, the son of former Hornet Tommy who has been with the club since Under-9s level.
9 - You must use your weaker foot at all times in a game where possible, how well would you do?
I’d do well in open areas with my left foot, but I could do better in tight areas, and have a better first touch, so that’s what I’m working on in training.
**64 - You can switch places with both a team-mate and anyone else in the world, who do you swap with?**
Team-mate would be Michael Adu-Poku, because he’s been recognised from a young age and has been involved in the first team. Anyone would be Phil Foden. He is just a great player, and quite silky with the way he plays.
99 - You’re able to have a conversation with anyone in history, who do you choose and why?
Messi. He is the best player in the world and I would like to get some advice from him to add that to my game. Everyone aspires to be like him so getting his advice would help massively towards my game.
1 - What has been your worst holiday experience?
I went to America when I was 10, and we went on a family boat trip. I was sat on the edge and we were going quick so when we hit a wave, I let go and I fell in. Luckily I had a life jacket on, so I was fine.
**44 - What’s the one film or TV show that you can continue to watch repeatedly and never get bored?**
Ted Lasso is a good one. Despite having no idea what he’s doing, he comes to the team, learns a lot, and does well. It’s funny, easy to watch and comforting.
88 - It’s your last ever meal and there’s no limit on what or how many courses you can have, what do you go for?
I will go for barbecue ribs, chips, breadsticks with garlic sauce and a salad. For dessert I’ll have a sticky toffee pudding, nothing beats that, and I’ll drink water.
12 - What do you feel is your strongest attribute, and what do you feel is your biggest weakness?
On the pitch, my biggest strength is cutting in on my right foot and bending it into the far corner. I’m doing a lot of that in training. My weakness is probably my hold-up play. I need to be a bit smarter – that is something I am working on.
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Watford FC goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann has taken on an ambassador role at West Herts Hospitals Charity.
Dutch defender looks back over the second half of Watford's season, and the change of head coach.
A Hornets supporter of 30 years has revealed his delight at being able to donate the £1,000 he won through the MrQ Centre Spot Challenge to a hugely important children’s charity.
Andrew Gould (pictured, on the far right) was one of three fans to scoop the four-figure sum during Watford’s 1-0 victory over Sunderland at Vicarage Road on April 27, alongside Jessica Adams and Lewis Twydle.
As it was the last home game of the season, the club’s principal partner MrQ offered an extra incentive for players taking part in the half-time game.
The top prize of £10,000 for kicking a football directly onto the centre spot from the penalty spot remained in place, but this time a new banner area was added – offering the £1,000 prize if you could land on it.
Although no player managed to do so, the generosity of MrQ Founder & CEO Savvas Fellas meant that all three took home the money.
Gould is gifting his prize to WellChild, a national charity for children with complex medical needs.
Despite missing the centre spot and the banner, his effort did finish inside the centre circle.
It was his first time on the Vicarage Road pitch since the celebrations which followed Troy Deeney’s dramatic play-off winner against Leicester City in 2013 – and he wore the same shirt he had put on for that famous game.
“I’m absolutely thrilled,” he said. “It’s a really special gesture by MrQ and the club.
“It means a lot to me personally as someone who’s supported the club for 30 years, but also it will mean a lot to the charity.
“It was great fun. The guys all put everyone at ease very well and I got to wave up to my family.
“I had a couple of practice kicks in the morning when taking my son’s Under-9s football team.
“I probably should have given it a bit of a harder hit but at least I ended up in the centre circle! You are more worried about trying not to fall over than you are hitting the centre spot.”
Gould has previously cycled 2,000 miles around the UK and run the London Marathon for WellChild, as well as taking part in desert ultra-marathons.
“I got to meet a number of the children who were supported by the charity and also the nurses who work for them, and I was completely hooked in terms of the commitment that these guys show and I wanted to do more,” he said.
“It’s incomprehensible to think of the impact having a child with that number of care needs has on the family.
“It’s huge, it’s completely transformative. I’ve had good friends who have gone through it and they all say it’s something that never leaves you.
“It’s relentless and the need for the support WellChild provides is huge and growing at the moment as well.”
Andrew sits in the Sir Elton John Stand at Vicarage Road and is looking forward to Tom Cleverley’s first full season as Head Coach.
“The first time I started going regularly and with a Season Ticket was the 1999 play-off run,” he said.
“It’s from that era that I started supporting the club and it’s been a pretty good journey since then.”
To support Andrew’s fundraising efforts for WellChild, click HERE.
Keep an eye out for more half-time challenges from MrQ next season, with further details to follow in due course.
Visit MrQ.com HERE.
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Looking back to the scenes of celebration at Vicarage Road following Watford's victory over Manchester United in 1982 FA Youth Cup Final.
Watford goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann has been signed up as an ambassador for West Herts Hospitals Charity - the official charity for West Herts Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust.
The Austrian shot stopper will help play a key role in supporting the charity, which raises funds to improve patient care and staff wellbeing over and above what the NHS can afford.
The charity funds initiatives to improve the patient experience, treatment and facilities at West Herts Hospitals; recent examples include a state of the art interventional radiology (IR) scanner purchased by the charity for the new IR suite opening at Watford General this year.
On his new position, Bachmann said: “I’m so thankful for the support I have received from Watford fans and local community since I joined the club – which is why I jumped at the chance to play a role in helping our friends at West Herts Hospital Charity.
“As an ambassador, I will help raise awareness of what the charity does and the wonderful difference it makes to thousands of local people, as well as support its fundraising efforts.”
Alison Rosen, CEO at West Herts Hospitals Charity, said: "We are hugely grateful to Daniel for becoming our first ambassador and for his support for West Herts Hospitals.
“We know Daniel is a very popular player and he will no doubt help rally fans and the wider community to raise more funds, to help more people, in more ways in the future.
“And to get him on a free signing is even better!”
The club captain's first engagement as ambassador will be at the Step Up for Health event at Vicarage Road Stadium on Saturday June 1.
Participants are invited to run, walk, or climb their way up and down the stands of the 20,000-plus seater stadium. With chipped timing available, participants can set personal targets, compete with friends, or simply aim to complete the challenge while raising funds for West Herts Hospitals Charity and the Watford FC Community Trust.
If you would like to join the challenge at Vicarage Road Stadium on Saturday June 1 and Step Up for Health, visit the link HERE.
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Hornets supporter Paul Chapman has won a framed 2023/24 Watford shirt signed by this season's squad after entering the April prize draw run in association with club partner Lowr, the fan sustainability platform.
Paul won the prize by logging his travel to and from Watford matches using the new sustainability section which has been integrated within the official club app.
This comes with supporter travel accounting for the biggest part of the club’s carbon emissions.
A Watford fan for around 12 years after first attending with his children through a schools intiative, Paul was present for 100 per cent of what he called the 'Troy Deeney era'.
Paul also spent a few seasons attending the majority of away games, and still goes to Vicarage Road, with sustainability now influencing his travel decisions.
"It made me think about how I get there, and if it is travel by internal combustion engine, or if it is via train, or via electric," Paul told watfordfc.com.
"It prompts you to think about those things when you are doing your leisure activities."
He continued: "I was very impressed with Watford's sustainability push, so when I saw it come up on the app I submitted a few journeys into it.
"I have an electric vehicle, so I use that, and I want to be able to use some solar so that we are reducing our dependency on fossil fuels. Any activity where I can use that, I will.
"To be able to see that registered and be part of a sustainability topic is nice.
"Any company or business supporting that goal will get my vote on it, as it is something we have all got to do."
The framed shirt is the first piece of Watford memorabilia Paul will own, and he already has a good idea of where he will put it.
"I was thinking about this earlier on. I do a lot of working from home, so I was thinking I am going to put it behind me for my Teams calls. It will be pride of place," he smiled.
"My daughter Alice will be very jealous! She has got a Watford shirt but she hasn’t got any signatures."
Fans using the app can collect points to earn tickets for the draw, up to a maximum of four each month.
Up for grabs in the May draw is a bundle from the club's sustainability merchanise range, as well as a personalised note from a player.
Ways to earn points include logging travel to and from Watford matches, committing to a sustainable pledge and answering weekly quiz questions correctly.
Other ways are reading an article and answering a question at the end, making a recipe and logging each of your servings and purchasing a planet-friendly product and logging the swap.
Even though the season is over, fans are still able to log their travel from the 2023/24 campaign.
To access the free-to-use platform, simply click HERE. Alternatively, you can tap on ‘More’ within the official Watford FC app and then ‘Sustainability’. If you don’t yet have the official Watford app, click the links below for a free download.
iOS
Android
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*As the 2023/24 season draws to a close, we've taken a look at how the Hornets who are out on loan have been getting on.*
Shaq Forde rounded out an impressive season on loan with Sky Bet League One side Leyton Orient by winning the club's Young Player of the Season award.
The striker made 43 appearances in all competitions for the O's during his stint in east London, scoring nine goals.
This included an inspired performance away at Cheltenham Town, coming off the bench with the side 1-0 down. Forde grabbed an 89th-minute equaliser, before his team scored a winner in stoppage time.
He also netted a vital brace in the 3-2 home win over Carlisle United in early February, as well as the first in a shock 3-0 victory away at eventual champions Portsmouth.
Our congratulations go out to Shaq.
Over in Italy, full-back João Ferreira has earned his place back in the starting line-up after a period on the bench, playing the full 90 minutes in Udinese's draw at home to Napoli.
After four consecutive substitute appearances, the Portuguese defender was back in the 11 under new manager, and World Cup-winning captain, Fabio Cannavaro on the right-hand side of a three-man defence for his 32nd league appearance of the season.
Battling in the Serie A relegation zone, Udinese earned a valuable point thanks to former Hornet Isaac Success' stoppage-time strike to close the gap to safety to just two points.
Another player wrapped in a relegation battle is midfielder Imrân Louza, whose Lorient side currently sit second-bottom in Ligue 1.
One win and eight defeats in their last 10 matches mean Les Merlus look set for relegation to the second-tier with only two games remaining.
Louza has started the last five games, supplying an assist in a 2-2 draw with Monaco in mid-March.
Across the border in Switzerland, forward Samuel Kalu made his comeback from injury to play a full match for the first time in over three months.
The Nigerian started at left-wing for FC Lausanne-Sport in their fixture against Yverdon Sport, but a 3-1 defeat meant the side fell to fourth in the mini-league of six that determines relegation following the league split.
Meanwhile, Ashley Fletcher spent the season with fellow Championship side Sheffield Wednesday, where he featured 28 times.
The final months of the campaign also saw eight Academy players picking up valuable experience out on loan in the lower leagues of English football.
Tobi Adeyemo continued his recovery from long-term injury with a move to National League side Wealdstone. The striker made four appearances as the team survived relegation on the final day.
Scott Holding started all 25 games whilst with National League South side Dover Athletic, scoring twice. However, he was unable to prevent the team's relegation to the Isthmian Premier.
Also in the National League South was Michael Adu-Poku, with the forward spending time with Maidstone United. He made six league appearances as the side lost in the play-off semi-final, but scored 57 seconds into the Kent Senior Cup final as the Stones went on to lift the trophy.
Goalkeeper Roraigh Browne made 13 appearances for Isthmian League North Division club Walthamstow FC, keeping five clean sheets during his stint as the team finished in sixth, just outside the play-offs.
Two more Hornets enjoyed a period in the sixth tier, with Junior Gyamfi and Jonathan Macaulay both loaned out to National League South side Hemel Hempstead Town.
Gyamfi made seven appearances, including five starts, whilst goalkeeper Macaulay featured four times as the Tudors finished the campaign in 20th, four points clear of the drop zone.
Finally, two Watford loanees played their part in a play-off success at Bedford Town. Charlie Stallard and Josh Mullins both started as the Eagles earned a 2-1 win over Waltham Abbey in the Southern League Division One Central play-off final.
Mullins was on hand to provide the assist for the second-half winner, crossing a recycled corner for Carl Mensah to head home, earning the side a return to step three of the football pyramid.
Stallard made eight appearances during his time with the club, providing two assists, whilst Mullins featured seven times, with his play-off final delivery marking his only assist.
He also holds the impressive record of Bedford winning each of the seven games he played in.
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The Player of the Season begins a three-part review of the Hornets campaign by looking at last summer and games up to the end of 2023.
*As the 2023/24 season draws to a close, we've taken a look at how the Hornets who are out on loan have been getting on.*
Shaq Forde rounded out an impressive season on loan with Sky Bet League One side Leyton Orient by winning the club's Young Player of the Season award.
The striker made 43 appearances in all competitions for the O's during his stint in east London, scoring nine goals.
This included an inspired performance away at Cheltenham Town, coming off the bench with the side 1-0 down. Forde grabbed an 89th-minute equaliser, before his team scored a winner in stoppage time.
He also netted a vital brace in the 3-2 home win over Carlisle United in early February, as well as the first in a shock 3-0 victory away at eventual champions Portsmouth.
Our congratulations go out to Shaq.
Over in Italy, full-back João Ferreira has earned his place back in the starting line-up after a period on the bench, playing the full 90 minutes in Udinese's draw at home to Napoli.
After four consecutive substitute appearances, the Portuguese defender was back in the 11 under new manager, and World Cup-winning captain, Fabio Cannavaro on the right-hand side of a three-man defence for his 32nd league appearance of the season.
Battling in the Serie A relegation zone, Udinese earned a valuable point thanks to former Hornet Isaac Success' stoppage-time strike to close the gap to safety to just two points.
Another player wrapped in a relegation battle is midfielder Imrân Louza, whose Lorient side currently sit second-bottom in Ligue 1.
One win and eight defeats in their last 10 matches mean Les Merlus look set for relegation to the second-tier with only two games remaining.
Louza has started the last five games, supplying an assist in a 2-2 draw with Monaco in mid-March.
Across the border in Switzerland, forward Samuel Kalu made his comeback from injury to play a full match for the first time in over three months.
The Nigerian started at left-wing for FC Lausanne-Sport in their fixture against Yverdon Sport, but a 3-1 defeat meant the side fell to the fourth in the mini-league of six that determines relegation following the league split.
Meanwhile, Ashley Fletcher spent the season with fellow Championship side Sheffield Wednesday, where he featured 28 times.
The final months of the campaign also saw eight Academy players picking up valuable experience out on loan in the lower leagues of English football.
Tobi Adeyemo continued his recovery from long-term injury with a move to National League side Wealdstone. The striker made four appearances as the team survived relegation on the final day.
Scott Holding started all 25 games whilst with National League South side Dover Athletic, scoring twice. However, he was unable to prevent the team's relegation to the Isthmian Premier.
Also in the National League South was Michael Adu-Poku, with the forward spending time with Maidstone United. He made six league appearances as the side lost in the play-off semi-final, but scored 57 seconds into the Kent Senior Cup final as the Stones went on to lift the trophy.
Goalkeeper Roraigh Browne made 13 appearances for Isthmian League North Division club Walthamstow FC, keeping five clean sheets during his stint as the team finished in sixth, just outside the play-offs.
Two more Hornets enjoyed a period in the sixth tier, with Junior Gyamfi and Jonathan Macaulay both loaned out to National League South side Hemel Hempstead Town.
Gyamfi made seven appearances, including five starts, whilst goalkeeper Macaulay featured four times as the Tudors finished the campaign in 20th, four points clear of the drop zone.
Finally, two Watford loanees played their part in a play-off success at Bedford Town. Charlie Stallard and Josh Mullins both started as the Eagles earned a 2-1 win over Waltham Abbey in the Southern League Division One Central play-off final.
Mullins was on hand to provide the assist for the second-half winner, crossing a recycled corner for Carl Mensah to head home, earning the side a return to step three of the football pyramid.
Stallard made eight appearances during his time with the club, providing two assists, whilst Mullins featured seven times, with his play-off final delivery marking his only assist.
He also holds the impressive record of Bedford winning each of the seven games he played in.
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The Hornets head coach has players out of contract, recruitment, potential player sales and a pre-season to discuss.
To repeat the annual explanation… my definition of “assists” is on the generous side, including as it does deflected final passes, shots which are saved and the rebound converted and so forth. I’d also include being fouled for a converted penalty. In contrast to the 41 players used last season this is a short list, […]
Five clean sheets in nine shows there's a foundation, now Cleverley wants to build on that at the other end of the pitch.
On a day when his strikers fired blanks, the Hornets boss also singled out Boro's No.9 for praise.
1- “Fernando Forestieri as Nick Nack!” It’s 9am. We’re somewhere near Peterborough. The car is full. Dave and I are cutting it fine, but nonetheless honouring a long-standing tradition of one stupid drive per season facilitated by the decision to move final day games to 12.30pm. Sophie happened to be in earshot on Occupation Road […]
Hornets youngsters Albert Eames and Zavier Massiah-Edwards spoke to watfordfc.com after making their professional debuts in the final-day defeat at Middlesbrough.
The teenage pair were introduced together during stoppage time at the Riverside Stadium, meaning Watford fielded five Academy products during the afternoon, with Ryan Andrews, James Morris and Jack Grieves also getting game-time.
Read what 18-year-old defender Eames and 17-year-old forward Massiah-Edwards had to say below…
Eames *I’m absolutely delighted. We’ve both been working up to this since we were young boys so to actually make it…! The away fans were very good today, the only thing was the result but we’re looking forward to next season now.*
The boys break up now for the off-season, so I think [it’ll sink in] during the next couple of weeks. I’ve been working hard since I was a young boy and I’ve been training for the last six to eight weeks with the first team, so to finally make my debut it’s a very good moment.
When you’re on the ball [in the Championship] they’re shutting you down a lot quicker, they’re stronger, they think quicker and they’re more intelligent. We’ve been playing Under-18s and 21s football for most of the season so having made the step up now, hopefully we can get more opportunities in the future.
All the boys have given us a very warm welcome and we’re just looking forward to next season. We’ve both been on the bench a couple of times and we’ve been in and around the squad maybe four or five times, so to make our debut at the same time was a very nice moment.
We thank the fans a lot; they come up and down the country all season. It’s a shame about the result but we push for next season now.
Massiah-Edwards *I’m very happy to make my debut; I can’t really believe it. Obviously with the loss it’s not great but we’ll come back next season, I’m sure Clevs will keep pushing us and hopefully we’ll get some more opportunities.*
When I’m on the bus, looking at all my messages, it’s probably going to sink in once I see all of them.
Physically it’s very important that you’ve got to be strong and decision making has to be a lot quicker [in the Championship]. Fitness is also key but training every day with the first team helps.
Everyone made us feel welcome and Clevs has definitely helped since he came in, he pushed us straight away and got us involved. It helped not just us but other people who want to be around the first team. Everyone’s been supportive.
This season we’ve both trained with the first team quite a lot and we’ve both been on the same journey, getting used to it, so it was nice for both of us to get that achievement together.
The fans definitely helped with making us feel welcome and they’ve travelled all this way, which is amazing really.
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Tom Cleverley spoke to the media after the Hornets lost 3-1 to Middlesbrough on the final day of the Sky Bet Championship season.
The Head Coach discussed the game and looked ahead to the new campaign.
Read what he had to say below...
On the defeat:
With the supporters waking up early to travel we wanted to give them a win and a performance to make the travel back a little bit easier. I don’t think we deserved anything from the game to be honest.
It was just the personality in possession for me. If you let teams like Middlesbrough dominate the ball they are always going to give you problems, they’ve got the quality, they’ve got the rotations, they’ve got the athletes.
It’s very difficult to contain them so that means when you’ve got the ball you have to take care with it, you have to keep it, you have to progress and you have to have a purpose. Although I thought our midfielders were two of our best players today, we didn’t really show enough personality.
I think they are genuine challengers for next year and we fell short of that.
They looked like they wanted to be the superior team, and for that you have to have bravery in possession.
On conceding the second shortly after equalising:
We have to look at ourselves for that, managing that little period. It’s always the period you tell yourself, even as a kid - five minutes after they score you need to be more cautious.
It's a disappointing time to concede just as I felt we were having a good spell.
They picked us off. Maybe we should have been a little bit more patient or we were too eager to press. They’ve got good players and today’s the first time where I’ve thought a couple of our recovery runs didn’t have the intensity that I’ve seen in the last eight games.
I won’t hold it against the players, the application has been fantastic but today I didn’t think that was our best.
**On missed chances:**
As we advanced up the pitch we didn’t show enough composure. I’m not going to summarise the last nine games through today but I’m frustrated.
We had the [Vakoun] Bayo header early on and [Mileta] Rajović going through and he blazed it over.
Second half Bayo was through on goal and there was a last-ditch challenge. We got ourselves into decent situations and just didn’t capitalise on that.
On improving himself:
The first thing I do after a defeat is look in the mirror and say “what could I have done better?”
I have learnt so much in the last nine games, about myself, my players. How we’re going to be successful next year, how important pre-season is to us. I’ll continue to learn as I plan for my first pre-season as a Head Coach.
We just didn't show the same personality when they came after us. When we did we missed that end product. I said to the lads "that's for me to address". I feel like I'm nowhere near unlocking the potential of our team.
On the fans:
Absolutely brilliant. I really have felt the support from the supporters. I’ll repay them with absolutely everything I can give to get the best out of the team.
Ipswich and Southampton in a week, Middlesbrough with a 4.30am start. I let the players know what these fans are doing for them and they appreciate it also.
**On plans for next season:**
I feel like I’ve addressed the issues that can take us to the next level. It’s now down to us as a staff to start planning on how we can put those things right and that really excites me, to really put my stamp on it and make sure we really hit the ground running come August.
Next week will be all about planning with the different departments with the club to make sure we are streamlined and as well prepared as possible for pre-season which I’m really excited about.
I said to the players I’m frustrated and excited at the same time. I don’t think I’ve been able to unlock our potential in possession since I’ve come in but what excites me is I can see how much scope for improvement there is. I’m going to work as hard as I can to make sure I’m the one who can unlock it.
We’ve got to take that into next season and assemble a squad which is able to challenge next year.
On debuts for Albert Eames and Zavier Massiah-Edwards:
They are players I know really well. They deserve that recognition for their work the whole year.
Hopefully it’s two players we will see more of in the future and it represents what a good place our Academy is in.
We want to make a clear path, these appearances have to be deserved but the opportunities are there.
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Now the season is over Watford face a huge summer to change the direction of travel, as the good times feel further away than ever.
The pair were teammates for Manchester United and England, and this afternoon face each other as head coaches.
When Manchester United won the Premier League 2012/13, Tom Cleverley and Michael Carrick were two of the key midfield performers.
Those missing from the 2-2 draw with Burnley at Vicarage Road may be a clue to which Academy players are in the first-team squad.
Dual-signed Arsenal duo Michelle Agyemang and Laila Harbert have reflected on their time at the Golden Girls following the end of their deals.
Read the interviews below...
Michelle Agyemang **Michelle, how have you enjoyed your time with the Golden Girls? What has been your favourite moment?**
I’ve thoroughly enjoyed this season with Watford, facing new challenges which has really helped me develop as a player and a person.
One of my favourite moments would have to be the league game against London City in December, it was a special moment for me as it was my first league game back from injury and my first goals for the club in the Championship.
You adapted to senior football really well, how did you find the change and life in a new dressing room?
Coming into the environment at the beginning of the season was easier than I expected as all the girls were very welcoming and supportive from the beginning, as well as all of the coaches and staff, which helped me settle in early and build confidence as the season went on.
**Do any matches stand out?**
The league game against Durham in January. It was an excellent performance which showed the capability of everyone in the team and gave us three well-deserved points away from home. It was a great feeling to celebrate with the girls and it gave us all confidence going into the next few games.
We’ve seen you score several times for the Young Lionesses this season, what does representing your country mean to you?
Representing England means a lot to me as it is such a privilege to play for your country, which has always been a goal of mine.
Transitioning between club and international football has been exciting as I’ve had the chance to perform in two high-standard environments and take learnings from both club and country to improve my game.
What will you take away from your time at Watford?
One of the most valuable things I’ve learnt and will take away from my time at Watford is resilience.
This season has definitely showed me the value of being resilient in times of adversity and working hard, no matter what comes against you.
Laila Harbert **Laila, how have you enjoyed your time with the Golden Girls?**
From the moment I arrived at Watford I felt very valued here, as the staff and players have created an environment that welcomes new players and I have enjoyed being a part of that.
I have had many special moments here, but one in particular would be scoring a hat-trick in the FA Cup.
We’ve seen you excel in the heart of the Hornets’ midfield, what has been the biggest challenge you’ve faced during your first season of senior football?
The biggest challenge initially was adjusting to the increased physical demands, as the step up from Academy to senior football is evident; everything is done at a higher intensity.
As the season has gone on I think results not going our way - despite good performances - has been testing at times, but makes us appreciate the value of three points even more.
I think that’s something that will really stick with me, as it reminds you of what it takes to win, and how hard getting those points can be.
You had the opportunity to play against your parent club earlier this season, what was that experience like?
The Arsenal game was surreal, I don’t think many people can say they’ve faced their parent club like that.
It was great exposure in front of many familiar faces, and a game that reminded me of the levels needed to wear the shirt, where I can reflect and work to earn that right in the future.
**We’ve seen you captaining the Young Lionesses across a number of their camps this season, what does representing your country mean to you?**
To be honest, there is no better feeling than playing for England, it is something I will never take for granted.
To wear the armband too is even better, and something I’m proud of. It has been a busy season with some schedule clashes meaning I have missed some Watford games, but everyone here has been supportive of those sacrifices and made the transition as smooth as possible to ensure both environments get the best out of me.
You’ve scored not only your first senior goal this season, but your first senior hat-trick. What was going through your head as the ball fell to you for the third goal?
I wouldn’t say I had an aim as such, but it’s always good to contribute and get on the scoresheet, so when all three came at once I was really pleased.
The third one came late and I’d had one disallowed before that, so was more relieved than anything to secure the match ball!
What will you take away from your time at Watford?
My time at Watford has improved me as a player and a person and that will stay with me for the rest of my journey.
My confidence has really grown as the coaches and players have trusted me from the start, regardless of my age.
This was a big thing for me and allowed me to feel that I play an important role in the team.
The other thing that will stick with me is the mentality to work hard to get through tough times, which makes you appreciate when it pays off and you then want that feeling over and over.
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Match Info * Middlesbrough v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Riverside Stadium
- Saturday May 4, 12.30pm KO
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Light blue third kit
Officials * Referee: James Bell * Assistant Referees: Ian Cooper and Robert Hyde * Fourth Official: Ben Toner
Opposition Although there may be some disappointment surrounding Middlesbrough's season, good form in recent weeks has provided an air of positivity going into the summer.
After Michael Carrick's first full season in charge, Boro's highest possible finish is eighth, having made the play-offs last season.
Despite this, there is a feeling that the challenges faced this season, including a long injury list, mean Carrick and the squad have moved forward, despite not finding as much success on the pitch.
Moreover, a recent run of six wins and just one defeat in their last 11 games has given fans hope that the foundations have been laid for a successful 2024/25 season.
Their sole loss in this period came in a seven-goal thriller against promotion-chasing Leeds United, with the side picking up a win over champions Leicester City, as well as draws with Ipswich Town and Southampton during this time.
Stats Buzz Watford have lost their last two league games against Middlesbrough – before this, the Hornets went unbeaten in 10 consecutive matches against them (W6 D4).
Since Tom Cleverley’s first league game in charge of Watford (March 16 v Birmingham), no side in the Championship has kept more clean sheets (5) or lost fewer games (1) than the Hornets.
Middlesbrough like leaving it late, scoring more goals between the 76th and 90th minute (16) than any other 15-minute period. They are most vulnerable in the 15-minute period before half-time, conceding 15 of their 61 goals between the 31st and 45th minute.
Click HERE for a full statistical breakdown.
Team News Watford will be missing several players for this final-day clash.
Ahead of the Euros this summer, Ryan Porteous has been given some extra time to prepare, whilst Giorgi Chakvetadze is not risked due to a slight groin issue; neither have travelled.
Emmanuel Dennis picked up a knee issue last weekend and will be absent, along with Tom Dele-Bashiru, whose fitness is also being managed. As a result, several Academy products will feature in the squad.
For Middlesbrough, Dael Fry and Josh Coburn could feature after returning to training. However, it seems the game has come too soon for Hayden Hackney and Paddy McNair.
What Are They Saying? **Tom Cleverley, Watford Head Coach:**
Middlesbrough’s a team that I really respect. I think they will be in the mix next season with the good balance of talent and experience they have, so it will be good to lay one last marker down against a team I think will challenge.
It’s not an easy one for the fans, the 12.30pm kick-off. The players are in good spirits. I’ve not once had to squeeze them for enthusiasm since I’ve been in the job, and at this stage of the season that’s healthy.
Michael Carrick, Middlesbrough Head Coach:
Ideally, we hope we can finish well and take that into next season. I’ve spoken a lot about the ups and downs we’ve had through the season, so to be six points or so off the play-offs isn’t bad.
It’s not enough and we wanted more. But at the same point, it shows we’ve actually come a long way with this group, with the amount of changes that we made with players coming in last summer and doing well. There’s a lot to build on for sure and take into next season.
Head-to-Head **Overall:**
Won: 18
Drawn: 9
Lost: 16
Last Six:
September 2023: Watford 2-3 Middlesbrough (Championship)
January 2023: Middlesbrough 2-0 Watford (Championship)
August 2022: Watford 2-1 Middlesbrough (Championship)
April 2021: Middlesbrough 1-1 Watford (Championship)
September 2020: Watford 1-0 Middlesbrough (Championship)
January 2017: Watford 0-0 Middlesbrough (Premier League)
Golden Flashback The Hornets' last win at the Riverside came back in October 2016, when a stunning second-half strike from José Holebas was enough to secure all three points for Watford in the Premier League.
Follow Live! Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Middlesbrough v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the game.
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On April 23, Watford FC’s Community Sport & Education Trust brought together young people from four secondary schools to celebrate their completion of the Premier League Inspires programme.
The group, including pupils from Bushey Meads, Parmiter's, The Reach Free and Rickmansworth, were joined by Watford FC stars to recognise all the hard work and resilience the young people have shown throughout the school term.
PL Inspires empowers participants to develop personal, social, employability and life skills through a series of regular face-to-face group sessions, as well as mentoring, workshops and social-action projects.
This provides pupils with the help they need now, whilst also supporting them to plan for their future. This programme is funded by the Premier League and the Professional Footballers' Association (PFA), with the Trust’s local delivery supported by TJX Foundation.
During the celebration event at Vicarage Road, the young people’s learning continued with workshops on public speaking and debating, as well as looking at how they could create their own success stories out of the challenges they have already faced.
These activities were supported by the organisation Loudspeaker. This was followed by a tour of the stadium and getting to meet Watford FC players Giorgi Chakvetadze and Mileta Rajović.
Pupils used their newly learnt skills to grill the pair, before having the chance to pose for photos.
The Trust’s Youth Engagement Officer, Jessica Doran, said: “We are really proud of all our PL Inspires students from this term and hope they can take the skills they learnt from the sessions forward into the future.
“The celebration event was great fun, and well deserved by all the pupils that attended.”
After the event, teachers got in touch with the Trust with very positive feedback, including:
“Overall a truly inspiring day and I know all of the students left the event with memories they will cherish.”
*“A key message from the day was ‘we are all amazing’ as the pupils had discussed challenges they had faced and had overcome, how they had learnt from setbacks, and that you should always celebrate successes.”*
“Thank you so much for today, I delivered very excited students back to school. I asked the pupils when we returned to give me words to express how they felt today was, the words they used were passion, given a vision, fun, entertaining and rememberable.”
For more information on Premier League Inspires, visit the programme’s page on the Trust’s website HERE, or email Jess at Jessica.Doran@watfordfc.com.
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Ken Sema has been named as the Hornets’ Professional Footballers’ Association Community Champion for the 2023/24 season.
The Swedish winger has been recognised for his ongoing support of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, which has seen him take on ambassadorial roles and carry out community engagements.
Sema has consistently been a positive role model, attending Trust football camps during the school holidays and regularly being involved with the Junior Hornets group.
At the end of last year, Sema attended local homelessness charity New Hope and spent time with people staying in the Watford Winter Shelter.
He is also an ambassador for the Women of Watford FC supporters group, providing backing for their aims and activities.
Following a post-match interview which went viral last season, Sema has become a champion for people who have a stammer.
He has met with national charity Stamma, promoted the topic in newspapers and on television and visited other adults with stammers at Harpenden Memorial Hospital.
This work has made a real difference to both patients and staff with Sarah Hinton, the Clinical Lead Specialist at the NHS’s Adult Speech and Language Therapy Department, saying: “We all very much enjoyed listening to Ken’s take on stammering; how his speech does not define him as a person and does not govern the decisions he makes in life.
“We all took away plenty of food for thought, both the service users and clinicians.”
Maheta Molango, the Chief Executive at the PFA, added: “The PFA has once again been immensely proud of the outstanding efforts of players this season and we feel they should be recognised for their support and involvement in the local community.
“The award will hopefully raise awareness of the importance many of our members attach to their roles off the pitch and highlight their continued commitment to support those most in need along with engaging in areas where they have a personal interest.”
Congratulations, Ken!
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James Bell has been appointed as the referee for Watford's trip to Middlesbrough on the last day of the EFL Championship season.
The new Watford head coach is hoping to make wise loan moves while admitting "we haven't got masses of money to go out and blow"
Ben Aiton is joined by Dana from The Boro Breakdown Podcast to discuss Middlesbrough and how their season has gone as Watford prepare to face them in the final game of the season.Follow The Boro Breakdown Podcast:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheBoroBreakdownTwitter/X - https://x.com/boro_breakdown?s=21Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/borobreakdown?igsh=MXdxcmV0YnQ5dGdmdA==Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6NEN3AHUIMht869ar5uyYz?si=8h_2piGuTBCNRM29DbGnswApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-boro-breakdown-podcast/id1365160277Follow The Voices of the Vic Podcast:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheVoicesOfTheVicTwitter/X - https://x.com/voicesofthevic?s=21Instagram - https://instagram.com/voicesofthevic?igshid=Nzd2YXZoamd1cDM1Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6LWkbl2NkQbl1nTbBSllOn?si=RQQPSoG2TPeeDSWQtIJlYgApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-voices-of-the-vic/id1518372507Contact us: thevoicesofthevic@gmail.comThanks for listening!Sponsored by Beer 52. To claim your FREE case of 8 beers visit www.beer52.com/VICLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The experienced coach being brought in to support Tom Cleverley must come from a winning environment but may have no Watford connections.
Supporters who have renewed their season tickets will have the chance to explore options to relocate their seats in early June.
Watford Football Club has been highly commended by the EFL in the 2023/24 Grounds Teams of the Season awards.
It comes after the club's groundstaff worked tirelessly throughout the campaign to keep the Vicarage Road pitch in immaculate condition.
Recognition from the EFL confirms that the Hornets' surface is one of the best in the Sky Bet Championship, with the awards celebrating staff who work in all weathers to ensure pitches of the highest quality.
Leicester City were named as the winners for the Championship, with Leeds United also highly commended.
Congratulations, team!
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Tom Cleverley spoke to the media ahead of the Hornets' final Sky Bet Championship game of the season away at Middlesbrough on Saturday (May 4, 12.30pm KO).
Read what the Head Coach had to say below...
On the challenge Middlesbrough pose:
We want to end with a really positive performance.
We got the win last weekend [1-0 v Sunderland], but I don’t think it was a great performance.
It’s a team that I really respect. I think they will be in the mix next season with the good balance of talent and experience they have, so it will be good to lay one last marker down against a team I think will challenge.
It’s not an easy one for the fans, the 12.30pm kick-off. The players are in good spirits. I’ve not once had to squeeze them for enthusiasm since I’ve been in the job, and at this stage of the season that’s healthy.
On being reunited with former Man Utd team-mate and Middlesbrough Head Coach Michael Carrick:
He was my most consistent midfield partner.
For 80, or how many games I played for Man Utd, he would have been there for 70 of them.
When you think of Michael Carrick you just think class. As a player, as a person, as a coach, he just oozes class.
Someone who when he spoke, the room listened.
I’ve got massive, massive respect for him.
**On team news:**
We go there with a couple of additions in the squad, with Academy products travelling, which is exciting for everyone.
With Ryan Porteous we’re giving him a bit of protection for the summer ahead [Euros], but he’s also on 14 yellow cards and I don’t want to lose him for the first three games of next season.
Giorgi [Chakvetadze] has had this ongoing groin issue. Again we know how huge the summer is for him so we’re not going to risk him.
[Emmanuel] Dennis picked up a knee issue last weekend so won’t be fit to travel.
Tom Dele-Bashiru is something we’ve been trying to manage. He’s had a difficult time with injuries, a little bit of burnout and a few niggles. He won’t be in the matchday squad.
On the summer ahead:
It’s a very different dynamic as the finishing line is in sight for the players but it’s the starting line for the coaches.
We'll be planning pre-season schedules and loads, having recruitment meetings and getting the staff together.
We'll really be mapping out how next season is going to look, our targets and how we’re going to achieve them.
I feel like we’re a team that would really benefit from a good pre-season with a new set of staff and really improve on the identity we’ve already shown.
I’m trying to focus on Middlesbrough but after Saturday the planning for next season starts on Monday.
**On player recruitment:**
This is the newest experience for me. I’ve never recruited a squad together so I’ll be working closely with Gian Luca Nani and the Board, as well as picking the brains of my network at the bigger clubs on what’s available on loan.
It’s a process I’m excited to be a part of and I realise how important it is to get the right players to achieve our targets.
I’ve been involved in all the conversations, we’re collaborating really well.
I feel like my knowledge of the game is good, I’ve got a good eye for a player.
Keeping hold of our best players is going to be an important part of the summer but I’m excited for the challenge ahead of building a squad which will be challenging.
On replacing Jimmy Gilligan in the backroom staff:
There is space on the staff for one more. We’re on the look out for that.
We realise that person should be someone with more experience than me, Damon [Lathrope] and Armand [Kavaja].
We’re fairly far down the line. We’re working towards someone we have in mind who would be perfect for the job.
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Ryan Andrews has won the Hornets' April Goal of the Month competition after his strike against Sunderland in his 50th appearance for Watford.
The full-back, introduced from the bench, scored the only goal of the game as the Golden Boys claimed a first league win at Vicarage Road since November.
His strike on April 27 saw him race onto Ismaël Koné's dissecting through-ball before firing a fine finish across Sunderland keeper Anthony Patterson and into the far corner.
Andrews received more than 700 votes from Hornets supporters on the club’s WhatsApp channel to win the April award.
Edo Kayembe's bullet finish against West Bromwich Albion finished second, while Koné's solo effort against Southampton ended third.
Ryan Porteous' goal against the Saints was also nominated, alongside women's players Drè Georgiou and Coral Haines who both scored in the Golden Girls' victory against Reading.
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Tom Cleverley has added some of the club's Academy players to the party that is travelling to Middlesbrough.
The Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust has announced its backing of the Super Movers for Every Body project.
BBC Children's and Education, the Premier League and ParalympicsGB have come together to launch the scheme, using the inspiration of top-flight football and talented athletes to engage disabled children and those with special educational needs in sport and physical activity.
Currently, 1.5 million children in England have special educational needs or are disabled, but only one in four disabled children take part in physical activity at school. Super Movers for Every Body is designed to tackle this issue and get everybody moving.
Teachers and parents can access a whole host of exciting free online curriculum-linked resources on BBC Teach. This includes Super Movers for Every Body follow-along films featuring CBBC stars, ParalympicsGB athletes and Premier League mascots, as well as other downloadable activities to get children moving.
Primary school teachers across the UK are also able to register for a free Super Movers For Every Body equipment pack, funded by the Premier League, to help them deliver inclusive sports activity for all students aged five to 11.
These packs contain a range of equipment and resource cards designed to facilitate various fun activities, including blind ootball, Para-athletics and boccia.
Speaking about Super Movers for Every Body, ambassador and multiple Paralympic gold medallist, Hannah Cockroft, said: “I am so proud to be part of the exciting Super Movers for Every Body campaign. It’s all about ensuring no child misses out on PE and sport in schools, whether they are disabled or non-disabled, it encourages everyone that they can move, they can be active and they can be included.
“Giving teachers and children the confidence, skills and knowledge they need to ensure nobody is left out is so important to me. We need to recognise that every child can do sport, it is just about finding the right activity and making any adaptations to find the way that is right for them.
“I have so many skills from taking part in sport that have been so valuable in all aspects of my life and I want every child to have the opportunity to develop those skills.”
The equipment packs and online resources will empower teachers, parents and caregivers to introduce new sports to children during the school term and the summer holidays, providing them with new opportunities as the build-up to the Paralympics in Paris this August gets under way.
Helen Foulkes, Head of BBC Education, said: “We’re thrilled to launch the next phase of Super Movers, now joined by ParalympicsGB alongside the Premier League in our partnership. With the upcoming summer poised to inspire countless children to embrace sport, it's so important that teachers have the resources and equipment necessary to facilitate this journey for all pupils.
“Super Movers for Every Body is a programme designed to be inclusive and accessible to all, embodying the belief that sports and physical activity are for Every Body.”
Clare Sumner, Chief Policy and Corporate Affairs Officer at the Premier League, said: “Super Movers for Every Body complements our successful Premier League Primary Stars programme, which uses football to inspire primary school children to be active and develop essential life skills.
“By providing over 3,000 inclusive equipment packs and working with great partners, we aim to break down potential barriers to participation and inspire children to try fun new sports that help them build connections, embrace each other’s differences and develop a life-long love of being active.”
David Clarke, CEO of ParalympicsGB and England’s all-time leading goal scorer in blind football, said: “This powerful campaign, featuring a host of ParalympicsGB stars and delivered in partnership with BBC Children’s and Education and the Premier League, will help ensure no primary school age pupil will be left on the sidelines during PE lessons.
“Super Movers for Every Body will empower teachers and parents with the skills they need, and provide thousands of schools with the equipment, to deliver inclusive sporting sessions which challenge perceptions of what disabled people can do.
“Equally importantly, it will also promote the power of allyship and give children a greater understanding of the benefits of creating a truly inclusive environment at an age where they will have those skills for life.
“Disabled people of all ages tell us that representation plays a crucial part in breaking down barriers to participation and this is why I am so proud that these valuable resources feature a host of disabled athletes demonstrating the unique power of sport to connectus.”
To apply for an inclusive PE equipment pack and explore all the free resources on offer, head to the Super Movers for Every Body website. Schools have until June 7, 2024 to register and if successful will receive their pack from September 2024, the start of the next school year.
More information can be found at: www.bbc.co.uk/supermovers.
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Ahead of Middlesbrough v Watford on Saturday (May 4, 12.30pm KO), we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the Sky Bet Championship clash.
Previous Meetings Middlesbrough are looking to achieve their first league double over Watford since the 1971/72 campaign under former manager Stan Anderson.
Watford have lost their last two league games against Middlesbrough. Before this, the Hornets went unbeaten in 10 consecutive matches against them (W6 D4).
Watford have scored in 11 of their last 12 Championship games against Middlesbrough (17 in total), only failing to do so in a 2-0 away defeat in January 2023.
Recent Form Since the beginning of March, Middlesbrough have won more points in the Championship than any other side (22 – W6 D4 L2), with them losing just one of their last 11 matches in the competition.
Since Tom Cleverley’s first league game in charge of Watford (March 16), no side in the Championship has kept more clean sheets (5) or lost fewer games (1) than the Hornets.
Middlesbrough lost 4-3 to Leeds in their last home league game; they last lost successive league games on home soil in February.
Opposition Stat Attack Middlesbrough like leaving it late, with the side scoring more goals between the 76th and 90th minute (16) than any other 15-minute period. They are most vulnerable in the 15-minute period before half-time, conceding 15 of their 61 goals between the 31st and 45th minute.
Middlesbrough’s Emmanuel Latte Lath has scored in each of his last five Championship appearances (seven goals), netting a brace in each of his last two games at the Riverside. The last player to score 2+ goals in three home Championship appearances in a row in the same season was Chuba Akpom last season, also for Middlesbrough.
Latte Lath is the only Boro player with double figures for goals (15) this season, with the forward also having the most shots on target (40). Three players, Luke Ayling, Matt Crooks and Morgan Rogers, now of Aston Villa, have provided the joint-most assists (6).
Defensively, Dael Fry has made the most clearances (121), Lukas Engel has attempted the most tackles (68) and made the most interceptions (51), and Matt Clarke has made the most blocks (19).
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Hunt is on for more experienced staff member to replace Jimmy Gilligan, who returns to his previous role of Academy Head of Technical Development
Tom Cleverley has moved to confirm permanent positions on his coaching staff for a number of those who’d taken up interim roles upon his initial appointment in March.
Tom has named Damon Lathrope as Assistant Head Coach and Armand Kavaja as First-Team Development Coach. Both joined the first-team coaching staff at the same time as Tom.
On the appointments, Cleverley said: “Damon’s got a fantastic eye for the game. He’ll assist me in all of the Head Coach duties; day-to-day sessions, game plans, opposition analysis, people-managing the players. He’s been different class.
“Armand is someone whose skills are exceptional on an individual player development basis. He’s very good one-to-one and has a great background in that kind of technical work and has a fantastic pedigree when it comes to developing young players. He’ll play a key part in that link between the academy and the first-team.”
The role of analysts in football has evolved at a pace, with the modern game absorbing as it does much more in the way of numbers to the way coaches look at the game.
Cleverley named Michael Johnson and Chris Douglas as the First-Team Analyst lead duo; again, both Michael and Chris have been on board since Tom’s interim role began.
“This side of football is very much part-and-parcel of the game now,” explained Tom.
“I was one of those coaches, I’ll admit, that was thinking you can get too techy and too carried away with it – but no, it’s a real benefit and these last few weeks have shown that, to the point where we use a drone for footage of our training now, as it gives a really clear idea of team shape. So you could say I’m already fully converted!
“I want to be a new-school coach who can still apply old-school – not old-fashioned – beliefs.”
On Michael and Chris, Tom explained: “Michael is excellent. He joined from Port Vale in November. And it’s key that he sees the game through a similar set of eyes as myself. Analysts need to tap into the brain of a coach so they can almost predict what’s going to be wanted.
“Chris was recruited more recently from Reading, and he stepped across with me from the Academy. We’ve got a great connection with him and he understands our process fully.”
This leaves open the question of a replacement for the Jimmy Gilligan type of role; a relatively experienced pair of eyes able to contribute advice and support at key times.
“I’m really open-minded about who that person might be,” Cleverley smiled.
“Ideally they’re going to have many more years of experience within a top-level coaching set-up than me. And most importantly of all, coming from a winning environment.
“That process is ongoing right now, and we’ll update on that once we’ve found someone we know is going to add value to what we already have.”
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Jimmy Gilligan stepped away from his interim first-team role before Watford’s final home fixture of 2023/24 – but not before receiving the warmest of wishes from Head Coach Tom Cleverley.
“He’s been my mentor from day one of my coaching journey and I’m so thankful to him,” Cleverley said of Jimmy, who can once again focus fully on his role as the club’s Academy Head of Technical Development.
“It’s not just been Jimmy's advice that’s been a key part of this transition for me, it’s been the timing of his input, knowing when to keep back and when to step in when it’s been needed most.
“He’s been doing two jobs during this time; his own really important role in the Academy and also providing that experienced voice within our coaching set-up.”
Tom continued to explain: “I see the fact that Jimmy’s heading back to the Academy as a key part of strengthening that connection and that pathway from there into the first-team squad. We both have a great understanding of how each other work – and this recent period of time has only benefited that.
“We’d both rather see a young player come up from the Academy as a bit of a project. Our young players know they have to be at the level and nothing is a given. But they know with my knowledge and Jimmy’s knowledge of the players that they’ve got a live chance. Much better to do that if we can than simply have to recruit a player of no better a level.
“Jimmy’s told me his door is always open, which is great to know from a mentoring perspective, and I’ve no doubt we’ll ensure our great relationship is focused on getting the best outcomes for this football club.”
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Ahead of Watford's season-ending trip to Middlesbrough in the Sky Bet Championship on Saturday (May 4, 12.30pm KO), we've taken a look at five memorable final day matches for the Hornets.
Watford 4-0 Hull City - May 14, 1979 Watford needed to beat Hull City at Vicarage Road on the final day of the 1978/79 season to guarantee promotion from Division Three.
The Hornets sat in third, the last automatic spot, and were locked in a five-way battle to go up.
Graham Taylor’s men delivered with a thumping 4-0 win which sealed promotion for the second consecutive season.
Goals from league top scorer Ross Jenkins, Luther Blissett, Ian Bolton and Roger Joslyn saw off the Tigers and sealed second place in the division.
The largest Vicarage Road crowd for 10 years, numbering more than 26,000, watched the game.
Watford 2-1 Liverpool - May 14, 1983 The Hornets sealed second placed in Division One, then the top flight of English football, with this final day success over a Liverpool side who had already been crowned as champions.
Martin Patching and Luther Blissett fired Watford into a 2-0 lead, with Craig Johnston's reply for the Reds proving to be just a consolation.
Watford moved up to second, the club's highest-ever finish, after Manchester United lost their final day match 3-2 at Notts County.
It meant that Graham Taylor's Golden Boys were officially the second-best team in the country just a season after being promoted to the top tier.
Taylor celebrated with Elton John after the game, with the side also having European football to look forward to in the following season.
Fulham 1-2 Watford - May 2, 1998 Watford went into the final game of the 1997/98 Division Two season in second place on goal difference, knowing they needed to better the result of leaders Bristol City to be crowned as champions.
Gifton Noel-Williams gave the Hornets a half-time lead before Peter Beardsley restored parity for Kevin Keegan's Fulham.
Jason Lee put the Golden Boys back in front and Graham Taylor's men were confirmed as league winners when Bristol City lost 2-1 at Preston.
Watford 1-0 Grimsby Town - May 9, 1999 Watford crucially beat Grimsby Town 1-0 at Vicarage Road on the final day of the 1998/99 season to earn a play-off spot in Division One.
Peter Kennedy was the goalscorer as the Hornets finished fifth in the league and booked a semi-final date with Birmingham City.
The Blues were eventually knocked out on penalties before a 2-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers at Wembley secured a place in the Premier League, and a second promotion in a row.
Blackpool 1-1 Watford - May 4, 2008 The final day of the 2007/08 season saw Watford claim a Championship play-off place after a nervy draw away at Blackpool.
Ben Burgess fired the Tangerines, who were facing relegation, into an early lead and the Hornets had Darius Henderson sent off for two yellow cards on 59 minutes.
Tommy Smith was able to level, however, which proved enough for Watford to finish in the last play-off spot, only above Wolves on goal difference.
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A look back to the jubilant scenes at Vicarage Road on May 4, 1982 when Watford beat Wrexham to secure promotion to Division One for the first time.
Having spent five of the last six seasons playing for Watford, Ken Sema says it is his club, and his home.
Following a win in his first match as permanent Head Coach, we have put together a timeline of the key dates in Tom Cleverley's career with Watford, including memorable goals, promotion and his move into coaching.
August 18, 2009 Tom Cleverley's first appearance in a Watford shirt came just hours after he had signed for the club on loan from Manchester United.
The 19-year-old was highly-rated among the United academy, and had started pre-season strongly by scoring for both the Red Devils in a friendly and England Under-20s against Montenegro.
Cleverley was named in the Watford staring XI against Nottingham Forest, and announced himself to the Hornets faithful when he found the back of the net in second-half stoppage time to secure a 4-2 victory.
April 18, 2010 Cleverley continued his scoring start to life at Watford, finding the back of the net on his home debut against Blackpool four days after the Forest match.
The midfielder continued his fine form throughout the 2009/10 season, cementing his place as one of the Hornets' key players despite only just having turned 20.
He made a total of 35 appearances and scored 11 goals before his season was cut short due to injury. Cleverley's exploits were acknowledged at the End of Season Awards evening in April, where he won Player of the Season.
January 12, 2017 Cleverley returned to Manchester United at the end of his loan spell, and it would be more than six years before he once again pulled on a Watford shirt.
The period between his spells with the Golden Boys saw him play 13 times for England, win the Premier League with the Red Devils and represent Team GB at the London 2012 Olympics.
After leaving United for Everton, he struggled for first-team appearances and opted to re-join the Hornets midway through the 2016/17 season, initially on loan.
October 14, 2017 Impressing on his return, Watford took the option to make Cleverley's loan move permanent in the summer of 2017.
Despite playing a vital role as the Hornets confirmed their Premier League status in 2016/17 before making a strong start to 2017/18, the midfielder was still without his first goal since re-signing.
The wait would come to an end in October, when Arsenal visited Vicarage Road for a match under the lights. With the game locked at 1-1 with seconds to go, the ball fell to Cleverley inside the box. No invitation was needed for him to smash it home, securing a famous victory.
January 12, 2019 Cleverley suffered with more than his fair share of injuries while in his second spell with the club, missing almost every match in 2018 as a result.
He also hadn't scored since his effort against Arsenal, a period of almost 15 months when he was brought off the bench in January 2019 away to Crystal Palace.
With the game level at one apiece, an attempted headed clearance from Palace inside the box lacked power, and Cleverley, just about staying upright, volleyed the ball beyond the reach of the keeper for what would turn out to be an iconic winner.
April 24, 2021 Injuries continued to affect Cleverley throughout the 2018/19 and 2019/20 seasons, with the Hornets suffering relegation to the Championship in the latter.
Fortunately, the midfielder was able to recover to play a key part in the 2020/21 season with 34 appearances, including wearing the captain's armband in more than half of those.
He also chipped in with four goals and played 84 minutes in the 1-0 win over Millwall in April which meant the Hornets went straight back up to the Premier League.
August 12, 2022 The Hornets were unable to retain their place in the top flight the following season, with Cleverley announced as club captain for the 2022/23 Championship campaign.
He was ever-present as the side started the season with a win and a draw, and he led the team out at Vicarage Road for the clash against Burnley on his 32nd birthday.
Cleverley timed his run into the box perfectly on the stroke of half-time to slot Ken Sema's cross into the bottom-right corner for the game's only goal, but he pulled up when celebrating and had to be withdrawn at the break.
August 12, 2023 The Burnley strike would turn out to be the last goal of his career. An Achilles issue ruled him out until February, but after two appearances he picked up a separate problem that ended his season.
Cleverley decided to hang up his boots at the end of the campaign, and took over as Under-18 Lead Coach. Coincidentally, his first game in charge of the side came exactly a year after the Burnley match.
His first competitive match in management of any kind was an entertaining affair which ended 2-2 against Sheffield United, with Jonathan Lawson and Prince Sikiru on the scoresheet.
March 16, 2024 Cleverley enjoyed a successful period with the Under-18s, including taking that age group to a cup semi-final and the Under-17s to a final. He also led the Under-18s to second in the league.
He made the step-up to Interim Head Coach of the first team after the home defeat to Coventry City, giving himself and his staff a week to prepare for his first match in senior management away at Birmingham City.
Lining up with the youngest Watford starting XI for 13 years, Emmanuel Dennis secured the points for the Hornets on the stroke of half-time to give Cleverley the perfect start.
April 27, 2024 Cleverley impressed in the interim role, losing just once in seven matches despite facing five of the Championship's top seven. As a result, he was appointed into the permanent position with two games of 2023/24 left.
His first test as permanent Head Coach was Saturday's game against Sunderland at Vicarage Road. Cleverley had yet to manage a win at home, with the Hornets' home winless run extending to almost five months.
Ryan Andrews' strike midway through the second half proved enough to end the duck, giving Cleverley a much-needed win at The Vic, and an excellent start to life as full-time Head Coach.
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Ben Aiton is joined by Mike Duffy to discuss Watford’s first home win since November 2023 as Cleverley’s men won 1-0 against struggling Sunderland.Follow new Indie Pop Band 'No Rest for The Spacemen' from Watford:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61558989715361Twitter/X - @NRFTSMInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/nrfspacemen/?hl=enSpotify - https://open.spotify.com/artist/0oUjALURNcMF9pH5y8nuQr?si=x7zMVDXtSN-qTTlCkx3N5ALISTEN TO THEIR DEBUT SINGLE - SOMEBODY LIKE YOU - https://open.spotify.com/track/16O53gtA4TJQsV4yanBKyE?si=ELlhEG9ZTv2A_-Hsl3fuUAFollow The Voices of the Vic Podcast:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheVoicesOfTheVicTwitter/X - https://x.com/voicesofthevic?s=21Instagram - https://instagram.com/voicesofthevic?igshid=Nzd2YXZoamd1cDM1Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6LWkbl2NkQbl1nTbBSllOn?si=RQQPSoG2TPeeDSWQtIJlYgApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-voices-of-the-vic/id1518372507Contact us: thevoicesofthevic@gmail.comThanks for listening!Sponsored by Beer 52. To claim your FREE case of 8 beers visit www.beer52.com/VICLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
It was a dream move to an English Premier League club - but Ken Sema's love affair with Watford so nearly ended early.
Watford conclude their 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign with a trip to Middlesbrough this Saturday (May 4, 12.30pm KO).
Ahead of the final-day fixture at the Riverside Stadium, find out below how you can follow the clash on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters * Listen to live commentary from approximately 12.20pm BST with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- New seasonal audio passes are no longer available for the 2023/24 campaign.
- We are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes to domestic supporters for the match.
- Domestic supporters include those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
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Click HERE to purchase your pass.
International Supporters * Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match video pass (available in all international territories). Coverage starts at approximately 12.20pm BST. * This game is included in £25 monthly and £170 seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters. * Listen to live commentary with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass or a £45 seasonal audio pass. * New seasonal video and audio passes are no longer available for the 2023/24 campaign. * Click HERE to purchase your pass.
How Can I Buy A Pass? Match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
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Six strikes during April have been chosen for the club's latest Goal of the Month award.
Fans will decide the winner by voting in the Watford FC WhatsApp channel HERE, before a closing deadline of 12noon on Thursday (May 2).
The winning goal will be revealed across our social media channels and website.
Take a look at the contenders below...
Edo Kayembe v West Bromwich Albion - April 1 Edo Kayembe scored his first goal since New Year's Day with a finish on April Fool's Day that certainly was no joke.
The ball fell to the Congolese midfielder on the edge of the box, with Kayembe taking a touch before smashing his effort home, leaving the goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
Ryan Porteous v Southampton - April 13 Ryan Porteous has found his shooting boots of late, with the finish against Southampton showing his confidence in front of goal is continuing to grow.
Playing in the unfamiliar position of right-back, the Scottish international had bombed forward, skipping in front of his man to latch onto a loose ball just outside the box.
He took a touch to set himself before taking a shot any striker would be proud of, firing his effort into the roof of the net, leaving the keeper no chance.
Ismaël Koné v Southampton - April 13 Ismaël Koné's stunning solo effort saw the Hornets complete their two-goal comeback at St Mary's thanks to a piece of individual brilliance.
Receiving the ball midway through the Saints' half with his back to goal, the Canadian dropped his shoulder and started to drive towards the box.
He glided into the area, passing several Southampton defenders before coolly slotting out of the keeper's reach into the bottom corner.
Ryan Andrews v Sunderland - April 27 Ryan Andrews responded to missing out on the starting 11 against Sunderland by coming off the bench to score what would prove to be a very welcome winner.
Introduced at half-time, the defender launched himself down the right wing, receiving an excellently-weighted ball from Koné before finishing with the calmness of a veteran striker to secure a first home win since November.
Dré Georgiou v Reading - April 28 Looking to end the season on the high, Dré Georgiou doubled the Golden Girls' advantage in their final match of the season with this excellent strike.
Found by Michelle Agyemang about 25 yards out, some brilliant close control saw the midfielder cut towards the centre of the goal before releasing an effort that flew into the back of the net.
Coral Haines v Reading - April 28 After Reading had pulled a goal back, Coral Haines restored Watford's two-goal lead with a wonderful strike that was well worthy of eventually earning all three points.
Receiving the ball in space more than 25 yards out, Haines let it settle before lashing a wicked effort into the top right-hand corner to mark the Golden Girls' last goal of the 2023/24 campaign in some style.
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One Academy product made his first start, another scored the winner and third signed a three-year professional contract.
When the Hornets were promoted in 20/21 they won 19 home games - they've only won 19 in three seasons since then.
Amin Nabizada stepped up from the Under-18s to score and assist as the Under-21s won away at Wigan Athletic.
Victory over Reading at Vicarage Road saw the Hornets end a relegation season with something to cheer.
1- So. Decision made, then. Earlier than expected which suggests, whilst acknowledging the encouragement of recent performances, a desire to make a statement of faith before the reassurance of a home win. A “he’s the guy”, rather than a “well, OK, go on then”. Which is a Good Thing. Not since GT took over the […]
It was a victory that ended five months without a home success, but putting the result aside there was little else to savour.
As Watford's home season comes to an end, with a 1-0 home won against Sunderland, the FTRE team had a end of season night out with a curry!
You'll hear from Jas, Adam D, Colin, Jordi, Kieran and Jon, discuss the last home game as well as the appointment of Thomas William Cleverley and the impact it will have on our club.
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Time is running out to win a framed shirt signed by the 2023/24 first-team squad as part of the club’s April sustainability prize in collaboration with Lowr!
With the latest monthly competition ending on Tuesday April 30, Watford fans just have a couple of days left to give themselves a chance of winning the April prize by logging travel to and from matches via the new sustainability platform.
Fans using the platform - which is accessed within the official Watford FC app - can collect points to earn tickets for the draw, up to a maximum of four each month.
Ways to earn points include logging travel to and from Watford matches, committing to a sustainable pledge and answering weekly quiz questions correctly.
Other ways are reading an article and answering a question at the end, making a recipe and logging each of your servings and purchasing a planet-friendly product and logging the swap.
Last month, 33-year-old Watford fan Rob Wilson was awarded two hospitality tickets to the Sky Bet Championship clash with Hull City after winning the March prize draw.
By logging how they get to and from home and away fixtures, fans will be providing the club with a greater understanding of its carbon footprint – with supporter travel accounting for the biggest part of its carbon emissions.
To access the free-to-use platform, simply click HERE. Alternatively, you can tap on ‘More’ within the official Watford FC app and then ‘Sustainability’. If you don’t yet have the official Watford app, click the links below for a free download.
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Tom Cleverley spoke to the media after the Hornets earned a win in his first game as permanent Head Coach with a 1-0 victory over Sunderland at Vicarage Road.
Ryan Andrews' second-half strike was the game's only goal as the Golden Boys recorded their first home league win in almost five months.
Read what Cleverley had to say below...
On celebrating his appointment with an elusive home win:
I would have taken that before the game - a real bang-average performance, but a 1-0 win. I will always be honest with the media and the players, it’s possibly our poorest performance since I’ve been in charge, and football has got a funny way of working out.
We played excellent second half against West Brom, excellent second half against Southampton, and only came away with one point, so maybe we have got a little bit of payback here today.
On the reasons behind the poor performance:
I think we started the game well in the first 20 minutes, and then gave away a few cheap fouls that spoiled the rhythm. Then we gave away a couple of chances, and Sunderland had a real foothold in the game. I thought we made too many technical mistakes today and were sloppy in possession, especially in the top third of the pitch.
On other days we might not be as good at the back, and our front three will create magic to get us out, but the result today was the other way round. Our defence was very good, and we were sloppy in possession.
Maybe it is just my high demands of us as a team. I see on a daily basis how technically good we are, playing in small spaces, combining around the box, and today we just couldn’t get it going, we would have two passes, but then with the third it would break down, or someone would try a flick.
In this league you need consistency and we didn’t have any of that in possession today, so we will work at it, and I won’t stop demanding until we have the complete performance.
Sunderland did a really good job at breaking the tempo. They slowed the game down well, knocking us out of our rhythm, a bit like Preston did, and we struggled to deal with that, and they took control of the game for large parts.
When you are desperate to put three or four passes together to get your rhythm out of the game, you fall down too many times. I'm a little bit disappointed with that, because I know technically these players are better than they showed today.
**On seeing the game out:**
Pleasing after we couldn’t manage it against Leeds and West Brom. Sunderland caused us a lot of problems second half, tactically, and technically they are a very, very good side. Good, quick combinations in and around our box, and we showed a bit of grit to see it out, and make it five clean sheets out of eight.
On the goal:
It was a nice move, [Ismaël] Koné and [Vakoun] Bayo combining. I thought Koné was excellent today, and Ryan Andrews finished it off really, really well. One Academy product starting [Jack Grieves], replaced by another who scored the winning goal. I have been really pleased with Ryan’s reaction to starting on the bench today.
On Jack Grieves:
He has been training fantastically well since I’ve been in. He’s training with a real intensity, and I just felt like we could go with two more attacking wing-backs, a bit more attacking balance that we showed so well in the last 20 minutes of last week, so we went with Grieves to start.
We just couldn’t get any rhythm, he looked like someone who needed to learn the position a little bit, but he was completely at the level. It’s been a real good experience for him, then Ryan came on and responded well to being left out today, and showed a lot of character to perform like he did.
**On Ryan Andrews:**
The responsibility is his, but I feel massively responsible to be a part of his development. He knows how demanding I am of him, and I continue to be so. The reason I got into coaching is to help young players, and I am excited to work with him.
On Wesley Hoedt:
He has been fantastic, not only on the playing field, but on the training pitch for us as well. A massive leader amongst the squad, he is someone who has huge experience and he has been a big part of why our defensive record has been so good since we’ve come.
The [Player of the Season award] is thoroughly deserved, take your pick from goal of the season, from Yáser’s wonder strikes plus Wes’s, but I don’t think anyone can have any complaints from Wes winning Player of the Season.
On making Vicarage Road a fortress:
It is right up there, top of the list of priorities. I know personally, 19 out of 23 when we got promoted last time, your home form is key to this league. You try and pick up as many points on the road as you can, but, ultimately, it is your defensive record, and your home form, that will see you through this league.
I feel like we have reconnected with the fans through spirited performances, desire and heart, so we are starting to form those connections with our supporters again, and now it is up to all of us to make this a fortress again.
The way we want to play, being a team on the front foot and in control of the game in possession, but with possession with a purpose, is easier to implement at home because you naturally get on the front foot.
It should be a match made in heaven for our results to improve at home next season, but consistency is the key, and that’s what I’m not too pleased about today, we didn’t show much consistency throughout the game.
On the importance of getting the home win out of the way this season:
If we went into the off-season, then pre-season, then at the first game in August you are looking at nine months since our last win at home, and that doesn’t sound great, for a club of our size in this league.
We have managed to clear that one off today, so we are really, really pleased that we’ve managed to send our supporters away for the summer with a little bit of something to celebrate.
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Jack Grieves spoke to watfordfc.com after making his first start for his childhood club in the 1-0 win over Sunderland which ended the wait for a much-needed home win.
After being on the bench several times throughout the season, Grieves was given the opportunity from the beginning by new Head Coach Tom Cleverley.
Read what he had to say below...
It feels brilliant. It was a really nice feeling to be able to start the game today. I’ve been on the bench a few times this year, but not got on the pitch, so it was a nice moment for me getting some minutes under Clevs. It was a really good day.
The standard is obviously much higher, the game is quicker, and you have got to react faster. Everything is sped up, so it was a bit of an adjustment at the start, and I think sometimes I handled it well, sometimes I could have handled it a bit better, but it was good.
I found out [that I was starting] yesterday after training, and I had a meeting with Clevs. He just told me I would be starting the game, and told me what he expected from me, told me in and out of possession what he expected from me, and just told me to go out and enjoy it. That’s when I found out.
I’ve been on the right wing a little bit in training. A few weeks ago Clevs said to me that he wanted to try me out there in training, so I’m not completely unaware of it. It is not my natural position but anywhere Clevs wants me to play, I’ll go out there and give it my all.
*Jack Clarke showed his qualities today, he is a good player and we have seen that this season. It was nice to come up against some tough opposition, it was a great experience for me, so I am not complaining.*
I am extremely proud of the family connection [Grieves' relatives have played for Watford]. It is a big moment for me. I’ve played a little bit in the past, but to actually start a game today was a very proud moment for me and it was something I will cherish for the rest of my life.
It ranks as a solid top three [moments in career], especially in front of the fans who were class today by the way, so it was a really good moment for me.
I had pretty much my whole family here today, my brothers, my parents, my nan and grandad, my uncle, my little cousins, and my aunties - they have been a massive support for me, so it is nice to have them here to share this moment with me as well.
I am just going to keep working, keep doing what I’m doing, trying to show my quality in training, and in games when I am given the opportunity to do so. That’s the ultimate aim for me, to start as many games for Watford, this is my childhood club so I don’t really want to be anywhere else.
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Wesley Hoedt spoke to watfordfc.com after the Hornets claimed a 1-0 success over Sunderland in the Sky Bet Championship, in the last home game of the 2023/24 season.
A Ryan Andrews goal sealed the first Golden Boys league victory at Vicarage Road since the 3-2 win over Norwich City on November 28.
There was also a double personal celebration for Hoedt, who won both the Graham Taylor Player of the Season and Goal of the Season awards.
Read what he had to say below...
Finally! I think that’s what the team deserved, and the fans deserved as well.
I think we started really well in the first 20 minutes, and we were completely focused on a result.
Recently we have been sharper in the second half, but today was a bit vice-versa.
The first 20 minutes we had them all under control, and then we started dropping back a bit, they had some chances, and we couldn’t control the game anymore.
*The manager tried to change some things at half-time, the game opened up a bit and it could have gone both ways. I think it’s a deserved win.*
I think the winless run we’ve been on [at home] was way too long. The happiness and positivity is back amongst the fans.
We need to be honest and look in the mirror. This season was not good enough, it’s the honest truth. We will try to finish on a high next week, and then it’s time to recover, re-think some things, and come back for pre-season and make sure this club is back where it belongs.
I think everyone is very happy with Clevs, he deserves it [becoming permanent Head Coach]. Him and his staff have been brilliant.
They came in and they did the job really well. The moment he came in we were bleeding; we were not on the right track. I think we’ve played eight games and we have only lost one.
Of course we have had too many draws but we know this. It's way too much if you want to push for the play-off places. That is why we are in the spot we are in at the moment.
The awards are of course a nice thing.
I have to thank the fans for voting and making it happen. So, I want to thank them, and for me on a personal level, it’s really nice, it’s acknowledgment of what you’ve done all season.
*I think I’ve had a very steady season, and that results in winning those two trophies.*
I haven’t watched [the Goal of the Season v Hull] back that many times.
In the beginning I saw it everywhere because it was all over Twitter. Like I said, it was an intuition thing and something we had trained on during those weeks.
It is nice and it’s also a memory. The trophy is a nice acknowledgement.
I think ever since Clevs came in, the rhythm has been switched up. I think everyone is on a positive note again and the fans as well, they are behind the team.
We have been struggling so it’s quite hard to not be winning that many games. I think if you look at the results, we have also had five clean sheets in the last eight games. And like our captain Dan Bachmann said, that wins you championships. That needs to be the basis of next year.
So, if we can add a lot of goals to it, then we will be pushing for better places.
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Ryan Andrews spoke to watfordfc.com after scoring the winning goal in the Hornets' 1-0 success over Sunderland in the Sky Bet Championship.
The full-back came off the bench to fire home in the 64th minute - marking his 50th appearance in a Watford shirt in the perfect way.
Read what he had to say below...
Obviously today I didn’t start the game, but I knew when I came on I needed to show what I can do and just prove why I should be playing.
Tom [Cleverley] gave me the chance at half-time to come on. It’s an amazing feeling, especially on my 50th appearance and to do it at home is even better.
I saw Ismaël Koné running with the ball, and I saw a big gap between the two defenders. I knew if I was able to run diagonally into the space, he would play me the ball and I knew I just had to get my head over the ball and shoot across goal.
Every full-back enjoys getting forward as there are goals there to be scored and chances to be created.
You also have to do the dirty work defending as well!
We knew that as it was our last game at home, we had to show the fans what they wanted to see. No-one wants to be at the last home game of the season and lose.
It is a massive one for us because we gave the fans what they wanted to see in the last home match of the season.
*Everyone wants to be playing every game and every minute of the season.*
I feel like personally this has been a good first full season for me. I have played a lot of games and developed over time.
There are still a lot of things I can improve. It is frustrating to be on the bench but when you come on you need to show your abilities.
It’s a positive one for me. My family and friends are very proud.
I’m proud of myself as well as there have been a lot of moments during the season where I may have not had the confidence that I wanted every game, but I still got the game time I wanted.
I just went game by game and tried to do the best I could.
As a player, when you have those down moments, you need to get past them and try and do your best to overcome them.
We all want to get promoted next season. It’s not as easy as just saying it but if we stay as a team and work hard then it can be achieved.
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The winners of Watford FC’s End of Season Awards were revealed around the Sky Bet Championship clash with Sunderland at Vicarage Road (Saturday April 27), the last home game of the 2023/24 campaign.
Prizes included the Graham Taylor Player of the Season, Goal of the Season and Young Player of the Season.
Find out who won what below...
Graham Taylor Player of the Season: Wesley Hoedt Dutch centre-back Wesley Hoedt joins the list of names who have the honour of winning the Graham Taylor Player of the Season award, as voted for by Watford supporters.
The 30-year-old on-field playing captain has excelled with a number of commanding displays in the Hornets back four, in what has been his first full season at Vicarage Road since his switch from Anderlecht in January 2023.
Hoedt made it his ambition to play every minute of the season for the Golden Boys, and was on course to achieve this aim before his booking against Coventry City in March which led to a suspension.
Left-footer Hoedt regularly impresses with his vision to pick out team-mates and his exceptional range of passing, as well as always providing leadership and communication at the back.
He scored in the 3-2 defeat against Middlesbrough in September and grabbed his second of the season in the 2-1 victory at Hull City in December, more on which can be found below...
The Graham Taylor Player of the Season award was presented to Hoedt by Head Coach Tom Cleverley.
Yáser Asprilla finished second in the supporters' vote and Edo Kayembe was third.
Goal of the Season: Wesley Hoedt Wesley Hoedt made it an awards double after collecting the Goal of the Season accolade for his long-range wonderstrike away at Hull City.
The Dutchman scored the winner in a 2-1 victory at the MKM Stadium on December 2 with a sublime 74th-minute lob, which came out on top in the supporters' vote.
Hoedt dispossessed Liam Delap and, after spotting that keeper Ryan Allsop was off his line, audaciously drove the ball over him from around 40 yards.
The defender barely took any time between winning the ball and executing the finish, pulling off a special strike from close to the halfway line which will be remembered at Vicarage Road for seasons to come.
Describing his goal, Hoedt said: "I saw their striker was receiving the ball from deep, and he didn’t control it that well so I thought I could intercept it. Then I saw their goalie off his line, so I thought why not?"
The Goal of the Season trophy was presented on the pitch by Watford legend Lloyd Doyley.
Yáser Asprilla finished second in the vote with his long-range thunderbolt away at Norwich City.
The first of Jake Livermore's goals at QPR finished third.
Young Player of the Season: Yáser Asprilla Colombian winger Yáser Asprilla has been named as the Young Player of the Season after a standout campaign.
The 20-year-old has often dazzled with his pace, skills and trickery, as well as his natural ability to beat his man.
After one goal in his first full season with the Hornets, Asprilla has kicked on this term with six, including the winners against Sheffield Wednesday and Norwich City before the end of last year.
His goal in the 4-2 defeat at Norwich in February will be remembered for years to come. The Colombian found the top corner with an incredible long-ranged effort which hit the net after striking the woodwork.
Asprilla backed up the goal by scoring the winner against Rotherham United in his next game, thanks to another thumping finish.
As well as his goals, Asprilla tops the assists charts for the Hornets in the Championship with seven.
The Young Player of the Season award was presented following the game by former Hornet Tommy Smith.
Supporter of the Season: Sarah Priestley This year’s winner of Supporter of the Year is Sarah Priestley.
Priestley is a Season Ticket holder who has worked at the Watford Museum since 1998, putting on numerous memorable exhibitions relating to Watford Football Club over the past 26 years, including one to celebrate 100 years at Vicarage Road back in 2022.
She’s also a tireless and valued volunteer for the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, winning the Trust Champion award last year.
Watford legend Troy Deeney presented Sarah with her award.
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Ryan Andrews spoke to watfordfc.com after scoring the winning goal in the Hornets' 1-0 success over Sunderland in the Sky Bet Championship.
The full-back came off the bench to fire home in the 64th minute - marking his 50th appearance in a Watford shirt in the perfect way.
Read what he had to say below...
Obviously today I didn’t start the game, but I knew when I came on I needed to show what I can do and just prove why I should be playing.
Tom [Cleverley] gave me the chance at half-time to come on. It’s an amazing feeling, especially on my 50th appearance and to do it at home is even better.
I saw Ismaël Koné running with the ball, and I saw a big gap between the two defenders. I knew if I was able to run diagonally into the space, he would play me the ball and I knew I just had to get my head over the ball and shoot across goal.
Every full-back enjoys getting forward as there are goals there to be scored and chances to be created.
You also have to do the dirty work defending as well!
We knew that as it was our last game at home, we had to show the fans what they wanted to see. No-one wants to be at the last home game of the season and lose.
It is a massive one for us because we gave the fans what they wanted to see in the last home match of the season.
*Everyone wants to be playing every game and every minute of the season.*
I feel like personally this has been a good first full season for me. I have played a lot of games and developed over time.
There are still a lot of things I can improve. It is frustrating to be on the bench but when you come on you need to show your abilities.
It’s a positive one for me. My family and friends are very proud.
I’m proud of myself as well as there have been a lot of moments during the season where I may have not had the confidence that I wanted every game, but I still got the game time I wanted.
I just went game by game and tried to do the best I could.
As a player, when you have those down moments, you need to get past them and try and do your best to overcome them.
We all want to get promoted next season. It’s not as easy as just saying it but if we stay as a team and work hard then it can be achieved.
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The winners of Watford FC’s End of Season Awards were revealed around the Sky Bet Championship clash with Sunderland at Vicarage Road (Saturday April 27), the last home game of the 2023/24 campaign.
Prizes included the Graham Taylor Player of the Season, Goal of the Season and Young Player of the Season.
Find out who won what below...
Graham Taylor Player of the Season: Wesley Hoedt Dutch centre-back Wesley Hoedt joins the list of names who have the honour of winning the Graham Taylor Player of the Season award, as voted for by Watford supporters.
The 30-year-old on-field playing captain has excelled with a number of commanding displays in the Hornets back four, in what has been his first full season at Vicarage Road since his switch from Anderlecht in January 2023.
Hoedt made it his ambition to play every minute of the season for the Golden Boys, and was on course to achieve this aim before his booking against Coventry City in March which led to a suspension.
Left-footer Hoedt regularly impresses with his vision to pick out team-mates and his exceptional range of passing, as well as always providing leadership and communication at the back.
He scored in the 3-2 defeat against Middlesbrough in September and grabbed his second of the season in the 2-1 victory at Hull City in December, more on which can be found below...
The Graham Taylor Player of the Season award was presented to Hoedt by Head Coach Tom Cleverley.
Yáser Asprilla finished second in the supporters' vote and Edo Kayembe was third.
Goal of the Season: Wesley Hoedt Wesley Hoedt made it an awards double after collecting the Goal of the Season accolade for his long-range wonderstrike away at Hull City.
The Dutchman scored the winner in a 2-1 victory at the MKM Stadium on December 2 with a sublime 74th-minute lob, which came out on top in the supporters' vote.
Hoedt dispossessed Liam Delap and, after spotting that keeper Ryan Allsop was off his line, audaciously drove the ball over him from around 40 yards.
The defender barely took any time between winning the ball and executing the finish, pulling off a special strike from close to the halfway line which will be remembered at Vicarage Road for seasons to come.
Describing his goal, Hoedt said: "I saw their striker was receiving the ball from deep, and he didn’t control it that well so I thought I could intercept it. Then I saw their goalie off his line, so I thought why not?"
The Goal of the Season trophy was presented on the pitch by Watford legend Lloyd Doyley.
Yáser Asprilla finished second in the vote with his long-range thunderbolt away at Norwich City.
The first of Jake Livermore's goals at QPR finished third.
Young Player of the Season: Yáser Asprilla Colombian winger Yáser Asprilla has been named as the Young Player of the Season after a standout campaign.
The 20-year-old has often dazzled with his pace, skills and trickery, as well as his natural ability to beat his man.
After one goal in his first full season with the Hornets, Asprilla has kicked on this term with six, including the winners against Sheffield Wednesday and Norwich City before the end of last year.
His goal in the 4-2 defeat at Norwich in February will be remembered for years to come. The Colombian found the top corner with an incredible long-ranged effort which hit the net after striking the woodwork.
Asprilla backed up the goal by scoring the winner against Rotherham United in his next game, thanks to another thumping finish.
As well as his goals, Asprilla tops the assists charts for the Hornets in the Championship with seven.
The Young Player of the Season award was presented following the game by former Hornet Tommy Smith.
Supporter of the Season: Sarah Priestley This year’s winner of Supporter of the Year is Sarah Priestley.
Priestley is a Season Ticket holder who has worked at the Watford Museum since 1998, putting on numerous memorable exhibitions relating to Watford Football Club over the past 26 years, including one to celebrate 100 years at Vicarage Road back in 2022.
She’s also a tireless and valued volunteer for the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, winning the Trust Champion award last year.
Watford legend Troy Deeney presented Sarah with her award.
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A cracking strike from Ryan Andrews finally ended the 152-day wait for a home league victory, as Tom Cleverley made a winning start.
Eighteen-year-old defender Albert Eames has signed a three-year professional contract with Watford.
Retirement, coaching the Under-18s, interim head coach and now in the role permanently. It's been quite a year for Tom...
Looking back to 40 years ago today on April 26, 1984 when a banner stretched across High Street thanking fans before the FA Cup Final.
***Watford FC Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury shares his thoughts ahead of tomorrow’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Sunderland (April 27, 3pm KO)...***
Good afternoon everyone and welcome back to Vicarage Road for this, the final home fixture of the 2023/24 season.
This is a really exciting time – and I sense that supporters and staff alike are sharing in the hope that the appointment of Tom as our permanent Head Coach is going to have a hugely positive effect for our football club.
My personal association with Tom goes back over many years; I have worked with him as a player, captain and now Head Coach.
Tom’s humility is a disarming characteristic for professional football, given the illustrious players and managers he has mixed with over his long playing career right at the top of this industry.
It sometimes masks a steely resolve to succeed, but that beating heart of true self-awareness, a determination to develop and learn every day, will I believe give him every chance of enjoying the role as Watford’s Head Coach.
We’re going to support him come hell or…… actually, I think it’s best I don’t go there! Let’s just say I wish nothing but success for Tom in his role.
Save to say, he has impressed everyone within the training ground since his appointment as Interim Head Coach – and those important conversations about summer player trading and recruitment have seen him speaking regularly with owner Gino Pozzo and I.
For a coach to produce motivated and well-planned performances against some of the division’s best-performing sides has been a credit to his football experience that he’s been able to deliver quickly and impactfully.
Everyone understands team displays can sometimes suffer when there isn’t a cause towards the end of a campaign. But you only have to have been at just one of the past seven matches to clearly see the performances on show from a squad desperate to show its support for Tom in the best way possible.
Today marks the last chance for the players to leave you with those good feelings going into the summer that Tom has talked about, and I’m sure they’ll take that chance.
Before kick-off, at half-time and after the game, we’ll be announcing this season’s award-winners, with the post-game presentations also being accompanied by Tom and his squad taking the chance to thank you for your support this year.
We look forward to seeing many of you this coming Wednesday here at the training ground for the last of five fans’ Q&As this season. It’s focusing specifically on the academy, with Tom’s presence confirming this to be a key area of focus for all of us both now and in the months that lay ahead.
Then off to Middlesbrough and into the summer break in an extremely positive place for our club, now led by a Head Coach who knows Watford as well as anyone possibly could do when first taking up such an important role.
Welcome to the Board of Directors of Sunderland AFC.
My warmest wishes to you and your families for a restful summer. See you here in August!
Best regards,
Scott Duxbury
Chairman & Chief Executive Officer, Watford Football Club
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Second-year scholar Albert Eames has officially put pen to paper on his first professional contract with the Hornets, signing a three-year deal with the club.
Eames, a right-back, has been a key player in both the Under-18s and Under-21s this season and has recently made the move to the first team, featuring in the matchday squad for the trip to Birmingham City.
On the deal, Eames said: “I’m absolutely delighted. I think every boy works up to this moment since you start playing football so to be here from Under-8s up to now, it’s been a good journey. Hopefully now I can push on even more and see what happens in the future.”
Tom Cleverley, formerly the coach of Eames at Under-18 level and now Head Coach of the first team, was keen to progress the youngster into full training and has been a huge help as Eames makes the latest step-up in his career.
“It’s been a very smooth transition, obviously with Clevs [Tom Cleverley] and Damo [Damon Lathrope] being coaches of mine in the past,” Eames said.
“All the boys have given me a very warm welcome, so it’s been very nice.”
Since joining the club’s Academy 10 years ago, Eames has enjoyed his time despite facing a period in which he was released.
Of his experiences, he said: “I joined at Under-8s and had a smooth running up until Under-14.
“Then I got released, but due to COVID I was given a six-week extension period where I came back with Armand [Kavaja] who was my Under-15 coach, and I got re-signed.
“Then I was offered my scholarship as an Under-16 all the way up to signing my first professional contract now.”
Fellow academy graduates Ryan Andrews and James Morris kicked on from their first pro deals and Eames is hoping to replicate their success.
“They’re very good players and players that I look up to,” he said. “I want to keep pushing and see what happens.”
Many family members were present to witness the 18-year old’s special day, on which he said: “I can’t thank them enough really. All the journeys they’ve put in, all the dedication and hard work, I wouldn’t be here without them.”
As a full-back, Eames understands the basics of his role. “Ultimately, I’m a defender and I’d like to think I’m good one-on-one,” he said.
“When I was younger I always looked up to Sergio Ramos, especially with his leadership qualities.”
With the game ever-growing and the rapidly changing expectations of players in his position to impact the game going forward, Eames continues to transform his playing style, and is now looking to emulate the likes of Ben White and Kieran Trippier.
“I would say I’m a modern-day full-back,” he said. “I like to get up and down the pitch, drive with the ball when I can and also find passes to break lines.”
This transformation has been aided further by his involvement in the first team, and his inclusion on the bench in Cleverley's first match in charge away to Birmingham City.
It was an experience he learned a lot from, with Eames saying: “You’re playing against a lot bigger crowds compared to at youth level.
“In the first team there’s a lot more on the line, the Academy is more about developing with your football while for the first team it’s all about getting those wins under your belt.”
As for the future, signing his first professional contract only makes him hungrier for more. “It’s a proud moment for me and for my family but ultimately now I have to keep pushing on to many more good experiences to come,” he added.
There’s just one milestone still to conquer for the youngster with a first team debut on the horizon. “I’m buzzing. I can’t wait really,” he said.
“Hopefully it comes soon. Like I say, I’ll keep pushing on the training pitch and see what happens.”
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Match Info * Watford v Sunderland
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Saturday April 27, 3pm KO
-
Yellow and black home kit
Officials * Referee: Oliver Langford * Assistant Referees: Hristo Karaivanov and Matthew Jones * Fourth Official: Sam Purkiss
Opposition Sunderland are one of a few clubs in the same position as the Hornets - safe from relegation, but unable to qualify for the play-offs.
It has been a topsy-turvy season for the Black Cats after their play-off semi-final failure last season, with the side currently sitting in 13th.
They took the decision to sack Tony Mowbray in December following a run of two wins from nine, with the side dropping out of the play-offs as a result.
Michael Beale was announced as his replacement, but a disastrous 12-game stint was brought to an end in February, with the fans certainly not taking to the Head Coach.
Caretaker Mike Dodds was handed the reins until the end of the season in a period which has seen the Black Cats limp to the close of the campaign, with just two wins from their last 11 games.
Stats Buzz Watford have won just two of their last 13 league games against Sunderland (D5 L6), with both of those victories in that time coming via 1-0 scorelines.
Three of Watford’s last four league games have ended goalless and the Hornets have more goalless draws than any other team in the Championship this season (6). If this game is a goalless draw, April 2024 will be the first month the Hornets have had four 0-0 draws since March 1973.
Sunderland have given more appearances (72) and minutes (4406) to teenagers than any other side in the Championship this season. Indeed, the average age of their starting XI in the league this term (22y 347d) is nearly two years younger than any other team in the division.
Click HERE for a full statistical breakdown.
Team News Tom Cleverley revealed that Giorgi Chakvetadze will be absent for Watford this weekend due to a persistent groin issue, with this summer's European Championship in mind.
A technical decision is yet to be made on Tom Dele-Bashiru, whereas Jeremy Ngakia will miss the rest of the season with a muscle issue.
Ken Sema is available to start after making his comeback from injury in the goalless draw at home to Hull City last time out.
For Sunderland, Dennis Cirkin and Nazariy Rusyn are back training, but this weekend may come too soon for the pair.
What Are They Saying? **Tom Cleverley, Watford Head Coach:**
They are a young team, a dynamic team, and they will play without fear. We expect a very tough test, a hard nut to crack. I don’t expect a game that looks like two teams in mid-table winding down.
They will be motivated for their own fans. They are always well travelled and well supported, and they haven’t had the easiest of times recently. It will be two teams that are desperate for three points.
Mike Dodds, Sunderland Interim Head Coach:
He clearly deserves the appointment. They have changed their style and are very well organised.
Every game in the Championship is a tough game. Tom has changed their approach, but it is our responsibility to nullify their strengths and capitalise on their weaknesses.
Head-to-Head **Overall:**
Won: 11
Drawn: 16
Lost: 19
Last Six:
October 2023: Sunderland 2-0 Watford (Championship)
April 2023: Sunderland 2-2 Watford (Championship)
September 2022: Watford 2-2 Sunderland (Championship)
April 2017: Watford 1-0 Sunderland (Premier League)
December 2016: Sunderland 1-0 Watford (Premier League)
May 2016: Watford 2-2 Sunderland (Premier League)
Golden Flashback The Hornets condemned top-of-the-table Sunderland to only their second away defeat of the season in January 1999 thanks to a 2-1 victory at Vicarage Road.
Nick Wright's opener was cancelled out by Niall Quinn, before Gifton Noel-Williams' second-half strike earned all three points for Watford.
Both teams ended the season with promotion; the Black Cats won the title, whereas the Golden Boys went up through the play-offs.
Follow Live! Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Sunderland, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the game.
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New head coach Tom Cleverley says he has already been involved in discussions about player recruitment.
Tom Cleverley spoke to the media ahead of the Hornets' final Sky Bet Championship home game of the season against Sunderland on Saturday (April 27, 3pm KO).
In his first press conference as permanent Head Coach, he discussed having a full week to prepare for the game, the new challenge of playing a side in a similar league position and acknowledging the fans' support.
Read what the Head Coach had to say below...
**On becoming permanent Head Coach:**
The first time it sunk in was when the pen hit the paper on the contract. It is a really significant moment in my career, and to do it at a club that means so much to me, I’m feeling very proud, but all focus quickly turns to progressing the team and forward planning.
On whether he feels a difference from interim to permanent:
It is a little bit more exciting to be honest, as I said when I came into the job all focus was on the next game, and that’ll be the same, but the exciting part for me now is to plan for next year, to plan a squad, to plan a pre-season.
I think that will be a huge period for us to set the foundations, I see a lot of scope for improvement in our squad, and I’m looking forward to pre-season and being ready for next year.
On well wishes:
A lot of people from the football world and some significant people have been in touch, so I appreciate those comments.
On the pressure:
I’ve been hugely focused so the pressure of the job I’m in, I’ve not really concentrated on it. I am more about planning and preparing the team for the next game, and being totally focused on how we win those three points, and how I develop football players. So I've not had much time to think about the pressure of the job, and the stress of the role.
On enjoying being in the role:
Massive credit goes to the players I’ve been working with, they have made it a lot easier for me with the way they’ve applied themselves. They have fought for the results, they’ve defended their goal, they’ve turned and trained the way we play.
That makes the job really enjoyable. The exciting thing moving forward is I think there is a lot more progression in us, a lot more learning in us. The more they learn our ways of wanting to play, I think we have got an exciting time ahead.
**On having a clear week to prepare for tomorrow’s match:**
It’s been brilliant. We’ve made a point from last week’s game, we want to try and get some consistency in our game. With the absence of Ryan Andrews from the start at Southampton we had to go back to a back four, so we are looking for consistency.
We’ve set some strong foundations, now it is all about adding layers onto them and reinforcing our messages. That should result in a home win.
On what to expect from Sunderland:
They are a young team, a dynamic team, and they will play without fear. They’ve gone to a back three in recent weeks and looked very solid in that, I think after they had a heavy defeat against Blackburn, they’ve then conceded only one in their last four.
We expect a very tough test, a hard nut to crack. I don’t expect a game that looks like two teams in mid-table winding down, we certainly have a lot to play for, and we are really desperate for that home win to send our fans away with a smile on their face and a lot of hope for next season.
**On the challenge posed by playing a side in a similar league position:**
They will be motivated for their own fans. They are always well travelled and well supported, and they haven’t had the easiest of times recently. It will be two teams that are desperate for three points, and that will certainly be credit to my players, given the mid-table nature of the end of our season.
We have not looked like that at all, it has not been a squad that’s got its flip-flops on, it is a squad that has been fully motivated which excites me even more when everyone starts on a level-playing field next season.
On the role the fans can play:
I will always demand from the players that they are the catalyst for creating a good atmosphere. We know our fans will help, we know our fans will stick with us through thick and thin.
Trust me, we really do feel that support from a staff perspective and the players’ perspective. We feel that support, we appreciate it and one of my non-negotiables will be the players always acknowledge that at the end of the game.
We will be presenting our End of Season Awards, before, during and after the game. Hopefully the fans stay behind after a successful 90 minutes and pay their respects to those who have won the awards, and also give the players a chance to pay their respects to the fans.
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Watford welcome Sunderland to Vicarage Road on Saturday (April 27, 3pm KO) for their final home game of the season in the Sky Bet Championship.
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back to The Vic once again, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
Please check the National Rail and TfL websites for updates before travelling by train or tube.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Field Junior School, Ascot Road Primary School or Holywell Primary School car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Security **Early Arrival**
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry. Supporters are encouraged to avoid bringing bags to the stadium where possible, however there is a bag-drop facility next to the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office where oversized bags can be left during the game.
Prohibited Items
Watford FC reserves the right to refuse to allow flags, surfers or banners to be displayed on matchdays, particularly if they are larger than 2m x 1m and/or if content is offensive, discriminatory, defamatory, inflammatory, commercial, political, contentious or of an obscene nature.
Supporters wishing to bring flags, surfers or banners into the stadium must contact supporters@watfordfc.com in advance. The items must be presented to Watford FC at least three working days before a matchday, with the appropriate fire certificate.
The club would also like to politely remind supporters that only small, collapsible umbrellas are allowed into the stadium on matchdays. Large umbrellas are not allowed past the turnstiles.
Ticketing All tickets during the 2023/24 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
Fans can use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
We Campaign The We campaign - which sees dedicated club staff working with the hate crime unit at Herts Police to investigate and take appropriate action with all discrimination and abuse incidents reported - is into its fifth season having received over 100 complaints since its inception in Autumn 2019. We thank those supporters who have used the We campaign to date.
If you hear discriminatory abuse, excessive anti-social behaviour or see safeguarding issues, please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Use of the ‘G-Word’
During last season, the club started to raise awareness of the use of the ‘g-word’ in stadiums, which is the derivative of ‘gypsy’ used at the end of a popular chant about our local rivals.
We are fully aware that our supporters have used this chant for several years, and we’re also aware that many of our supporters consider the word to be ‘football banter’ and ‘part of the game’. The word in question is racist, its use can be classed as a hate crime and we will no longer ignore its use at our matches.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across the professional and grassroots game to help improve the behaviour of players, managers and coaches on the pitch, and address the unacceptable issue of football tragedy abuse in the stands.
Click HERE for more information.
Further Questions? Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via X (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic? Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Sunderland, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the match from home.
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Watford FC is delighted to confirm the permanent appointment of Tom Cleverley as the Hornets’ Head Coach.
Since taking the role on an interim basis last month, the 34-year-old has guided the team through a run of seven Sky Bet Championship fixtures – five of which against teams in the league’s top seven.
The Hornets have lost just once during that period, keeping four clean sheets on the way to five draws and one win.
Having retired from playing through injury last summer, Cleverley made his first move into coaching with the Watford FC Academy in July, guiding the Under-18s to second place in the Professional Development League table – as well as two cup semi-finals – prior to taking up the first-team Interim Head Coach position in March.
As a player, a 20-year-old Cleverley lifted the Hornets’ Player of the Season trophy after a stand-out 2009/10 campaign on loan from Manchester United, with whom he would go on to win the Premier League three years later.
The ex-England international returned to Vicarage Road in 2017 and became a key member of the team during four-and-a-half Premier League seasons, also contributing towards the run to the 2019 FA Cup final and automatic promotion from the Championship in 2020/21.
Club Captain during his final year on the playing staff, Cleverley hung up his boots with 182 games and 19 goals on his Watford record.
A full first-team staffing structure for the 2024/25 season will be confirmed soon.
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Ahead of Watford v Sunderland on Saturday (April 27, 3pm KO), we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the Sky Bet Championship clash.
Previous Meetings Watford have won just two of their last 13 league games against Sunderland (D5 L6), with both of those victories in that time coming via 1-0 scorelines.
Sunderland have failed to win any of their last five away league games against Watford (D4 L1), with three of those draws ending 2-2. Across their 20 visits to Vicarage Road in the EFL, the Black Cats have kept just two clean sheets in total.
Only three of the last 17 Football League meetings between Watford and Sunderland have seen fewer than two goals scored.
Recent Form Three of Watford’s last four league games have ended goalless and the Hornets have more goalless draws than any other team in the Championship this season (6). If this game is a goalless draw, April 2024 will be the first month the Hornets have had four 0-0 draws since March 1973.
Since Tom Cleverley’s first league game in charge of Watford on March 16, only Sunderland (5) have kept more clean sheets in the Championship than the Hornets (4).
Sunderland’s 1-0 defeat to Millwall last time out was their 20th of the season. Only Rotherham (28), Sheffield Wednesday (23), Birmingham (22) and Blackburn (21) have lost more Championship games this term.
Opposition Stat Attack Sunderland have given more appearances (72) and minutes (4406) to teenagers than any other side in the Championship this season. Indeed, the average age of their starting XI in the league this term (22y 347d) is nearly two years younger than any other team in the division.
Sixteen-year-old Chris Rigg has made 19 Championship appearances this season for Sunderland. He could become the fifth player to play 20 Championship matches aged 16 or younger after Jude Bellingham (34), Ryan Sessegnon (26), Connor Wickham (22) and Theo Walcott (21).
Jack Clarke leads the way for Sunderland in terms of Championship goals (15) and shots on target this season. He has also won (92) and conceded (57) the most fouls, as well as attempting the most crosses (122) and dribbles (231).
Dan Ballard has contributed the most clearances (177) and blocks (37) for Sunderland, and has also collected the most yellow cards (14).
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Tom Cleverley revealed that his team are overseeing both Giorgi Chakvetadze and Ryan Porteous with this summer's European Championship in mind.
The Georgian forward played an integral part as his nation qualified for their first-ever major tournament, and has been nursing a groin issue in recent weeks.
He missed last Saturday's stalemate with Hull City, and will be absent for the final home game of the season against Sunderland.
Head Coach Cleverley told watfordfc.com: "Giorgi has got a persistent groin issue, with the Euros in the summer we have to be careful for him on a personal level.
"I always want to have that personal level with my players and I understand what he is going through at the minute with a bit of indecision about his fitness, so Giorgi will miss the weekend."
The Head Coach added that Saturday's game will be Porteous' last of the 2023/24 campaign, with the defender given some extra time to prepare ahead of Scotland's participation at the Euros.
Cleverley also provided an update on Tom Dele-Bashiru, who missed the game against the Tigers.
He said: "Tom has played a lot of games this season, and is a player who has struggled with injury, so we have yet to decide on the weekend.
"There will be a technical decision on that one."
Ken Sema made his return from injury in last weekend's goalless draw, and Cleverley had positive news about the Swede, saying he will be available from the start.
However, Jeremy Ngakia, who also made his comeback, suffered with a small muscle issue in training this week and will be unable to play a part in the final two games of the season.
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Tom Cleverley wants to ‘grab the opportunity with both hands’ after being appointed Watford’s permanent Head Coach following a spell in interim charge of the club.
The former Hornets captain steps into the role having impressed during his seven-game temporary stint, with his side losing just once despite playing five of the top seven in the Sky Bet Championship.
Speaking for the first time after signing the permanent deal, Cleverley said: “It is a very proud moment for me. I think everyone knows what the club means to me and how much it holds a place in my heart, and now I am in real control of the fortune and the future of the football club.
“I feel very fortunate to be in that position, and I feel a deep sense of responsibility that I am going to embrace and work as hard as I possibly can to fulfil what we want to do as a club moving forward.”
Cleverley enjoyed two spells with the Golden Boys during his playing career, first aged 19 on loan from Manchester United for the 2009/10 season. These were separated by seven years, a Premier League title, and 13 caps for England.
His second stint spanned over seven different seasons, but an injury sustained during the 2022/23 campaign forced retirement last summer.
This led to a role as Watford Under-18s Lead Coach, his first management position, ahead of the current campaign, laying the foundations that would eventually see him assume full charge of the first team.
Cleverley attributes this short turnaround from playing to managing to why he felt so prepared stepping into this job, saying: “I think it helps that I know the players, and it helped that I am so fresh out of the game as a player.”
However, stepping into this role hasn’t stopped his desire to continue learning and evolving.
“I am very current with what players are feeling, and how the games are working, but to deliver that to the players you have to adapt,” he said.
“There is a little bit of trial and error, and I think that we are improving all the time.
“I have been pleased with the performances, and I am one of those guys who will not think I know it all at any stage of my career, I will continue to try and develop. It’s been a great learning curve over the last seven weeks.”
It is evident that complacency is not something Cleverley deals in, with the new Head Coach aware of the hard yards required to thrive in this environment.
“I’m not taking anything for granted,” he asserted. “I understand that I have got a good connection with our fans that goes back a long way, but I do not take anything for granted.
“I didn’t take my playing career for granted, and I don’t take my relationship with the club for granted. I don’t think I am just going to walk into this job and succeed.
“It is going to take a lot of hard work, a lot of learning, consistency – that is the key to this league – and then I am confident we can do the job of progressing and really challenging at the right end of the table.”
A playing career spanning 15 seasons and 379 domestic appearances meant Cleverley has an impressive pool to choose from with regards to coaching influences, and although he will take parts from each, he also has faith in his own ideas.
“I think I can take little bits out of a lot of people that have influenced me,” he said.
“Warren Joyce and Paul McGuinness, my Manchester United youth team coaches; Sir Alex [Ferguson] from a man management perspective; Marco Silva was excellent tactically and the way he delivered messages; Rob Edwards from a psychological and human perspective.
“A lot have been in contact with me, and I’ll take little bits out of each one of them, and then at the same time always be true to myself.
“I can’t pull the wool over the players’ eyes, they all know who I am as a person, and I’m not going to change overnight.”
Having experienced first-hand from Sir Alex how important man management can be, it comes as no surprise that Cleverley holds this part of the job in high regard.
“To get the very best out of every player you are given to work with, I am passionate about that,” he said. “I understand that is a huge part of the job, so I’ll be doing everything I can to improve each individual, as well as winning three points in the process.”
Although results on the pitch have not been exactly how he had hoped, Cleverley is pleased with the performances his players have been putting in.
He believes their desire has helped rebuild the relationship with the fans, as well as offering a useful starting point to build from next season.
“We’ve got eight points out of seven games so on paper it doesn’t look like scintillating form, but we have gained a real solidity, and we have competed with the best teams in the league,” he said.
“Most importantly, we’ve reconnected with our fanbase. They can see a group of players that are fighting for the shirt, defending the badge, defending the goal, and leaving it all on the line.
"When we return in pre-season, when we have all got fresh motivations, when everyone starts on zero, then I think we have got an exciting foundation to work from.”
Read the full interview in Saturday's matchday programme v Sunderland.
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The new head coach will also have to make a late decision on a third player, and says a fourth will be rested on the last day of the season
New deal means more games will be shown live every weekend with 12.30pm on Saturday becoming the 'home' of the EFL.
The appointment of Tom Cleverley has drawn positive comments from former teammates, many of the club’s current players and one or two celebrities as well.
Joe Thomas & Caity Kirkley are back with another opposition preview as they speak to Graham from the Sunderland AFC pod, What The Falk Podcast about this weekend’s last home game of the season against The Black Cats. The team also talk about the news that broke in which Tom Cleverley was announced as the permanent Head Coach of Watford FC.Follow What The Folk:Twitter/X - https://x.com/whatthefalkpod?s=21Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/4bRg0OCxWNqDgLNL0VsrVz?si=YhwEN_8cSlKD2YaKgRONRgApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/what-the-falk-podcast/id1503344022Follow The Voices of the Vic Podcast:Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheVoicesOfTheVicTwitter/X - https://x.com/voicesofthevic?s=21Instagram - https://instagram.com/voicesofthevic?igshid=Nzd2YXZoamd1cDM1Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/6LWkbl2NkQbl1nTbBSllOn?si=RQQPSoG2TPeeDSWQtIJlYgApple Podcasts - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-voices-of-the-vic/id1518372507Contact us: thevoicesofthevic@gmail.comThanks for listening!Sponsored by Beer 52. To claim your FREE case of 8 beers visit www.beer52.com/VICLearn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Looking back at Watford's win at Brighton & Hove Albion which secured promotion to the Premier League nine years ago today
A former loyal and committed captain who knows the club, the town and the fans - Tom could be the man who brings success and unity.
The former club captain has been in charge on an interim basis for the last seven games.
Watford host Sunderland in the final home game of the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season on Saturday (April 27, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the fixture at Vicarage Road, find out below how you can follow the clash on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters * Listen to live commentary from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- New seasonal audio passes are no longer available for the 2023/24 campaign.
- This fixture is affected by the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes to domestic supporters for the match.
- Domestic supporters include those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
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Click HERE to purchase your pass.
International Supporters * Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match video pass (available in all international territories). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST. * This game is included in £25 monthly and £170 seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters. * Listen to live commentary with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass or a £45 seasonal audio pass. * New seasonal video and audio passes are no longer available for the 2023/24 campaign. * Click HERE to purchase your pass.
How Can I Buy A Pass? Monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar! Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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With Watford preparing for their final home game of the Sky Bet Championship season against Sunderland on Saturday (April 27, 3pm KO), we’ve taken a look at five players who have turned out for both the Hornets and the Black Cats.
Kevin Phillips Kevin Phillips started his professional career at Vicarage Road, signing in December 1994 after impressing at non-league Baldock Town following a release from Southampton at youth level.
The striker would go on to make 65 appearances in two-and-a-half seasons for the club, scoring 25 goals before leaving for Sunderland in the summer of 1997.
Phillips became a Black Cats legend with 130 goals in 235 appearances, including 30 in the 1999/00 Premier League campaign which won him the European Golden Shoe. He remains the only Englishman to earn this accolade.
Luke O'Nien Born in Hemel Hempstead, Luke O'Nien joined the Watford Academy as an Under-9, and signed his first professional contract in July 2013.
He was involved in several matchday squads during the 2013/14 campaign, and made his only appearance for the club off the bench against Barnsley in March 2014 before being released in the summer of 2015.
The midfielder joined Sunderland in 2018 after a spell with Wycombe Wanderers, and has since become a key player and fan favourite. He has made over 250 appearances for the Black Cats to date, captaining the side on several occasions.
Alec Chamberlain Alec Chamberlain joined the Black Cats before the start of the 1993/94 campaign and spent three seasons in the north-east.
He was a part of the side that earned promotion to the Premiership in 1995/96, but left at the end of the season to join the Hornets, who had recently been relegated to the third tier.
Chamberlain became a much-loved figure at the club, winning Player of the Season twice. The goalkeeper was a key figure in the promotion-winning teams of 1997/98 and 1998/99, and became one of the oldest-ever Premier League players when subbed on before his retirement in May 2007.
Wilf Rostron Another iconic Watford player who signed from the Black Cats, Wilf Rostron joined Sunderland in 1977 after failing to break through at Arsenal.
Born in Sunderland, he played at his hometown club for two seasons before signing for Graham Taylor's Watford, then in Divison Two, for a fee of around £150,000 in October 1979.
He played an integral part in the 1981/82 promotion as Watford reached the top flight and then won consecutive Player of the Season awards in the First Division campaigns of 1982/83 and 1983/84. He made over 400 total appearances for the club before leaving in 1989.
Will Buckley Will Buckley jumped two divisions to join the Hornets in the Championship from Rochdale, then top of League Two, in January 2010. Suffering from injury, he had to wait until March for his debut, and April for his first goal.
His injury troubles continued into the 2010/11 season, scoring four goals in 33 appearances before Brighton and Hove Albion broke their transfer record to sign the forward in the summer for £1 million.
Buckley got his first taste of Premier League football when he joined Sunderland in 2014, moving for a fee of £2.5 million. However, more injuries and several loan spells limited him to just 22 appearances for the Black Cats before his release in 2017.
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The anniversaries of two landmark moments in the history of Watford Football Club are coming up – and The Watford Observer wants to hear from you as we mark them both.
A strong start to the new campaign is what Watford need according to Tom Cleverley – what he doesn’t know is whether he will be involved in that or not.
Jack Grieves gave the watching Tom Cleverley a timely nudge with the only goal as Watford Under-21s beat Coventry 1-0 at London Colney this afternoon.
Watford’s fixture with Hull City on Saturday (April 20) marked our Junior Hornets Matchday, and to celebrate our young supporters took on a number of crucial roles around Vicarage Road.
The youngsters were involved in tasks in several different areas of the matchday operation and could be spotted all around the ground in their yellow t-shirts, from on the pitch to the press box, and even on the stadium PA.
Two Junior Hornets got close to the action to help produce content, with club photographer Jack, 14, sitting pitchside to capture images, including this one:
Zak, 14, also had a camera in hand pitchside, but was instead filming the game in his role of club videographer.
The content he shot was used on the club's social media, with the below video made up primarily of footage shot by him.
There were two Junior Hornet additions to the press list for the clash with the Tigers, with Oliver, 15, joining Jon Marks and Tommy Smith on co-commentary for the Hive Live coverage of the fixture.
Carmelo, 15, the club reporter, also joined some of the Watford media staff throughout the day, producing a match report during the 90 minutes of action.
He then came together with the Junior Hornet videographer after the game to film and conduct a post-match interview with Scottish international Ryan Porteous.
You might have also heard a new voice over the PA on Saturday. Matthew, 14, was on hand with the mic before kick-off to read out the line-ups and other announcements in the build-up to 3pm.
The ground staff were given a helping hand by Rocky, 13, and Chloe, 15, whilst Riley, 12, and Olivia, 11, made up the kit team that assisted the kit staff throughout the day as well as the evening before, laying out kit in the home changing room.
Some youngsters also acted as flag bearers, with Fabian, 15, Oliver, 13, and George, 13, carrying the Junior Hornets flags.
Martin Radanov, 11, recently became the 5,000th person to sign up to the Junior Hornets and was therefore given the honour of carrying the match ball onto the pitch ahead of kick-off.
Moreover, prior to the game, the Family Zone at Cornerstone Church was open, with face painting on offer both there and inside the Family Stand, whilst a special Junior Hornets prize wheel and photo booth were located outside The Hornets Shop.
Junior Hornets Patron Ann Swanson was also interviewed pre-match and spoke of her great pride at seeing all the young supporters experiencing a day they will never forget.
Not Yet A Junior Hornet? Fans aged between 0 and 15 are eligible to join the Junior Hornets for free.
A number of events have been held for the group this season, including the Junior Hornets Fun Day at the club’s training ground in August, where attendees met the squad amid the reveal of this season’s third kit.
Junior Hornets Away Days have been held for the trips to Leeds United, Leicester City and Birmingham City, with the latter two including visits to trampoline parks before the game.
Other events have included the Junior Hornets Christmas Party, shop signings with players and coaching sessions with the club’s staff.
Find out more about the Junior Hornets by visiting juniorhornets.watfordfc.com.
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Oliver Langford has been named as the referee for Watford's final home game of the EFL Championship season against Sunderland on Saturday.
When stopping a penalty isn't even your best save of the game, then you know you've put in a good performance.
Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust is delighted to confirm the return of its ‘Play Like A Pro’ experience, where young fans can play on the pitch at Vicarage Road and replicate the life of a professional for a day.
The exciting event is open to children from academic years 2 to 7 and includes a 90-minute session featuring coaching and matches held on the Hornets’ hallowed turf, supervised by the Trust’s qualified staff.
Participants will also get a once in a lifetime opportunity of a tour around the stadium’s amazing facilities, including the player dugouts and changing rooms, and will get to meet mascot Harry the Hornet.
With a photographer set to capture the event in full, your child’s memories will last a lifetime.
For a glimpse at what the event has to offer, take a look at some footage from a previous year below:
Limited spaces are available and they are sure to go fast, so make sure to seal your space by clicking HERE.
Timings for the day can be found below:
9-10.30am (School Years 2 & 3)
11am-12.30pm (School Years 4 & 5)
1-2.30pm (School Years 4 & 5)
3-4.30pm (School Years 6 & 7 )
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As the world celebrates Earth Day today (Monday April 22), the spotlight is once again on the critical need to protect our planet. This year’s theme, ‘Planet vs Plastic’, underscores the urgent call to action against plastic pollution, a challenge that impacts every corner of our planet.
For Watford FC, this Earth Day holds particular significance as the club continues its journey towards becoming a leader in environmental stewardship within the sports industry. Recognising the detrimental impact of single-use plastics on the environment and biodiversity, Watford FC has committed to a single-use plastic policy aimed at eliminating such plastics from its operations and facilities.
Since the announcement of the policy, we’ve phased out various single-use plastic items like plates, stirrers, and bowls, opting for eco-friendly alternatives such as wooden cutlery and paper straws. Furthermore, we’ve recently initiated a stadium-wide rollout of recycling stations dedicated to plastic bottles.
Thanks to our fans, our efforts have already seen tangible results. Since the introduction of reusable plastic cups in 2019, fans have wholeheartedly embraced this initiative, playing a vital role in our environmental mission. Together, their participation has resulted in an impressive saving of 500,000 single-use plastic cups, equivalent to a staggering reduction of 40,625kg of plastic – a weight equal to that of 20 cars!
This achievement highlights the power of collective action and the tangible results that we can achieve through community engagement and environmental consciousness. But our commitment doesn’t end there. We’re dedicated to reducing and ultimately eliminating the use of all single-use plastic products across our premises.
In line with these efforts, we’re excited to announce the upcoming removal of single-use plastic bottled water from our training ground office canteen. Instead, we will install filtered water taps, providing a sustainable alternative that will save an estimated 23,000 single-use plastic bottles annually.
Our approach not only aligns with upcoming UK legislation but also demonstrates our proactive stance in addressing environmental challenges. We’re extremely ambitious in our goals to achieve a sustainable operation across Vicarage Road, the London Colney training ground, and our Trust centres.
We believe that our fans, stakeholders, and members of the community all have a role to play in protecting our planet for future generations. By uniting in this collective effort, we can make remarkable progress towards a more sustainable future for both our club and our community.
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The first hour of Saturday's draw with Hull was pretty futile and Watford only showed intent and desire later in the game.
The Hornets failed to score for the fifth time in six games as 1-0 away loss means they will finish bottom of the league.
Zero goals and still no home win, but there is still plenty to discuss on the latest From the Rookery End.
Mike, Jon and Jas talk through the stalemate with a largely toothless Tigers, run the rule over the Player of the Season contenders (including a controversial suggestion from Mike) as well as looking at the impact and importance of Junior Hornets events like the one held on Saturday. The visit of Aidy Boothroyd to Vicarage Road also gives the boys an excuse to reminisce about one of the most unexpected and enjoyable season la of recent times.
In short, there is plenty to go at. Thanks for listening to From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.
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1- Watford and Hull City have an odd relationship. Or rather, an odd lack of relationship. Odd in that despite having spent a reasonable number of recent seasons in the same division – 8 of the last 20 – there’s not much of a narrative, little story line. They’re the neighbour you pass in the […]
Erling Haaland and Alessia Russo failed to manage it when they joined their new clubs, but Carly Johns has scored in her first three games for Watford
After a two-week break for international fixtures, the Sky Bet Championship is back as Watford hope to secure a victory against Birmingham City at Vicarage Road.
Ahead of the fixture against the Blues this Saturday (September 16, 3pm KO), take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the eagerly-awaited encounter.
Previous Meetings
Watford have won eight of their last 10 league games against Birmingham City (D1 L1), winning 3-0 at Vicarage Road last season.
Birmingham’s five-game winless run against Watford is their second-longest winless run against the Hornets in the Football League (D1 L4), following a seven-game stretch between December 1983 and April 1993 (D1 L6).
The Hornets have won each of their last five home league games against Birmingham by an aggregate score of 10-0. They last won six successive such games against an opponent in January 2021 against Barnsley.
Recent Form
Birmingham are one of two unbeaten sides in the Championship this season (W3 D2), along with Preston North End. The Blues last had a longer unbeaten start to a league season in 2008/09 (six games).
There have been 52 passes combined in the build-up to Watford’s seven Championship goals this season, the most of any side. There were 15 before Mileta Rajović’s goal against Coventry City, with the Hornets last having more before passes in the build-up to scoring a league goal in February 2019 – a Troy Deeney strike against Cardiff City (26 passes).
Since the opening-day win against Queens Park Rangers, Watford are winless in their last four league games (D2 L2), while their 3-3 draw against Coventry City last time out saw as many goals scored combined as in their first four games.
Opposition Stat Attack
Lukas Jutkiewicz and Jay Stansfield are joint top scorers (2) for the Blues so far this campaign, with Juninho Bacuna first for shots on target (4) and Scott Hogan top for shots off target (5).
Lee Buchanan has attempted the most passes (240) in total, alongside the most passes in the opposition’s half (116), while Kevin Long has attempted the most passes in his own half (148).
At the back, Krystian Bielik tops the rankings at the Blues for tackles attempted (13) and is joint top for interceptions (10), with Long having made the most clearances (32) and Buchanan first for blocks (4).
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A good week for Watford Women got even better this morning when midfielder Sophie McLean was announced as Championship Player of the Week.
It was another busy period of international football for the Hornets across the globe, with the break coming to a close ahead of this weekend’s fixture against Birmingham City (Saturday September 16, 3pm KO).
Versatile wideman Ken Sema featured for Sweden as Austria ran out 3-1 victors in Stockholm on Tuesday (September 12) in an important Euro 2024 qualifier. The Watford man played 90 minutes at left-back, but was powerless to stop Austria etching three goals onto the scoresheet.
Austrian shot-stopper Daniel Bachmann was an unused substitute during the contest, with the result leaving Sweden seven points off qualification with Belgium and Austria currently occupying the automatic spots in Group F.
Elsewhere, Scotland’s Ryan Porteous faced off against rivals England (September 12) in a 150th Anniversary Heritage Match at Hampden Park, celebrating the oldest international fixture in football.
The Three Lions were 3-1 winners on the night, with centre-half Porteous featuring for the full contest.
Back on the continent, Giorgi Chakvetadze was a second-half substitute as Georgia fell to a 2-1 defeat against Norway (September 12) in another important qualifier for Euro 2024.
The dynamic midfielder was brought onto the pitch with just over 20 minutes remaining in the international tie, and was unable to inspire a turnaround despite a late goal from forward Budu Zivzivadze.
Edo Kayembe’s DR Congo lost 1-0 to South Africa (September 12) in an international exhibition match, with Burnley’s Lyle Foster notching a first-half strike that ultimately separated the sides. Kayembe started the friendly before departing the field with half-an-hour left to play.
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Ryan Porteous and Scotland lost 3-1 to England at Hampden Park in the match marking the 150th anniversary of football's oldest international fixture.
A referee who brandished almost 200 yellow cards last season is set to take charge of Watford’s return to Championship action after the international break on Saturday.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are joined by Jamie Lawlor from The Blues Focus Podcast to chat about the upcoming home league game against Birmingham City at Vicarage Road. Birmingham City, managed by former Hornet John Eustace, are currently unbeaten in the Championship and look to continue that run against 18th placed Watford. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In September 2000, the UK was in the midst of a major fuel crisis. A series of blockades and protests over rising prices were causing widespread disruption to the supply of petrol, meaning stations were running dry as drivers up and down the country resorted to panic buying.
As Watford were travelling north via train to fulfil a Division One fixture at Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday September 12, a reported 3,000 petrol stations nationwide were closed and newspapers were speculating that fuel was set to run out within 48 hours. Fair to say, a non-essential midweek journey to Lancashire and back, set against this backdrop, was only one for the most ardent away-day fans.
Nevertheless, a three-figure sum of dedicated Hornets supporters set off for Ewood Park unperturbed, and it proved to be a risk worth taking as they witnessed one of the club’s most memorable matches of that era.
One or two might have been questioning the wisdom of their trip when goals by David Dunn and Nathan Blake left Watford facing a two-goal deficit with just 16 minutes played, but by half-time they were celebrating a 3-2 lead, thanks to Micah Hyde’s sublime double and a Heiðar Helguson header.
“I remember clearly there was a petrol problem going on and that we went up by train. It must’ve been really difficult for our fans to get up to Blackburn that night, so we were just glad we could reward them for their trouble,” said Hyde, who would later earn the club’s Display of the Season award for his part in proceedings.
“We weren’t too clever in the first half and the manager was having a few words with us. But we were one of those teams that if the other team scored two, we’d always back ourselves to score three or four. We were always just trying to score goals.”
A record of 28 goals in 288 Watford games is hardly prolific, even for a midfielder, but the two Hyde scored that evening were goals of the highest order – the first a left-footed volley into the bottom left from the edge of the area, the second a right-footed drive from even further that nestled into the opposite corner.
“They were up there as some of the best goals I scored in my career, especially because we won the game,” recalled Hyde. “I also scored a good one against Bolton, that was a nice strike into the top corner and it was two days after my son was born so we did the rocking baby celebration. That was my most memorable goal, but the two against Blackburn were definitely among my best.
“Previously in training we’d been shooting from outside the box and trying to get more goals that way, and I remember the ball came to me and I just had a shot. Sometimes they go in, sometimes they don’t, but I was fortunate enough to get a couple that day.
“The first one definitely gave me the confidence to try the second one. It often works the other way round – if you miss one from that sort of distance then next time you’ll pass it 10 yards because otherwise your teammates will be looking at you, but if you hit one and it goes in your confidence is high. Success breeds confidence.”
Watford were to add a fourth through Tommy Mooney midway through the second period, meaning a late second from Rovers striker Blake was only ever going to be a consolation and the Hornets’ jubilant fans were able to celebrate an incredible 4-3 turnaround as they navigated their tricky return journey.
“It says everything about the spirit that we had,” said Hyde. “We were an attack-minded team. With Graham [Taylor] we didn’t really work that much on the opposition, it was more about what we were going to do and about making sure we were going forward. We had a great team spirit under Graham, he was such a good manager.
“When I looked around the changing room there were several captains, everybody was a leader in their own right and Graham made sure we all took responsibility for our own roles in the team. Graham moulded us into a team full of leaders, and we had a lot of players with those characteristics. It was a really good time.”
Victory over Graeme Souness’ Blackburn was one of 12 from the Hornets’ opening 15 league games in 2000/01, and Watford seemed on course to secure an immediate return to the Premier League. Form, unfortunately, dipped off and the team were to finish the season in ninth, something Hyde attributes to a period of change the club were going through.
“We had such a good start and won so many games. Those sort of runs are nice to look back on but when you’re playing the games you don’t think about it too much to be honest,” said the former Cambridge, Burnley and Peterborough midfielder.
“During that time it was a bit of a transitional period after our time in the Premier League. There were some players coming and some players going, so we did really well to start the season in great such form, but unfortunately it tailed off.
“We had a very strong team in those days – talent wise we probably weren’t the best, but in terms of spirit we were fantastic. I think in the end you could see the amount of change we were going through in our form.”
Since retiring Hyde has undertaken coaching roles with the likes of Dagenham & Redbridge and QPR, but he still considers himself a Watford supporter and is keen to see the club with whom he spent seven successful years achieve success this season.
“I feel so warmly about the Watford fans because of what they’ve done for me and the opportunity I had to play in front of them, so it’s nice when people tell me that they feel the same way towards me,” said Hyde, now 48.
“I always look out for their results, I’m a Watford fan at heart and I’m very keen for them to bounce back and get back into the Premier League.”
More In This Series
- Smith v Preston North End (2008)
- Anya v Barnsley (2013)
- Cleverley v Nottingham Forest (2009)
- Graham v Norwich City (2010)
- Shittu v Reading (2007)
- Byrne v Middlesbrough (1991)
- Miller v Wycombe Wanderers (1997)
- Kennedy v Luton Town (1997)
- Palmer v Bournemouth (1998)
- Guedioura v Cardiff City (2014)
- Deeney v Stoke City (2015)
- Doyley v QPR (2009)
- Slater v Rotherham United (1997)
- Ighalo v Brentford (2015)
- Johnson v Bristol City (1998)
- Webber v Coventry City (2002)
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Hello again. The second of our three 20-minute highlight reels (to round off the first 100 episodes of our Watford FC comedy drama) is now available via your usual podcast platform, or Spotify, or the link below. https://shows.acast.com/64ec9a14fcef6500114566b6/episodes/highlight-reel-2 If you prefer an MP3, click here. We’ll be kicking off our second century with two new […]
In the ‘My Hometown’ series, the Golden Boys reflect on their humble beginnings, lifting the lid on what’s special about the place they call home.
Next up is midfielder Imrân Louza, who hails from Nantes, France...
How would you describe your hometown?
It’s my home. It’s where I have my family and friends. Everything is within walking distance and it’s a really nice place.
Traditional dish?
My mum cooks a lot for me and she makes it special for me. Her best dish is anything Moroccan-based. It really is amazing.
Drink you’d have with it?
I always drink water, even when I was a child. I don’t drink Coke or anything else, it’s just water.
Favourite restaurant?
We have a few Moroccan restaurants in Nantes, but they can’t beat my mum’s own cooking.
Sight you have to see?
Place Royale is lovely when the sun is out. It’s a really nice place to be. It’s right at the heart of the city, a nice square with a sculpture and fountains. I used to go there a lot when I was younger.
If you could introduce a visitor to one person?
I would probably take Jeremy Ngakia to Nantes to meet Valentin Rongier. He used to play for Nantes and is a really good footballer. He plays for Olympique de Marseille at the moment, but we both came through the Nantes youth academy together.
More From This Series
My Hometown: Jeremy Ngakia
My Hometown: Ben Hamer
My Hometown: James Morris
My Hometown: Ken Sema
My Hometown: Tom Dele-Bashiru
My Hometown: Daniel Bachmann
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He's in nearly every picture of Nick Wright's overhead kick goal for Watford at Wembley - Michel Ngonge looks back on that day and his time at Watford.
Damon Lathrope spoke to the media after the Golden Girls secured their first three points of the season with a 3-2 win away at Charlton Athletic on Sunday (September 10).
Taking an early lead through Sophie McLean, the Golden Girls added two more goals in first-half stoppage-time when Carly Johns netted her third in as many games and McLean got her second of the match.
The Addicks hit back twice but were unable to find an equaliser, handing the Hornets valuable points to aid their quest to retain second-tier status.
Covering a range of topics, including a first win of the season, the impact of an early goal and next week’s return to Grosvenor Vale against Blackburn Rovers, read what the Head Coach had to say below…
On the win:
We're really pleased. We knew coming here to The Valley against a very strong Charlton team that will definitely be in the title race come the end of the season, it was going to be tough. We're over the moon with three points, we came here for the three points but I don't think too many teams will go home with them at the end of the 90 minutes.
On the opening goal:
It didn't change anything to be honest, but it helps. It sort of saps the energy in this weather of the home team, because they know they've got to dig deep and force things a little bit more. We came here with a game plan and for 60 minutes the girls executed it to perfection, 3-0 up at half-time and it could have been a few more if we were a little bit more clinical.
Like I say, it didn't really change anything, the girls gave us absolutely everything they had and we got what we deserved.
On Sophie McLean:
That's Sophie’s biggest strength, she's such a great athlete, a willing runner. She's the best at it that we've got and she got what she deserved out of it today, a couple of goals. I think contributing across the pitch with goals is going to be really important. We know how tough it is in this league, we need everyone to chip in.
On the nervy finish:
We knew at half-time that there'd be a big reaction from Charlton, they made three subs and had a good impact on it, they had nothing to lose. We didn't want to become over defensive, but there is that sort of fine line with making sure you don't kill yourself, but letting them on to you too much. It was a bit nerve-wracking if I'm being honest, but we've got what we deserved.
On heading into Blackburn at home:
Loads of momentum, I think from the start of the season we can take a lot of positivity and a lot of confidence, because I think we're getting better and better.
We didn't get what we deserved last week against London City, so we're really confident we're going to go into every game to win it. That’s not always going to be the case but nothing will change. We've got a really good group of girls that are desperate to get better.
On the injury situation:
Meg [Chandler] is back in contact training, she suffered a calf injury during pre-season, but we won’t take any risks with her.
It’s not a bad knee injury for Michelle [Agyemang]. Because she’s with us on a dual-registration from Arsenal, they are treating her and she should be back and available not too long after the international break.
Poppy Wilson and Annie Rossiter are also on their way back, and Gemma [Davison] missed out as a precaution. She tried to play through it at London City last week, but she felt it wasn’t right so we’re taking action now to avoid it becoming more serious.
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Some fine saves from Gabriel Ortelli and two goalline clearances ensured a first-half own goal was enough for Watford Under-21s to win 1-0 at Crewe.
An extraordinary football journey reached its highest peak 41 years ago today when Watford went top of the Football League.
It was a busy round of international fixtures as the Hornets swapped their yellow strips for the kits of their respective national teams.
Ryan Porteous played a crucial role in a 3-0 victory over Cyprus in Larnaca (September 8) as Scotland maintained their 100 per cent record in Group A for Euro 2024 qualification.
Following Scott McTominay’s opener, Porteous fired home Scotland’s second of the night 10 minutes later, wheeling away to celebrate his first goal for his national team before John McGinn added gloss to the scoreline at the half-hour mark.
The Watford centre-back’s national side only need two points from their remaining three qualifiers to secure their place in Germany for Euro 2024.
However ahead of those crucial matches, Porteous will be available to feature against rivals England (September 12, 7.45pm KO) in the 150th Anniversary Heritage Match at Hampden Park, celebrating the oldest international fixture in football.
Sweden star Ken Sema played an important role in his national team’s resounding 5-0 victory over Estonia (September 9), with the 29-year-old assisting Alexander Isak with a pinpoint delivery to make it 3-0 on the night.
The impressive qualifying win keeps the pressure on the top two of Group F, Belgium and Austria, as Sweden look to secure their place at Euro 2024. Sema will be in line to face Austria in Stockholm on Tuesday (September 12, 7.45pm KO UK time) as they look to earn an important three points.
Elsewhere, Giorgi Chakvetadze scored Georgia’s only goal in a 7-1 defeat to Spain on Friday (September 8). The dynamic midfielder was a second-half substitute during the Euro 2024 qualifier, sliding the ball past goalkeeper Unai Simón to reduce the arrears.
Chakvetadze could face Norway tomorrow (September 12, 7.45pm KO UK time) as Georgia hope to revive their campaign and secure a place at Euro 2024.
Also, Edo Kayembe’s DR Congo secured their place in the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations finals with a 2-0 victory over Sudan, finishing top of Group I with 12 points.
The Watford midfielder featured for half-an-hour during his national team’s win and could potentially face South Africa tomorrow (September 12, 4pm KO UK time) in an international friendly.
Meanwhile, Daniel Bachmann’s Austria played out a 1-1 draw with Moldova on Thursday (September 7) in an international friendly, with the Watford skipper playing 90 minutes – the first time he has done so for his national side since March 2022.
The shot-stopper will hope to face Sema’s Sweden tomorrow in a Euro 2024 qualifier.
Finally, in a four-nation youth tournament featuring Sweden, Denmark, Norway and Poland, Under-21 starlet Jonathan Macaulay played for Sweden’s Under-19 side during a 2-1 defeat to Norway (September 7), setting up a bronze medal match versus Poland.
The goalkeeper wasn’t involved in the final match of the competition as Sweden lost 2-0 to Poland (September 10).
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Striker Keinan Davis who was on loan at Watford last season joined Udinese just before deadline day but now looks set to be out for two months.
Summer signing Corinne Henson marked a return to former club Charlton Athletic with three points as the Hornets secured a 3-2 victory over the Addicks on Sunday (September 10).
The defender, who re-joined the Hornets in August following a season at The Valley, put in a committed performance on the left side of defence, making a vital block in the first half to deny Karin Muya an equaliser with the Golden Girls leading by a single goal.
Discussing the homecoming, a chaotic game in the summer sun and next week’s match against Blackburn Rovers, read what the defender had to say below…
On the return to Charlton Athletic:
I feel over the moon, really elated. A massive result for me on a personal level, but also it was the three points that we've been waiting a while for and that our performances have really led up to.
On a busy game for the defensive unit:
I think in the first half we were definitely more compact, they couldn't get in behind us. Maybe it wasn't the same the second half, but the scoreline still shows that we did enough to keep goals out at the back.
On her first-half block:
I saw the turn and the net was there, so that's what I'm good at, sliding in like that. So to me, that's as good as a goal in terms of the feeling.
On getting the first win of the season:
We're only really just getting started so I'm excited to see what we can accomplish together this season.
The progression in terms of the team, the coaching and the philosophy is evident with our performances and now we’ve finally got the points to show for it.
Next week’s clash with Blackburn Rovers:
Football matches come quick and fast and we're looking forward again to going out and trying to get three points.
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Under-18 Lead Coach Tom Cleverley has enjoyed adjusting to life as the new boss of the Young Hornets following his appointment in July.
As the former midfielder previously mentioned, he has reclaimed a fantastic sense of purpose having taken the job, and has been excited by the development exhibited by his squad so far.
That includes a memorable 8-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers last weekend (September 2), with Zavier Massiah-Edwards (2), Amin Nabizada (2), Jonathan Lawson, Kash Odiase and Josh Riza (2) all etching their names onto an impressive scoresheet. Delighted by the scoreline, Cleverley was quick to point out his side’s desire and work rate throughout the contest.
“It was a really pleasing result and it was more competitive than it sounds,” Cleverley began. “We were only 1-0 up after about 30 minutes. We then scored three goals in four minutes at the end of the first half which made it pretty comprehensive.
“The challenge for the lads was in the second half and keeping those standards, and they did that and more. It was a really pleasing day, but the most pleasing thing was that the elements we had been working on during the week came out against QPR. That shows good focus and willingness to learn.
“I’ve been really pleased with the reaction from the lads in training since the victory against QPR. You could think that they might start believing the hype after an 8-0 win against a decent side, but it’s straight back to work and we have Peterborough on the weekend (September 9).
“We lost to Fleetwood Town a few games ago and it showed us that we have a lot of work to do. Not necessarily technically, but from a dark arts side of the match – those habits that the older players and experienced players have.
“For instance, I had Jonathan Lawson come up to me after playing against Sheffield Wednesday the other day for the Under-21s against two first-team centre-backs, and he found it difficult.
“It is those moments where I feel like I’m really good to step in and use my experience to help these lads who are good technically, but maybe need an experienced head to guide them on the other parts of the game.”
Now nearly two months into his role, Cleverley will be hoping to continue the momentum that he has built so far. The ex-England international himself heralds from an impressive background in academy football having risen through the Manchester United ranks.
And after taking the coaching role at Watford, the 34-year-old revealed that he received a phone call from a well-known Red Devils figure, who played a crucial part in his own development as a player.
“I had a nice call off Sir Alex Ferguson,” Cleverley said. “He must’ve read somewhere that I had taken the job and we spoke on the phone for 10 or 15 minutes which was nice. I don’t think I can better that one. He gave me a couple of technical coaching points, a couple of psychological things and then we had a general chit-chat. I’ve not spoken to him for probably five or six years, so it was a really nice catch-up and an unexpected one.
“It’s a testament to him that a lot of players that played under him have become coaches and managers, and that’s learning from him and the things that he did every day. I’m sure he has an element of pride seeing that.”
Now looking to further his development as a coach, Cleverley gave an honest reflection of where he currently stands as the boss of the Young Hornets.
He added: “On the grass, I have felt very much at home and I’ve really enjoyed that part of the job trying to develop the players. Off the field, the admin and the logistics – you get so used to, for 15 years, having a team manager who tells you where to be at a certain time, but then overnight you become the guy who has to set the schedules and the time.
“That’s been the challenge, writing the teamsheets and stuff like that. There is a heck of a lot of things you have to remember to do throughout the day rather than just focusing on playing football, but I’m embracing it and loving it. Hopefully it’s the start of an exciting journey.”
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Watford Women's first win of the season at Charlton yesterday showed sticking to their style of play will bring rewards
Watford FC, together with our Community, Sports & Education Trust, are pleased to announce the second ‘Make Menopause Matter’ event, which will be held at the club’s Vicarage Road Stadium on Tuesday October 10.
Last year’s event was a huge success and saw a panel of guests discuss all aspects of the Menopause and the impact this has on individuals, relationships, work and home life.
The event will be held in The View at Vicarage Road, from 6.30pm to 8.30pm. Admission is free of charge and everyone is welcome.
The panel will be hosted by Farzana Chaudry from BBC Three Counties Radio and will include:
- Diane Danzebrink - Menopause Support
- Clare Searle - Local GP with expertise in the Menopause
- Eva Mbiru – Founder/Director at Kenyan Women in Hertfordshire
- Dave Messenger – Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Lead at Watford FC
The panel will also be discussing how businesses can support work employees who are going through different stages of the Menopause, and how families and friends can play a key role in providing support at home.
Following the panel discussion, there will be a Q&A session for attendees to discuss this hugely important topic.
To book a space, please click HERE.
We look forward to meeting you at the event.
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Mike Duffy & Joe Thomas are joined by former Watford man, Anthony McNamee to talk about his time at Watford which spanned from 2002 - 2008. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Three first-half goals and the character to withstand a spirited revival from Charlton Athletic gave Watford Women their first win of the season.
Our ‘Deceased Player of the Month’ is Duncan ‘Chopper’ Welbourne. The Watford Observer described him as “fervently robust”. But how would Chopper himself put it? You can find out here: https://hornetheaven.com/duncan-chopper-welbourne/ Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin
Watford’s Ken Sema claimed an assist as Sweden romped to a 5-0 Euro 2024 qualifying away win in Estonia yesterday.
Ryan Porteous scored his first goal for Scotland in a 3-0 Euro 2024 qualifier against Cyprus last night.
Hello. To round off the first 100 episodes of our Watford FC comedy drama, we’re producing three 20-minute highlight reels. The first is now available via your usual podcast platform or the link below. https://shows.acast.com/64ec9a14fcef6500114566b6/episodes/highlight-reel-1 If you prefer an MP3, this link should be what you want: https://open.acast.com/public/streams/64ec9a14fcef6500114566b6/episodes/64fb61a05b3a350011c37b2c.mp3 We’ll be kicking off our second century […]
Several Watford players helped make special memories for hundreds of children by making surprise appearances at school summer holiday courses.
As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the story of Rodney Kipps, to coincide with World Alzheimer’s Month...
Rodney spent his life supporting others, but when he was diagnosed with dementia, it was time for others to support him.
There’s an extensive list of people and charities that have benefited from Rodney over the years; from supporting blind students at Chorleywood College to volunteering for League of Friends in the hospital for 25 years.
He was even invited to the Buckingham Palace garden party as a celebration of his charitable work. Then the diagnosis came and much to his daughter Claire’s surprise, Rodney self-referred to a reminiscence programme delivered by the Trust - Golden Memories.
“He signed up to it himself – [I] never thought he would be able to go to something like that,” Claire said.
Claire saw a change in her dad, saying that he used to be a serious man before his dementia, but now he’s a ‘joker’.
As Rodney and his daughters joined the Golden Memories family, they soon began to enjoy the personal time together this programme afforded them.
Claire added: “He always had a smile on his face. He really enjoyed it, it brought him out of himself. [It was] his only respite. [It was] a life away from reality.”
More From This Series
The Story Of Cupboard To Charity Via Community
The Story Of Higher Education
The Story Of A Coach’s Progression
The Story Of Goalkeeping & Goalscoring
The Story Of A Curator, A Community And A Charity
The Story Of Lifesaving Weight Loss
The Story Of A Fundraiser Called Frances
The Story Of Future Trust Coaches
The Story Of A Trust Treasure Who Became A True Golden Boy
The Story Of A Friend & Writer
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First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls some of the best individual displays he has witnessed the Hornets come up against…
Saving two penalties in a 1-0 win at West Bromwich Albion seven years ago, Heurelho Gomes preserved the three points which all but guaranteed Watford’s Premier League safety.
Sprawling to his right from the first one, and then at full stretch to his left, Gomes kept out Saido Berahino’s twin spot-kicks at the Hawthorns in April 2016, and there was much rejoicing among the Hornets’ 2,500 travelling fans.
But 39 years earlier, the boot was on the other foot for Watford when a visiting goalkeeper saved two penalties. He may have cost the Golden Boys promotion, and he almost certainly cost manager Mike Keen his job.
Watford were unbeaten at home, and on the fringes of the scramble to get through the Fourth Division skylight despite their lousy away form, when Brentford came to Vicarage Road on Easter Saturday in 1977.
Had Dennis Bond and Alan Mayes converted the penalties awarded either side of the interval, it might have been a different story. But Bees keeper Len Bond denied them both, Brentford picked Watford’s pockets to win 1-0 in front of 9,382 fans, the Horns’ biggest crowd of the season, and Keen was toast.
To his eternal credit, despite being told he was being sacked before the game, Keen presided over nine-man Watford’s miraculous 2-0 win against Huddersfield seven days later after Tony Geidmintis and Mayes had been sent packing by a poor referee called Trevor Spencer. Keith Mercer scored both goals after both expulsions.
But the damage had been done a week earlier. Bond enjoyed one of those days where he simply wasn’t going to be beaten. If Watford weren’t chasing shadows that afternoon, the Brentford keeper cast a huge one over their season.
“If there was another game where I saved two penalties, I don’t remember it,” said Bond. “But I do recall that Vicarage Road was a happy hunting ground for us the following year as well. Watford had already gone up as champions, but we scored a late equaliser on a Tuesday night to draw 1-1 and clinch promotion.
“I remember getting to the ground early and when we walked out to have a look at the pitch before the game, we met Sir Elton John. As well as being a worldwide celebrity, he knows his football and we had a nice chat.”
Bond, now 69, would later reject a move to Chelsea (when England 1966 hero Sir Geoff Hurst was their manager) and instead sign for Exeter, where he became the goalkeeping coach as his playing career wound down.
One of his first ‘clients’ was Kevin Miller, a talented shot-stopper who would go on to become a two-time Player of the Season here at The Vic.
“There you go - I might have saved two penalties against Watford back in the day, but at least I paid them back indirectly by coaching Kevin when he was starting out,” laughed Bond. “What a fantastic keeper he turned out to be. I was so pleased for him when he made it to the Premier League with Crystal Palace.”
Strange but true: By transferring Tony Coton to Manchester City, David James to Liverpool and Miller to Palace, Watford became the first club to sell three goalkeepers for £1 million or more.
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Chasing Shadows: Garry Thompson
Chasing Shadows: Gordon Banks
Chasing Shadows: Glenn Roeder
Chasing Shadows: Kenny Dalglish
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The Golden Girls head south of the river to face Charlton Athletic this Sunday (September 10, 2pm KO) in their second Barclays Women’s Championship away game in a row, looking to bounce back from last Sunday’s 3-2 defeat at London City Lionesses.
Ahead of the trip to The Valley for another exciting contest, here’s everything you need to know…
The Ground
Charlton Athletic welcome the Hornets to The Valley, the club’s main stadium, with the majority of their matches being held at VCD Athletic’s Oakwood.
The hosts have produced a visitor’s guide, which provides all the information needed relating to ticketing, travel and more.
Tickets
Tickets are available online in advance of the match, priced at £11 for adults and £6 for concessions. Tickets can be purchased HERE, and can also be purchased from the West Stand ticket office on the day, with prices increasing by £2.
The Match
Both sides are winless heading into Sunday’s match-up, with the hosts having drawn both of their games so far against Sheffield United and Reading.
After a narrow loss last time out the Golden Girls are aiming to achieve their first victory over the Addicks at Championship level, following defeat at home and away in 2021/22.
Both sides will be eager to get their first three-point haul, so if you’re heading to The Valley you can expect an exciting game.
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In this series, writers from The Watford Treasury and YBR! magazines trace the varied careers of players who developed at Watford.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Geoff Wicken writes about a player who joined Watford from university and enjoyed a long career before turning to football administration.
It seems ridiculous now. There we were in 1982/83, our first season in Division One, jousting at the top of the table with Liverpool and Manchester United. Then Graham Taylor signed a university student, and within two months had put him in the first-team. But it didn’t feel odd at the time. In those extraordinary days anything seemed possible. Why not go top of the entire Football League – with four of the team having been Division Four regulars five years earlier? Why not cane Sunderland 8-0? Why not put a university student in the team? Easy!
Richard Jobson’s playing career was unusual. He was scouted in 1982 while in the second year of his degree course at Nottingham University, which he curtailed to sign at Vicarage Road. In parallel he was also playing non-league for Burton Albion – then managed by Neil Warnock, who combined that role with running his practice as a chiropodist (in-growing toenails a speciality, apparently).
The 38 games Jobson played for Watford between 1982 and 1984 began a playing career that spanned over 20 years and more than 600 first-team matches, including two more for Watford on loan 18 years after we first saw him. He finally retired as a player in May 2003 on his 40th birthday.
Most of his appearances as a young player were in midfield, where he always looked promising in an elegant, long-legged way. They included the 1983/84 FA Cup semi-final, and every game in the UEFA Cup run earlier that season. And in one of those he set up a moment for the ages.
There were many wonderful Vicarage Road nights in that first GT era – against Hull, Southampton, Nottingham Forest, Wrexham and others. Each had its own individual flavour, but the UEFA Cup victory over Kaiserslautern in September 1983 might have been the best of them all.
The years since 1977 had been extraordinary, but this was Watford, our wonderful Watford, playing European football at Vicarage Road. European football! The atmosphere crackled all night long. Injuries forced us to field a bunch of kids; they had a guy who’d played in the 1982 World Cup final. And we put them to the sword.
Down 3-1 after the first leg, we’d scored the two early goals to draw level on aggregate, by which point the atmosphere was a heady mixture of disbelief and delirium. But we wanted another to tie things up. Mid-way through the second half, the moment came.
Jobson picked the ball up in the centre-circle, powered over to the right wing with it, and hooked over a well-placed cross. Ian Richardson, at full stretch, managed to divert the ball over the goalkeeper, who fell to his knees as it dropped under the Rookery End crossbar at the perfect moment. It was magical. I defy you to watch it on YouTube and keep your heart rate under control!
But Jobson never nailed down a permanent place in Watford’s midfield – perhaps not surprisingly since Les Taylor and Kenny Jackett were such key members of the team at that time. After a while Graham Taylor switched him to centre-back, the position in which he would excel for so long elsewhere.
But with so many inexperienced defenders in the side in late 1984, and the team shipping goals, Graham decided to sign John McClelland – not exactly a bad call.
Jobson moved on first to Hull, then became part of the marvellous Oldham Athletic side of the early 1990s, even earning two England B caps under GT. He subsequently joined Leeds and, at 36, played a starring role in Manchester City’s promotion to the Premier League in 1999/2000. His final ports of call were Tranmere and Rochdale.
He became Chairman of the Professional Footballers’ Association in 2002, remaining in the post until he retired as a player. He then joined the PFA staff, rising up the ranks to his current position of Assistant Chief Executive. Rather neatly, following his 20-year career as a player, he has now had another 20-year career as a football administrator.
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The scale of the overhaul of Watford’s playing since the end of last season is again illustrated after the club’s EFL squad list was revealed.
With Brazil celebrating their Independence Day today (September 7), we take a look at five players who have represented the Hornets heralding from the South American country…
Heurelho Gomes
Heurelho Gomes was a hugely important figure at the Hornets during his six distinguished years of service. His time at the club included a promotion to the Premier League, the club’s highest league finish since the 1980s and a prestigious FA Cup final appearance, with the goalkeeper helping to leave a legacy both on the pitch and off it with his numerous community appearances.
He also made 11 appearances for Seleção earlier in his career, heading to the FIFA World Cup in 2010 as part of a goalkeeping unit that included Júlio César and Doni. Gomes would call time on his Hornets career with 159 appearances and 45 clean sheets, leaving as a cult hero and a definitive fans’ favourite.
Samir
Despite only spending eight months with the Hornets, Brazilian defender Samir made 19 appearances in yellow during the 2021/22 Premier League season. Featuring under both Claudio Ranieri and Roy Hodgson, Samir was heavily involved, playing 90 minutes in every contest bar two matches against Manchester City and Crystal Palace.
The centre-half was unable to help Watford avoid the drop at the conclusion of the top-flight campaign, with Samir departing the club for Mexico’s Tigres UANL where he still currently plies his trade.
Matheus Martins
The only current Brazilian in the Hornets’ squad, Matheus Martins has made quite the impact since joining during his first loan spell in January 2023. Spending the remainder of the 2022/23 season at Vicarage Road, the forward made six appearances before jetting off to Argentina to take part in the 2023 Under-20 FIFA World Cup with Brazil.
He notched two goals in five appearances for Seleção before returning to England to continue his journey with Watford, signing a fresh loan deal at the start of the 2023/24 season. The tricky winger has begun this season brightly with goals against Queens Park Rangers and Coventry City, looking a handful on numerous occasions.
João Pedro
View this post on Instagram A post shared by João Pedro (@joaopedro.oficial)
One of Watford’s most recognisable Brazilian faces, João Pedro agreed to join the Golden Boys back in October 2018, officially joining in January 2020, and made his debut against Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup during a 3-3 draw.
Notably, the dynamic forward netted the winner against Luton Town on his 19th birthday, going on to make 109 appearances in yellow, scoring 25 goals, whilst also captaining the side on numerous occasions during his final season. He would depart Vicarage Road in the summer of 2023 to join Brighton & Hove Albion, where he would once again score against the Hatters in his first match for the Seagulls.
Richarlison
Another Brazilian player currently plying their trade in the English top-flight having previously been on the books at Watford, Richarlison featured 41 times at Vicarage Road having joined from Fluminense in August 2017. In just his second match for the Golden Boys, Richarlison scored against Bournemouth during a 2-0 victory and was the only player in the Watford squad to play every match of the 2017/18 Premier League campaign.
He would eventually swap yellow for blue as he moved to Everton in July 2018, receiving his first call-up to the Brazilian international squad less than a month later. His career with Seleção has included two goals in the most recent World Cup, with Richarlison continuing to go from strength to strength at his current side Tottenham Hotspur.
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Samuel Kalu has become the latest player to join the long list of departures from Watford since the end of last season.
Tickets for Watford’s trips to Sunderland (Wednesday October 4, 7.45pm KO) and Cardiff City (Saturday October 7, 3pm KO) in the Sky Bet Championship will go on sale to supporters in Away Groups A and B at 12noon on Monday September 11.
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Please note that eligibility for ticket buying groups has been updated for the 2023/24 campaign. For more information, click HERE.
The club has agreed reciprocal pricing with Cardiff City, meaning adult ticket prices for that match are just £20, adult concessions are £10, and tickets for those aged under 16 are priced at £5.
Other key information can also be found below, including on-sale dates, the club’s Under-18s policy and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Monday September 11 * Away Group B
12noon, Monday September 11 * Away Group C
12noon, Wednesday September 13 * Away Group D
12noon, Thursday September 14 * Away Group E*
10am, Friday September 15 * General Sale
3pm, Friday September 15
*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Off-Sale Dates
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Sunderland will finish at 11am on Wednesday October 4. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time. Any enquiries after 11am on Wednesday October 4 relating to tickets purchased for this fixture should be taken up in-person at the Stadium of Light.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Cardiff City will finish at 4pm on Friday October 6. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time. Any enquiries after 4pm on Friday October 6 relating to tickets purchased for this fixture should be taken up in-person at the Cardiff City Stadium.
Ticket Prices - Sunderland
- Adult: £29
- 65 & Over: £26
- 16-21 Year Old: £22
- Under 16: £12
Coach Travel - Sunderland
All coach travel this season is priced at £20, regardless of destination.
All coaches for our trip to Sunderland will depart from Occupation Road at 11am. As this journey is using the M1 northbound there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 11.45am.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Replacement Tickets - Sunderland
Supporters who are without their tickets by Wednesday October 4, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking before 11am on Wednesday October 4.
We will arrange replacement tickets for collection from the Stadium of Light. Tickets can be collected from the Match Day Collection Point in the Ticket Office. This is located within Black Cat House, which is adjacent to the ground.
Ticket Prices - Cardiff City
- Adult: £20
- 60 & Over: £10
- 16-21 Year Old: £10
- Under 16: £5
Coach Travel - Cardiff City
All coach travel this season is priced at £20, regardless of destination.
All coaches for our trip to Cardiff City will depart from Occupation Road at 9.30am.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Replacement Tickets - Cardiff City
Supporters who are without their tickets by Friday October 6, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking before 4pm on Friday October 6.
We will arrange replacement tickets for collection from the Cardiff City Stadium. Tickets can be collected from the Away Ticket Office located at Gate 12.
Accessible Car Parking - Cardiff City
There are a limited number of Visitor Accessible Parking Bays available at the Cardiff City Stadium. These are free of charge and issued on a first come, first served basis.
To arrange one of these spaces, please contact Cardiff City’s Disability Access Officer, Ben Jones, by emailing ben.jones@cardiffcityfc.co.uk.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocations specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area will be available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for this match.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
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Watford FC confirms that forward Samuel Kalu has joined Swiss Super League side FC Lausanne-Sport on loan for the remainder of the 2023/24 season.
The 26-year-old Nigeria international joined the Hornets midway through the 2021/22 campaign, and made four appearances in the Premier League before featuring on nine occasions in the Sky Bet Championship last term.
Having struggled with injury for large parts of his spell in Hertfordshire, Kalu will now look to rediscover his best form at seven-time Swiss champions Lausanne, who currently sit 11th in the top-flight standings following promotion last year.
Good luck, Samuel!
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Five league games into the new season and an earlier than usual first international break means time for the coaching staff at Watford to look back and reflect on what has happened since then arrived in the summer.
Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust engaged over 3,000 children at various holiday courses across Hertfordshire and Harrow during the summer, keeping youngsters entertained throughout the school break.
There were also a number of surprise appearances from Watford FC first-team players at the various Trust courses, including Daniel Bachmann, Vakoun Bayo, Edo Kayembe, James Morris, Ben Hamer, Rhys Healey, Mattie Pollock, Ismaël Koné and Tom Dele-Bashiru.
Little over 2,500 children engaged in the Trust’s football holiday course sessions running throughout the six-week school summer break. Sessions were delivered at venues in Harrow, Harpenden and Watford, with youngsters taking part in a range of drills, games and matches.
Not only do these courses help children improve their footballing ability and create special memories with existing and new friends, but they also generate vital, unrestricted funding to the registered charity, Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust. Payment on courses such as these helps the Trust to deliver other worthwhile projects in the community, ensuring those who need their services can access them for free or at a reduced cost.
A further 498 children took part in free holiday courses funded by the Department for Education, providing youngsters on the free school meals initiative with fun activities and nutritious lunches. The Trust deliver these courses at both of their community centres – Cedars Youth and Community Centre in Harrow, and Meriden Community Centre in North Watford.
In Watford, there was the HAPpy (Holiday Activity Programme) courses delivered by the Trust in partnership with Hertfordshire County Council, Herts Sports Partnership and the Hertfordshire Community Foundation. While in Harrow, there were the HAF (Holiday Activities and Food) courses, delivered in partnership with Young Harrow Foundation and Harrow Council.
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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The Chair of Three Rivers District Council, Councillor Phil Williams, has selected Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust as one of two chosen charities.
Cllr Williams has also chosen to support Sustainable Three Rivers (S3R), and is hoping to raise £3,000 or more for his chosen charities by hosting a variety of events for the municipal year.
Earlier this year, Cllr Williams, who represents the Chorleywood South and Maple Cross ward, took the reins as Chair and will serve a 12-month term. The Chair’s role is a-political, presiding over Council meetings and officially representing the Council at public engagements.
The two chosen charities do fantastic work in the community, with the Trust having supported and engaged with people and communities through sport and physical activity in Watford and Three Rivers for over 30 years.
Meanwhile, S3R is a non-profit group founded by local residents with the aim to help people make lifestyle changes to live sustainably and promote local community groups and projects linked to sustainability.
On the selection, the Trust’s Head of Business Services, Steve Alexander, said: “We’re honoured to have been selected by the Chair of Three Rivers District Council, Cllr Phil Williams, as one of his chosen charities.
“Three Rivers District Council has been a valuable partner of ours for many years, and with several of our projects based in the area, particularly our many mental and physical health, and wellbeing initiatives, his support of the Trust will feed back into his communities. We thank Cllr Williams and those who support him over the course of his term.”
Cllr Williams said: “I am delighted to support Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust and Sustainable Three Rivers this year. These two charities do marvellous work for our district, and I want to support them as much as I can by raising funds and awareness of the vital work that they do.
“Throughout the municipal year, I will be hosting a variety of fun events, such as a quiz night, football golf and frisbee golf in partnership with Everyone Active, and we’re even exploring a stadium climb event at Vicarage Road where we will go up and down every step at the stadium to raise funds for the two charities. I hope the events will be well attended, and well exceed my £3,000 target.”
Rosi Jordon, Chair of S3R, said: “We are delighted at Sustainable Three Rivers that Cllr Williams has chosen us as one of his two selected charities.
“Sustainability is vitally important in every area of our lives, so huge thanks to Cllr Williams for recognising this. We are very excited about the impact his support will have on our local community. We aim to help many more residents make positive changes to their lifestyles in order to protect the planet.”
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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Every season 'The Hornet', Watford FC's official matchday programme, offers supporters the chance to enter a unique Fantasy League.
There is no need to spend time each week anticipating who Manchester City will have in their team, or if Gabriel Jesus will be fit to play. Just pick eight teams at the start of the season, then relax and track your entry via 'The Hornet'!
There is a trophy for the highest score at the end of the season, possible other prizes, plus the honour of being the 2023/24 champion! A different player will also be featured in the programme for each home game.
How to play:
1 - Click HERE for full instructions and a step-by-step guide to entering.
2 - Email your entry to programme@watfordfc.com, making sure you put the words 'Fantasy League' in the subject line.
3 - Ensure your entry is received no later than midnight on September 10, 2023.
To see the final table for the 2022/23 Fun Fantasy League, click HERE.
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A fan has been banned from football matches for three years after throwing a bottle towards the pitch at Vicarage Road.
In the ‘My Hometown’ series, the Golden Boys reflect on their humble beginnings, lifting the lid on what’s special about the place they call home.
Next up is defender Jeremy Ngakia, who hails from Deptford, England...
How would you describe your hometown?
Growing up there, I liked it to be honest. All my friends from school are from there and I go back sometimes to see them. If it wasn’t for Deptford, I wouldn’t be playing football. The number of football cages that were around when I was growing up meant that there was always somewhere to play with my friends. I’ve still got my family there as well.
Traditional dish?
Growing up, and even now, we ate traditional food from our country Congo. Pondu was my favourite, which is like Cassava leaves.
Drink you’d have with it?
There’s not really a drink, for me. I would just have water.
Favourite restaurant?
There is one place that everyone goes to – even people from North London – it’s a place called Plush. It has some really nice Jamaican and Caribbean food.
Sight you have to see?
In Deptford High Street, by the market, there is a statue which you should go and see. It’s an anchor and it is to do with maritime history.
If you could introduce a visitor to one person?
There aren’t many footballers from Deptford, but my friend Eddie Nketiah plays for Arsenal and he grew up there. I’d introduce a visitor to him.
More From This Series
My Hometown: Ben Hamer
My Hometown: James Morris
My Hometown: Ken Sema
My Hometown: Tom Dele-Bashiru
My Hometown: Daniel Bachmann
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Numerous players came and went in the 10 years after the Pozzos took over ownership of Watford FC.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, James Garrett picks out some of those individuals who made their mark at The Vic…
Joel Ekstrand’s loan move from Udinese in the summer of 2012 went very much under the radar during a busy time when the entire Watford squad was refreshed and some players came into the team and hit the ground running.
However, within a few months, Ekstrand’s name was one of the first you would want on the team sheet every match due to his high level of consistency and calmness in the Hornets’ defence.
Ekstrand had to wait patiently for his chance though. It was October when he made his Watford debut in the 75th minute against Charlton at right-back; the team was on its way to an unlikely 2-1 win, playing the whole of the second half with 10 men after Fernando Forestieri’s sending off.
Having passed the initial test, the Swede swiftly became a first-team regular at centre-back from early winter onwards, being part of a Watford side that quickly became the most eye-catching footballing team in the Championship.
He became a permanent signing in the summer of 2013 and carried on with his good form in the heart of the defence, in what proved to be a difficult season when injuries and a loss of form hit the team and Gianfranco Zola was replaced by Beppe Sannino as Head Coach.
It was in his third season that the assured and well-liked defender played his best football in a Hornets shirt though; he even scored a vital goal in a 4-3 away win at Bolton in February which set the Hornets up nicely for a shot at automatic promotion. And then a horror injury struck when he went to close down the ball in a match against Ipswich.
Without any contact, his knee gave way and Ekstrand knew he had a bad injury immediately. It ended up being not only torn knee ligaments but also a fracture in his knee bone. It was a difficult 10-month recovery for Ekstrand as he watched the Hornets get promoted while he was recovering in Sweden and returned to spend months of rehab at London Colney while watching his teammates adjust well to life in the Premier League.
Despite nearly recovering fully, smaller injuries continued to hamper any progress he made and he reached the end of his contract in the summer of 2016 having not played for 16 months.
Ekstrand then nearly signed for Leeds United before short spells trying to re-ignite his career at Bristol City and Rotherham United. In January 2018 he went back home to Sweden, having plenty of clubs interested in his signature. He decided to play for AIK in Stockholm but another serious injury proved to be final and forced him to retire in 2019 at the age of 30.
It is a sad reminder that not all footballers get to hang up their boots on their own terms. In his time at Watford, Ekstrand proved he was an accomplished centre-back and no doubt would have had much to offer the team in the Premier League had he not suffered that career-defining injury in the spring of 2015.
More From This Series
Darlings Of The Decade: Ikechi Anya
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Watford FC is proud to have passionate fans who want to wear the badge with pride, representing the club and its values.
As the club has grown on and off the pitch, this incredible loyalty from supporters can sometimes be exploited by organisations or people who try to use Watford FC’s name and image to promote and sell their own products.
With this in mind, the club takes brand protection extremely seriously when organisations or people produce and sell illegitimate or fake Watford FC branded goods without authorisation. Counterfeit goods are damaging to the club, with their goal to profit without contributing to the club’s success or fans’ enjoyment.
Protecting the brand allows the club to retain control over the quality of the merchandise and services which Watford FC is associated with, while reinvesting the money back into the club.
Supporters can help play their part in reporting any instances of counterfeiting or brand abuse by emailing brandprotection@watfordfc.com, with all information provided treated in the strictest confidentiality, and only shared with the relevant and trusted law enforcement authorities.
For more information on brand protection at Watford FC, click HERE.
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Leyton Orient coach Paul Terry was staying tight-lipped after Watford loanee Shaq Forde was one of two players sent off in the space of three minutes in last night’s 2-1 EFL Trophy defeat at Gillingham.
Recalling former Watford chairman Elton John opening the club's new Stadium Halt train station in December 1982.
When the transfer window shut on Friday night, it did so without any further players being added to the Watford squad.
A famous Hornets fan shocked Gary Lineker, Alan Shearer, and Micah Richards by revealing the origin of his love for Watford.
On Season 3, Episode 6 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on the Golden Girls' 3-2 defeat at London City. And: The Watford men's first team battle Coventry to a 3-3 draw at the CBS Arena.
Episode published: September 4, 2023
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NEW: You Orns! Pre-Match Live on YouTube - before almost every Watford Championship match this season on the You Orns WFC YouTube channel
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Daniel Bachmann and Ken Sema could line up on opposing sides, while Ryan Porteous is set to have Harry Kane and England’s other attacking threats on his mind during the next two weeks.
While Saturday’s 3-3 draw with Coventry might have been a disasterclass in making mistakes from both teams and the match officials, preventing them is a painful process that has to be gone through.
Valérien Ismaël spoke to the media following Watford’s 3-3 draw at Coventry City, with a brace from Mileta Rajović and a Matheus Martins strike ensuring the spoils were shared at the CBS Arena.
Covering a range of topics, including taking a point away from home, Rajović’s goals and the current state of play heading into the international break, read what the Head Coach had to say below…
On taking a point on the road:
I think it was a great game. There was a great attitude from the players and we played some good football - it’s not an easy place to get points, it’s a tough away game. Rajović scored two goals and you could see how important a number nine is for our game. There was a great attitude from the players to come back into the match after the second goal we conceded. I saw lots of positives today.
Overall, we are still moving in the right direction and there is a good feeling. Unfortunately, we can’t show it on the table at the minute, but now we will have a break to recharge the battery, to analyse everything and we will go again. We have two home games with a clear desire to get three points. It feels like we lost two points rather than saying it was a point.
On his squad’s reaction after conceding:
I want to say congratulations to the guys because I was always pleased with the reaction. I can imagine many teams, when you concede a goal like [the second goal], drop mentally and you can lose the game completely, but we came back straight away. We scored and it was a fight after. For the supporters, it was a nice game to watch, but we need to reduce the mistakes.
On Mileta Rajović’s performance:
He is a number nine and he has to be in the box both times to score goals. This is why you pay the strikers – to score goals and be in the right position. Not only that, but I think now in our game he gives us more flexibility.
At the end, we changed our shape and to be sure that we could create another chance and you saw that he had another chance to score with the header. He gives us more flexibility in our game and more strengths.
On Wesley Hoedt’s own-goal:
I think he has reacted positively. He knows exactly and he is a very experienced player – he is really important for us. You accept this because I was also a player and I made mistakes. I have scored own-goals as well and it’s part of the job, unfortunately.
We cannot blame him, we will speak with him and make sure his decision-making is clear. If after that we see Wesley always making the right decisions, then today can be remembered as the time when we flipped the switch.
On his thoughts heading into the international break:
I came into the club and it was all about shifting everything. It was about reshaping the mentality, reshaping the squad and implementing a way to play. It was a very intense pre-season, there was a lot of work and I think we can see it on the pitch at the minute. We can see that we create a lot of chances every game. We have strength in the squad, but we need to stop the mistakes. We have our striker now and we have two more weeks to work with him.
We have Jamal Lewis coming back and it was Francisco Sierralta’s first game after injury. We need to get everyone on the same level and if we can get that then we can talk about winning games on that next level. We need to get the points to get that feeling and the confidence we need.
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Mileta Rajović spoke to watfordfc.com following Saturday’s thrilling 3-3 draw away at Coventry City, which saw the Danish forward net twice on his first start in yellow and black.
The Hornets gained the lead three times in a pulsating contest at the CBS Arena – which also saw Brazilian starlet Matheus Martins notch his second goal of the season – but in the end a Wesley Hoedt own goal in between Milan van Ewijk and Matty Godden strikes forced them to settle for a share of the spoils.
Read Rajović’s thoughts below…
It was a crazy game. We were in front three times, but somehow ended up only getting one point. I think we probably should have got more, but it is what it is sometimes. I think we played well overall, so I’m confident the points will keep coming.
There’s a little bit of an empty feeling in the dressing room after the game, because we felt we deserved more and we had the chances to win the game. We played to win and the three points is what we wanted, so there’s a small feeling of what might have been.
There are plenty of positives to take from today, though. We hadn’t scored in the league since the opening day, so to score three goals was good. If we keep that up, keep creating chances and keep tight at the back, I’m confident we’ll do really well.
Of course from an individual point of view it’s nice to score and help the team, but I would rather not score and get the three points. It’s nice to come to a new club and get off the mark, but the main thing is always helping the team.
It was nice to score the first goal in front of the Watford fans. I could feel the love they gave me after the goal, so hopefully that will be the first of many. I love being able to give something back to the fans.
I’m a striker, I love to be in the box, I love to score goals – that’s my office. Many of my goals will probably be scored from a similar range to today, but that’s not all I’ve got in my locker. Hopefully I’ll prove that over the course of the season.
I can feel the level is much higher here than where I came from, but I’m just trying to give as much as I can in training and trying to connect with the players who have all been great with me since I got here. It’s been great to come into a good team, but there’s still plenty of hard work to put in.
It’ll be good to keep working during the international break now. A lot of players will be going away with their national teams, but it will be good to gather some energy and then come back ready for the Birmingham game next time out.
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Scoring goals wasn't the problem in the draw at Coventry, it was shooting themselves in the foot that denied them victory
Watford FC Women head to Kent on Sunday (September 3, 1pm KO) for their second Barclays Women’s Championship match-up of the season, taking on London City Lionesses at Princes Park.
The first away trip of the new term comes fresh off the back of an opening-day draw with Durham, who the Golden Girls welcomed to Grosvenor Vale in a tight encounter.
Ahead of kick-off, here’s everything you need to know…
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The Ground
London City Lionesses play out of Dartford FC’s Princes Park Stadium (DA1 1RT), a purpose-built ground which opened in November 2006.
If you are travelling to the ground by car, it is situated moments from Junction 2 of the M25. If you are travelling along the A2 from London, you will need to leave at Dartford Heath and head for the A2018. Parking is free and it is suggested you aim to arrive 45 minutes before kick-off to ensure getting a space.
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If you are taking public transport, there are plenty of local links, with the nearest station being Dartford. On arrival, exit the station straight ahead towards the Orchard Theatre/Shopping Centre. Do not cross the bridge but take the steps/ramp down to the bus stops, then take the Fastrack B service towards Bluewater/Gravesend and alight at the Princes Park stop. Buses run every 10 minutes during the day, with a slightly longer interval in the evenings.
Upon arrival, entry is through turnstiles at either end of the ground. Once inside you can find a tea and food bar selling a variety of food and drink options, with access to bars upstairs behind the dugouts. Bars are open to all fans before and after the game, with access to the outside balconies.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased online HERE, priced at £11 for Adults and £7 for Juniors & Seniors.
The Match
Both teams come into Sunday’s match following opening-day draws, with a debut goal for Carly Johns securing a point for Watford against Durham. Meanwhile, Sunday’s hosts were held to a goalless draw by Sunderland in their trip to the north-east.
The last time these sides met the Golden Girls secured a memorable victory at Vicarage Road in March 2022, with Chiara Meola netting the winning goal. The travelling Hornets will be hoping for a repeat result this time around, as they look to strengthen their early points tally.
Watford head coach Valerien Ismael provides updates on injuries, why Rhys Healey wasn't on the bench and discusses Imran Louza
Goalscorers Laken Torres and James Collins shared their thoughts after Watford’s Under-21s clinched a dramatic 4-3 win over Peterborough United at Vicarage Road.
Collins struck the Young Hornets’ first before half-time substitute Torres notched a quick-fire brace to bring the hosts level at 3-3 late on, and then Charlie Davis lashed in the winner four minutes into injury time to secure a first win of the PL Professional Development League season for Charlie Daniels’ side.
Read what Torres and Collins had to say below…
Torres
I got told to come on the pitch and show what I can do. I came on to help the team, and thankfully I managed to get two goals. He [Daniels] said to work hard, help the team out and get a result, and that’s that we did.
For the header, I knew Dawid [Hamiga] was going to chop it as he always does, so as soon as I saw the ball come into the box, it’s coming towards me and I knew I had to score. Thankfully I did.
Once I got that first goal the whole team’s momentum went up, and we wanted to go and get another one, and we got a result out of it.
You could see the emotion when we scored that winning goal. First I played it to James [Collins], James out to Charlie [Davis], and then Charlie did his magic with a great finish.
This victory is going to really get us up for the rest of the season, as now we’ve got a win we believe we can carry on putting in more performances and getting more results like this.
Collins
After we went 1-0 down I think we reacted well to get it back to 1-1. I thought we played well in the first half, kept the ball well and played well as a team. In the second half we let two goals in but we showed great spirit to get back in the game and win it 4-3 in the end.
For my goal - the free-kick - I thought the best way to do it was to wrap it round the wall. It was quite a tight angle so I went with that, and it went in so it was a good feeling to score that.
We had momentum and desire from the team, everyone together, and everything clicked together. We got the chances and we took them well in the second half. It was an unbelievable feeling to be honest - so much relief - and I feel like we deserved to win.
I 100 per cent think we need to keep this going now. We’ll all put the work in back at the training ground, and make sure we’re ready to go again against Crewe next time out.
Former Watford head coach joined our Deadline Day blog to answer questions about transfer windows, signing players and his time at Vicarage Road
Valerien Ismael was very keen to stress to the media earlier that the size and make-up of the squad is something he is happy with.
Match Info
- Coventry City v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Coventry Building Society Arena
- Saturday September 2, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: David Webb
- Assistant Referees: Rob Smith and Andrew Dallison
- Fourth Official: Darren Drysdale
On-The-Day Ticket Sales
A limited number of away tickets will be available to purchase from turnstiles 1-5 at the CBS Arena on the day of the match, Saturday September 2.
Please note that while the rest of the CBS Arena is now cashless, the sale of these tickets will be cash only. Ticket prices will be the same as for those bought in advance. Please click HERE for more information.
Please also be aware that Watford FC will have no record of any tickets bought via pay-on-the-day, and as such these purchases will not be included in any data used when creating Ticket Buying Groups for this and future seasons.
Opposition
Coventry City might only be 12th in the Sky Bet Championship table, but they are unbeaten since an opening-day loss against top-of-the-table Leicester City. A win against Middlesbrough was followed up by important points against Swansea City and Sunderland, despite crashing out of the Carabao Cup at the first hurdle to AFC Wimbledon.
After just missing out on promotion to the Premier League following defeat to Luton Town on penalties in the Championship play-off final last term, the Sky Blues will be hoping to continue their early momentum as they aim to go one step beyond this campaign.
Stats Buzz
Watford have one win in their last eight league matches against Coventry (D5 L2) - a 3-2 home triumph in November 2020.
The Sky Blues are unbeaten in their last four home league games against Watford (W1 D3), although the previous three have all ended in draws.
The Hornets haven’t drawn four successive away league games against a side since doing so against Blackpool in May 2008 - the only previous occasion they have done so in the 21st century.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Coventry City In Numbers.
Team News
Francisco Sierralta is back in training and is hoping to be involved after missing Watford’s last two league clashes. Jamal Lewis won’t be fit though, with his first appearance for the club earmarked for the home game against Birmingham City (Saturday September 16, 3pm KO).
For Coventry, attacking midfielder Callum O’Hare will be absent, with the 25-year-old expected back in the latter stages of September following a serious cruciate ligament injury.
What Are They Saying?
Valérien Ismaël, Watford Head Coach:
“We know that bumpy roads can happen in the Championship, but we are all aligned at the club, we know we are working well and working hard, we just need to keep going.
“Coventry have been stable in the Championship for a few years now, with the same manager and a clear way to play. They did very well last year, and have had to be active in the transfer market to replace important players.
“We know we’re going to have to be on our game, and we want to see our identity in and out of possession and create chances, but this time take the next step and score the goals we need to win the game.”
Click HERE to see Ismaël’s full pre-match press conference.
Mark Robins, Coventry City Manager:
“I think this will probably be our toughest game. They’re a good side, they’ve got a lot of quality and they’re young. They’ve only got a few players that are over 30 years of age, and they’ve got some exciting young talent.
“We think we know what they’re going to do because of what we’ve seen so far, but people can change and generally it’s about you and how you can react to certain situations.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 42
Drawn: 18
Lost: 37
Last Six:
April 2023: Coventry City 2-2 Watford (Championship)
November 2022: Watford 0-1 Coventry City (Championship)
February 2021: Coventry City 0-0 Watford (Championship)
November 2020: Watford 3-2 Coventry City (Championship)
August 2019: Watford 3-0 Coventry City (League Cup)
March 2012: Watford 0-0 Coventry City (Championship)
Golden Flashback
Watford’s last win away to Coventry City came in May 2010 when a Danny Graham brace, followed by Henri Lansbury and Marvin Sordell goals, powered the Hornets to an emphatic 4-0 final-day thumping.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Coventry City v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
Valérien Ismaël spoke to the media ahead of Watford’s trip to Coventry City on Saturday (September 2, 3pm KO), with the Hornets looking to bounce back to winning ways following two Sky Bet Championship defeats in a row.
Covering a range of topics, including Ryan Andrews’ international call-up, transfer deadline day and his thoughts on last season’s beaten play-off finalists Coventry, read what the Head Coach had to say below…
On the season as a whole so far:
We are happy overall. It’s been a transitional period since I came in, so a massive clean out was the first bit, we re-shaped the squad and the mentality, created a new environment around the training ground, and a new way to train and play for the players. On that side of things, I’m very pleased. Even on the pitch so far - other than the first half at Stoke - the guys played exactly how we expected. We’ve created lots of chances and dominated games, and opponents have already started to change the way they play against us. We know that bumpy roads can happen in the Championship, but we are all aligned at the club, we know we are working well and working hard, we just need to keep going. We are aware of the areas we need to improve, and we’re doing all we can to get better with each game.
I think we are among the top teams for chances created and expected goals, and defensively we are strong. So, we see a lot of positives and that things are moving in the right direction. The other way of looking at it is that we haven’t scored in our last three games, despite those chances. It’s okay the performances being good but at some point they need to produce wins. It’s clear we want to win games, and to do that we need to score goals. As long as we keep going we know it will come eventually. It’s important we stay calm and aligned with where we want to go, but at the same time you need to win games to get that confidence. The purpose in training is always to win, and at some point you need to get the reward to get that feeling back and the belief that comes with it.
On the young talent in the squad:
We have a lot of really good guys. We’ve got Yáser Asprilla, Matheus Martins, Ryan Andrews, James Morris and many others. There are lots of very good young players, but with big potential. Now it’s our job to work with them. We know with young players there are always up and downs with performances - there are always consistency problems - but we have to make sure they understand the high level of performance we demand as well as giving them opportunities.
On Ryan Andrews being called up by England Under-20s:
It’s great news. It’s a good example for the Academy players, for them to realise that the pathway is possible. They need to see that it doesn’t matter how old you are, as long as you are able to hit the profile we are looking for then you will have a chance. Ryan is now a national player, which will raise interest and expectations, but he has shown he can handle the pressure so far. It’s brilliant for him, and it shows the club is doing the right thing, too.
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On transfers and deadline day:
When we assessed the squad when I first came in we realised we had some really good young players, who should have the chance to express themselves in the squad. On the other hand you need some experienced players too, and it’s always about trying to find the right balance.
We’ve talked a lot about building something here. When you want to do that you have to give confidence to the players. We know we’re going to need maybe two or three transfer windows to get to exactly where we want to be, but the first thing we need to do is to give the guys here the chance to show up. We will assess and analyse over the first few months and then in January we’ll see whether we are on the right path or if we need to do something different. It’s always a process, and right from the start we’ve all been aligned and clear with what we want.
I’m happy with my squad as it is, and the size of it, but we always assess the market. If we can get a good opportunity we will do it. We have been talking to the board every day about different topics, with open communication. We know exactly the profile of player we’re looking for, and when you reshape the club and mentality like we’ve done, it’s important that any player you sign fits into that. Everyone has to be on the same page.
On Mileta Rajović:
We know he has the potential to make a big impact here, but it’s important he gets to know the Championship, English football and our methods as quickly as possible. It’s a big change and he’s only just got here. The best way to learn is by doing, and our job is to help him both on and off the pitch. After that, I’m sure he’ll be able to perform on the field.
On Coventry:
Coventry have been stable in the Championship for a few years now, with the same manager and a clear way to play. They did very well last year, and it’s a tough away game for us. They’ve improved their performances and league finishes consistently, and this year they’ve had to be active in the transfer market to replace important players. We know we’re going to have to be on our game, and we want to see our identity in and out of possession and create chances, but this time take the next step and score the goals we need to win the game.
On team news:
We’re really pleased that Francisco Sierralta is back in training. You always hope you can compensate for missing a player, but when the player is not playing then you realise how big the miss is. He’s been with the squad all week and we’ll know more after the final session, but at the minute it looks good for him to be involved.
Rhys [Healey] wasn’t in the squad last week, and at some point when you have good fitness in the squad you have to take these decisions. My expectation is to have to make more of these decisions going forward - it has to be my headache when I select the squad.
[Jamal Lewis] is still in the rehab process at the moment, training individually. Yesterday (Thursday August 31) was the last big session he had, so we’re expecting him to train with the team next week. There’ll be a friendly next week too, so he’ll possibly have the chance to get some minutes then. If everything goes smoothly, hopefully he’ll be available for the Birmingham game (Saturday September 16, 3pm KO).
On discipline:
Discipline is another part of the process - perhaps the least enjoyable one, but one we have to go through at some point. We have rules in place, and everyone has to respect them. It’s as simple as that. If they’re not followed, that will force me to take action. I don’t want to take action, believe me - I don’t want to compete without my best players - but nobody is bigger than the team or the club. The reaction has been very good from everyone and they all understand how it is now.
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A stirring and gutsy comeback saw Watford Under-21s score three times in the last 10 minutes to beat Peterborough 4-3 at Vicarage Road.
Young Watford defender Ryan Andrews has been named in England’s 24-man Under-20 squad for a forthcoming five-day training camp at St George’s Park.
The 19-year-old will link up with the Young Lions for the first time on Monday September 4 - just two days after the Hornets’ next Sky Bet Championship clash at Coventry City - as Interim Head Coach Joe Edwards looks towards October’s new Euro Under-20 Elite League.
England will kick off their games next month with a trip to play Romania in Bucharest on October 12, before a home match - with date and venue TBC - against Portugal.
International recognition marks the latest step in Andrews’ rapid rise to prominence following his professional debut against Reading in the Emirates FA Cup in January, with the Academy product finishing 2022/23 with seven first-team appearances to his name.
Since then he’s gone from strength to strength and firmly established himself in Valérien Ismaël’s plans, earning his first start of the new campaign in the second league game of 2023/24 and featuring five times in all competitions as it stands.
Congratulations, Ryan!
To see the full England Under-20 squad, click HERE.
A full list of Watford players called up to represent their countries in the upcoming international break will be communicated in due course.
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Tom Dele-Bashiru is hoping to take another stride towards his individual best following injury hell, as Watford look for a return to winning ways away at Coventry City on Saturday (September 2, 3pm KO).
Prior to this ongoing campaign the combative midfielder had struggled to properly kick his Hornets career into gear, making just 11 appearances in all competitions either side of a productive loan at Reading in 2021/22, following his arrival in the summer of 2019.
Last term proved particularly frustrating for Dele-Bashiru - with a string of injury problems curtailing his involvement before and after he had seemingly established himself in the side around Christmas - but his goal 33 seconds into 2023/24 opening day ensured he started on the perfect path this time around.
“I’m happy with how the season has started for me on a personal level - getting out there and just playing minutes,” said the 23-year-old, who has started all five of the Golden Boys’ outings so far this term. “Last season was so difficult being out with three different injuries, so I’m just living in the moment and enjoying being out on the football pitch.
“It is difficult [bouncing back from injuries]. You have to be mentally tough - when you’re close to a return and then get a setback, which is what happened three times last year, it’s hard to take.
“Physically I feel good now. I had no problems in pre-season and to score so early in the QPR game was the best possible start. It was the result of patterns we’d been working on for a long time, and to see it come off was a brilliant feeling.
“The Head Coach [Valérien Ismaël] has asked me to work a bit higher up the pitch compared to where I’ve been previously, and to work on getting those goals and assists, and to see it come off like that was brilliant.
“I’m starting to get back to my best shape physically, but there is still room for improvement. I’m not 100 per cent flying yet because of my lack of games in the last year or so, and I’m eager to keep improving to help the team.”
While Dele-Bashiru looks to continually build on his individual performances, he also recognises the need for the team to improve across all areas of the pitch ahead of the visit to the CBS Arena, in the wake of consecutive defeats against Stoke City and Blackburn Rovers.
He said: “The Blackburn game in particular was frustrating because we felt like we were the better team. We created the better chances and were unlucky not to get anything out of the match, but we need to be better with our decision-making.
“In the final third we need to be more composed. We’re creating lots of chances and having lots of shots, but the quality of our shots has been poor. We just need to stay calm, stay confident and brave on the ball, and I’m sure when one goes in they’ll start flowing.”
An away clash against last season’s Sky Bet Championship play-off finalists suggests a tough afternoon is in store for Dele-Bashiru and his teammates this weekend - especially considering Coventry are unbeaten since the opening day.
But the Manchester City youth product insists Watford have to take their own game to the Sky Blues, and is full of belief that they have the tools to rediscover their shooting boots and return to Hertfordshire with all three points.
Dele-Bashiru added: “It’ll be a difficult game for sure - I’ve played against them a couple of times and they’re a hard-working team who are difficult to play against and to break down.
“We know what to expect from them - we know we need to be wary of their counter attack, and we need to win our battles and duels all over the park. We have to play our own game no matter who we’re up against though, and if we can do that I’m confident we’ll have what it takes on the day.”
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The first Watford player to be sold for £1m, and all-round club legend, Luther Blissett joined us on the phone for a quick Q&A session during our live transfer deadline day blog.
Defender George Abbott has been recalled by Watford and ended his loan at National League South side Chippenham Town
Blogging live from Vicarage Road and the training ground until the transfer window shuts
From first thing in the morning until after the transfer window shuts, be sure to follow our live Watford FC deadline day blog
Hello, all. This week we moved our podcast to a different podcast-hosting company. This shouldn’t affect our listeners in any way, but if you do have any problems please let us know and we’ll help. We’ve also tidied up the website a bit, and simplified it. If you use the website to listen to our […]
The summer transfer window shuts at 11pm tomorrow (Friday) and Watford may still do some business, though not a huge amount.
Academy starlet George Abbott has been recalled from his loan at National League South outfit Chippenham Town, Watford FC confirms.
The 18-year-old made three appearances for the Bluebirds following his move to Wiltshire earlier this month, coming off the bench twice before starting his last game at home to Tonbridge Angels.
Abbott - who is a Wales youth international and has captained the Hornets’ Under-21 side on several occasions - will now resume training at London Colney.
Tickets for Watford’s trip to Leeds United in the Sky Bet Championship (Saturday September 23, 3pm KO) will go on sale to Junior Hornets and supporters in Away Groups A and B at 12noon on Monday (September 4).
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Please note that eligibility for ticket buying groups has been updated for the 2023/24 campaign. For more information, click HERE.
The club has agreed reciprocal pricing with Leeds United, meaning adult ticket prices for those following the Hornets to Elland Road are just £20, with adult concessions at £10.
We have also arranged with Leeds United that tickets for all those aged 18 & under will be only £5, so this match has been selected as another Junior Hornets Away Day. Please see below for more information.
Other key information can also be found below, including on-sale dates, ticket prices, the club’s Under-18s policy and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Junior Hornets
12noon, Monday September 4 - Away Group A
12noon, Monday September 4 - Away Group B
12noon, Monday September 4 - Away Group C
12noon, Wednesday September 6 - Away Group D
12noon, Thursday September 7 - Away Group E*
10am, Friday September 8 - General Sale
3pm, Friday September 8
*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Off-Sale Date
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Leeds United will finish at 4pm on Friday September 22. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Any enquiries after 4pm on Friday September 22 relating to tickets purchased for this fixture should be taken up in-person at Elland Road.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £20
- Adult With A Disability: £10
- 65 & Over: £10
- 19-22 Year Old: £10
- 18 & Under: £5
Coach Travel
All coach travel this season is priced at £20, regardless of destination.
All coaches for our trip to Leeds United will depart from Occupation Road at 8am. As this journey is using the M1 northbound there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 8.45am.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 must be accompanied by an adult (over 18) for both coach travel and when attending the match. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to travel and/or attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Junior Hornets
Our away trip to Leeds United has been selected as our second Junior Hornets Away Day of the season.
A special Junior Hornets coach, with our regular on-board activities, will be running to this match. Travel for Junior Hornets members on this coach is priced at just £5, meaning coach travel and a match ticket for this game will cost just £10 together for Junior Hornets.
Coach travel for accompanying adults on the Junior Hornets coach is at the regular coach price of £20. Please see above for further information about coach travel.
Junior Hornets match ticket and coach travel sales will be available from 12noon on Monday September 4 - there is no need to wait for your respective sales group. Junior Hornets Away Day bookings can be made by phone or in-person only. Please either call us on 01923 223023 or visit the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Friday September 22, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking before 4pm on Friday September 22. We will arrange replacement tickets for collection from Elland Road.
Sign Up To The Junior Hornets!
Junior Hornets is our free supporters club for Watford fans aged 0-15, with exciting benefits including a membership pack, regular events and a website containing quizzes, wordsearches and many other downloads and activities!
Visit juniorhornets.watfordfc.com to sign up.
An exciting opportunity has become available at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Laundry Assistant to provide support to the laundry operation of the kit department, including first-team and Academy.
The role will be based at the club’s training ground in London Colney and will include evenings, weekends and home and away fixtures.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Previous laundry or kit experience.
- Previous experience in a professional football club or equivalent environment.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- The ability to work effectively under own initiative and also as a member of a team.
- Hands on approach with a can do attitude.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced ever-changing environment.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Ability to anticipate and prioritise workload.
- Ability to work weekends, evenings and unsociable hours.
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
You would ideally have, but not vital:
- Emergency first aid certificate.
- FA Safeguarding certificate and or equivalent.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Laundry Assistant
Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent full-time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: Ongoing
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.
Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixture against Middlesbrough (Saturday September 30, 3pm KO) will go on sale to supporters in Home Group A at 12noon on Monday (September 4).
Tickets will be available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
Please note that eligibility for ticket buying groups has been updated for the 2023/24 campaign. For more information, click HERE.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday September 4 - Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday September 5 - Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday September 6 - Home Group D*
12noon, Thursday September 7 - General Sale
12noon, Friday September 8
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- 19-21: £17
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- 19-21: £17
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £38
- 65 & Over: £23
- 19-21: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £40
- 65 & Over: £25
- 19-21: £22
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand
The Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 35 relating to matchday attendance.
NFC Mobile Tickets
All tickets during the 2023/24 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select ‘Tickets’ from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select ‘Download NFC Mobile Ticket’.
- On the screen that opens click ‘Next’, then choose ‘Automatically Select’ followed by ‘Done’.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select ‘Tickets’ from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select ‘Download NFC Mobile Ticket’. When prompted, select ‘Open App’.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2023/24 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls some of the best individual displays he has witnessed the Hornets come up against…
Ahead of Watford’s Sky Bet Championship fixture away at Coventry City on Saturday (September 2, 3pm KO), this piece focuses on a Sky Blues legend who also featured for the Hornets...
To be fair, there have been worse days in this parish - but none spring immediately to mind. We woke up on the morning of December 9, 1980 to discover John Lennon had been shot dead outside his apartment in New York. A legend senselessly exterminated.
Hours later, Watford travelled to Highfield Road for their League Cup quarter-final replay against Coventry... and the Hornets were routed 5-0.
Maybe we thought a run decorated by that 7-1 miracle against Southampton three months earlier, and sustained by a Ross Jenkins hat-trick in the 4-1 thrashing of European Cup holders Nottingham Forest in the previous round, would somehow make Watford invincible, and all that remained was to queue up for Wembley tickets.
Sadly for Graham Taylor’s giantkillers, the Sky Blues had other ideas - notably Garry Thompson, a fearless centre-forward the Hornets would sign nine years later.
On his day Thompson was, in the best sense of the word, a beast. He was one of those strikers who seemed to hang in the air until a cross arrived, hovering like a kite before devouring his prey.
In the 2-2 draw at Vicarage Road, he scored twice in a pulsating first half, one of them a towering header which dipped under the angle, leaving Watford keeper Eric Steele stranded - and that night would have notable consequences for Steele.
For the replay, Taylor chose to recall Steve Sherwood, who had been restricted to just one appearance in 16 months, and poor old ‘Shirley’ walked into a firestorm.
Among the 6,000-plus travelling Hornets in an armada of coaches, many only just made it through heavy traffic before kick-off - and they had barely found a square foot of room on the cramped away terrace when Peter Bodak cut in from the flank and fired Coventry ahead.
In those days, Watford were acquiring a reputation for direct football favouring aerial routes. But with Thompson and future England striker Mark Hateley enjoying generous service from the flanks, it was the Sky Blues who controlled the skies that night.
Hateley scored his first goal for the club after half-an-hour, and seven minutes later Thompson - soaring to meet Bodak’s cross, put the result beyond doubt with another emphatic header.
Coventry’s first major semi-final appearance in 97 years was rubber-stamped by Hateley’s second goal and Steve Hunt adding a fifth after the break, but it was Thompson who wreaked the most havoc.
Sherwood kept his place, going on to complete a full house of playing in all four divisions, in Europe and the FA Cup final.
Three years later, with the Hornets making an uncertain start to their second season in the top-flight, Thompson was at it again, scoring with another thumping header for West Brom in a 2-0 defeat for the Golden Boys at the Hawthorns.
I bumped into Thompson at Aston Villa not long ago, gently chiding him for those games when he was a monster Watford couldn’t tame.
“Sorry about that,” he grinned. “If it’s any consolation, I really enjoyed my time at Watford. We had a good side and quite a few of those lads went on to be top players elsewhere - Rick Holden, Neil Redfearn, Tim Sherwood, Dean Holdsworth....”
I agreed that Steve Harrison, the manager who signed and then discarded Thompson, was a good judge of players but too often looked for other solutions in haste.
“Not long after he told me I was surplus to requirements, I bumped into Steve in the town centre and he apologised to me for cutting me adrift,” said Thompson, who is now a summariser on BBC Radio West Midlands.
“I scored more goals for Watford than against them for other clubs, but I wish there could have been a few more.”
It was a memorable day at the Nujum Sports Awards last Sunday (August 27), as Watford FC received two nominations, winning the Ambassador for Change award.
This prestigious event, hosted at Fulham’s Craven Cottage, was launched to celebrate Nujum Sports’ third anniversary and is dedicated to recognising and honouring the relentless efforts and determination of athletes, clubs and organisations that have significantly contributed to promoting Muslim inclusivity in the world of sport.
By highlighting the achievements of those who have worked towards Muslim inclusivity, Nujum Sports aims to continue to inspire and elevate, celebrating champions of the industry with a view to create a more inclusive sporting environment for all.
It was a vigorous and transparent selection process with an esteemed panel of judges selecting the nominees and award winners.
The Hornets were nominated for two prizes, the Institutional Leader award for a club or organisation that has demonstrated its commitment to supporting Muslim athletes, and the Ambassador for Change award, which is awarded to someone who has changed the way an institution or club deals with Muslim athletes and their needs.
Earning the Ambassador for Change gong, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Lead at Watford FC, Dave Messenger, was selected by the panel for positively changing the culture for professional Muslim athletes within their sporting environment.
Dave has played a crucial role in multiple events, including helping Watford become the first club to host two different Iftar events, hosting a Family Fun Day with the Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust and delivering Nujum Sports Ramadan packs to Watford FC players.
On receiving the award, Dave said: “I’m thrilled to be presented with the Ambassador for Change award by Nujum Sports. I’ve learned so much about the Muslim faith from the team at Nujum and our local community partners, and I look forward to continuing the great work we’ve done together.”
For full details on the EDI work we are doing across Watford Football Club and the Community Trust, please click HERE.
For more information about Nujum Sports, click HERE.
Watford will be looking to bounce back to winning ways when they visit Coventry City on Saturday (September 2, 3pm KO) - their last Sky Bet Championship clash before the first international break of the 2023/24 campaign.
As Head Coach Valérien Ismaël and his charges finalise their preparations ahead of the fixture, find out below how you can follow all the action from the CBS Arena on the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes to domestic supporters for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match video pass (available in all international territories). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST.
- This game is included in £25 monthly and £140 seasonal (early bird rate, rises to £170 on September 1) Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters.
- Listen to live commentary with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
Watford midfielder Jake Livermore has been presented with a special plaque to recognise his contribution in helping England captain Harry Kane become the country’s all-time leading goalscorer.
Former Three Lions star Livermore received the special gift last week after featuring alongside Kane on three different occasions on the international stage - against Scotland, Malta and Slovakia during qualification for the 2018 FIFA World Cup.
In two of the three matches Kane found the back of the net, with those strikes and 52 more inscribed at the bottom of the plaque, alongside a picture of the duo during an England clash.
Livermore and Kane enjoy a storied past having both featured for Tottenham in their youth, going on to play together 12 times on the pitch for club and country.
As a result, the 33-year-old believes there is little wonder why Kane has reached the top, enjoying privileged access of his fledgling career.
Livermore said: “I’m proud of him. He’s excellent and his record speaks for itself. He was always the hardest working, always finishing, loved finishing – you would have to pull him off the training pitch. He deserves everything that boy.”
Watford travel to Coventry City this Saturday (September 2, 3pm KO), hoping to quickly bounce back to winning ways following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers last time out.
In anticipation of the Sky Bet Championship clash at the Coventry Building Society Arena, we take a look back at five players who appeared for both sides during their storied careers...
Jordan Stewart
Aidy Boothroyd’s first signing as Watford boss, left-back Jordan Stewart played an important role in the Golden Boys’ promotion to the Premier League in 2006, sharing duties with James Chambers throughout the campaign. Stewart, a solid defender with the skill to carry the ball up the field and contribute to attacking play, scored Watford’s first goal of the Premier League season against Everton, and made 117 appearances in yellow before departing in 2008 for Derby County.
Coventry were Stewart’s final English club, when he joined in 2013 from Notts County on a three-month contract. Then 31, he made six appearances in League One, and headed to the United States to finish his career that summer.
Robert Page
Current Wales boss Robert Page came through the Watford youth ranks and went on to make 252 appearances for the club over eight years, enjoying a double promotion under Graham Taylor in the late 1990s.
The central defender called time on his Watford career in 2001, joining Sheffield United. He signed for Coventry City four years later after a brief spell at Cardiff City, and overcame injury problems to become club captain a year into his Sky Blues career. Page played 70 times over three seasons for Coventry, leaving for Huddersfield Town in 2008.
Vic O’Brien
Mostly operating at right-back during his five-year Watford career, former captain Vic O’Brien could play in any position required of him and did so throughout his playing days. O’Brien played 275 times in all competitions for the Hornets, then known as the Brewers, and once scored six goals in one game while in attack against Queens Park Rangers in a reserve fixture.
O’Brien had signed from Coventry City in 1934, and returned to the Midlands during the Second World War, where he appeared in goal, defence, midfield and attack as a guest player.
Paul Furlong
Former striker Paul Furlong’s first taste of the Football League was at Coventry City, when his fine performances for non-league side Enfield earned a move to the second-tier outfit. Furlong impressed in a Sky Blue shirt, but wasn’t able to score more than four goals in 37 league games before sealing a move to Watford in 1992.
His goalscoring exploits were far more successful at Vicarage Road, as he bagged 41 goals in 91 appearances as the Hornets came close to promotion to the top tier. Furlong’s good form meant a big move became inevitable, and Chelsea broke the bank to secure his services, paying a club record £2.3 million in 1994.
John Eustace
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Born near Coventry in Solihull, the Midlands side were future Watford captain John Eustace’s first club as a player, starting off as a trainee before becoming an established name in the first-team following a prosperous loan at Dundee United.
Eustace played 98 times for Coventry, and wore the armband from 2001 until his departure in 2003. The committed midfielder spent five years at Stoke City in between his Coventry and Watford spells, and became a Hornet in 2008, taking over skipper duties from the departing Jay DeMerit in 2010.
The current Birmingham City boss was known for his leadership and midfield contributions, but he had a habit of scoring spectacular goals, finding the target with an overhead kick against the Sky Blues in 2010.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are joined by Glenn from The Sky Blue Hub (@TheSkyBlueHub) to talk about Watford's trip to the Midlands to face Coventry City, a ground where we fluffed up a 2 goal lead last season.Follow Voices Of The Vic:Twitter - https://twitter.com/VoicesOfTheVicInstagram - https://www.instagram.com/voicesofthevicFacebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheVoicesOfT...Contact us: thevoicesofthevic@gmail.comThanks for watching!Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season is now in full swing, and Watford supporters have been able to keep on top of all the action during August via the club’s Hive Live match streaming service.
Coverage continues heading into September, with the Hornets set for five clashes in a busy month that also includes an international break. Find out below how you can follow the games, whether you’re located in domestic territories or overseas.
Which Games Can I Watch Or Listen To?
- Non-televised Saturday 3pm KOs and Friday/Sunday league games – video only available outside UK and Ireland, Channel Islands and Isle of Man
- Non-televised midweek league games – video available worldwide
- Televised league games – video only available in selected territories (notified by the EFL in advance of the fixture)
- Audio commentary – all games available worldwide
- Carabao Cup & FA Cup – audio available for all cup games, video not permitted
We will publish how-to-follow articles on the website ahead of every match, detailing exactly what streaming options are available.
What Does That Mean For September?
- Coventry City (A), Saturday September 2, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only, audio available worldwide.
- Birmingham City (H), Saturday September 16, 3pm KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories due to international TV broadcast, audio available worldwide.
- West Bromwich Albion (H), Wednesday September 20, 7.45pm KO: video and audio streams available worldwide.
- Leeds United (A), Saturday September 23, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only, audio available worldwide.
- Middlesbrough (H), Saturday September 30, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only, audio available worldwide.
How Much Does It Cost?
Live video streaming passes cost £10 per match for domestic and overseas supporters (fixed fee applicable across the EFL). Video subscription packages are available to overseas supporters, costing £140 (seasonal early bird rate, rises to £170 on September 1) and £25 (monthly).
Hive Live audio subscriptions cost £45 (seasonal) and £4.49 (monthly). In addition, an audio-only match pass will be on sale for £2.50 per fixture.
Subscriptions can be purchased by clicking HERE.
More Information?
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
One of the referees in charge of a Watford game most frequently last season is due to be in the middle when the Hornets will be bidding to bounce back from consecutive defeats on Saturday.
Watford FC is delighted to announce a partnership with Surfshark for the 2023/24 EFL Championship season.
Surfshark is an industry-leading VPN, expertly defending against all threats lurking online. By subscribing to Surfshark, you can browse privately while blocking ads and malware that get in your way, allowing you to stay ahead of any potential hackers.
Gytautas Narkus, Partnerships Manager at Surfshark, said: “I’m beyond grateful and honoured to join this partnership and get the security ball rolling. I look forward to growing together and empowering each other towards a safer digital world. Here’s to scoring all the online security goals together!”
Watford FC and Surfshark are joining forces to provide digital security for sports lovers and the club’s fanbase. Through the partnership with Surfshark, Watford FC’s supporters will be able to utilise products and services, providing excellent online privacy and security.
Other features include securely accessing personal information or work files, encrypting your internet connection, and keeping your browsing history private.
In addition, Surfshark will be offering unique exclusive offerings for Season Ticket holders, allowing them to enjoy the full user experience.
Paul O’Brien, Commercial Director at Watford FC, said: “We are delighted to welcome Surfshark as a partner of the club. At Watford FC we are always looking to explore opportunities to work with organisations that will benefit our supporters and help grow our brand. Surfshark supports the club’s goals of online security and we have a large correlation of brand values. I look forward to seeing this partnership evolve.”
The club would like to thank Michael Brown at Ngage Sport for their support with this partnership.
To find out more, visit https://surfshark.deals/Watford.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
A book telling the remarkable story of Sir Elton John, Graham Taylor and Watford FC is due to be published in mid-November
Following a narrow 1-0 defeat to Blackburn Rovers last Sunday (August 27), the Hornets will be hoping to secure a return to winning ways when they travel to Coventry City next.
Ahead of the fixture against the Sky Blues this Saturday (September 2, 3pm KO), take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the eagerly-awaited encounter.
Previous Meetings
Watford have one win in their last eight league matches against Coventry (D5 L2) - a 3-2 home triumph in November 2020.
The Sky Blues are unbeaten in their last four home league games against Watford (W1 D3), although the previous three have all ended in draws.
The Hornets haven’t drawn four successive away league games against a side since doing so against Blackpool in May 2008 - the only previous occasion they have done so in the 21st century.
Recent Form
Coventry have lost just one of their last 11 league games (W4 D6), with that defeat coming in their opening match of this season – a 2-1 loss away to Leicester City.
Watford are winless in their last 10 away league games (D4 L6). It’s the Hornets’ longest such run outside the top-flight since March 2014 (run of 12).
The Golden Boys have lost each of their last two league games, most recently enduring a longer string of league defeats in a run of six between April and May 2022.
Opposition Stat Attack
Forward Matt Godden is top for goals for City this season with two to his name, having also taken the most shots on target with eight. Meanwhile, Haji Wright has had the most shots off target (5).
Centre-half Joel Latibeaudiere, who joined the club in the summer, has attempted the most passes in the Coventry ranks (311) and the most passes in his own half (195). Ben Sheaf is top for passes in the opposition’s half (130), dribbles (12) and tackles attempted (17).
Defensively, Kyle McFadzean leads the way for clearances (20), blocks (6) and interceptions (6) in the Coventry squad.
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Publishers Viking have today announced the acquisition of a new book entitled ‘Watford Forever: How Graham Taylor and Elton John Saved a Football Club, a Town and Each Other’ by award-winning journalist and author John Preston in collaboration with Sir Elton John.
‘Watford Forever’ - set to be launched in hardback, e-book and audiobook on November 16, 2023 - is the remarkable story of Elton’s ownership of Watford FC and its transformational journey to the top of the First Division under GT, the club’s greatest ever manager.
Britain in the 1970s was beset by unrest and unemployment. Meanwhile, the Hornets were floundering in 92nd place at the bottom of the entire Football League. Enter Elton - the most successful rock star in the world and a lifelong fan of the club - as Chairman and President in 1976, and then Taylor as manager a year later.
Inspiring and infectiously funny, the book is a tribute to football’s unlikeliest friendship as Elton and GT - a straight-talking former full-back with a love of Vera Lynn - beat the odds and their personal demons to save a club and a community. ‘Watford Forever’ is one of sport’s great underdog stories and a love letter to the beautiful game.
Elton said: “I cherish my relationship with Graham as one of the greatest of my life. What we accomplished together was extraordinary on and off the field, but so was the lifelong bond we built. He was like a brother to me and I loved him dearly.
“When we started working together in 1977 I had huge ambitions and hopes for my childhood club, but Graham’s understanding of the game and leadership achieved something beyond even my wildest dreams. He was a true genius.
“We took a club in financial turmoil at the bottom of the football pyramid to second in the league, an FA Cup final and European football. It’s one of the greatest managerial accomplishments of all time.
“Myself and every single Watford fan will be forever grateful to him for the memories he gave us and what was achieved for the club and the community.”
Author Preston - whose most recent book ‘Fall: The Mystery of Robert Maxwell’ was a Sunday Times bestseller, was shortlisted for the Baillie Gifford Prize and won the Costa Biography Award in 2021 - said: “When Elton John bought Watford FC in 1976 - the first rock star ever to buy a football club - almost everyone said that it was an act of madness - a rich man’s folly that was sure to end in tears.
“But they had fatally underestimated Elton’s determination and his emotional bond to the club. His father had first taken him to Vicarage Road when Elton was six, and when he became a superstar it was the one place in the world where he felt both safe and at home.
“One of Elton’s first acts as Chairman was to appoint Graham Taylor as manager, a man as ostensibly conventional as Elton was flamboyant. But the two of them would form an extraordinarily close bond and take Watford FC from the bottom of the Football League to the top in just five years - something that’s never been done before or since. In the process, they would have a hugely dramatic effect on one another’s lives.
“The chance to work in close collaboration with Elton has been the fulfilment of a long-held dream, and I hope we’ve managed to produce a book that does justice to the ultimate story of underdogs triumphing against all the odds.”
Shyam Kumar, Commissioning Editor at Viking, added: “Watford Forever is a classic British underdog story. Recalling the likes of ‘The Full Monty’, ‘Pride’ and ‘Bend it Like Beckham’ with contemporary hints of ‘Ted Lasso’ and ‘Welcome to Wrexham’ - there’s something for everyone here whether you’re looking for a rags-to-riches tale or simply a feelgood buddy story.
“Fans of John Preston - undoubtedly one of our best living narrative non-fiction writers - will appreciate how he brings to life the grime and glamour of 1970s Britain like no-one else. Fans of Elton John will rejoice reading his heart-warming and often hilarious recollections about Graham Taylor and his boyhood club.”
More than five hours and some 55 attempts after the fourth goal against QPR, the Hornets haven't found the net. We dig into the stats...
It’s a year to the day since Watford FC celebrated the 100-year anniversary of the club’s first ever game at Vicarage Road Stadium, with a 2-1 win over Middlesbrough - thanks to a dramatic Vakoun Bayo winner - marking the VR100 Matchday in style.
The festivities that night included plenty of reflections on highlights and standout moments from throughout the 100 years, including the maiden match at The Vic a century earlier, which saw Watford play out a 0-0 draw against Millwall on August 30, 1922.
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Vicarage Road Stadium was built by Benskins Brewery, who had purchased the former gravel pit for Watford FC from the local council just after the First World War. The club, having played at Cassio Road since the early 1890s, moved in at the start of the 1922/23 campaign, with Millwall becoming the first visitors after the club had beaten Queens Park Rangers 2-1 on the road four days earlier. The ground was officially opened by Col. Charles Healey, of Benskins Brewery.
Though Watford were led by Harry Kent, and the likes of Skilly Williams, Fred Pagnam and Eddie Mummery all featured for Watford on the pitch in front of 8,618 supporters, the game itself somewhat failed to live up to the hype as neither side was able to break the deadlock.
The day’s official programme, priced at two pence, did provide some key information about the new Vicarage Road home, including that the area of the ground was “about six-and-a-half acres and the total accommodation 33,000.”
Back then The Vic consisted of two small covered stands and several terraces. One of these stands, the Union Stand, had been brought from Cassio Road. About a decade later, the Union Stand got replaced by a new stand, the Shrodells Stand, before further redevelopments in later decades.
A note in the programme’s foreword also thanked Benskins for their investment, and pointed towards a positive future for the club and its supporters. It read: “The magnificent enclosure, which is being opened today, is entirely due to the way in which Messrs. Benskins have so generously come forward and ensured the Watford Football Club a ground and accommodation beyond reproach. It is now up to the Watford football public to see that the confidence of Messrs. Benskins has not been misplaced, and stick to the club through all weathers.”
After being held by the Lions, Watford were made to wait for a first home win at Vicarage Road until September 30, 1922, when a goal from John Wilkinson and a Pagnam hat-trick sealed a 4-0 triumph over Exeter City. The club would go on to record a 10th-place finish in the Third Division South that season, making plenty of Vicarage Road memories along the way.
Two of Watford’s summer signings will be available for autographs and photographs tomorrow afternoon (Wednesday).
On Season 3, Episode 5 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on the Watford men's second consecutive 1-0 defeat, this time at home to Blackburn. Also: Leadership issues on the pitch for the Watford men's first team? Plus: Rajovic debuts. And: Watford Women get a point at The Vale against Durham in their season opener back in the Barclays Championship, with Carly Johns scoring on her Watford debut.
Episode published: August 29, 2023
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Exciting young forward Shaq Forde shone on the Sky Bet League One stage for loan club Leyton Orient over the Bank Holiday weekend, as a string of Hornets continue to showcase their quality away from Vicarage Road.
Forde, 19, marked his first start for the O’s with the opening goal in a convincing 2-0 home win over Cambridge United on Saturday (August 26), following up his first appearance for the club a week earlier in perfect fashion.
Having lashed a close-range effort past Cambridge goalkeeper Jack Stevens in the 29th minute, Forde - who won Watford’s 2021/22 Young Player of the Season award - continued to prove a menace before being withdrawn in the 84th minute.
Elsewhere in the third-tier, Forde’s fellow attacker Kwadwo Baah made a late substitute appearance for Burton Albion in their 1-1 home draw against Bolton Wanderers (August 26), helping the Brewers earn a second point of the campaign.
Over in Italy, defender João Ferreira was handed his first start for Udinese in their 1-1 league draw at Salernitana (Monday August 28), with the 22-year-old featuring alongside a handful of former Golden Boys including Christian Kabasele and Hassane Kamara before being substituted in the 75th minute.
In the USA, Colombian teenager Jorge Cabezas Hurtado made his debut for New York Red Bulls against a star-studded Inter Miami in the MLS (Sunday August 27), coming on for the final 14 minutes as Lionel Messi and co. powered Miami to a 2-0 win at the Red Bull Arena.
Back across the pond, forward Ashley Fletcher made his fourth league appearance for Championship newboys Sheffield Wednesday (August 26), completing the last half-an-hour as Cardiff City snatched an injury-time 2-1 win in the Welsh capital.
And finally, Academy star George Abbott was an unused substitute in both of Chippenham Town’s Bank Holiday outings in the National League South, with the Bluebirds first drawing 0-0 at Braintree Town (August 26) before beating Slough Town 2-1 at home (August 28).
Leyton Orient image credit: Simon O’Connor
The Hornets Shop at Vicarage Road Stadium will host a signing session with two members of Watford’s first-team squad tomorrow (Wednesday August 30).
Summer signings Jake Livermore and Tom Ince will be in-store from 2-3pm, with the duo available for pictures and autographs. We advise supporters to arrive early in case of large queues.
We also ask that any supporters requiring special access contact disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or chris.hall@watfordfc.com (Chris Hall, Supporter Liaison Officer) in advance of the signing session, to help ensure these needs are met on the day.
Please note that the players attending the signing session are subject to change.
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Lucky Junior Hornets members got a chance to speak to Watford midfielder Imrân Louza last Wednesday (August 23) as part of an exclusive Q&A session at the London Colney training ground.
Check out some of the best pictures from the exciting event below.
Surprised Faces
Louza Takes On The Questions
The latest Hornet to put pen-to-paper, striker Mileta Rajović is eager to produce stellar performances following his arrival on a five-year deal from Swedish top-flight club Kalmar FF.
A natural goalscorer with the imposing physical presence to match his finishing ability, the 24-year-old climbed the footballing ranks in his native Denmark, notably notching 30 goals in 58 matches for Næstved Boldklub, before moving for a club-record fee to Kalmar - scoring in this season’s UEFA Europa Conference League this summer.
Having made his debut at the weekend (Sunday August 27) against Blackburn Rovers with a cameo appearance off the bench at Vicarage Road, Rajović is highly motivated to find that scoring touch in yellow.
“Of course, I’m really excited to be here, Watford is a really big club,” he began. “It’s been great to be out on the pitch with the guys and meet them all. Everybody here has a great level [of ability] so I’m just looking forward to playing with them more.
“When you look at my stature, I think you’d think that I really suit the league. I have always loved watching the Premier League and the Championship, so I think it’s great for me to be here in England. I like the ball in the box and I’m good as a target as well, so you can put it in the air – I’m strong there too. I’m good with both feet when it comes to finishing as well.
“I’ve learned a lot over these past few days, adapting to a new team and trying to socialise as quick as possible. I’ve learned a lot about myself like how to improve and get better and better, like when I moved to Sweden and Kalmar. Now I want to help the team definitely.”
Focusing on his conversations with Head Coach Valérien Ismaël, the Dane gave an insight into those early discussions, while revealing his footballing role model.
Rajović continued: “I’ve been talking to the Head Coach and we spoke about the style of play, how we want to play and how he sees me on the pitch. I’m now really excited and waiting for my chance to score in as many games as possible.
“For me, I’ve looked up to Zlatan Ibrahimović. I like him as a player, I like the way he plays football and he has been a really big role model for me. I think, without knowing him personally, we both love to score goals and doing everything we can for the team.”
In his message to the Watford faithful, Rajović only has one aim on his mind.
“I think it’s everyone’s dream here to go back to the Premier League,” he added. “I think that will be good for the fans, but personally for me it’s about getting into the team and trying to help the team as much as possible. I want to give the supporters what they love – and score some goals also!”
Head coach Valerien Ismael dropped one of his senior leadership group, Imran Louza, to the bench on Sunday.
Watford’s Under-21 side welcome Peterborough United to Vicarage Road on Friday September 1 (2pm KO), for their fourth clash of the 2023/24 PL Professional Development League campaign.
Tickets are now available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Seating for the game is in the Sir Elton John Stand only and is unreserved. Ambulant seating is available in block SEJ1, while wheelchair bays on the raised platform in block RS8 of the Rookery Stand will be open. Please see below for more information regarding wheelchair & ambulant disabled tickets.
Season Ticket holders will be able to gain complimentary access to this match by scanning their regular Season Ticket at the ticket readers adjacent to the turnstiles of the Sir Elton John Stand.
Ticket Prices
Season Ticket Holder: Free
Adult: £5
65 & Over: £3
18 & Under: £1
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 35 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Ambulant seating can be booked online as usual at tickets.watfordfc.com, however supporters requiring a wheelchair space should call the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office on 01923 223023 to arrange their booking. Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Watford have had 55 goal attempts in their last three league games and not scored, something Valerien Ismael isn't happy about.
Head coach Damon Lathrope had words of praise for the players who made their debuts in the 1-1 draw with Durham.
A calm and clever lob from Carly Johns on her debut earned Watford a point as they drew with Durham at Grosvenor Vale.
Head coach Valerien Ismael was more upbeat than he was after the Stoke game because he felt his players did the right things.
Tickets for the Golden Girls’ Barclays Women’s Championship fixture against Blackburn Rovers (Sunday September 17, 2pm KO) at Grosvenor Vale will go on general sale to supporters at 10am on Tuesday August 29.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase discounted tickets when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
Online sales will conclude at 00.00am on Sunday September 17. Matchday sales will be available in-person at Grosvenor Vale only.
Please note that on the day of the match all ticket prices will increase, as detailed below.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Matchday/Matchday): £7/£8
65 & Over (Pre-Matchday/Matchday): £4/£6
18 & Under (Pre-Matchday/Matchday): £4/£6
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders - Adult (Pre-Matchday/Matchday): £3.50/£4
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders - 65 & Over (Pre-Matchday/Matchday): £2/£3
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders - 18 & Under (Pre-Matchday/Matchday): £2/£3
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
There was plenty of head-scratching among Watford players and fans alike after the Hornets dominated their clash with Blackburn Rovers but ended up empty-handed as the visitors snatched a 1-0 victory at Vicarage Road.
There has been so much change since the end of last season that Valerien Ismael says it's only to be expected Watford need time
It may have come with some X-rated moments, but Daniel Bachmann led the most successful passes by a keeper after three games
The midfielder who scored Watford Women's winner in May's play-off final says the squad has increased talent in all areas
The new No.9 has arrived but Watford head coach Valerien Ismael is clearly still looking to do some transfer business
Midfielder Charlotte Fleming has followed her former London City Lionesses captain Harley Bennett and joined Watford.
Harley Bennett says her belief in Watford and head coach Damon Lathrope led her to leave London City Lionesses for the Hornets
Former Watford captain Tom Cleverley is excited to continue his journey with the Hornets after recently being appointed as the new Under-18s Lead Coach.
The ex-England international, who made more than 180 appearances in yellow, retired from the game in July and wasted little time in continuing his footballing story, opening a new chapter as the boss of the Golden Boys’ youth side a month later.
Excited by the fresh challenge that life in the dugout poses, Cleverley has appreciated the support from the club and Academy in making that switch.
“The people around me have made the transition a lot easier,” said Cleverley, whose Under-18s side fell to a 3-0 defeat at Fleetwood Town on Saturday (August 19). “You have got Jimmy Gilligan (Head of Technical Development) and Richard Johnson (Academy Director) who are running the Academy, and they have been fantastic.
“They have left me to my agenda with running the team. They are there whenever I need to bounce ideas off them or if I need help with stuff that I am not experienced in. Those two have been great.
“Charlie Daniels, the Under-21s Lead Coach, has also been a great advice point for me. He is on the same journey that I am on. He is just two years further down the line. He was the Under-18s Lead Coach last year and has been key in making the transition as easy as possible.
“Of course, Armand Kavaja (Under-18s Assistant Coach) has been great. He is experienced in youth development and has been the perfect person for me to work alongside. Our views on football are similar, but we are not afraid to challenge each other.
“I feel like I have got a wealth of experience at first-team level up and down the English pyramid and he has got a wealth of experience in youth development, working with younger ages and working with the group of players we have got now.
“I think as a balance, we are working well together. We like to think that is reflecting on the group of players we have got who are responding well to the work we are doing. I am bringing my own ideas, but those four people especially have been really good for me in terms of my learning experience, as well as being a good support network for me when I need them.”
After a difficult final season with the Hornets saw Cleverley’s match time limited due to injuries, the 34-year-old has enjoyed a renewed sense of determination in his new role. Cleverley is also particularly excited by the prospect of watching his coaching philosophy come to fruition.
He continued: “On a personal level, it has been a fantastic sense of purpose again. You spend six months of last season injured and you lose direction as a footballer, as a person.
“It has been great - the long working hours keep you occupied, but when you are obsessed with football like I am, it doesn’t feel like you are working and the days fly by! It is a big sacrifice, but one that I am really enjoying.
“When it comes to playing style, we like to firstly look above and see what the first-team are doing and see what Charlie Daniels and Richard Shaw (Under-21s Assistant Coach) are doing with the Under-21s. From that template, we apply our own principles.
“We like to be a high-pressing team, we like to be aggressive in and around the ball. It’s not absolutely fundamental, but we would like to control games with possession and there has always got to be an effectiveness behind those things to create chances.
“A high-intensity, high-energy and aggressive team is part of our DNA. It is a really good part of the development for me to come in, because this is when they have to start thinking, not just technically, but tactically as well.
“They are in every day so you start preparing for individual games. This really helps gear them up for what routine weeks in the first-team look like.”
Focusing on the long season ahead, Cleverley is eager to make an impact on his Under-18s squad, especially in prestigious competitions such as the FA Youth Cup.
“From when I was a scholar to now, the FA Youth Cup is such a prestigious competition,” he added. “That will be a big part of our season, but we do not want to make a cup competition the be-all and end-all. Ultimately, we would love to see our group develop as individuals and as a team.
“Socially and psychologically I feel like I can add a lot to our players, from my experiences of coming through at a top academy in this country. It is not just technical aspects that we are looking at now – mentality and psychology are all important. We are trying to improve them in different areas now, which is important.
“I am an ambitious guy, so I would like to see us win our league. I think we have got the tools to do that. Longer term, our job is to produce players that are going to be robust and good enough to be part of our first-team and Under-21s. There are a lot of short-term, medium-term and long-term goals.”
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An exciting opportunity has become available for a select group of Junior Hornets members to take part in a Q&A session with a Watford FC first-team player this Wednesday (August 23), in addition to having a guided tour of the training ground facilities.
To be in with a chance of winning an invite, complete the online form below before 12noon tomorrow (Tuesday August 22), including a question that could be asked to the first-team player in attendance.
Entries will be submitted into a prize draw and winners will be contacted via email or telephone no later than 5pm on Tuesday August 22 with full details.
The event will start in the afternoon on Wednesday, with an exact time to be confirmed within the invite.
Parking will be available on-site and we kindly request that no more than one adult accompanies the Junior Hornet(s) attending.
For any enquiries relating to this event, please contact the Supporter Services team on 01923 223023 or email supporters@watfordfc.com.
Sign Up Now!
Junior Hornets is our free supporters club for Watford fans aged 0-15, with exciting benefits including a membership pack, regular events and a website containing quizzes, wordsearches and many other downloads and activities!
Visit juniorhornets.watfordfc.com to sign up.
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While Watford fell to a first defeat of the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign away at Stoke City on Saturday (August 19), a number of Hornets were busy in action out on loan across the weekend.
Young attacking duo Shaq Forde and Kwadwo Baah earned their first minutes for League One outfits Leyton Orient and Burton Albion respectively (August 19), with both having departed Vicarage Road on season-long loans earlier this month.
Forde’s Orient debut saw him replace Tom James in the 77th minute of a goalless draw away at Blackpool, and Baah also helped his temporary club earn a share of the spoils 0-0 away at Wycombe Wanderers, having come on with just under half-an-hour to play.
One step above, in the Championship, forward Ashley Fletcher made his third league appearance of the season for Sheffield Wednesday (August 19), featuring for the final 13 minutes of a narrow 1-0 home loss to Preston North End.
Academy prospect George Abbott made his first start for Chippenham Town in their 2-1 National League South defeat to Tonbridge Angels at Hardenhuish Park (August 19), while over in Italy defender João Ferreira came on as a second-half substitute in Udinese’s 3-0 home loss to Serie A giants Juventus (Sunday August 20).
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Saturday's defeat at Stoke means Ryan Porteous has still not savoured an away win as a Watford player.
Ben Aiton is joined by Mike Duffy to discuss Watford’s first league loss of the season away to Stoke City. Facebook - www.facebook.com/thevoicesofthevic Twitter - @VoicesoftheVic | @benaiton23 | @MikeDuffy_28 Instagram - @VoicesoftheVic Tik Tok - @TheVoicesoftheVic YouTube - www.youtube.com/channel/UCrBIFqxzun2zrM3AYVovbmw Contact Us - thevoicesofthevic@gmail.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 1-0 defeat at Stoke underlined the need that head coach Valerien Ismael needs more options in his squad.
Three former Watford players feature in a new six-part BBC documentary series which starts tonight at 9pm on BBC3.
Ryan Porteous spoke to watfordfc.com following Saturday’s (August 19) 1-0 defeat to Stoke City at the Bet365 Stadium, with the Hornets suffering their first loss of the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign.
Read the defender’s thoughts below…
It was very disappointing. We didn’t start the game well. I think the conditions were tough, but it’s not an excuse. We need to get the ball down more and be braver on the ball. We always have the options that the manager puts in front of us to keep the ball. Maybe we felt the conditions in our head a little bit more than they actually ended up affecting us.
We did well to stay in the game and I thought we defended brilliantly in the first half. The manager had a go at us at half-time and he told us to get our act together, start playing and I felt we did. We reacted well and we conceded a sloppy goal on our part. The reaction from that was good, but it is about fine margins in these games, and I’m not sure we deserved anything from the game.
We got the ball down [in the second half], and I think the wind plays a massive factor. They kept a high line in the first half because the ball will always run through to the goalkeeper. In the second half it flips and you have the option to stretch the game.
We are all good enough players and we’re all experienced enough to get the ball down, keep playing and be brave enough. It’s very disappointing and I think it’s a lesson learned. I don’t think we can accept days like this and performances like that, especially with the amount of times that it happened last season. As a group, we won’t accept that.
Training has always been tough and it has been since the manager has come in. Pre-season was very hard and it hasn’t really changed since then. It is tough, but that is a needs-must. We will be going again. It’s intense and with the squad we have now, we need to improve.
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Valérien Ismaël spoke to the media following Watford’s narrow 1-0 defeat at Stoke City, with André Vidigal’s second-half strike proving the difference between the sides at the Bet365 Stadium.
Covering a range of topics, including the positives and negatives of his team’s display, injury concerns and the upcoming closure of the transfer window, read what the Head Coach had to say below…
On the disappointing aspects of the performance:
Our performance in the first half wasn’t good enough. We didn’t stick to our game plan, and we didn’t do the basics right. We played too much long ball, and we don’t have the players to play like that. We didn’t want to battle for the second ball or engage in duels. There were problems with our decision-making throughout the game, and we kept seeing the same patterns of play.
Sometimes you can have bad days, and I know losing is part of the process, but you have to at least make sure the basics are right. I still want to see the right identity and mentality from the players, and that was missing in the first half.
On the improvement after half-time:
We came out much better after half-time, and we conceded the goal in probably our best period of the match. We created a lot of chances after that, so at least we saw our identity and what we’re about, but we need it for more than just 30 or 45 minutes.
The Championship is a journey, and the players need to learn that it’s ruthless. You have to be on it for the full 90 minutes in every game, otherwise you will be punished like we were today.
On what he expects going forward:
We will learn from the game today, and make sure going forward we are ready to compete straight away, especially away from home. I think we deserve criticism for the fact we didn’t perform for 90 minutes, and we can’t have any excuses for the result. Stoke wanted it more than us in some periods, so we have to accept it.
It is a long, long journey though, and this is only matchday three. The guys need to learn quickly, reflect, keep working on the basics, the mentality and attitude, and when all those things are right we will create more chances and score goals. We’ve seen they’re capable already this season, and even though there’s no guarantee you’ll win games at least you’ll get the feeling you’re in control. Today – especially in the first half – we struggled to get in control.
On James Morris’ withdrawal:
Hopefully it’s just cramp for James, and he’ll be back for next week. It’s not a secret that we don’t have big numbers in that position, but we just have to deal with it for now. We can’t complain or make any excuses.
On options up front:
It’s clear we are very tight in this area of the field, but we have to wait and hopefully we can get someone in. It depends on the market – everyone knows it’s difficult. There’s still time in the transfer window, so let’s see what happens. The first thing for me to do is to prepare for next week, and make sure we’re all on it from the first minute.
On a possible penalty shout in the second half:
It’s a tough one. It think it’s a 50-50 situation, and both teams would think the decision should go in their favour. We had a chance to score just before that through Yáser Asprilla though, so we can’t complain or say we should have won a penalty.
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If you’re looking for a prediction for this morning’s Women’s World Cup Final, then a 2-1 win for England over Spain is the opinion among Watford Women.
On Season 3, Episode 4 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on the Watford men's first team's lack of effort, teamwork and conviction in their 1-0 defeat against Stoke at the Bet 365 Stadium. Also: Helen Ward, GM of Watford Women. Plus: A preview of the Watford Women as they get ready to take on Durham at The Vale on August 27 in their season opener and a return to life in the Barclays Championship.
Episode published: August 19, 2023
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NEW: You Orns! Pre-Match Live on YouTube - before almost every Watford Championship match this season on the You Orns WFC YouTube channel
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Valérien Ismaël spoke to the media following Watford’s narrow 1-0 defeat at Stoke City, with André Vidigal’s second-half strike proving the difference between the sides at the Bet365 Stadium.
Covering a range of topics, including the positives and negatives of his team’s display, injury concerns and the upcoming closure of the transfer window, read what the Head Coach had to say below…
On the disappointing aspects of the performance:
Our performance in the first half wasn’t good enough. We didn’t stick to our game plan, and we didn’t do the basics right. We played too much long ball, and we don’t have the players to play like that. We didn’t want to battle for the second ball or engage in duels. There were problems with our decision-making throughout the game, and we kept seeing the same patterns of play.
Sometimes you can have bad days, and I know losing is part of the process, but you have to at least make sure the basics are right. I still want to see the right identity and mentality from the players, and that was missing in the first half.
On the improvement after half-time:
We came out much better after half-time, and we conceded the goal in probably our best period of the match. We created a lot of chances after that, so at least we saw our identity and what we’re about, but we need it for more than just 30 or 45 minutes.
The Championship is a journey, and the players need to learn that it’s ruthless. You have to be on it for the full 90 minutes in every game, otherwise you will be punished like we were today.
On what he expects going forward:
We will learn from the game today, and make sure going forward we are ready to compete straight away, especially away from home. I think we deserve criticism for the fact we didn’t perform for 90 minutes, and we can’t have any excuses for the result. Stoke wanted it more than us in some periods, so we have to accept it.
It is a long, long journey though, and this is only matchday three. The guys need to learn quickly, reflect, keep working on the basics, the mentality and attitude, and when all those things are right we will create more chances and score goals. We’ve seen they’re capable already this season, and even though there’s no guarantee you’ll win games at least you’ll get the feeling you’re in control. Today – especially in the first half – we struggled to get in control.
On James Morris’ withdrawal:
Hopefully it’s just cramp for James, and he’ll be back for next week. It’s not a secret that we don’t have big numbers in that position, but we just have to deal with it for now. We can’t complain or make any excuses.
On options up front:
It’s clear we are very tight in this area of the field, but we have to wait and hopefully we can get someone in. It depends on the market – everyone knows it’s difficult. There’s still time in the transfer window, so let’s see what happens. The first thing for me to do is to prepare for next week, and make sure we’re all on it from the first minute.
On a possible penalty shout in the second half:
It’s a tough one. It think it’s a 50-50 situation, and both teams would think the decision should go in their favour. We had a chance to score just before that through Yáser Asprilla though, so we can’t complain or say we should have won a penalty.
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Head coach Valerien Ismael did not hold back in calling out the issues that most fans at the Bet365 Stadium saw for themselves.
No points, no goals and another injury - no need to panic but there is a need to give the head coach more options, and not just up front.
Watford's first away league game of the season sees them in the Potteries to face Stoke
Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixtures against Birmingham City (Saturday September 16, 3pm KO) and West Bromwich Albion (Wednesday September 20, 7.45pm KO) will go on sale to supporters in Home Group A at 12noon on Monday (August 21).
Tickets will be available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
Please note that eligibility for ticket buying groups has been updated for the 2023/24 campaign. For more information, click HERE.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday August 21 * Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday August 22 * Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday August 23 * Home Group D*
12noon, Thursday August 24 * General Sale
12noon, Friday August 25
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices - Birmingham
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- 19-21: £17
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- 19-21: £17
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £38
- 65 & Over: £23
- 19-21: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £40
- 65 & Over: £25
- 19-21: £22
- 18 & Under: £10
Ticket Prices - West Brom
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- 19-21: £15
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- 19-21: £15
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £33
- 65 & Over: £21
- 19-21: £18
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £23
- 19-21: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand
The Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 35 relating to matchday attendance.
NFC Mobile Tickets
All tickets during the 2023/24 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select ‘Tickets’ from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select ‘Download NFC Mobile Ticket’.
- On the screen that opens click ‘Next’, then choose ‘Automatically Select’ followed by ‘Done’.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select ‘Tickets’ from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select ‘Download NFC Mobile Ticket’. When prompted, select ‘Open App’.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2023/24 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
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Playing away from home will not alter how Watford approach games says head coach Valerien Ismael
Valerien Ismael admitted he is looking at strengthening beyond the much-discussed No.9 position
Head coach Valerien Ismael says he will not be rushed or compromise on what he wants when it comes to a new striker.
Watford’s Under-21s are still looking for their first win of the new league season after they were beaten 3-1 by Fleetwood Town.
Goalscorer Albert Eames and goalkeeper Jonathan Macualay shared their thoughts after Watford’s Under-21s fell to a 3-1 defeat against Fleetwood Town at Vicarage Road.
Eames levelled the scores on the stroke of half-time after Pharrell Brown had put the Fishermen in front early on, but further goals for George Morrison and Theo Williams put paid to any hopes of a share of the spoils for Charlie Daniels’ Young Hornets.
Read what Eames and Macaulay had to say below…
Eames
It was a very good experience out there, playing at The Vic for the first time this season. Obviously it’s not the result we wanted, but personally it was great to get on the scoresheet.
I just received the ball and stepped inside, where I saw there was space. I tried to bend it around their centre-back and it went in the goal. I’ve had a couple of similar efforts in training and I thought it was probably 50/50, but as soon as it left my foot I knew it was good.
They had some good players, and they played long balls and played off their front men. I think we deserved something from the game, but we have to reflect on our performances and go again now against Sheffield Wednesday next week.
It’s great to play for Charlie Daniels. I worked with him last season in the Under-18s, so I’m used to the way he works. He’s a great coach, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what the rest of the season brings.
Macaulay
I think there were a lot of things we could have done better throughout the game, but the boys gave it everything. We went 1-0 down and then got back to 1-1; when we went behind again we did what we could but ultimately it just wasn’t meant to be.
In the opening period of every half we do try to lock it in so we have a foundation to build on. Unfortunately today Fleetwood scored early which put us on the backfoot, and that’s definitely something we’re going to have to go back and analyse.
We were a bit slow out of the blocks in the first half, but after we equalised I think we looked like the better team. We definitely didn’t lack spirit, we just couldn’t produce the goal we needed and in the end they took their chances.
I’m really happy to see Albert score. It’s something we’ve been working on as a team - with the patterns of play - and it’s something we’ve seen him do in training from time to time, so it was great to see it go in.
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Watford’s FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup group has been confirmed ahead of the 2023/24 season, with fellow Barclays Women’s Championship sides London City Lionesses, Crystal Palace and Lewes joining them in Group C.
The London City fixture, taking place away from home, will be played on Wednesday October 11 (7pm KO).
Palace will host the Hornets on Wednesday November 22, with the game kicking off at 7.15pm.
The final group game will be a home one, with Lewes travelling to Grosvenor Vale on Wednesday January 24 (7.30pm KO).
Should Damon Lathrope’s squad progress, the quarter-finals of the competition are scheduled for February 7-8, the semi-finals for March 6-7, and the final for March 31.
Meanwhile, back in the league, the Golden Girls’ trip to Sunderland on Sunday October 1 will now kick off at 2pm, having previously been scheduled for 12.30pm.
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Match Info
- Stoke City v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Bet365 Stadium
- Saturday August 19, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: James Bell
- Assistant Referees: Ian Cooper and George Byrne
- Fourth Official: Keith Stroud
Designated Away Pub
A pub close to the Bet365 Stadium - and only a five-minute walk from Stoke-on-Trent train station - has been designated to away supporters:
- The Terrace Inn, 185 Leek Road, Stoke, ST4 2BW
Opposition
Stoke City return to the Bet365 Stadium this weekend looking to get back to winning ways, after beating Rotherham United 4-1 at home on opening day but then succumbing to a 2-0 defeat at newly-promoted Ipswich Town last time out.
Following a disappointing 16th-placed finish under Alex Neil in 2022/23, the Potters will be hoping for promotion back to the Premier League this term, having been absent from the top-flight since 2017/18.
After securing a number of eye-catching signings over the summer - including experienced defender Enda Stevens, Brazil international forward Wesley and highly-rated shot-stopper Mark Travers - Stoke will be confident of claiming a first home win over the Hornets since January 2017 here.
Stats Buzz
- Should Watford win, Stoke will be the sixth different side they have won five successive league games against this century, and the first since Norwich City in September 2021.
- The Golden Boys have won each of their last four Football League meetings with the Potters, as many wins as in their previous 15 league encounters (D3 L8).
- Watford are the only side in the Championship so far this season yet to concede, while it’s now three games without conceding including their final game last season against Stoke (2-0 win). They last enjoyed a longer such run in December 2022 (run of four).
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Stoke City In Numbers.
Team News
Summer signing Tom Ince (hip) could feature in Watford’s matchday squad for the first time against his former club, but Jamal Lewis (calf) isn’t available. Francisco Sierralta (thigh) and Jeremy Ngakia (ankle) are both fighting to be involved and face late fitness tests.
Click HERE to read full team news from the Hornets’ camp.
For Stoke, Lewis Baker (knee) and Tyrese Campbell (thigh) are doubts.
What Are They Saying?
Valérien Ismaël, Watford Head Coach:
“We’ve started the season well - the performances, the attitude and the mentaility have all been exactly as we wanted, and we’ve set the standards to stay that way.
“Now we need to keep improving and create momentum, which is not about one or two good results. It’s about seven, eight, nine or 10 games in a row - that’s how you build confidence for a season.
“Like every team in the Championship, Stoke are strong. They have good players and a good manager. We know what we have to do to put in the performance, the effort and mentality we want. We’ve got our own plan, and we have to stick to it.”
Click HERE to read Ismaël’s full pre-match interview.
Alex Neil, Stoke City Manager:
“It is another good home game for us and our home form so far has been good - we want to try and continue that.
“Watford are a good side but we want to make our place a cauldron and continue our season well at home, like we have started.
“It is important we get on the front foot and we try to put our game onto them and dictate proceedings.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 18
Drawn: 7
Lost: 16
Last Six:
May 2023: Watford 2-0 Stoke City (Championship)
October 2022: Stoke City 0-4 Watford (Championship)
September 2021: Watford 1-3 Stoke City (Carabao Cup)
January 2021: Stoke City 1-2 Watford (Championship)
November 2020: Watford 3-2 Stoke City (Championship)
January 2018: Stoke City 0-0 Watford (Premier League)
Golden Flashback
Watford’s last visit to Stoke was a memorable one, with goals from Ismaïla Sarr, Ken Sema, Keinan Davis and Vakoun Bayo yielding an emphatic 4-0 win in Slaven Bilić’s first game as Head Coach, in October 2022.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Stoke City v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Kwadwo Baah will spend the rest of the 2023/24 season on loan at League One side Burton Albion.
One of Watford's new signings could make his debut at Stoke tomorrow, but another will be out for a while longer.
Tom Ince has made good progress from a hip flexor complaint he suffered before the end of last season, and is now set to travel with Valérien Ismaël’s squad to the forward’s former club Stoke City this weekend (Saturday August 19, 3pm KO).
Patience is the key word, meanwhile, when it comes to Jamal Lewis and Rhys Healey.
Full-back Lewis had a small setback during his return from a calf complaint, while striker Healey’s recovery from last season’s ACL injury means the Head Coach is being cautious with his involvement so far.
“Jamal Lewis had a setback with his calf so we have to be patient with him,” said Ismaël.
“We cannot rush, especially with this kind of issue. What’s important is the player gets confidence back in his body and in this area. We will go from there and hopefully he will be back soon.
“It’s nothing major, not a big injury and he could be back next week, or it could take another week. I want him back when he is 100 per cent.”
“It was a difficult pre-season for Rhys after the ACL injury he had last year,” added Ismaël.
“Everyone knows it’s difficult to come back to your level straight away. I think Rhys needs more confidence in himself, in his knee, and to get back to where he is able to be.”
Francisco Sierralta was forced off with tightness in his quad (thigh muscle) during the second half of the Plymouth Argyle clash at The Vic last weekend, so a late call on his involvement this weekend will be made.
Full-back Jeremy Ngakia is fighting to be involved after missing out last Saturday following a heavy challenge on his ankle at Stevenage in the Carabao Cup.
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Watford FC confirms that young forward Kwadwo Baah has joined Sky Bet League One outfit Burton Albion on a season-long loan.
Though he is yet to make a first-team appearance for the Hornets - having arrived from Rochdale in May 2021 - the 20-year-old featured on the bench on a handful of occasions during the 2021/22 Premier League campaign, while he was involved in pre-season matches under Head Coach Valérien Ismaël earlier this summer.
The Germany youth international spent the 2022/23 season at 2. Bundesliga side Fortuna Düsseldorf, where he played seven times in the league, and he will now look to further his development back in England with Dino Maamria’s Brewers.
Good luck, Kwadwo!
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The Hornets’ Academy bolstered its ranks with the announcement of three new signings - Jonathan Lawson, Alistair Gould and Jake Watkiss - in the middle of last week.
After putting pen-to-paper, we caught up with the youngsters to get their reaction to securing new deals at Watford.
Jonathan Lawson
“I’m really pleased to have signed. It’s the first professional club and academy that I have signed for. It’s a step up from my previous club, Cray Valley. I was there for two or three years and the last year was very good for me, especially in the league where I made my first-team debut. Watford came to one of my games and I’m now here.
“I’m looking forward to kicking on and going as far as possible at Watford. Hopefully, I’ll get a chance with the Under-21s and potentially the first-team. It’s been a really good start so far, everyone has been great and it’s been really easy to adapt.”
Alistair Gould
“I’m buzzing to have signed and it’s been really good so far. Pre-season has been really enjoyable. It’s a big step up from where I was before. The standards are a lot better and the coaches have been really great with me. I have everything I need to progress and become a good player, and hopefully, progress to become a first-team player.
“I was at Motherwell for two years and I came down here on trial and it went really well. I have settled in well, everything has been perfect. The boys have been brilliant with me. I’m hoping now to secure a high finish with the squad in the league, and individually I want to get bigger and push myself as much as I can.”
Jake Watkiss
“I’m really happy and excited to start here at Watford. It has been a long journey coming from Stevenage and it’s a step up. The journey to get here has been difficult at times because I had a lot of injuries throughout my time during my scholarship. It’s been about working my way back to this point.
“I’m now fully fit for the first time in a while. I’ve noticed the quality of the training ground, the quality in training, the quality of the players and staff – I’m really happy to be here. The main aim now is to get in and around the first-team squad and kick on from there.”
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Watford’s trip to Sunderland on Wednesday October 4 (7.45pm KO) has been chosen for co-exclusive broadcast by Sky Sports.
While there is no change to the date and kick-off time for the Sky Bet Championship fixture, it will now be shown live on Sky Sports Arena and remain available for video streaming to domestic and overseas supporters via Hive Live.
No further fixtures involving Watford between the weekend of Saturday September 23 and up to and including the weekend of Saturday October 7 have been selected for TV broadcast, meaning the trip to Leeds United (Saturday September 23, 3pm KO), the home clash against Middlesbrough (Saturday September 30, 3pm KO) and the away game at Cardiff City (Saturday October 7, 3pm KO) remain set as previously scheduled.
Hive Live video streams for these matches will be available to overseas supporters only, due to the Saturday 3pm blackout. Further details will be communicated in due course.
Additionally, the Hornets’ home fixture against Birmingham City on Saturday September 16 (3pm KO) will now be broadcast overseas by the EFL’s broadcast partner IMG to rightsholders in territories which wish to show the game.
A Hive Live video stream for this game will therefore be available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories only, which will be communicated in due course.
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Valérien Ismaël has called on his Watford players to use their unbeaten start to the Sky Bet Championship season as a platform to build winning momentum, ahead of Saturday afternoon’s trip up to Stoke City (August 19, 3pm KO).
The Hornets sit third in the standings ahead of the third round of fixtures - following victory over QPR and a draw against Plymouth Argyle - while they are the only side yet to concede, and the Head Coach has been pleased with the application displayed so far.
While he acknowledged a measure of fatigue last time out - in the wake of three games in a week - he is confident the squad are refreshed and ready to go again, as the campaign continues to get back into full swing.
“We’ve started the season well - the performances, the attitude and the mentaility have all been exactly as we wanted, and we’ve set the standards to stay that way,” the 47-year-old said.
“Now we need to keep improving and create momentum, which is not about one or two good results. It’s about seven, eight, nine or 10 games in a row - that’s how you build confidence for a season.
“We know what we need to do, and we’ve worked on our challenging areas all week. We’ve studied and analysed the games, and given the players lots of details to implement and improve.
“Some of our decision-making wasn’t as sharp as we expected in our last game, but after a week back in training the freshness is back and we’ve seen that straight away. If we reduce our mistakes and use that freshness all over the pitch we can be ruthless, and we’re all looking forward to putting that into action and taking the next step in our season on Saturday.”
Alex Neil’s Stoke kickstarted 2023/24 in emphatic fashion with a thumping 4-1 win over Rotherham United on opening day, before edging past West Bromwich Albion in the Carabao Cup, but a 2-0 defeat to Ipswich Town last time out will have left them itching for a return to winning ways.
Ismaël is aware of the threats posed by the Potters - who have added the likes of Daniel Johnson, Ben Pearson and Ki-Jana Hoever to their ranks over the summer - but is staying focused on his own team’s endeavours as he finalises his preparations for the Bet365 Stadium clash.
He added: “Like every team in the Championship, Stoke are strong. They have good players and a good manager. We know what we have to do to put in the performance, the effort and mentality we want. We’ve got our own plan, and we have to stick to it.
“For us it doesn’t matter whether we’re playing at home or away. We want to force our game, be brave and from the first minute to the last recognise and see the right intentions in our play.”
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Our ‘Deceased Player of the Month’ is Harry Wood. He was a regular for Watford at the turn of the 20th century, but it was two of his absences that were remarkable. You can read about him here. https://hornetheaven.com/harry-wood/ Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin
A referee is set to take charge of a fixture involving Watford for the first time tomorrow when the Hornets travel to Stoke City aiming to continue their unbeaten start to the Championship season.
Former Watford captain Troy Deeney has taken his first step into coaching by accepting a player/coach role.
Following the goalless draw with Plymouth Argyle at the weekend, Watford will be aiming to continue their unbeaten start to the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign when they visit Stoke City on Saturday (August 19, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the first league away-day of the season, find out below how you can follow all the action from the Bet365 Stadium on the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Helen Ward from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes to domestic supporters for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match video pass (available in all international territories). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST.
- This game is included in £25 monthly and £140 seasonal (Early Bird rate) Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Helen Ward with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford FC Women are pleased to confirm the return of defender Corinne Henson, following her departure from fellow Barclays Women’s Championship side Charlton Athletic.
Operating in a range of positions in her first Watford spell in 2021/22, Henson has moved from the wing to a more defensive role since leaving last summer, slotting in at centre-back so far in pre-season.
Henson, 19, began her career at Arsenal before a dual-sign move to the Golden Girls, making 22 appearances in yellow.
The US and UK dual-national signed her first professional contract with Charlton and played an important part in their fourth-place finish, also netting a Goal of the Month-nominated effort against London City Lionesses last August.
Damon Lathrope’s 10th summer signing, Henson joins fellow new arrivals Harley Bennett and Katie Reid in a defensive department that also includes Anne Meiwald, Megan Chandler, Kalani Peart and Lois Edwards.
Welcome back, Corinne!
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Wes Hoedt is loving the new way Watford are playing, and being part of the club's senior leadership group
It was an exciting afternoon for some lucky Hornets supporters who got the chance to meet Matheus Martins and Giorgi Chakvetadze at the Watford Store in the Atria Shopping Centre on Wednesday (August 16).
With plenty of signatures and pictures taken, take a look below at some of the best moments from the signing session.
Meet The Players
Plenty To Sign
Thanks For Your Support
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First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls some of the best individual displays he has witnessed the Hornets come up against…
Ahead of Watford’s Sky Bet Championship fixture away at Stoke City on Saturday (August 19, 3pm KO), this piece focuses on a Potters legend...
Watford’s FA Cup run to their first-ever major semi-final in the 1969/70 campaign included a narrow 1-0 win against Stoke City in the fourth round.
It was the last time – and to my knowledge the only time – Hornets fans saw England’s 1966 World Cup-winning goalkeeper Gordon Banks play at The Vic, and it took a supreme 25-yard shot from Colin Franks, making only his sixth appearance for the club, to beat him for the winner.
Franks was a decent utility player who would go on to finish runner-up in the inaugural Watford Observer Player of the Season poll three seasons later, although his record of nine goals in 124 appearances did not do him much justice until Sheffield United signed him for £60,000 in 1973.
Tony Currie, Keith Eddy, Stewart Scullion, Franks... the Blades certainly knew where to come shopping for most of their best signings 50-odd years ago, didn’t they?
As for Banks, some of his greatest hits were still ahead of him after the Potters’ defeat in front of more than 23,000 fans at The Vic 53 years ago.
Despite helping England to World Cup glory just nine months earlier, Banks had been dropped by Leicester City towards the end of the 1966/67 season to accommodate promising young keeper Peter Shilton.
Foxes manager Matt Gillies told Banks: “We think your best days are behind you and that you should move on.” Football is a game of varied opinions, but it certainly didn’t look like Banks was washed-up when he made the greatest save of all time to keep out Pele’s header at the 1970 World Cup.
The great man modestly compared that scintillating feat of gymnastics with “lying down in the middle of the road” because the Guadalajara pitch was rock-hard – but he didn’t even rate it as his greatest save.
When he helped Stoke to win the League Cup in 1972 – still the Potters’ only major trophy – his last-gasp penalty save, diverting England team-mate Geoff Hurst’s thunderous penalty over the bar in the semi-final against West Ham at Upton Park forced a replay.
Stoke won the encore 3-2 on a neutral swamp at Old Trafford – but only after another England legend, Bobby Moore, had saved Mike Bernard’s penalty, although he couldn’t keep out the rebound. Moore had taken over as an emergency keeper after the Hammers’ first-choice Bobby Ferguson was carried off with concussion.
Banks was not only a tremendous goalkeeper but, in the experience of this earnest hack, a regular and ever-helpful source of copy until his death, aged 81, four years ago.
The last time I saw Gordon was by the 18th green at a golf course somewhere in Staffordshire’s hinterlands. In an act of misadventure, I had promised to get a yellow replica England jersey – as worn by Banks in the 1966 World Cup final – signed for a school quiz night auction. I cut it so fine that the only place I could intercept him before the function was at the end of his round before he headed north to an after-dinner function.
After draining his putt on the last hole, he hadn’t even reached the locker room before doing the honours with a Sharpie marker pen. What a legend.
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Free monthly online safety workshops will be offered to residents throughout Hertfordshire following the launch of a new partnership between the NSPCC and Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust.
Empowered Online is a new campaign that provides free virtual sessions over five months to parents and carers who would like tips on how to help keep their children safer online. Each session will last approximately 30 minutes and occur once a month at 7pm, from August 23, 2023.
Emma Copperwheat, NSPCC Local Campaigns Officer for the East of England, said: “The online world is constantly changing and keeping up with the latest trends can be a daunting prospect for any parent, and that’s why we’re thrilled to offer these vital online sessions across the county.
“Thanks to our new partnership with Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust we are able to support families with helping them start conversations with their children about online safety, how to spot the signs of online bullying and what to do and how to manage screen time. We know that the online world can have an impact on children’s mental health and these sessions could really make a difference.”
From 2022/23, Childline counsellors delivered over 200,000 counselling sessions to children and young people and it is estimated that 3,800 of these sessions took place in Hertfordshire.
The NSPCC has long pushed for a more robust Online Safety Bill that could help to protect more children online. Currently the responsibility falls on parents and carers to protect children when they navigate the online world.
Caoimhe Walker, Mental Health Project Officer for Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, said: “We are really excited to be working in partnership alongside the NSPCC to bring Empowered Online to parents and carers across Hertfordshire.
“We hope that sessions will empower parents and carers to have confidence in talking with their children about online safety and know how to respond if any risks arise.
“These parent and carer workshops are an extension of our Empower programme here at Watford FC CSE Trust and funded by Comic Relief. Empower is a free six-month project that aims to improve young people’s mental health using physical activity.”
Sign up for the sessions by clicking HERE, or email eastcampaigns@nspcc.org.uk to find out more.
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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Watford FC and our Community, Sports & Education Trust are delighted to announce a partnership with Her Game Too, a voluntary campaign led by a team of dedicated female football fans from several clubs who are passionate about creating a positive change in football and the wider sporting world.
Founded in May 2021, Her Game Too aims to raise awareness and educate on the importance of inclusivity and diversity in sport. The Hornets are proud to be leaders in the drive for inclusion in football and the partnership will perfectly complement the work we’ve been doing with our own Women of Watford FC supporters’ group.
Women of Watford FC was founded in June 2021 by Kate Lewers and now has more than 350 members. It has provided access to regular group ticket bookings for away matches, held focus groups to receive advice on improving our offering for women in the club shop, liaised with the Trust on hosting a Menopause awareness event for women across the town and enabled direct communication with the club on other relevant issues.
The club is delighted that Kate has agreed to be a Her Game Too ambassador for the Hornets, so we can support the campaign’s goal to create a safe and welcoming environment for everyone, regardless of their background, ability or gender across the whole game.
“The work that Her Game Too have been doing and their excellent reputation across the game made agreeing this partnership an easy decision to make,” said Dave Messenger, Watford FC’s EDI Lead.
“The synergies between WoW and Her Game Too are clear for all to see and we’re looking forward to building on the positive work of the last two years.”
“I am thrilled that we are now officially partnered with Watford FC,” said Amy Clement, Director of Her Game Too.
“I have known of the amazing Women of Watford for a while and it’s inspiring to see this sort of female football community within a club. We thoroughly encourage female Watford fans to get involved with WoW and look forward to seeing what we can get up to as a collective.”
“To have a Her Game Too and Watford FC partnership is really exciting,” added Kate Lewers.
“The club has been really supportive of WoW from the get go, and this partnership is only going to enhance the work we’ve already been doing together.
“It’s a real privilege for me to be the Her Game Too ambassador for Watford FC, and I’m really looking forward to working with our amazing WoW members to continue making football a great experience for all guys, gals and non-binary pals!”
Click HERE to find out more about Her Game Too, and click HERE for more on Women of Watford FC.
For more information about Watford FC’s commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion, click HERE.
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Mike Duffy & Joe Thomas are joined by Ben Rowley from the YYY Files to chat about Watford’s first league away game against Stoke City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The often mysterious saga of Ignacio Pussetto’s three-year Watford career came to an end today.
Following last weekend’s entertaining goalless draw with Plymouth Argyle, Watford will be aiming to preserve their unbeaten start to the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season when they travel to Stoke City on Saturday (August 19, 3pm KO).
While the wait for the first away league game of the season goes on, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the eagerly awaited encounter.
Previous Meetings
Stoke have lost their previous two home league games to Watford, both of which were in the Championship. They have never lost three such games in succession before.
Watford have won each of their last four Football League meetings with Stoke, as many wins as in their previous 15 league encounters (D3 L8).
Should the Golden Boys win, the Potters will be the sixth different side the Hornets have won five successive league games against this century, and the first since Norwich City in September 2021.
Recent Form
Watford are the only side in the Championship so far this season yet to concede, while it’s now three games without conceding including their final game last season against Stoke (2-0 win). They last enjoyed a longer such run in December 2022 (run of four).
Stoke City’s opening-day 4-1 win over Rotherham United was their first home league victory since March. The Potters last won successively on home soil in the league in April 2022.
Watford are unbeaten in each of their last four league games (W2 D2). The Hornets last enjoyed a longer such run in August 2022, avoiding defeat in their first five league fixtures of 2022/23 (W2 D3).
Opposition Stat Attack
Ki-Jana Hoever and André Vidigal scored three of the four goals for Alex Neil’s Potters against Rotherham on the opening day, with Vidigal leading the way in the team’s standings for shots on target (4) and goals scored (2) during the 2023/24 campaign so far.
Former Watford defender Ben Wilmot has contributed two assists and has in total attempted 179 passes - including 122 completed in Stoke’s half - while new signing Enda Stevens has made the most passes in the opposition’s half (69).
Defensively, Wilmot has made the most clearances (9), while Hoever and Josh Laurent have managed the most attempted tackles (4). Wilmot has also made the most blocks (5), and - together with Ben Pearson and Michael Rose - the most interceptions (3).
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Watford legend Luther Blissett had the chance to talk to head coach Valerien Ismael as well as other key club figures last week.
Watford FC confirms the termination of Ignacio Pussetto’s contract by mutual consent.
The Argentine winger, 27, signed for the Hornets in January 2020 and went on to make nine appearances, seven of which were in the Premier League.
He has since spent time on loan with Italian outfits Udinese and Sampdoria.
We wish Ignacio all the best for the future.
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Striker Shaq Forde suffered incredible bad luck last night as he was injured in the warm-up and denied his Orient debut.
You still have time to claim a six-month subscription to the Watford Observer website for just £6, but only just!
Watford FC Women are pleased to confirm the arrival of Carly Johns following the striker’s departure from Oxford United, as the Hornets continue to bolster their squad ahead of the 2023/24 Barclays Women’s Championship campaign.
Last season’s top goalscorer in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division, Johns netted 15 in the third-tier, with the U’s missing out narrowly on promotion in a thrilling title race alongside the Golden Girls and Ipswich Town.
Beginning her career in Oxford’s youth sides, Johns impressed in FA Youth Cup competition, reaching the semi-finals. Ascending to the first-team, the striker signed her first senior contract in July 2019 soon after winning the club’s Under-16s Player of the Season award.
Johns went on to make a vital contribution to the third-tier outfit’s success, scoring 52 goals in 76 games as Oxford registered top-three finishes in three consecutive campaigns.
The forward has already found the target in pre-season, adding to an attack that includes fellow new arrival Michelle Agyemang and last season’s key performers Annie Rossiter, Bianca Baptiste, Flo Fyfe and Gemma Davison.
Welcome to Watford, Carly!
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Looking back to when thousands queued outside Vicarage Road for tickets for Watford's League Cup semi-final against Nottingham Forest in 1979.
Two Watford first-team players will be meeting fans in the Atria Shopping Centre tomorrow (Wednesday).
The Watford FC store in the Atria Shopping Centre will host a signing session with two members of the Hornets’ first-team squad tomorrow (Wednesday August 16).
Matheus Martins and Giorgi Chakvetadze will be in-store from 2.30-3.30pm, with the duo available for pictures and autographs. We advise supporters to arrive early in case of large queues.
We also ask that any supporters requiring special access contact disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or chris.hall@watfordfc.com (Chris Hall, Supporter Liaison Officer) in advance of the signing session, to help ensure these needs are met on the day.
Please note that the players attending the signing session are subject to change.
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Watford Under-21s earned a point away at Birmingham despite being reduced to 10 men after only 20 minutes.
Young striker Shaq Forde has joined newly-promoted League One side Leyton Orient on a season-long loan.
Watford made four substitutions all at once little more than 10 minutes into the second half of Saturday's game with Plymouth.
Head coach Valerien Ismael says captain and keeper Daniel Bachmann is doing what he is being asked to do.
1-A week on, everything’s different. We’re only a week into the football season, it’s still a bit of a novelty, we’re still getting into the swing… but the niceties are over. We’re no longer happy just to be back in the stadium. This demand for an outcome is exacerbated by some difficulties in transit. What […]
You know you’re getting old when that new thing you decided to do a year or two back becomes “retro”, but such is life. Old-skool thunks then, hopefully a viable halfway house when I don’t have time for a proper match report (such as, for instance, when Daughter 2 rings at the start of your […]
Following Carabao Cup disappointment at Stevenage in midweek, Watford will be hoping to rediscover the form that saw them emphatically see off QPR on Sky Bet Championship opening-day when they entertain Plymouth Argyle on Saturday (August 12, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the hotly-anticipated fixture against last season’s League One champions at Vicarage Road, find out below how you can follow all the action on the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes to domestic supporters for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match video pass (available in all international territories). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST.
- This game is included in £25 monthly and £140 seasonal (Early Bird rate) Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters.
- Listen to live commentary with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford have signed three new young players to boost their ranks in the Academy: a defender, a winger and a striker.
Season Tickets are now on sale for Watford FC Women’s upcoming 2023/24 campaign, with the Golden Girls returning to the Barclays Women’s Championship at home to Durham on August 27 (12noon KO)!
A minimum of 11 league games will be covered by the Season Ticket. The majority of matches are set to be played at Grosvenor Vale, while selected fixtures will take place at Vicarage Road.
Priced at just £50 for adults, £35 for ages 65 & over and £25 for ages 18 & under, supporters will pay less than £5 per game, and as little as £2.30 per game for youngsters!
Families will also get a discount on a group Season Ticket booking. Two adults and two under-18s can pay a combined price of £125, saving the equivalent of one child’s Season Ticket.
If you have a Season Ticket for either the Watford FC men’s team or for Wealdstone FC, you can take advantage of our reduced matchday prices, with individual match tickets half-price.
Visit our Season Ticket section of the website HERE.
Whether you’re a regular or perhaps looking to support the Golden Girls for the first time, there’s never been a better time to show your support for Watford and the women’s game.
Season Tickets
Adult - £50
65 & Over - £35
18 & Under - £25
Family (2x Adults, 2x 18 & Under) - £125
Single Game Tickets
Adult - £7 (£8 on matchdays)
65 & Over - £4 (£6 on matchdays)
18 & Under - £4 (£6 on matchdays)
Ticket Office opening hours
Mon-Fri: 10am-4pm
Home Men's matchdays: At least four hours before kick-off
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With only two games played and still three weeks until the transfer window closes, the Watford head coach is calm in his assessments.
Goalkeeper Ben Hamer and midfielder Jake Livermore gave their verdict on Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup exit at Stevenage (August 8), with Watford falling short in a penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw at the end of the normal 90 minutes.
Read what the duo had to say below…
Hamer
We started well, we got a goal early doors and we thought we were going to settle into the match. Then after about 30 minutes they started playing their game a bit with the long balls, and we struggled to deal with it. I thought the strong start would have given us the confidence we needed to kick on, and we were still passing the ball around well and getting into nice areas, but sometimes things don’t quite go to plan. Things can happen, like a free-kick which gets the home crowd going, and then that somewhat turns the tide.
Even though they didn’t really create loads of chances it was disappointing to concede in the manner we did - we’ve been working on set-pieces a lot, but with zonal marking sometimes balls can just drop down into a bad area where one of their players is standing. Credit to their man for finishing it off. In the second half I don’t think they threatened that much, but when it goes to penalties it’s a lottery. They took theirs well and unfortunately it didn’t go our way.
Going forward I think we just need to work on being a bit calmer - me included. It’s a game we have to learn from, but on the positive side from a personal point of view it was good for me to get out on the pitch and see the big following we had tonight. The fans were brilliant, so thanks to them.
The training’s been brilliant - all throughout pre-season and into the first couple of weeks - and I’m sure the supporters got a great snippet of that at the weekend against QPR. The manager’s brought some really good ideas to the training ground and the lads have bought into it. Hopefully we can get back on track against Plymouth on Saturday.
Livermore
They made things very difficult for us. We’ve all been the underdog in these games before, and tonight was their night. Their goalkeeper made a couple of great saves, and on another night we might’ve got a result. Overall I thought they were well drilled - as Steve Evans’ sides usually are - so it’s one of those nights where we’ll take a few positives out of it, and we’ll use it as a learning curve and go again.
We’re going to need to be adaptable this season, we know that. I think that’s why the manager went with a strong team. The manager makes it clear that he takes every game seriously, and that we can learn and adapt from every game. We changed to a different shape halfway through, different lads came on in different positions, and we’re going to need all of these things in our armoury if we’re going to be successful in the league.
We’re all together, whether we win or lose, and it’s important we don’t get too high or low after different results. I think the squad has a nice balance to it, and we’ve got a nice discipline about us now. I think we’ve got all the ingredients we need to get to where we want to be. It’s going to be tough - like we’ve seen tonight - but I think one good thing is that we’ve had this experience early on and we can learn from it.
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The Hornets’ Academy ranks have been further bolstered by the signing of three new players ahead of the start of the 2023/24 season.
Read on for information on the new recruits.
Under-18s
Name: Jonathan Lawson
Position: Striker
DOB: 16/10/05
Previous club: Cray Valley
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
Under-21s
Name: Alistair Gould
Position: Defender
DOB: 26/07/05
Previous club: Motherwell
Contract: Two-year deal with an additional one-year option
Name: Jake Watkiss
Position: Winger
DOB: 15/03/05
Previous club: Stevenage
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
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Goalkeeper Ben Hamer and midfielder Jake Livermore gave their verdict on Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup exit at Stevenage (August 8), with Watford falling short in a penalty shoot-out after a 1-1 draw at the end of the normal 90 minutes.
Read what the duo had to say below…
Hamer
We started well, we got a goal early doors and we thought we were going to settle into the match. Then after about 30 minutes they started playing their game a bit with the long balls, and we struggled to deal with it. I thought the strong start would have given us the confidence we needed to kick on, and we were still passing the ball around well and getting into nice areas, but sometimes things don’t quite go to plan. Things can happen, like a free-kick which gets the home crowd going, and then that somewhat turns the tide.
Even though they didn’t really create loads of chances it was disappointing to concede in the manner we did - we’ve been working on set-pieces a lot, but with zonal marking sometimes balls can just drop down into a bad area where one of their players is standing. Credit to their man for finishing it off. In the second half I don’t think they threatened that much, but when it goes to penalties it’s a lottery. They took theirs well and unfortunately it didn’t go our way.
Going forward I think we just need to work on being a bit calmer - me included. It’s a game we have to learn from, but on the positive side from a personal point of view it was good for me to get out on the pitch and see the big following we had tonight. The fans were brilliant, so thanks to them.
The training’s been brilliant - all throughout pre-season and into the first couple of weeks - and I’m sure the supporters got a great snippet of that at the weekend against QPR. The manager’s brought some really good ideas to the training ground and the lads have bought into it. Hopefully we can get back on track against Plymouth on Saturday.
Livermore
They made things very difficult for us. We’ve all been the underdog in these games before, and tonight was their night. Their goalkeeper made a couple of great saves, and on another night we might’ve got a result. Overall I thought they were well drilled - as Steve Evans’ sides usually are - so it’s one of those nights where we’ll take a few positives out of it, and we’ll use it as a learning curve and go again.
We’re going to need to be adaptable this season, we know that. I think that’s why the manager went with a strong team. The manager makes it clear that he takes every game seriously, and that we can learn and adapt from every game. We changed to a different shape halfway through, different lads came on in different positions, and we’re going to need all of these things in our armoury if we’re going to be successful in the league.
We’re all together, whether we win or lose, and it’s important we don’t get too high or low after different results. I think the squad has a nice balance to it, and we’ve got a nice discipline about us now. I think we’ve got all the ingredients we need to get to where we want to be. It’s going to be tough - like we’ve seen tonight - but I think one good thing is that we’ve had this experience early on and we can learn from it.
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Head Coach Valérien Ismaël shared his thoughts with the media after Watford’s first-round exit in the 2023/24 Carabao Cup at the hands of Hertfordshire neighbours Stevenage.
The game at the Lamex Stadium finished 1-1 after 90 minutes - with Vakoun Bayo’s opener being cancelled out by a Josh March strike – and the League One hosts edged the subsequent penalty shoot-out 4-3.
Read what Ismaël had to say below…
On the game as a whole:
We started well and we were in control for the first half-an-hour, then for some reason we lost control and didn’t play anymore, and it became a fight. The opponent put us exactly where they wanted us.
In the second half we changed things tactically and we created lots of chances. I didn’t recognise many chances from the opponent. Then it goes to a penalty shoot-out, which is a 50/50 situation. We’re disappointed about the result, and we should’ve won the game, but we have to look forward positively to the Plymouth game on Saturday now.
On the positives:
During the QPR game we lost control for 10 minutes in the second half, and it was the same here. We put a solution in place and I think that was a positive. This game was direct with fight mentality - it’s my responsibility to give the players a solution, we use every match to improve and I think we’ve learned a lot from it.
After losing control we created a situation where we forced the opponent to defend and we put big distances between the ball and our goal. We’re in a process of learning and understanding our principles, and with the style of play we’re implementing the players are still getting to grips with the balances and taking responsibility on the pitch.
On his approach to the match:
We are really early in the season so I didn’t think we were in a position to rotate. We are here to create momentum, to get minutes in the legs and improve fitness, so I kept things largely the same.
I didn’t take any risks with a handful of the players, because we want to give them all the best chance of being 100 per cent for as long as possible. At the moment we don’t have everyone available, but the work and the mentality in the squad is good.
On Ngakia’s withdrawal:
It was a bad tackle. Right now we don’t know, but we will assess the situation and hope it’s not too serious.
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Valerien Ismael explained his team selection was to get more minutes into players while not giving them mixed messages.
Another flying start but a different ending as Watford went out of the Carabao Cup 4-3 on penalties at Stevenage.
Looking back to when Luther Blissett scored twice to secure a memorable League Cup victory for Watford at Manchester United in 1978.
Defender Wesley Hoedt has called on his Watford teammates to use the momentum gained from Saturday’s thumping season-opening win over QPR to kickstart a run in the Carabao Cup, ahead of Tuesday evening’s first-round clash at Stevenage (August 8, 7.45pm KO).
The Hornets started life under Head Coach Valérien Ismaël’s tutelage in perfect fashion last time out, as first-half goals from Tom Dele-Bashiru, Imrân Louza, Matheus Martins and Vakoun Bayo earned a comfortable three points against the R’s at The Vic.
While Netherlands international Hoedt suggested that he expects some changes to the squad for the trip across Hertfordshire to the Lamex Stadium, he is confident everyone at the club is in tune with the style of play that has been implemented over the summer.
“Saturday was very pleasing because we got exactly what we wanted,” said the 29-year-old, who was named in Ismaël’s leadership group ahead of the 2023/24 campaign. “We wanted to win with a clear plan and a nice way of playing football, and I think we did that.
“Particularly in the first half, I think we showed how much has changed here so far. We worked hard for seven weeks, and all the credit has to go to the manager for bringing a lot of different elements to the squad. I think everything came together brilliantly on Saturday.
“Now we have to go again in the cup against Stevenage, which is another exciting challenge in the season. We’ve spoken to the group about how we have a lot of games and that we’re going to need everyone, but we’re all together and I’m sure whoever plays will do the job.”
Steve Evans’ Stevenage will be full of confidence having opened their season with a 1-0 win at Northampton on Saturday, after clinching promotion from Sky Bet League Two during a 2022/23 season that also saw them defeat Aston Villa on their way to the Emirates FA Cup fourth round.
Hoedt is clear however that everyone within the Golden Boys’ camp is determined to banish memories of last year’s disappointing second-round exit at home to MK Dons in the Carabao Cup, while he is also looking forward to being reacquainted with the Watford supporters at the first away game of 2023/24.
He added: “Even though some players might come in and out, no-one’s going to go into the Stevenage game with a different mindset to Saturday. There’s a prize and a trophy up for grabs - and as players that’s what you play for - so we’ll all be taking it very seriously.
“Our fans are always amazing, and it was brilliant to see them again at the weekend after the break over the summer. We need to continue repaying their trust, and that’s another reason why we’ll be going at full steam.”
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The Premier League season hasn't even started and already players and managers are moaning about playing more stoppage time.
Defender Wesley Hoedt has called on his Watford teammates to use the momentum gained from Saturday’s thumping season-opening win over QPR to kickstart a run in the Carabao Cup, ahead of Tuesday evening’s first-round clash at Stevenage (August 8, 7.45pm KO).
The Hornets started life under Head Coach Valérien Ismaël’s tutelage in perfect fashion last time out, as first-half goals from Tom Dele-Bashiru, Imrân Louza, Matheus Martins and Vakoun Bayo earned a comfortable three points against the R’s at The Vic.
While Netherlands international Hoedt suggested that he expects some changes to the squad for the trip across Hertfordshire to the Lamex Stadium, he is confident everyone at the club is in tune with the style of play that has been implemented over the summer.
“Saturday was very pleasing because we got exactly what we wanted,” said the 29-year-old, who was named in Ismaël’s leadership group ahead of the 2023/24 campaign. “We wanted to win with a clear plan and a nice way of playing football, and I think we did that.
“Particularly in the first half, I think we showed how much has changed here so far. We worked hard for seven weeks, and all the credit has to go to the manager for bringing a lot of different elements to the squad. I think everything came together brilliantly on Saturday.
“Now we have to go again in the cup against Stevenage, which is another exciting challenge in the season. We’ve spoken to the group about how we have a lot of games and that we’re going to need everyone, but we’re all together and I’m sure whoever plays will do the job.”
Steve Evans’ Stevenage will be full of confidence having opened their season with a 1-0 win at Northampton on Saturday, after clinching promotion from Sky Bet League Two during a 2022/23 season that also saw them defeat Aston Villa on their way to the Emirates FA Cup fourth round.
Hoedt is clear however that everyone within the Golden Boys’ camp is determined to banish memories of last year’s disappointing second-round exit at home to MK Dons in the Carabao Cup, while he is also looking forward to being reacquainted with the Watford supporters at the first away game of 2023/24.
He added: “Even though some players might come in and out, no-one’s going to go into the Stevenage game with a different mindset to Saturday. There’s a prize and a trophy up for grabs - and as players that’s what you play for - so we’ll all be taking it very seriously.
“Our fans are always amazing, and it was brilliant to see them again at the weekend after the break over the summer. We need to continue repaying their trust, and that’s another reason why we’ll be going at full steam.”
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Being able to stroll around with the ball at his feet was a surprising but very welcome aspect of Saturday's win for Ryan Porteous
Watford FC star Ken Sema hands girl, 10, his shirt after 4-0 win over QPR at Vicarage Road on Saturday.
Watford’s 2023/24 Carabao Cup campaign kicks off on Tuesday evening (August 8, 7.45pm KO), with Valérien Ismaël’s men looking to build on their fine start to the league season and ultimately eclipse their second-round exit last term.
The Hornets’ first opponents of this year’s competition - in the first round - are Hertfordshire neighbours Stevenage, who kicked off their return to Sky Bet League One with a 1-0 win at Northampton on Saturday (August 5).
Find out below how you can follow the clash under the Lamex Stadium lights on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic & International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tom Cleverley from approximately 7.35pm BST with a £2.50 match audio pass, a £4.49 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- Only audio commentary can be streamed from Carabao Cup matches to domestic and overseas supporters, meaning we are unable to sell Hive Live video passes for the match. Overseas supporters who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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A referee is set to take charge of a game involving Watford for the first time in three years tomorrow when the Hornets make the short trip to Stevenage in the first round of the Carabao Cup.
Watford FC Academy’s league fixtures for the 2023/24 season have been released.
The Under-21s will compete in the Premier League Professional Development League, while the Under-18s will once again compete in the U18 Premier League Professional Development League.
Besides a handful of games being held at Vicarage Road - which are marked below - all other home fixtures will be played at the London Colney training ground.
Cup fixtures remain TBC, and will be announced in due course.
Please note, all dates are subject to change.
Under-21s
Mon Aug 14: Birmingham City (A) - 7pm
Fri Aug 18: Fleetwood Town (H, Vicarage Road) - 2pm
Fri Aug 25: Sheffield Wednesday (A) - 12noon
Fri Sep 1: Peterborough United (H, Vicarage Road) - 2pm
Mon Sep 11: Crewe Alexandra (A) - 1pm
Tue Sep 26: Colchester United (H) - 1pm
Mon Oct 2: Swansea City (A) - 1pm
Tue Oct 17: Ipswich Town (A) - 1pm
Tue Oct 24: Cardiff City (H) - 1pm
Tue Oct 31: Bristol City (A) - 1pm
Tue Nov 7: Queens Park Rangers (H) - 1pm
Tue Nov 21: Charlton Athletic (H) - 1pm
Tue Nov 28: AFC Bournemouth (A) - 1pm
Tue Dec 5: Millwall (H) - 1pm
Fri Dec 15: Colchester United (A) - 2pm
Tue Jan 9: Cardiff City (A) - 1pm
Tue Jan 16: Ipswich Town (H) - 1pm
Tue Jan 30: Bristol City (H) - 1pm
Mon Feb 12: Queens Park Rangers (A) - 7pm
Tue Feb 20: AFC Bournemouth (H) - 1pm
Mon Feb 26: Charlton Athletic (A) - 1pm
Mon Mar 11: Millwall (A) - 2pm
Tue Mar 26: Barnsley (A) - 1pm
Tue Apr 2: Swansea City (H, Vicarage Road) - 2pm
Mon Apr 8: Hull City (H, Vicarage Road) - 2pm
Mon Apr 15: Sheffield United (A) - 2pm
Tue Apr 23: Coventry City (H) - 1pm
Mon Apr 29: Wigan Athletic (A) - 1pm
Fri May 3: Burnley (H, Vicarage Road) - 2pm
Sat May 18: PDL Play-Off Semi-Final
Sat May 25: PDL National Final
Under-18s
Sat Aug 12: Sheffield United (H) - 12noon
Sat Aug 19: Fleetwood Town (A) - 11am
Sat Aug 26: Wigan Athletic (H) - 11am
Sat Sep 9: Peterborough United (A) - 11am
Sat Sep 16: Crewe Alexandra (H) - 12.30pm
Sat Sep 30: Bristol City (A) - 11am
Sat Oct 7: Swansea City (H) - 12.30pm
Sat Oct 28: Millwall (A) - 10.30am
Sat Nov 4: AFC Bournemouth (H) - 11.30am
Sat Nov 11: Queens Park Rangers (A) - 10.30am
Sat Dec 2: Charlton Athletic (H) - 10.30am
Sat Dec 9: Ipswich Town (H) - 11am
Sat Dec 16: Cardiff City (A) - 1pm
Sat Jan 6: Colchester United (H) - 10.30am
Sat Jan 13: AFC Bournemouth (A) - 11.30am
Sat Jan 20: Swansea City (A) - 12.30pm
Sat Jan 27: Cardiff City (H) - 1pm
Sat Feb 3: Ipswich Town (A) - 11.30am
Sat Feb 10: Bristol City (H) - 11am
Sat Feb 17: Charlton Athletic (A) - 11am
Sat Feb 24: Queens Park Rangers (H) - 10.30am
Sat Mar 2: Millwall (H) - 10.30am
Sat Mar 9: Colchester United (A) - 11am
Sat Mar 23: Burnley (H) - 10.30am
Sat Apr 6: Hull City (A) - 11.30am
Sat Apr 13: Coventry City (H) - 10.30am
Sat Apr 20: Sheffield Wednesday (A) - 12noon
Sat Apr 27: Birmingham City (H) - 11am
Sat May 11: Barnsley (A) - 12noon
Sat May 18: U18 PDL Play-Off Semi-Final
Sat May 25: U18 PDL National Final
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Watford powered to an emphatic 4-0 win over QPR in the opening fixture of the 2023/24 campaign, with first-half goals from Tom Dele-Bashiru, Imrân Louza, Matheus Martins and Vakoun Bayo sealing the points at a raucous Vicarage Road.
We’ve pulled together a selection of photos below, showcasing some of the best bits from what was a thrilling Sky Bet Championship curtain-raiser.
The Calm Before The Storm
Dele-Bashiru Strikes After Only 33 Seconds - Watford 1-0 QPR 1’
Louza Makes It Two - Watford 2-0 QPR 20’
Martins Gets In On The Action - Watford 3-0 QPR 38’
Bayo Back With A Bang - Watford 4-0 QPR 43’
Several Standout Stars
All Smiles At Full-Time
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Having referred to inheriting a squad that had signs of a lazy attitude, Valerien Ismael said Saturday's performance showed the players now know what is required.
Mike Duffy is joined by Cameron Smart to talk through the Hornets opening day spanking of QPR as Valérien Ismaël’s men ran out 4-0 winners. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Goalscorers Tom Dele-Bashiru and Vakoun Bayo were delighted with Watford’s season-opening 4-0 win over QPR on Saturday (August 5), with Imrân Louza and Matheus Martins joining them on the scoresheet.
Read what the duo had to say after the game below…
Dele-Bashiru
It was a good game, we stuck to our gameplan. We’ve been working hard in pre-season and the manager has come in and really changed the mentality here. We’ve got a good group ethic going on so to score so early was a great feeling.
We have our patterns of play and as I saw the ball going to Bayo I knew he was going to set Imrân, so I just made my run and Imrân’s got the quality so it was a good goal. It’s a great feeling, I’ve had a difficult time here with injuries so it’s a good feeling to score my first league goal.
It was good to get the goal and that lifted the team, and we had the confidence to score again and again. We scored four and we could’ve had more, to be fair.
We’ve learned really quickly. Pre-season was long and there was a lot of information to take in, but the boys have really bought into it and we’ve adapted well and as you can see, the patterns are coming out as well.
It [the atmosphere] was bouncing. The supporters, they’re always behind us. It’s been difficult in recent times but I think this season it’s a different feeling here and with them behind us it gives us the confidence to go out and play like that.
It gives us good momentum. We’ve shown that we can do it and play this style of play, so we just have to improve on it and keep going and hopefully get the win in midweek as well.
Bayo
I feel very good, happy to be back and to score because I’m hungry to show something and scoring is the best way to show something, so I’m very, very happy.
I saw Francisco [Sierralta], he got the ball in space, so I just followed him and he passed to me and I scored. I was very, very happy for him also. His position is new, but he did very well.
It’s really good [the new system] because everyone is doing very well so this system is good for us and we will keep pushing for the next game.
It’s really good to be back in our stadium, in front of our supporters, so thanks for the support and we go again.
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1- It doesn’t feel like the first game of the season. It’s supposed to be sunny, isn’t it? This being early August, not late October as befits the humming drizzle. Nonetheless, here we are in the busy concourse of the Upper GT… Dad’s away and the Chicken Emporium is ominously closed but this is still the […]
It was a rare treat to struggle picking a man of the match because there were so many contenders
On Season 3, Episode 1 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on a sensational fast start for the Watford FC men's first team in the Valérien Ismaël era as the Golden Boys blast Queens Park Rangers 4-0 at The Vic on opening afternoon of the EFL Championship Season 23/24.
Episode published: August 5, 2023
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Valérien Ismaël shared his thoughts following Watford’s opening-day 4-0 win over QPR, with goals from Tom Dele-Bashiru, Imrân Louza, Matheus Martins and Vakoun Bayo ensuring his side got the 2023/24 season off to the perfect start.
Covering a range of topics, including the Hornets’ overall performance and individual displays, read what the Head Coach had to say below…
On what pleased him the most:
As a coach you never know what can happen in a game, but I knew the guys were ready to go. I told them to show up with the right attitude and intensity, and I was delighted with what they came up with.
The way we scored the goals was great, because it’s what we’ve been working on throughout pre-season. Everything was strong – the players’ positioning was great, and we attacked and defended together as a unit. Everyone had a role to play, including Dan Bachmann in goal, and in and out of possession the guys executed the plan perfectly.
I think it was the perfect start, not only because of the result but also because of the attitude we saw from the players after seven weeks of hard work behind the scenes. Hopefully the result will help us build some momentum now.
On preparing his squad for matchday one:
Today’s starting XI were all here last season, so today’s performance shows they are willing to do things better and that we’ve got the quality we need. It was only at the very start [of pre-season] that I saw some of them show a bit of a lazy attitude, and after that it never happened again. We’ve made it clear why they do the job, and they understand now that if you respect the rules and are committed you can get the rewards.
The players have to take credit. When we spoke to them they all recognised that what they were doing before was not enough, and they were all willing to do better. They understand now that it’s all about hard work every day, as much as performances and results. They’ve put in the work for seven weeks, and we’ve seen the reward today.
With our style of play, that’s also something we’ve implemented over the last seven weeks. We played some really strong sides in pre-season and they struggled to deal with our build-up, and that gave our players lots of confidence. You never know how things are going to go in the Championship, but I think you saw today that the players believe more and more in our methods.
On Louza:
I think all the players played at a high level today, and for Imrân I think the important thing is that he’s had a full pre-season this year. Last year he missed a lot of the summer with injury, and for a player like him it’s important he’s fit.
This year he made all the training sessions, and you could see straight away the difference. He’s confident in his body, and when you’ve got that it’s easier to show your quality. He had a great game today.
On Francisco Sierralta:
We knew he would be effective [in a defensive midfield position] because we saw it throughout pre-season. It’s an important role because with the likes of Imrân Louza, Ismaël Koné, Giorgi Chakvetadze and Tom Dele-Bashiru we have lots of creativity higher up the pitch, but you have to match that with stability.
At the start of pre-season we didn’t have a player who could do that, but we tried some different things and we quickly realised Sierralta knew what we wanted. Week after week he improved, and he gives us lots of options now. He’s enjoying the position, and he was integral to our performance today.
On Giorgi Chakvetadze:
From the moment he stepped on the pitch everyone was buzzing about his performance. The feeling we’ve got with him is that we’ve got a very special player, and that he gives us more options in the midfield because he is able to play in different positions. We’re all looking forward to seeing more from him.
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Daniel Bachmann spoke to watfordfc.com following the Hornets’ opening-day 4-0 win over QPR, with goals from Tom Dele-Bashiru, Imrân Louza, Matheus Martins and Vakoun Bayo helping to yield a perfect start to the campaign.
Read the skipper’s thoughts below…
The start we made was incredible - to go 1-0 up so quickly was amazing. It was a lovely team goal as well - you could see everything we’re trying to do within the first 35 seconds of the match.
Overall I think the first half was very good. In the second half certain things got a bit sloppy, and there are things we need to iron out, but mistakes are going to happen. We’re playing with a new philosophy, which is going to take time to implement, but you could see what we’re trying to do and we’re very happy.
I think you could see that we’re a team today, and aside from the result that’s the most pleasing thing. We know what we’ve been asked to do and everyone’s going into the game with a plan, knowing what we expect of ourselves and of each other.
It’s always nice to start the season at home, because it does make things that bit easier playing in front of your own fans, especially when there are a few nerves around. I hope everyone who was here today is proud of what they saw, in terms of a team performance and what we did with and without the ball.
Going forward, we just need to iron out the mistakes. The way we’re playing is always going to come with risks, but we’ll only get better. The important thing is that we keep pushing, and we’re looking forward to going again on Tuesday and then back in the league next Saturday.
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The players named to start against QPR were all at Watford last season. It wasn't a change of personnel, it was a change of mindset.
The Valerien Ismael era is up and running in impressive fashion after Watford swept aside a poor Queens Park Rangers side 4-0 to open the new Championship season in superb fashion and bring a smile back to Vicarage Road.
Four-first goals see Watford soundly beat Rangers with a performance of style, hard work and determination.
Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust has awarded men’s skipper Daniel Bachmann and former women’s captain Helen Ward with the Professional Footballers’ Association Community Champion Awards. The awards were presented in recognition of their support to the community during the 2022/23 season.
Austria international Bachmann has been actively supporting the Trust ever since his Watford career began. In the 2022/23 season alone, he met with youngsters at holiday courses, in football tournaments, in a reading session at a local primary school, and paid a visit to SEN school Garston Manor.
The shot-stopper also gave personalised training ground tours to pupils that won a Christmas card competition, and attended the Trust’s Gala Dinner in March 2023.
On top of his appearances through the Trust, Bachmann supported initiatives such as the Junior Hornets Fun Day and Puttshack event, as well as bringing gifts to children at Watford General Hospital as part of the club’s annual Christmas visits.
The award for the Watford FC Women’s team went to Ward, who announced her retirement from an illustrious playing career at the end of the last campaign. In the previous season alone, Wales’ all-time record goalscorer has shown her role model status off the pitch as well as on it, with appearances at primary school football tournaments, a girls’ football festival at the Trust’s Meriden Community Centre, as well as an International Women’s Day event with local secondary school pupils.
This award though was as much about recognising Ward’s immense contribution to our communities throughout her whole Watford playing career, always inspiring many and being at the forefront of promoting messages of equality, including anti-racism and anti-homophobia.
Community Director at the Trust, Rob Smith, said: “At Watford, we often refer to ‘The Original Family Club’, and players giving back to our communities is a huge part of that. We’ve been fortunate over the years and it’s warming to see that it isn’t something lost on our current squads.
“Our thanks to the men’s, women’s and Academy players who have supported us during the 2022/23 season, led admirably by Daniel Bachmann and, as ever, Helen Ward.
“It also seems appropriate to thank our previous two-time PFA Community Champion, former defender Christian Kabasele, who regularly supported us both in appearances and donations. Now though, we look to the future and another season of success on both the pitch and off it, within our communities.”
Maheta Molango, Chief Executive Officer at the PFA, said: “The PFA has once again been immensely proud of the outstanding efforts of players this season and we feel they should be recognised for their support and involvement in the local community.
“The awards will hopefully raise awareness of the importance many of our members attach to their roles off the pitch and highlight their continued commitment to support those most in need along with engaging in areas where they have a personal interest.
“We would like to offer our congratulations to this season’s recipients of the 2022/23 PFA Community Champion Awards.”
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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When you're the latest manager of Watford, questions from the media about fearing for your job are almost obligatory
The release of Watford’s squad numbers earlier this week showed the club still hasn't got a number nine.
It’s been called a lot of things by fans and pundits , but head coach Valerien Ismael described it as “a clean out”.
Match Info
- Watford v Queens Park Rangers
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Saturday August 5, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: Thomas Bramall
- Assistant Referees: Akil Howson and Hristo Karaivanov
- Fourth Official: Oliver Langford
Opposition
QPR will be looking for a positive result at Vicarage Road to help banish memories of a disappointing 2022/23 campaign, which saw them finish 20th in the table - just two spots off the drop - following a strong start.
The Hoops managed just four wins in the league from late October onwards, but having sealed survival - following his February 2023 appointment - Head Coach Gareth Ainsworth will be hoping for more success in his first full season in charge.
Despite losing the likes of Rob Dickie, Stefan Johansen and Seny Dieng during the summer, QPR have recruited several experienced Championship heads, including Asmir Begović, Morgan Fox and Jack Colback.
Stats Buzz
- Home Head Coach Valérien Ismaël has beaten a team managed by Gareth Ainsworth on both previous occasions, with Barnsley beating Wycombe 2-1 and 3-1 in the 2020/21 Championship season.
- The Hornets have lost their first league game in just one of the last 16 campaigns (W9 D6), winning on opening day in each of the last three seasons.
- Watford finished their 2022/23 Championship season with a 2-0 home victory over Stoke City – not since January have the Hornets won successive league fixtures.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: QPR In Numbers.
Team News
There could be a number of new faces to look out for within the Watford side on Saturday, with Tom Ince, Rhys Healey, Jake Livermore, Matheus Martins, Jamal Lewis and Giorgi Chakvetadze having all come through the door.
QPR could be without centre-half Jimmy Dunne, after he sustained a shoulder injury in a pre-season defeat at Oxford United last week (Saturday July 29). Fellow defender Jake Clarke-Salter is also a doubt.
What Are They Saying?
Valérien Ismaël, Watford Head Coach:
“We feel good, and we feel ready. Pre-season has been a long process, but that’s been necessary to change the mindset and attitude of the players, and I think that’s the first thing we did.
“The second was to implement the way to play, with intensity in the training sessions. We as coaches needed to implement our principles, and the players needed time to get an understanding of what we expected from them, and the results have been very good.
“In the Championship this year there are only strong teams, and QPR are one of those. We know what we need to do, but we can’t wait to be out there in front of our fans, and we feel ready for the competition.”
Click HERE to read Ismaël’s full pre-match interview.
Gareth Ainsworth, QPR Head Coach:
“This is the moment everyone has been building up to.
“I’m hopeful of having a good team out. We’ve got one or two injuries in a similar position but we’re going to be strong and we’re looking forward to taking on a good Watford side away from home.
“Valérien’s very driven and knows how he wants his teams to play. It’s going to be a difficult game but I’m looking forward to locking horns with him.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 33
Drawn: 31
Lost: 53
Last Six:
March 2023: QPR 1-0 Watford (Championship)
August 2022: Watford 2-3 QPR (Championship)
February 2021: Watford 1-2 QPR (Championship)
November 2020: QPR 1-1 Watford (Championship)
February 2019: QPR 0-1 Watford (FA Cup)
April 2014: QPR 2-1 Watford (Championship)
Golden Flashback
Watford succumbed Championship leaders QPR to a first league defeat of the season in December 2010, with a Danny Graham brace and a Jordon Mutch strike earning the Hornets a 3-1 triumph at Loftus Road.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v QPR, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Valerien Ismael intimated that tomorrow’s season opener with QPR at Vicarage Road may come too soon for Tom Ince and Georgi Chakvetadze.
As ‘The Original Family Club’, Watford FC works hard to ensure supporters of all ages have reasonably-priced options to attend matches at Vicarage Road – and this extends to those following our opponents.
Tickets for those aged 18 & under are just £5 across the entire Vicarage Road end, including both the Ann Swanson Family Stand – which is available to all Watford supporters attending with someone aged 18 & under – as well as the visiting supporters’ area. The same price type does not exceed £10 across the rest of the stadium.
Concessionary tickets are also on offer to supporters of other ages. Tickets priced beneath the headline rate apply to those aged 65 & over and, this season, we’ve added the 19-21-year-olds price type, extending the eligibility for lower priced tickets to all those beginning to make their way in employment and/or further education.
Season tickets remain the most cost-effective way to purchase home match tickets, but we recognise that a one-off single payment can be problematic, particularly for families. That’s why, for several years now, we’ve offered the option to pay by interest-free direct debit. Recently, we’ve adjusted the payment plan to 12 months to make this method even more attractive.
Family-friendly season ticket pricing is particularly on offer in the Ann Swanson Family Stand, where new 18 & under season tickets were priced at £38, with early renewals at just £35, working out at just over £1.50 a game. First and second parent/guardian season tickets were also on offer in this area, helping to lower the cost for families to join us at Vicarage Road.
We fully recognise that the matchday experience is greatly enhanced for all of us by having away supporters at games, so without a Premier League style price cap in place within the EFL, limiting the amount charged to away supporters, it’s incumbent upon us as a club to provide a fair deal.
With regards to prices available to visiting supporters attending Vicarage Road, a reciprocal agreement is always offered to our opponents, with various options available, down to £20 adult tickets. Indeed, we contacted all our fellow EFL Championship clubs during the season break to extend this offer and reiterate this before sales begin.
For our own supporters, we’ll always accept the lowest reciprocal deal made to us, as we look to back those who back the team by travelling across the country. On top of this, we continue to subsidise official club coach travel to away fixtures, maintaining a reasonably-priced transport option.
As a club, we’ll continue to do our best to keep the live football experience an accessible choice for everyone.
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Watford Under-21 defender George Abbott has joined Vanarama National League South outfit Chippenham Town on loan until November 5.
Wales youth international Abbott, 18, has been a Hornet since 2016, and signed fresh professional terms this summer after captaining the Under-21s on several occasions during 2022/23.
Having also skippered the Under-18s to the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup, Abbott will now look to further his development by gaining senior minutes with Chippenham, who finished 13th in the National League South last year.
The Bluebirds kickstart their 2023/24 campaign at home to newly-promoted Aveley this Saturday August 5 (3pm KO).
Best of luck, George!
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First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls some of the best individual displays he has witnessed the Hornets come up against…
Ahead of Watford’s Sky Bet Championship curtain-raiser against Queens Park Rangers on Saturday (August 5, 3pm KO), this piece focuses on a former player and manager largely associated with both sides...
Long before he became a Watford player, captain and manager, Glenn Roeder led the Hornets a merry dance - more or less - when Queens Park Rangers came to Vicarage Road in 1979.
After consecutive promotions, where they had lost at home only four times in two seasons, the learning curve was always going to present Graham Taylor’s side with a steeper gradient when they landed in the old Second Division 44 years ago. And culture shocks were not just confined to the pitch.
The 2-0 win against West Ham had been disfigured by visiting pond life picking fights and causing pockets of mayhem on the terraces. There was a sense of poetic justice when Luther Blissett’s goals put the marauding animals in their place.
Manager Taylor had also been disappointed when the Hornets rocked up at Stamford Bridge like wide-eyed tourists, lost 2-0 to Chelsea and he overheard one of his beaten players admitting: “They weren’t as good as I thought.” That defeat prompted Taylor to break up his promotion-winning squad earlier than he had planned.
But Watford were still unbeaten at The Vic when QPR descended on WD18 in October, and they deservedly led at the interval through Keith Mercer’s header, which kissed the underside of the bar before bouncing 2ft over the line and out again. No Russian linesmen, no guesswork, no hunches required - it was a definite goal.
Momentum is a strange phenomenon in football, and if the half-time tea urn and orange segments had not interrupted the Golden Boys’ impetus, they would probably have prospered.
The change of ends, however, marked a turning of the tide, and Rangers were worthy winners thanks to second-half goals from Clive Allen and Roeder, who unfurled his favourite party trick to settle the argument.
Roeder had been handed the Hoops captaincy at just 23 by manager Tommy Docherty, and he played the first eight games of the 1979/80 season in the position with which most of us associated him - at centre-half.
But the ‘Doc’ had an embarrassment of riches in central defence, and he was reluctant to leave Steve Wicks or Bob Hazell out of the side, so Roeder was moved into a midfield where, to Watford’s cost, he had more of a licence to get forward.
Although he had no blistering turn of pace, Roeder was blessed with happy feet and his enviable technique included a ‘double shuffle’ - not just a bog-standard stepover, but a move which belonged more on the dance floor than a football pitch.
He would try it regularly at Loftus Road, to voluble approval of his regular audience, and this time it proved decisive.
Picking the ball up 30 yards from goal and driving at the Hornets’ defence, he bamboozled Ian Bolton with his footwork and beat home keeper Andy Rankin with a crisp finish from the edge of the box, an outstanding goal worthy of settling any contest.
Five years later, I interviewed Roeder as my live audition for a job on Fleet Street and I enquired, through gritted teeth, how much he remembered about his winner at Vicarage Road.
“I’m glad you asked me about that goal,” he piped up. “It’s one of my favourites.” He proceeded to talk me through it in staggering detail, from the pocket of space in front of Watford’s back four to the execution of his finish low to Rankin’s left.
It would be almost a decade later, in 1989, that Roeder - then playing for Newcastle - inadvertently diverted Rick Holden’s cross-shot into his own net to settle an FA Cup third-round marathon in extra-time and spare us all a fourth replay. He signed for the Hornets later that year.
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Head Coach Valérien Ismaël insists he and his side are fit and raring to go ahead of Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship curtain-raiser at home to Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 5, 3pm KO).
After seven gruelling weeks of pre-season training - and nearly three months on from Ismaël’s arrival in Hertfordshire - the Hornets are now just hours away from the start of another second-tier campaign, in which they will be looking to build on an 11th-place finish last time out, and ultimately earn promotion back to the Premier League.
The former Bayern Munich defender has used the summer to implement a new style of play at the London Colney training ground, and he is confident that his players are ready to execute his ideas against QPR in front of the Vicarage Road crowd.
“We feel good, and we feel ready,” Ismaël said. “It’s been a long process, but that’s been necessary to change the mindset and attitude of the players, and I think that’s the first thing we did.
“The second was to implement the way to play, with intensity in the training sessions. We as coaches needed to implement our principles, and the players needed time to get an understanding of what we expected from them, and the results have been very good.
“I think coming in so early in the summer was a big advantage in helping us get to where we are. It meant I could first assess the situation of the club, get to know the people working here, and get myself settled. Then I could have time with the players, get to know them and introduce what we wanted to do.
“We’ve seen a consistent improvement throughout the matches we’ve played in pre-season. We’ve played some great football in the games, and I’ve been impressed with our work out of possession as well, so overall we’re pleased. It’s now just about translating that to the Championship.”
There has been a considerable turnover of players during the summer transfer window so far, and while Ismaël is expecting further activity before deadline day, he is happy with the group he has at his disposal for Saturday.
He said: “It was the club’s desire to have a big cut and a fresh restart, but also a clear restart. I think it was necessary, and our job has been to make sure all the players we have and who we’re bringing in have the right mentality and attitude to suit what we’re trying to do on the pitch.
“So far we are satisfied, for sure. We know we still have business to do, and we’re working intensively behind the scenes, but the market is not easy. I think we are over 90 per cent there, now it’s just about adjusting one or two positions where we feel we need to strengthen.
“The majority of the squad we’ve got here have been working with us from the very start of pre-season, which is also important. One of our priorities has been maximising the availability of players, and we’ve worked very closely with the medical department to make the right decisions. Now, with the first game just around the corner, I think we’re in a good place.”
Watford’s first opponents of 2023/24 triumphed in both of the sides’ meetings last term, and Ismaël is anticipating another tough game when Gareth Ainsworth’s West Londoners stroll into town this time around.
And, ahead of his first competitive game in charge of the Golden Boys, the 47-year-old stressed his excitement at finally being able to take his place in The Vic’s home dugout, while also admitting feeling a tinge of nerves.
Ismaël added: “When you start the season all the teams are motivated, all the teams are fit and all the teams are ready. We know it will be a fight, but it’s all about desire and we have to make sure our desire is bigger than theirs.
“In the Championship this year there are only strong teams, and QPR are one of those. We know what we need to do, but we can’t wait to be out there in front of our fans, and we feel ready for the competition.
“I met many of our young supporters at the Junior Hornets Fun Day earlier this week, which was great, and now I can’t wait to meet everyone at Vicarage Road on matchday. That first home game is always special, and I will be a little bit nervous, but I’m excited and I hope we can get the right result.”
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Tom Ince believes with his experience he can help Watford both on and off the pitch this season.
SUNDERLAND INS: Nectarios Triantis (Central Coast Mariners, £300,000), Jobe Bellingham (Birmingham City, Undisclosed), Nathan Bishop (Manchester United, Undisclosed), Eliezer Mayenda (Sochaux, Undisclosed), Luís “Hemir” Semedo (Benfica, Undisclosed), Bradley Dack (Blackburn Rovers, Free), Jenson Seelt (PSV Eindhoven, Free) OUTS: Carl Winchester(Shrewsbury Town, Free), Jacob Carney, Joe Anderson (Shrewsbury Town, Season Loan), Alex Bass (AFC Wimbledon, Season […]
Watford FC’s 2023/24 third kit is on sale in-store and online now!
Exclusively revealed to Junior Hornets at their 2023 Fun Day earlier this week (Tuesday August 1), the turquoise blue jersey is another bespoke design produced by official technical partner Kelme, matched with white shorts and socks.
Shirt sizes range from 7-8 years all the way up to 4XL. Men’s and women’s shirts feature Mr Q and Corpay sponsor branding for the authentic match look, but like the home and away kits, are also available without sponsors for those who prefer.
Following a pre-sale, fans can now purchase the kit at shop.watfordfc.com or in the club’s stores at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
The Hornets’ fresh home and away jerseys are also on sale now, as well as the 2023 summer fashion collection, Back to School range and more!
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Vakoun Bayo says the squad has the right values, a true desire to compete and is embracing the pressing and intensity new head coach Valerien Ismael demands
The countdown to the start of Watford’s fresh Sky Bet Championship campaign is almost over, with the Hornets back at Vicarage Road for Saturday’s fixture against Queens Park Rangers (August 5, 3pm KO).
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for 2023/24, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Family Zone
With the weather forecast suggesting heavy rain during the build-up to Saturday’s match, the decision has been made to cancel our Family Zone, scheduled to take place ahead of the QPR fixture.
Providing conditions allow, the Family Zone will be back up and running for the following week’s game with Plymouth Argyle (Saturday August 12, 3pm KO).
Located at our neighbours, Cornerstone Church, directly opposite the Ann Swanson Family Stand turnstiles, family-friendly activities and games will be available from midday on Saturday August 12, along with the chance to be selected to choose and award the Junior Hornets Hero of the Match.
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Field Junior School, Ascot Road Primary School or Holywell Primary School car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
All tickets during the 2023/24 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
Fans can use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - which sees dedicated club staff working with the hate crime unit at Herts Police to investigate and take appropriate action with all discrimination and abuse incidents reported - moves into its fifth season having received over 100 complaints since its inception in Autumn 2019. We thank those supporters who have used the We campaign to date.
If you hear discriminatory abuse, excessive anti-social behaviour or see safeguarding issues, please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Use of the ‘G-Word’
During last season, the club started to raise awareness of the use of the ‘g-word’ in stadiums, which is the derivative of ‘gypsy’ used at the end of a popular chant about our local rivals.
We are fully aware that our supporters have used this chant for several years, and we’re also aware that many of our supporters consider the word to be ‘football banter’ and ‘part of the game’. The word in question is racist, its use can be classed as a hate crime and we will no longer ignore its use at our matches.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across the professional and grassroots game to help improve the behaviour of players, managers and coaches on the pitch, and address the unacceptable issue of football tragedy abuse in the stands.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v QPR, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Watford FC Women are delighted to announce that Arsenal trio Michelle Agyemang, Katie Reid and Laila Harbert have all joined the Hornets on dual-sign agreements.
The exciting youngsters bolster the ranks ahead of the 2023/24 Barclays Women’s Championship campaign, having linked up with Damon Lathrope’s squad during pre-season.
Agyemang, 17, is a clinical forward who has already found the target for the Gunners’ first-team, scoring in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup against Leeds United last term.
A member of Arsenal’s academy since the age of six, Agyemang made her senior debut 10 years later, last November, while she is also an England youth international at Under-17 level.
The North London side reached an agreement over professional terms with Agyemang in June, with the teenager committing to the deal when she turns 18 in February 2024.
Defender Reid is also part of the Young Lionesses set-up and scored a header in the Under-17 European Championship semi-finals against Spain in May, impressing from the backline throughout the tournament.
The 16-year-old is comfortable with the ball at her feet and can progress possession into midfield.
Creative midfielder Harbert is regularly involved with Arsenal’s first-team training, and was named on the substitutes’ bench in the UEFA Champions League for their semi-final against Wolfsburg earlier this year alongside her fellow dual-signees.
Harbert, together with former Hornet Teyah Goldie, was on the scoresheet in April as the Arsenal academy won the Capital Women’s Cup final against AFC Wimbledon.
It’s great to have you all with us, girls!
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Ahead of the 2023/24 season, Watford FC is proud to reiterate its commitment to tackling every type of discrimination and abuse directly.
The We campaign, which sees dedicated club staff working with the hate crime unit at Herts Police to investigate and take appropriate action with all incidents reported, moves into its fifth season having received over 100 complaints since its inception in Autumn 2019 and we thank those supporters who have used the We campaign to date.
A total of 38 incidents were reported across last season, a decrease on the previous year which has been driven by a drop in incidents of homophobic and sexist abuse. While the overall total is positive, the numbers of reports of racism have stayed at the same level, which shows there is still plenty of work to do.
During last season, the club started to raise awareness of the use of the ‘g-word’ in stadiums, which is the derivative of ‘gypsy’ used at the end of a popular chant about our local rivals. We are fully aware that our supporters have used this chant for several years, and we’re also aware that many of our supporters consider the word to be ‘football banter’ and ‘part of the game’. The word in question is racist, its use can be classed as a hate crime and we will no longer ignore its use at our matches.
Of the 24 racist incidents reported last season, eight were related to this word. As a result of these, six education and awareness sessions for supporters involved were run by the club, assisted by Kick It Out where appropriate, while stadium bans and behaviour agreements have also been issued in two cases. The club will continue to take appropriate action across the coming season and ask everyone to play their part in tackling discrimination by no longer using the ‘g-word’ in chants.
Every incident has an impact on our proud tradition of being the original family club, and we remain fully committed to the campaign. Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
During last season the club also extended the reach of the We campaign by launching ‘We Allies’, a group of supporters who have become advocates for and helped us promote the We campaign, and showed their support of our work on EDI (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion) amongst their fellow Hornets. If you would like to join the group or have any questions regarding ‘We Allies’, please email Chris Hall, the club’s Supporter Liaison Officer, at chris.hall@watfordfc.com with ‘We Allies’ in the subject line, giving a brief overview of why you would like to take part.
Click HERE to find out more about Watford FC’s commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion.
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The Watford Observer has a subscription offer that means you can enjoy unlimited access to our Hornets coverage for the first six months of the campaign.
Anticipation continues to build ahead of the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign, with the Hornets preparing to face Queens Park Rangers in the opening encounter of the season this Saturday (August 5, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the curtain-raiser, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the second-tier fixture.
Previous Meetings
Watford Head Coach Valérien Ismaël has beaten a team managed by Gareth Ainsworth on both previous occasions, with Barnsley beating Wycombe 2-1 and 3-1 in the 2020/21 Championship season.
QPR have won more Football League matches against Watford than they have against any other side in their history (51), while Watford have lost more games against QPR than they have against any other side in their league history.
Watford, who have lost each of their last two home league games against QPR, are looking to avoid losing three in a row for just the second time in their history, following a run of four defeats between August 1969 and October 1979.
Recent Form
Watford have lost their first league game in just one of the last 16 campaigns (W9 D6), winning on opening day in each of the last three seasons.
When kicking off a league campaign away from home, QPR have won just one of their last 15 games (D6 L8), with that victory coming at Stoke in 2019/20.
Watford finished their 2022/23 Championship season with a 2-0 home victory over Stoke City – not since January have the Hornets won successive league fixtures.
Opposition Stat Attack
Last season, QPR striker Lyndon Dykes was the top goalscorer for the Hoops with eight strikes to his name. Moroccan Ilias Chair had the most shots on target (30) and the most shots off target (30), while earning the most assists (9).
Defender Jimmy Dunne attempted the most passes in the previous campaign (1,918) and the most passes in his own half (1,268). Meanwhile, Sam Field attempted the most passes in the opposition’s half (992).
Influential Chair also attempted the most crosses (300) and dribbles (118). Defensively, Field topped the rankings for blocks (28), interceptions (81) and fouls won (60).
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ROTHERHAM UNITED INS: Cafu (Nottingham Forest, Free), Andre Green (Slovan Bratislava, Free), Grant Hall (Middlesbrough, Free), Dillon Phillips (Cardiff City, Free), Fred Onyedinma (Luton Town, Season Loan) OUTS: Conor Washington (Derby County, Undisclosed), Wes Harding (Millwall, Free), Cheidoze Ogbene (Luton Town, Free), Josh Vickers (Derby County, Free), Richard Wood (Doncaster Rovers, Free), Robbie Hemfrey, Mackenzie […]
There was a feast of fun-filled games, activities and surprises at the 2023 Junior Hornets Fun Day, which took place at Watford’s London Colney training ground earlier this week (Tuesday August 1).
Attended by some familiar faces, who exclusively revealed the brand-new third kit ahead of the upcoming season, check out some of the best photos from the event below.
A Surprise Kit Reveal
Plenty Of Activities
Always Meet Your Heroes
Signing Season
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Young Colombian forward Jorge Cabezas Hurtado has completed a six-month loan move to MLS side New York Red Bulls, Watford FC confirms.
The 19-year-old agreed his switch to the Hornets from CD Real Cartagena in his home country in October 2022, signing officially in January 2023, and then spent the latter half of last season on loan at Independiente Medellín.
Having featured alongside Yáser Asprilla at the 2023 Under-20 World Cup – where he made five appearances en route to a quarter-final exit – Hurtado will now further his development in the USA with Red Bulls, who currently sit 11th in the Eastern Conference.
Good luck, Jorge!
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Watford’s 19-year-old Colombian striker Jorge Cabezas Hurtado is to be loaned to MLS side New York Red Bulls.
New skipper Daniel Bachmann has already set his sights on securing promotion to the Premier League in the forthcoming 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign, after signing a new five-year contract and being handed the captaincy reins by Valérien Ismaël.
The 29-year-old, who arrived in Hertfordshire in July 2017 and is the longest-serving player at the club, has taken over the role from Tom Cleverley, who retired at the end of last season and has since taken up a coaching position within the Academy.
With 86 appearances under his belt for the Golden Boys, and 68 in the second-tier, Bachmann is looking forward to utilising his experience of recent highs and lows to spearhead the next chapter of success at Vicarage Road.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be extending my stay at Watford for another five years - and am especially proud to have been appointed club captain,” the Austria international said. “A huge number of people have helped me throughout my career - particularly since I joined Watford - and I want to thank them all.
“It is a big responsibility but one I am already embracing. The manager has shown incredible faith and trust in me - and I want to repay that. With the fans’ support, we will push hard for promotion back to the Premier League.
“I have been here since 2017 and, alongside our incredible fans, have enjoyed many highs. We have experienced a few lows along the way too, but we have always faced those together.
“Everyone at the club knows that promotion is the ambition and everyone at the club has their part to play.”
Besides appointing Bachmann as captain, Head Coach Ismaël has confirmed a new leadership group - also including Ben Hamer, Wesley Hoedt, Jake Livermore, Imrân Louza and Ken Sema - ahead of next weekend’s season-opener at home to Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 5, 3pm KO).
And while goalkeeper Bachmann is clear that every player has an important part to play in the dressing room going forward, he also pointed towards the upcoming visit of QPR, when he can’t wait to be back out on the field in front of the Hornets’ faithful.
He added: “The other senior players - and every player at the club - will be very important voices in the changing room, of course.
“Days like these are obviously very special for me and my family, and I can’t wait to see everyone at The Vic next Saturday for our first home game. We’ll be ready.”
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Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann has signed a new five-year contract with Watford – and has been appointed club captain.
Watford FC is delighted to confirm that Daniel Bachmann has signed a new five-year contract with the Hornets, running until the summer of 2028, while Valérien Ismaël has appointed the Austrian goalkeeper as the new Club Captain ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.
Bachmann, 29, is the longest-serving member of the current first-team squad, having joined from Stoke City back in July 2017, and he has so-far tallied up 86 appearances for the Golden Boys since making his debut against Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup in January 2020.
A productive loan spell at Scottish outfit Kilmarnock preceded that maiden outing, and having initially served as back-up stopper upon his return, Bachmann was awarded a first league start in January 2021 when Ben Foster was injured.
He kept the shirt from thereon that season thanks to his impressive performances, and 13 clean sheets in 23 games duly guided Watford to promotion to the Premier League. Bachmann and Foster kept 23 shutouts between them during 2020/21 - the second-most managed by the club in a Football League campaign.
After featuring on 12 occasions in the top-flight the following year, Bachmann firmly established himself as first choice between the sticks ahead of 2022/23, going on to miss just one of 46 Sky Bet Championship games.
Besides his domestic exploits, Bachmann is well versed on the international scene too. He won the first of 13 Austria caps against England in June 2021, went on to feature at Euro 2020 and last linked up with Ralf Rangnick’s squad earlier this summer.
Now back in Hertfordshire, and finalising his preparations for the opening-day visit of Queens Park Rangers next weekend (Saturday August 5, 3pm KO), Bachmann is aiming to guide the Hornets back to the Premier League as skipper.
He takes over the role from Tom Cleverley, who retired at the end of last season and has since joined the Academy coaching staff.
Head Coach Ismaël said: “It’s a clear commitment from Dan to the club and, for me, he is the obvious choice for captain of the squad.
“He’s the longest-serving player here and he will be very important as a leader who understands not just English football but the Championship specifically.
“I believe he knows it is his time to take this responsibility and I am sure he will step up to the challenge with the support of the player leadership group.”
As part of his appointment of Bachmann as captain, Ismaël has confirmed the leadership group for 2023/24, made up of the following players:
- Daniel Bachmann (Club Captain)
- Ben Hamer
- Wesley Hoedt
- Jake Livermore
- Imrân Louza
- Ken Sema
Ismaël added: “It’s very important that we have a link between the staff and the team.
“The leadership group have a big responsibility to set the standards of behaviour around the club, not just on the field but off it as well.
“They will be our biggest ambassadors in the community, followed by everyone else in the squad, because we have to make a close connection with all our supporters if we want to be successful.”
Congratulations, Dan!
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Midfielder Dan Gosling is seeking a new club after Watford confirmed his departure after the end of his contract.
Match officials in the EFL will adopt a new approach to time keeping in the 2023/24 campaign.
In line with the most recent IFAB guidance, the EFL and PGMOL are committed to ensuring a more accurate calculation of additional time alongside an improvement in the amount of time the ball is in-play from the start of the new season.
Below is a summary of the key changes relating to additional time, treatment of players, law changes and participant behaviour, that will take effect from the first game of the EFL season on Friday August 4.
Enhancing Ball In-Play Times
As the game collectively looks to enhance the amount of time the ball is in-play in the forthcoming campaign, the exact time lost when certain game events occur will now be added. In previous seasons the policy was to add on a nominal period of time for certain game events. The events include:
- Goals and subsequent celebrations
- Substitutions
- Injuries and treatment time (if required)
- Penalties (from moment of offence to the whistle for the penalty kick)
- Red cards (from moment of offence to when the player leaves the field)
Alongside a more accurate allowance for time lost during the game, the EFL will also adopt the multi-ball system, which has been proven to increase ball in-play time.
Match officials will also be taking a more robust approach to dealing with clear/deliberate actions that are impactful in delaying the restart of play, with players cautioned if they are guilty of:
- Delaying the restart of play
- Failing to respect the required distance at free-kicks
Supporters across the game will be familiar with the changes in relation to the calculation of additional time, with both the Men’s World Cup in 2022 and Women’s World Cup this summer adopting a variation of this approach.
Treatment Of Players
Players who require assessment on the pitch for a potential injury will now receive treatment off the field of play, apart from certain circumstances as laid out in Law 5 of the Laws of the Game:
- A goalkeeper is injured
- A goalkeeper and an outfield player have collided and need attention
- Players from the same team have collided and need attention
- A severe injury has occurred
- A player is injured as the result of a physical offence for which the opponent is cautioned or sent off (e.g., reckless or serious foul challenge), if the assessment/treatment is completed quickly
- A penalty has been awarded and the injured player will be the taker
After the restart of play, a period of time - not less than 30 seconds - will be afforded for the player to be treated and they will not return to the pitch before this period has elapsed. As always, the player’s return to the pitch requires the referee’s permission and may be delayed beyond 30 seconds if the phase of play is in the vicinity of the player looking to re-enter the pitch.
In circumstances where a player declines the physio, if a team-mate clearly delays or refuses to re-start the game that team-mate will be issued a yellow card. This will promote player safety, which is of paramount importance to the match officials, and act as a deterrent to players who request attention as a tactic to waste time or break the momentum of the game.
Key Law Changes
Amongst the law changes for 2023/24, as outlined by The IFAB, is an update on the wording of a denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity and a change of an element of previous guidance to offside law (Law 11).
Denial of an obvious goal-scoring opportunity
Where a player commits an offence against an opponent within their own penalty area which denies an opponent an obvious goal-scoring opportunity and the referee awards a penalty kick:
- A yellow card will be issued if the offence was an attempt to play the ball or a challenge for the ball
- A red card will be shown in all other circumstances (e.g., holding, pulling, pushing, no possibility to play the ball)
The additional wording means that whilst cynical non-footballing actions such as clear holding, pushing and handball offences will continue to be sanctioned with a penalty and red card, where there is an attempt to play the ball or challenge for the ball a penalty and yellow card is the expected outcome.
Offside
Regarding offside, The IFAB and FIFA have also clarified the guidelines for determining a ‘deliberate play’ by a defender.
A ‘deliberate play’ is when a player has control of the ball and with the possibility of:
- Passing the ball to a team-mate; or
- Gaining possession of the ball; or
- Clearing the ball (e.g., by kicking or heading it)
If a player is considered to be in control of the pass, attempt to gain possession or clearance, this would be a ‘deliberate play’ and the attacker in an offside position should not be penalised for offside. An inaccurate or unsuccessful action does not change the fact that the defender ‘deliberately played’ the ball.
High Threshold
As attempts continue to be made to keep the game flowing, a high threshold for penalising contact will remain, with officials not awarding a foul for all contact yet penalising when contact has a detrimental impact on an opponent.
Participant Behaviour
Similarly to delaying the restart, match officials will be empowered by the game to take a more robust approach to dealing with participant behaviour when it falls below expected standards on-field and in the technical area.
Full details will be announced ahead of the new season as part of the Love Football, Protect the Game campaign.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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The amount of time added on at the end of each half of matches in the EFL looks set to increase under a “new approach to time keeping” this season, but the ball should be in-play for longer during games.
The Hornets are pleased to confirm the signing of Newcastle United defender Jamal Lewis.
The 25-year-old left-back, who has 30 senior caps for Northern Ireland, moves to Vicarage Road on a season-long loan, with an option to buy.
Having made his professional debut for Norwich City in 2017, Lewis became a key part of the Canaries’ 2018/19 promotion-winning side and was named in the Championship Team of the Year at the end of the campaign.
He played 28 times in the Premier League the following season and despite Norwich’s relegation, Lewis impressed sufficiently to remain in the top-flight, signing for Newcastle United for a reported £15million.
The athletic full-back, who is equally comfortable in offensive positions, has made 36 outings for the Magpies in all competitions.
Lewis’ first appearance on the international stage came in 2018 and since then he has featured regularly for Northern Ireland in World Cup and European Championships qualifying as well as the Nations League.
Welcome to Watford, Jamal!
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White and maroon are the colours of Watford’s new away kit which the club has launched this morning.
Watford FC’s new away kit for the 2023/24 campaign is on sale in-store and online now!
Thanks to front-of-shirt sponsor Mr Q, a 20 per cent discount is available on sponsored adult away shirts purchased in-store, for a limited time only. Please see the right column of this page for full details.
Once again, the Hornets have combined with official technical partner Kelme to create a crisp, bespoke jersey in white, contrasted with burgundy shorts and socks.
This is the second white jersey Kelme have produced for the club and follows some iconic white Watford away shirts of the past, evoking memories of the 1980s, early 1990s, all the way up to the Championship promotion season of 2020/21.
With a single button placket on the neckline, the shirt features burgundy-coloured highlights in the neck-rib, sleeve and under-arm. The hornet logo sits on the back neck, while the club’s WE values are again imprinted in the half-moon inside the shirt.
The jacquard knit fabric is light and breathable and the raglan sleeve and under-arm panels give the jersey a fitted feel, meaning it will look great from the pitch to the street.
Shirt sizes range from 7-8 years all the way up to 4XL. Men’s and women’s shirts feature Mr Q and Corpay sponsor branding for the authentic match look, but like the home kit, are also available without sponsors for those who prefer.
Fans can purchase the away kit now at shop.watfordfc.com, and in the club’s official stores at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
Out With The Old, And In With The Q!
A 20 per cent discount on 2023/24 Mr Q sponsored adult away shirts is available to supporters who trade in any official adult replica Watford shirt from the 2020/21, 2021/22, 2022/23 or 2023/24 seasons as part of their purchase.
This promotion is available in-store only, until Sunday September 17, and does not include non-sponsored or children’s shirts.
Exchanged shirts will be donated to KitAid by the club. Any extra old kit fans would like to donate can also be left at the club’s official stores.
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The Hornets are pleased to confirm the signing of Newcastle United defender Jamal Lewis.
The 25-year-old left-back, who has 30 senior caps for Northern Ireland, moves to Vicarage Road on a season-long loan, with an option to buy.
Having made his professional debut for Norwich City in 2017, Lewis became a key part of the Canaries’ 2018/19 promotion-winning side and was named in the Championship Team of the Year at the end of the campaign.
He played 28 times in the Premier League the following season and despite Norwich’s relegation, Lewis impressed sufficiently to remain in the top-flight, signing for Newcastle United for a reported £15million.
The athletic full-back, who is equally comfortable in offensive positions, has made 36 outings for the Magpies in all competitions.
Lewis’ first appearance on the international stage came in 2018 and since then he has featured regularly for Northern Ireland in World Cup and European Championships qualifying as well as the Nations League.
Welcome to Watford, Jamal!
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Omer Riza is itching for the opportunity to take his place in the first-team dugout on the opening day of the fresh Sky Bet Championship season, having moved up from the Academy to join Valérien Ismaël’s backroom staff during the summer.
The 43-year-old was announced as a First-Team Assistant Coach last month, marking his latest career milestone on a journey that started with a position working with the Hornets’ Under-16s five years ago.
Having gradually worked his way through the ranks, and spent the last three campaigns in charge of the Under-21s, Riza - who made more than 250 career appearances as a player - feels more than ready to make an impact at the top level.
“I think everyone knew what I wanted to achieve, and where I wanted to get to in the game,” the former striker said. “I’m delighted to have been given this opportunity by the club this year.
“I’m going into my sixth season now, and it’s been a great ride so far. I came in to work with the Under-16s, then to the 21s - first as an assistant, then as the Lead Coach - and now with the first-team.
“Obviously there’s a difference in the level of coaching between academy and first-team - at youth level it’s a bit more developmental, and you have to give them a bit more time - but you’re still coaching an idea and a method. I’ve really enjoyed getting my teeth into it, and I think it’s all gone really well so far.”
Already a familiar face to many of the young Watford stars who have stepped up into the first-team set-up recently, and those senior stars who gained valuable minutes playing for the 21s in the last campaign, Riza insists he’s quickly settled into his new surroundings.
The announcement of his move coincided with the arrival of Dean Whitehead and Jack Riley - as Assistant Head Coach and Video Analyst respectively - and Riza believes that together with Ismaël and the wider team, the trio have built up a strong working relationship.
He said: “I think I can help some of the young lads feel more comfortable, and that can only help with their performances. I think I’ve always been good with young players, and I’ll always have that bond, and it’s nice to see them working hard and getting their rewards.
“I already knew a lot of the staff around the first-team, so that’s helped me transition smoothly. A few of the lads came down to the 21s for different games last year as well, so that familiarity and respect is already there.
“It’s been great with the other coaches so far. The gaffer’s been great in terms of the autonomy he’s given to Dean and myself, especially with the in-possession stuff. As a group we’re always talking and bouncing ideas off each other, and we just can’t wait to see all the hard work be put into practice now.”
The countdown to 2023/24 is firmly on, with just over a week to go until Queens Park Rangers arrive at Vicarage Road (Saturday August 5, 3pm KO), and Riza is full of confidence for the first fixture as well as the full season ahead.
He added: “It’s been a really strong pre-season - the togetherness in the group, the buy-in and the work they’ve put in has all been great. We’re looking forward to getting going, and hopefully we’ll really nail what we’ve been focusing on.
“On a personal level, I feel ready. I’ve sat in the dugout with the Academy teams and I’ve always said I’d love to be there with the stadium full up as part of the first-team, and I’m close to doing that now. I’m really looking forward to it, and to hopefully having a great season.”
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixture against Blackburn Rovers (Sunday August 27, 12noon KO) will go on sale from 12noon on Monday (July 31).
Tickets will be available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
Please note that eligibility for ticket buying groups has been updated for the 2023/24 campaign. For more information, click HERE.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday July 31 * Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday August 1 * Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday August 2 * Home Group D*
12noon, Thursday August 3 * General Sale
12noon, Friday August 4
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- 19-21: £15
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- 19-21: £15
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £33
- 65 & Over: £21
- 19-21: £18
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £23
- 19-21: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand
The Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 35 relating to matchday attendance.
NFC Mobile Tickets
All tickets during the 2023/24 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select ‘Tickets’ from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select ‘Download NFC Mobile Ticket’.
- On the screen that opens click ‘Next’, then choose ‘Automatically Select’ followed by ‘Done’.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select ‘Tickets’ from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select ‘Download NFC Mobile Ticket’. When prompted, select ‘Open App’.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2023/24 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
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Watford Women kicked off their pre-season campaign with a 5-1 victory at Oxford United in the rain last night.
The Golden Girls will play a friendly away at FA Women’s National League Division One South East side Actonians LFC as part of their pre-season preparations, ahead of a return to the Barclays Women’s Championship in the upcoming 2023/24 campaign.
The fixture, taking place at Gunnersbury Park Sports Hub on Sunday July 30 (2pm KO), is open to supporters free of charge, with the chance to see the FA WNL Play-Off champions in action as well as new faces Harley Bennett and Coral Haines.
In addition to Sunday’s game, Damon Lathrope’s side will play behind-closed-doors friendlies away at Oxford United on Wednesday night (July 26), at home to London Bees (Saturday August 5) and away to Arsenal’s Under-21 side (Sunday August 20).
Additional fixtures may still be arranged, however the current pre-season schedule is as follows:
- Oxford United WFC v Watford FC Women - Wednesday July 26 (behind closed doors)
- Actonians LFC v Watford FC Women - Sunday July 30, 2pm (Gunnersbury Park Sports Hub)
- Watford FC Women v London Bees - Saturday August 5 (behind closed doors)
- Arsenal Women Under-21 v Watford FC Women - Sunday August 20 (behind closed doors)
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The sons of a Watford legend and Ukraine’s greatest player are among the young players to have been given a scholarship by the Hornets.
Watford FC is delighted to announce the latest group of youngsters to have received their scholarships, ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.
Over the next two seasons each player will be given the chance to earn their stripes both on and off the pitch, gaining nationally recognised qualifications that will help them on their journey throughout life and football.
Under the expert guidance and tutelage of Academy Director Richard Johnson, Head of Technical Development Jimmy Gilligan and a host of other talented Academy staff and coaches, the young Hornets will develop while working towards the goal of earning a professional contract.
Following the success of previous scholars, such as Tobi Adeyemo, Jack Grieves and Ryan Andrews – who have gone on to earn pro deals and opportunities within the first-team – this new cohort will be hoping to follow in their footsteps.
See below for the full list of scholars who will be setting their sights on playing at Vicarage Road in the future.
Name: Hayden Barrett
Position: Midfielder
Date of birth: April 18, 2007
Joined: October 23, 2019
Name: Charlie Bolding
Position: Midfielder
Date of birth: September 27, 2006
Joined: July 2, 2021
Name: Amani Bowlin
Position: Winger
Date of birth: March 30, 2007
Joined: June 20, 2019
Name: Tom Georgiou
Position: Defender
Date of birth: September 7, 2006
Joined: May 30, 2019
Name: Zavier Massiah-Edwards
Position: Forward
Date of birth: January 16, 2007
Joined: November 25, 2016
Name: Sam Morris
Position: Goalkeeper
Date of birth: October 23, 2006
Joined: January 30, 2020
Name: Amin Nabizada
Position: Forward
Date of birth: June 21, 2007
Joined: November 18, 2021
Name: Kash Odiase
Position: Forward
Date of birth: April 17, 2007
Joined: January 6, 2023
Name: Leo Ramirez-Espain
Position: Midfielder
Date of birth: October 2, 2006
Joined: October 13, 2016
Name: Josh Riza
Position: Midfielder
Date of birth: November 6, 2006
Joined: September 6, 2019
Name: Joel Sala
Position: Defender
Date of birth: October 30, 2006
Joined: August 13, 2021
Name: Amar Sanghrajka
Position: Midfielder
Date of birth: October 23, 2006
Joined: September 22, 2018
Name: Kristian Shevchenko
Position: Forward
Date of birth: November 10, 2006
Joined: March 22, 2023
Name: Max Smith
Position: Forward
Date of birth: June 16, 2007
Joined: May 29, 2015
Name: Ollie Stephenson
Position: Defender
Date of birth: September 18, 2006
Joined: March 7, 2023
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Seasonal and monthly passes are now available for Watford FC’s Hive Live match streaming service during the 2023/24 campaign.
Read on for all the key details on how to follow matches via watfordfc.com and the club app...
Which Games Will I Be Able To Watch Or Listen To?
- Non-televised Saturday 3pm KOs and Friday/Sunday league games – video only available outside UK and Ireland, Channel Islands and Isle of Man
- Non-televised midweek league games – video available worldwide
- Televised league games – video only available in selected territories (notified by the EFL in advance of the fixture)
- Audio commentary – all games available worldwide
- Carabao Cup & FA Cup – audio available for all cup games, video not permitted
We will publish how-to-follow articles on the website ahead of every match, detailing exactly what streaming options are available.
What Does That Mean For August?
- QPR (H), Saturday August 5, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only, audio available worldwide.
- Stevenage (A), Tuesday August 8, 7.45pm KO (Carabao Cup): video stream not available, audio available worldwide.
- Plymouth Argyle (H), Saturday August 12, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only, audio available worldwide.
- Stoke City (A), Saturday August 19, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only, audio available worldwide.
- Blackburn Rovers (H), Sunday August 27, 12noon KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories due to Sky Sports broadcast, audio available worldwide.
How Much Will It Cost?
Live video streaming passes will cost £10 per match for domestic and overseas supporters (fixed fee applicable across the EFL). Video subscription packages are available to overseas supporters, costing £140 (seasonal early bird rate, rising to £170) and £25 (monthly).
Hive Live audio subscriptions cost £45 (seasonal) and £4.49 (monthly). In addition, an audio-only match pass will be on sale for £2.50 per fixture.
Subscriptions can be purchased now by clicking HERE.
Supporters who purchased a rolling monthly video or audio subscription during the 2022/23 season and haven’t cancelled their pass, will not need to buy a new subscription for the 2023/24 campaign.
How Can I Find Out More?
More details relating to the 2023/24 Hive Live service, including how to buy a subscription, can be found HERE.
Support Enquiries
If you have a technical issue or support enquiry that cannot be resolved by reading the Hive Live FAQs, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com with details.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Ashley Fletcher has linked up with former Watford head coach Xisco Munoz after joining Sheffield Wednesday on a season-long loan.
Some of the rivalry was put to one side on a summer’s evening 35 years ago when Watford and Luton Town played each other to honour Luther Blissett.
The overhaul of the Watford squad has continued with the departure of Christian Kabasele to Udinese.
Forward Ashley Fletcher has joined fellow Sky Bet Championship side Sheffield Wednesday on a season-long loan, Watford FC confirms.
The 27-year-old signed for the Hornets in June 2021, and scored two goals in six appearances before linking up with New York Red Bulls on a temporary deal in February 2022.
A spell at Wigan Athletic last term saw him net twice in 26 league outings, and he is now reunited with former Watford boss Xisco Muñoz at Wednesday, who were promoted back to the second-tier at the end of last season.
Go well, Ashley!
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Watford FC confirms that long-serving defender Christian Kabasele has completed a permanent transfer to Italian outfit Udinese, for an undisclosed fee.
The move brings the curtain down on the 32-year-old’s seven-year stay at Vicarage Road, which yielded 166 appearances and seven goals, as well as several significant off-field contributions.
A July 2016 arrival from KRC Genk, Kabasele’s debut season in England was somewhat hindered by injury, but still saw him make 18 domestic appearances in all competitions as well as his senior international bow for Belgium.
The following year he featured 28 times in the Premier League, finding the back of the net against Everton and Tottenham Hotspur. He also won the club’s prestigious Community Ambassador award in 2018 for his work away from the playing arena.
After a further 48 top-flight games across the next two campaigns, and having helped his team earn an Emirates FA Cup final place in 2019, Kabasele appeared 20 times to help the Golden Boys bounce back up from the Sky Bet Championship in 2020/21, while he claimed the Community Ambassador award for a second time that May.
Kabasele regularly featured during the second half of the 2021/22 Premier League season, making 16 appearances. Back in the Championship for 2022/23, he scored one goal - in the penultimate game against Sunderland - in 25 outings.
September 2022 also saw Kabasele presented with the Community Champion award by the Professional Footballers’ Association - further recognising his efforts in and around the local area, including being an ambassador for the Women of Watford FC supporters’ group - while in the same month he played his 150th game for the Hornets, against Blackburn Rovers.
Addressing supporters upon his departure, Kabasele said: “The time has come to close this chapter of my life. After seven beautiful years here for me and my family, it’s time to say goodbye.
“I just want to say thank you for the way you welcomed me, and for making all of us feel part of this beautiful club and town. Together we’ve created a lot of memories.
“A lot of things spring to mind - obviously the FA Cup final was huge, and it was a pleasure being an ambassador for the community. There were some tough moments as well, but all the time I felt only love.
“I came here as a young defender, and now I leave as a man with two kids who have grown up as Watford fans. This is just goodbye for now, and I hope to see you all again soon.”
Thanks for everything Kaba, and all the best for the future!
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First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls some of the best individual displays he has witnessed the Hornets come up against…
Steeped in history, it was only a glorified broom cupboard beneath the old main stand at Anfield - but it had the spiritual powers of a holy temple.
The coaching dynasty Bill Shankly inaugurated at Liverpool would meet there every Sunday morning, with religious fidelity, for a ritual Bob Paisley compared with “popping down to the local.”
Apart from a kettle, the threadbare carpet and a calendar on the wall, it was as homely as a potting shed. But it was also the nerve centre of Liverpool’s success for 40 years - and it was also a post-match suite where visiting dignitaries and managers usually took stock of their team’s defeat.
Watford godfather Sir Elton John once revealed he felt more nervous visiting Anfield’s inner sanctum than playing a stadium gig in front of 100,000 fans in America.
After the Hornets’ 3-1 defeat on Merseyside in December 1982, so the story goes, the Rocket Man asked if they had any pink gin, but the wise men’s bar only served a nip of Scotch from a teacup, a swig of brown ale straight from the bottle or wisdom on draught.
Forty-one years ago, it had been a memorable first league trip to English football’s unrivalled fortress for the Golden Boys.
The giddy euphoria of the North London double - away wins at Tottenham and Arsenal - the previous month had been tempered by their first home defeat of the season, against Manchester United, but Anfield was the acid test for the First Division upstarts who had announced themselves in the top-flight with more tidal waves than ripples in the pond.
And for 45 minutes, the Hornets were schooled, blown away by an irresistible force, and orchestrating the rhapsody of mayhem in red was Kenny Dalglish.
Five years after he had been signed from Celtic to replace Hamburg-bound Kevin Keegan, by the 1982/83 season Sir Kenneth Mathieson Dalglish was just about at the peak of his powers.
He never scored more than 21 league goals in a season for Liverpool, but that’s only because he was also a creator supreme who provided assists like a croupier distributing cards at the poker table.
Liverpool’s opening goal, in this mesmerising masterclass, was not just a masterpiece in Dalglish’s gallery: It was pure Da Vinci.
The turn which left Ian Bolton for dead defied geometry, and the pass inside Steve Sims to the predatory Ian Rush was weighted as perfectly as the scales of justice above the Old Bailey. Rush’s left-footed finish, arrowed fierce and low into the far corner beyond Steve Sherwood, was brutally clinical, but the goal was conceived and sculpted by the genius of Dalglish.
It would not be the last time he led Watford a merry dance - not by a long chalk. In the final game of the 1984/85 season, he would come off the bench at Anfield with Liverpool 2-0 down to choreograph a spectacular revival, including a brilliant goal, as the Hornets went down 4-3 but were clapped off by the Kop for their audacity.
Dalglish remains one of the finest opponents ever to torture Watford. On that afternoon 40-odd years ago, he was so good that it felt more like a privilege than a defeat.
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Ismaila Sarr has thanked Hornets fans for their “unwavering support” and that “a piece of my heart will always remain with Watford and its amazing supporters” after completing his move to Marseille.
Watford Women have continued to strengthen their squad ahead of the new Championship season by signing Coral Haines.
Watford are once again able to register the signing of new players after the embargo against them was lifted, the Watford Observer understands.
An exciting opportunity has become available at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit an Assistant Kit Manager to be a part of our forward-thinking team responsible for assisting all aspects of kit management for the first-team and the Academy, ensuring all day-to-day duties are completed and the correct kit and equipment is provided for all fixtures.
The role will be based at the club’s training ground in London Colney and will include evening, weekends and home and away fixtures.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
Essentials:
- Previous kit experience at a professional football club or equivalent environment
- Previous inventory and budgeting experience
- Heat press experience
- Strong organisational and administrative skills
- Excellent communication & management skills
- The ability to work effectively under own initiative and also as a member of a team
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Ability to anticipate and prioritise workload
- Valid full UK driving licence due to the driving requirement of the role between all sites
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post
You would ideally have but not vital:
- Emergency first aid certificate
- FA Safeguarding certificate and or equivalent
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Assistant Kit Manager
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent full-time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Monday August 7, 2023
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the Careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the Careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.
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The Golden Girls are delighted to confirm the signing of creative midfielder Coral Haines ahead of the 2023/24 Barclays Women’s Championship campaign.
The exciting playmaker was a standout performer for Crystal Palace over the last three seasons, having signed for the Eagles from Tottenham Hotspur in 2020 and gone on to score 15 goals in 59 league appearances.
Haines, 27, has enjoyed a successful career so far after starting out with fellow Championship side Birmingham City. Then in the Women’s Super League, a teenage Haines turned out for the Blues in the UEFA Champions League and earned caps for England’s Under-19s.
Swapping St Andrew’s for North London in 2017 on a loan deal made permanent a year later, the Leicester-born star spent three years at Spurs, winning promotion to the WSL in 2019.
Finishing fifth with Crystal Palace in her final season south of the river, Haines is the Hornets’ second summer signing, following Harley Bennett’s arrival from London City Lionesses.
Welcome to Watford, Coral!
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Ismaila Sarr’s move to Marseille is worth at least €18million to Watford, the Watford Observer understands.
Forward Ismaïla Sarr has completed a permanent transfer to French side Olympique de Marseille for an undisclosed fee, Watford FC confirms.
The 25-year-old departs after a four-year spell in Hertfordshire, which saw him score 34 goals in 131 appearances and contribute several standout moments that will live long in Watford folklore.
Having joined the Hornets from Marseille’s Ligue 1 rivals Stade Rennais on deadline day in August 2019 - for a record fee - Sarr scored six times during his debut season in England, including a brace in the memorable 3-0 win against runaway champions Liverpool.
He won the club’s Player of the Season award for 2020/21, after scoring 13 goals to spearhead promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking, before netting five times in 22 top-flight games the following campaign.
Sarr - who helped Senegal claim the Africa Cup of Nations title while a Watford player, in February 2022 - featured 39 times in the Sky Bet Championship last term, netting on 10 occasions.
A home clash against Swansea City in October 2022 would see him reach the 100-match milestone for the Golden Boys, while his impressive long-range strike against West Bromwich Albion two months earlier would go on to be crowned the EFL Goal of the Season.
Thanks for the memories Isma, and good luck for the future!
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Watford Football Club’s indoor dome at the London Colney training ground was the setting for the recent Additional Needs (Deaf) Football Festival, featuring over 60 deaf students from across Hertfordshire’s schools.
This groundbreaking collaboration - initiated by the Youth Sport Trust, as part of its Inclusion 2024 initiative, and the School Games network - brought together the Hertfordshire FA, Watford Football Club, Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust and Hertfordshire County Council’s Specialist Deaf Advisory Team, and was a huge success in not only offering new experiences to this cohort of school pupils, but as means of showcasing some of the fantastic programmes that are on offer as part of the county’s Inclusion 2024 programme.
Coaching for the day included a carousel of drills and skills before lunch, supported by leaders from Knightsfield and surrounding schools, with the afternoon session comprising of a series of non-competitive matches led by the Hertfordshire FA’s Disability Officer, Kieran Fox.
Academy players from Watford FC were also in attendance, and as well as posing for photographs with participants, urged them to try their very best in following their footballing dreams.
Reflecting on the event, Anne-Marie Riddle, Youth Sport Trust Inclusion 2024 Lead for Hertfordshire, said: “The event was a huge success, and we are delighted at how it turned out.
“We are indebted to Watford Football Club for the use of its fantastic facilities and the support of its Community Trust. We are grateful for the support of the Herts Sports and Physical Activity Partnership, the Youth Sport Trust and the specialist advisory team who undertake such fantastic work in support of deaf children.
“The smiles on the faces of those young people that took part said it all. A fun, enjoyable and energetic day out, playing at a top-rate facility and showing once again that additional needs need not be a barrier to meaningful participation.”
Echoing Riddle’s sentiments, Herts Sports and Physical Activity Partnership Director, John O’Callaghan, said: “This event is a great example of what can be achieved when like-minded organisations come together to provide opportunities for our young people, by overcoming perceived barriers. Seeing so many deaf children having such an enjoyable time was, frankly, heart-warming.
“Some of the skills on show were top-notch and I am sure that some of those involved have bright futures in the game. More importantly, though, the young people had a great day out enjoying the very best of what involvement in sport can bring.
“As the Active Partnership for Hertfordshire, we are delighted to have played a small part in bringing this event to fruition, and the way that the partners placed the needs of young people at the heart of the planning process was a great example of the importance of collaborative leadership in pursuit of a common goal.”
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In the ‘My Hometown’ series, the Golden Boys reflect on their humble beginnings, lifting the lid on what’s special about the place they call home.
Next up is defender James Morris, who hails from Fareham, England...
How would you describe your hometown?
It’s quite quiet and by the sea, which is really nice. It’s really decent and where I grew up. If I had to choose one standout feature, it would be the quietness.
Traditional dish?
There are a lot of fish and chip shops because it’s by the sea, so I’d probably say that.
Drink you’d have with it?
When I was at school everyone used to get Lucozade, so I’ll go with that!
Favourite restaurant?
Probably Wildwood, which is a place right by the sea. It’s really nice and they do a bit of everything there, which is why I like it.
Sight you have to see?
I’d definitely show them the seafront. It looks great in the evenings and it’s a lovely view.
If you could introduce a visitor to one person?
There aren’t many famous people from there that I know of. I’d probably introduce them to my best mate because that would be a bit of a laugh.
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My Hometown: Christian Kabasele
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My Hometown: Daniel Bachmann
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Francisco Sierralta is enjoying the challenge of being deployed in a more advanced role as Watford continue their preparations for the new Championship campaign.
Mike Duffy is back on hosting duties, as he's joined by Ben Aiton & Cameron Smart. They discuss:
Ismaila Sarr’s four-year stay at Watford could be about to come to an end with a move to France.
Francisco Sierralta was buoyed by a number of positive signs during Watford’s narrow pre-season defeat at Crystal Palace on Saturday (July 22), as the Hornets took another step towards completing their preparations for the fresh Sky Bet Championship campaign.
Edo Kayembe’s neat edge-of-the-box finish ultimately wasn’t enough to extend the team’s unbeaten run in pre-season - with Odsonne Édouard striking twice for the Eagles - but an effective high press and strong intensity were among the factors that stood out for the Chile international.
“It was a good test against a good team,” Sierralta said. “It was intense, and I thought we played really well, particularly in the first half. We pressed and kept the ball, and I think it will stand us in good stead ahead of the first game against QPR.
“We’ve come up against good teams in Arsenal and Crystal Palace and we’ve done well. We know that we just need to keep going, continue to press like we did today and show what we can do.”
As he has done throughout the Golden Boys’ friendly outings this summer, Sierralta was largely utilised just in front of the defence in the hour he was on the pitch in South London, and he explained he is enjoying the slightly more advanced role.
And with just under two weeks to go until Queens Park Rangers visit Vicarage Road for the start of the 2023/24 campaign (Saturday August 5, 3pm KO), the 26-year-old - who missed a large part of last season through injury - is itching to get going.
Sierralta added: “I really like playing a bit further forward. When I was young I often played there, as a number six, so it’s not completely new. Sometimes we play with three at the back, and sometimes I’m just in front, and I’ve liked it so far.
“I think the team is nearly ready [for the start of the season]. We need to carry on doing what we’ve been doing, but I’m definitely very excited to be back out there and to get the new season started again.”
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There were encouraging signs to take into the final two weeks of pre-season as Watford suffered a 2-1 defeat in a behind-closed-doors friendly at Premier League Crystal Palace this afternoon.
Jake Livermore explained that the opportunity to be reunited with his former West Brom boss Valérien Ismaël played a key role in his move to Watford, after he penned a one-year deal at Vicarage Road on Friday (July 21).
The seven-time capped England international agreed terms after training with the Hornets throughout pre-season, and he has already enjoyed getting back to grips with the former French youth defender’s methods as he continues to settle into his new surroundings.
Livermore and Ismaël were at the Hawthorns together during the 2021/22 campaign - towards the end of the former’s six-and-a-half year stay in the Black Country - but it wasn’t just one ex-colleague who encouraged him that Hertfordshire was the ideal place for the next stage of his career.
“I’m buzzing to be here,” the 33-year-old said. “The boss was a massive pull for me - we worked well together previously, and his endeavour and work ethic are second to none so I jumped at the chance to work alongside him again.
“He builds foundations, and he’s keen on putting a structure in place. There is great talent at the club, so I think the combination of everything together will be great and I hope we can enjoy lots of success.
“I also spoke to the likes of Ben Foster, Craig Dawson and Nathaniel Chalobah [about the move] - it’s a club that seems to have crossed paths with me a few times! None of them had a bad word to say about Watford and I have loved it so far.”
With the likes of Tom Cleverley and Craig Cathcart having departed the first-team picture this summer, Livermore - who skippered West Brom to promotion in 2019/20 - believes he arrives armed with valuable leadership qualities as well as footballing skills.
And with just over two weeks to go until the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season gets underway, the Enfield-born star is eyeing a positive end to pre-season to build momentum ahead of the opening day’s QPR clash (Saturday August 5, 3pm KO).
He added: “The manager knows what he wants in terms of a structure, and hopefully I can work alongside him and replicate that in the dressing room. With all the talent that’s here, I want to make an impact and it’ll be nice to be in the middle of everything and try to help gel it all together.
“Everything’s been good on the training pitch so far, and there have been some good games for the boys. I think the squad is close to getting to where the manager wants things to be, so everything’s looking good for the start of the season.”
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Supporter Services Team at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a number of highly motivated individuals to join the team in providing excellent customer service within the Ticket Office. You will play a key role in the sale of matchday tickets, both over the phone and face to face.
The successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business. You must have the ability to work matchdays, which vary depending upon fixtures and kick-off times.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford and London Colney or the surrounding areas, be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit and understand the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Casual Supporter Services Staff
Salary/Rate of Pay: Hourly, depending on experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Vicarage Road Stadium
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: Ongoing
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the Careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to Dave Newman at dave.newman@watfordfc.com or by post to Dave Newman at Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the Careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.
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Watford’s Championship clash with Blackburn Rovers at the end of August has been selected for live broadcast by Sky Sports.
Watford have been awarded compensation of more than £2.3million as a player found guilty of breaching a pre-contract arrangement with the Hornets three years ago is finally set to begin a four-month ban.
Georgian international Giorgi Chakvetadze is close to completing a move to Vicarage Road, the Watford Observer understands.
Watford FC and the club’s Community Sports and Education Trust were represented by Little Green School at this year’s Premier League Primary Stars National Girls Football Tournament, hosted at Leeds United’s Elland Road Stadium.
They were one of 20 representative teams made up of primary school children who had completed the Premier League Primary Stars programme. The teams also represented 20 different Premier League, English Football League and National League clubs.
The tournament gave those taking part the opportunity to experience the life of a Premier League footballer for the day and compete under the watchful eye of Premier League and Women’s Super League match officials.
This year more than 14,500 girls representing more than 100 professional football clubs from across England and Wales competed for their chance to represent their respective clubs in the tournament, which shows the feat Little Green School achieved just by being involved in the national competition.
The team won both the local heats with other Hertfordshire and Harrow primary schools, hosted in the Dome at Watford FC’s training ground in London Colney, as well as the regional heats against other representative teams of professional clubs within their region.
School Sport Project Manager at Watford FC’s Community Trust, Lou Barry, said: “We were so proud of Little Green Primary and their performances at the Premier League Primary Stars National Girls Finals. They represented the club fantastically and should all be so proud of themselves.
“Although they didn’t win the trophy, they did get narrowly close to getting out of the group and put in some great performances along the way, in the local, regional, and national finals. At the Trust, we are now looking forward to the new academic year and engaging with even more schools within the Premier League Primary Stars programme.”
Premier League Primary Stars enables teachers to use resources across English, PSHE, PE and Maths, to support children to develop skills and values that are crucial to success in later life. Currently, 103 professional football clubs run in-classroom Premier League Primary Stars sessions in local partner schools.
The free programme also provides teachers and parents with downloadable resources across a range of curriculum subjects at Key Stage 1 (age 5-7) and Key Stage 2 (age 7-11), developed by teachers for teachers, and in collaboration with experts such as the National Literacy Trust.
More than 61,000 teachers have signed up to access free online national curriculum-linked resources.
To enquire about how Premier League Primary Stars could help your school, contact the School Sport Team at Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust by emailing lou.barry@watfordfc.com
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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Match Info
- Crystal Palace v Watford
- Friendly
- Crystal Palace training ground (behind closed doors)
- Saturday July 22, 1pm
Hive Live
Hive Live streaming passes are available for the match, and can be purchased for £5 HERE.
For more information, click HERE.
Opposition
Crystal Palace extended their longest spell in the top-flight by avoiding relegation last campaign under the tutelage of ex-Watford boss Roy Hodgson.
The former England manager began his second spell in charge of the Eagles in March 2023 and oversaw a change in fortune, losing only two matches during the rest of the season, guiding them to a comfortable 11th-place finish.
Palace will be hoping to carry such positive momentum into the 2023/24 season, after first testing their quality against the Hornets.
Been At Both - Cliff Holton
Clinical striker Cliff Holton was one of Watford’s most consistent goalscorers of the 20th century, signing from Arsenal in 1958.
Holton played for Crystal Palace in between two productive spells at Vicarage Road, scoring 40 times for the Eagles and enjoying a promotion to the Second Division. The dynamic footballer was even more prolific in Hertfordshire, with over 100 goals in all competitions over five campaigns.
Head To Head
Overall:
Won: 45
Drawn: 28
Lost: 52
Last Four:
May 2022: Crystal Palace 1-0 Watford (Premier League)
February 2022: Watford 1-4 Crystal Palace (Premier League)
August 2021: Watford 1-0 Crystal Palace (Carabao Cup)
March 2020: Crystal Palace 1-0 Watford (Premier League)
Last Time Out
The last time the two teams went head-to-head came in May 2022, when the Hornets travelled to Selhurst Park. A Wilfried Zaha penalty in the first half seperated the two sides at the full-time whistle, with the Golden Boys suffering relegation despite a spirited display on the afternoon.
It was the first time that Palace had completed a league double over Watford since 2011/12.
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Experienced former England midfielder Jake Livermore has signed for Watford on a one-year deal.
Watford FC’s Sky Bet Championship fixture at home to Blackburn Rovers at the end of August has been selected for live broadcast by Sky Sports.
The date for the visit of Jon Dahl Tomasson’s side has been moved back a day to Sunday August 27, with kick-off set for 12noon.
Due to Sky Sports broadcast, Hive Live video coverage of the game will only be accessible to supporters in countries where it isn’t being televised. A list of exempt territories will be revealed ahead of the match, while Hive Live audio commentary will be available to all domestic and overseas supporters.
Full details relating to Watford’s Hive Live match streaming service for 2023/24 will be communicated in due course.
The Hornets’ other fixtures up to and including the home clash against West Bromwich Albion (Wednesday September 20, 7.45pm KO) have not been picked for TV, and remain set as previously scheduled. Any further changes will be communicated in due course.
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Watford FC is pleased to confirm the permanent signing of former England international midfielder Jake Livermore, following his departure from West Bromwich Albion at the end of last season.
The 33-year-old - who boasts a wealth of Premier League and Sky Bet Championship experience - has penned a one-year deal at Vicarage Road, having trained with the Hornets during pre-season.
Born in Enfield, North London, Livermore began his career at Tottenham Hotspur, and made his professional debut on loan at MK Dons in March 2008 as a second-half substitute against Chester City in League Two.
Similar temporary spells at Crewe Alexandra, Derby County and Peterborough United preceded his senior bow for Spurs, in a 2-1 victory over Stoke City in March 2010, after he had been recalled to the capital from London Road.
Livermore spent 2010/11 in the second-tier - first at Ipswich Town, and later with Leeds United - before establishing himself at White Hart Lane across the following two campaigns, making 56 appearances in all competitions and scoring once against Hearts in UEFA Europa League qualifying.
A productive loan spell at Hull City during 2013/14 yielded three goals in 36 Premier League games, while he made five FA Cup appearances en route to defeat against Arsenal in the Wembley showpiece before sealing a permanent switch to the Tigers during the close season.
After notching a total of nine goals in 144 outings for Hull, Livermore signed for top-flight rivals West Brom in January 2017, who he captained to promotion back to the Premier League in 2019/20 and went on to represent 216 times over six-and-a-half years.
While in the Black Country Livermore worked under current Hornets boss Valérien Ismaël during the 2021/22 campaign, and a move to Hertfordshire sees him link up with the former France youth defender once more.
Internationally, Livermore made his senior debut for the Three Lions in a 2-1 friendly win against Italy in August 2012, while he won the last of his seven caps during a goalless draw against Brazil in November 2017.
Welcome to Watford, Jake!
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Reports suggesting Watford have been placed under an international transfer ban are due to an "administrative misunderstanding", the Watford Observer understands.
Young people representing Watford FC and the club’s Community Sports and Education Trust have won the 14 to 16-year-old mixed tournament at one of the three Premier League Disability Football Festivals.
The pan-disability football festivals aim to create opportunities for players to develop their skills and confidence in a supportive environment, catering for the needs of people who are neurodivergent and those who have sensory or physical disabilities.
More than 450 participants representing more than 40 professional football clubs came together at one of three festivals, hosted by Wolverhampton Wanderers, Burnley and Chelsea this summer, to celebrate the Premier League’s year-round commitment to providing access to football for all.
The team representing the Hornets came together through their inclusion in Premier League Kicks, delivered by the Trust across Hertfordshire and Harrow. The team were also teammates from the local grassroots club, Everett Rovers FC.
One of the players on the day was PL Kicks participant Rocco. He said: “It was such an amazing day, meeting new people, seeing new faces. I was so happy with the way the day ran, loved the training sessions, and matches!”
Rocco’s dad added: “What a fantastic experience for our children. A well-put-together day that benefited everyone. We are so grateful for the experience. Such an amazing memory for our son who can’t wait for the next one!”
Premier League Head of Community and Football Policy, Nick Perchard, said: “This year’s Premier League Disability Football Festivals, delivered in partnership with professional football club community organisations, offered a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the importance of football for everyone.
“We know that the Covid-19 pandemic had a profound impact on participation by people with a disability. These festivals not only offer young people the opportunity to develop their technical ability, the physical and social benefits they gain from coming together with other young people from clubs across England and Wales are vitally important, helping to remove barriers to participation and raising aspirations across the game.”
The Premier League Disability Football Festivals are a celebration of how the Premier League’s community programmes – Premier League Kicks, Premier League Inspires and Premier League Primary Stars – connect young people aged from five to 18 with football, providing positive opportunities to help them to reach their potential.
This year’s Premier League Disability Football Festivals have seen more than 50 teams take part in a series of six-a-side games, activities and workshops. This builds on the success of last season’s Premier League Kicks Cup pan-disability tournament, which saw more than 150 young people representing 19 professional football club community organisations take part.
In addition to a series of tournament games, players had the opportunity to take part in a range of additional activities across the three events, including climbing and golf sessions, with workshops to support players’ mental health and well-being also available at each event.
The Trust introduced targeted disability provision into their PL Kicks delivery in 2019 and since then has supported 861 young people with a disability through their sessions.
Nationally, more than 15,000 participants who reported having a disability took part in Premier League Kicks, Premier League Inspires and Premier League Primary Stars sessions across England and Wales in the 2021/22 season, up 18 per cent on season 2020/21.
To find out more about the Premier League’s inclusive community activities, click HERE or if you’d like to find out more about the local opportunities within the Watford FC CSE Trust’s delivery of PL Kicks, please email tate.macpherson@watfordfc.com
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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Watford FC Women are delighted to announce the signing of defender Harley Bennett following her departure from fellow Barclays Championship side London City Lionesses.
Bennett, 33, brings a wealth of experience to Grosvenor Vale, having served as club captain for the Lionesses for the last two seasons of a four-year spell in Kent.
Strong in the tackle and comfortable with the ball at her feet, the former Charlton Athletic centre-back has played consistently at second-tier level since 2018, making 25 appearances in all competitions last term.
Impressive performances from defence didn’t go unnoticed either, with Bennett picking up the Championship Player of the Month award for September.
Having already joined up with the group for pre-season, Bennett will wear the number 14 shirt for the Golden Girls.
Welcome to Watford, Harley!
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Twelve of the Watford Women squad that was promoted back to the Championship have extended their contracts with the club.
Joseph Hungbo has completed a permanent move to German Second Division side 1. FC Nürnberg.
Two of the Watford Under-18 team that did so well in the FA Youth Cup have signed professional contracts with the club.
Pictures from the Watford Observer archive capture Watford players entertaining and mingling with fans during Watford Week in 1979.
Former Watford midfielder Roberto Pereyra has definitely left Udinese, but could he now end up at one of the Milan giants?
Watford received a total of $311,174 from FIFA for Ismaila Sarr’s participation in the 2022 World Cup Finals.
As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the story of Trust Education Champion, Bernardo...
In 2020, the Trust teamed up with Middlesex University to launch a foundation degree in Football Development and Coaching. This was a new venture for Watford Football Club’s official charity, yet it wasn’t long before success began to be seen. One student that is benefitting from this programme is Bernardo.
Currently in his second year, Bernardo has been described by his tutors as ‘an exceptional student’. The Trust’s staff on the degree course quote his exemplary attendance, attitude to learning, and personal conduct as key components that earn him that title. So, what is it that Bernardo likes about the programme?
“The programme is interactive and provides us contact with the actual club which allows us to establish contacts, learn, and develop our knowledge,” he says.
Now working as a casual coach for the Trust, Bernardo has already begun to take advantage of these contacts and as he looks back, he knows who to thank.
He said: “The Trust has been really helpful, always made me feel engaged and part of the team. Absolutely fantastic. My mind and knowledge developed a lot, which allows me to see things in a variety of ways. I am glad to have this chance in my life.”
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The Story Of A Coach’s Progression
The Story Of Goalkeeping & Goalscoring
The Story Of A Curator, A Community And A Charity
The Story Of Lifesaving Weight Loss
The Story Of A Fundraiser Called Frances
The Story Of Future Trust Coaches
The Story Of A Trust Treasure Who Became A True Golden Boy
The Story Of A Friend & Writer
The Story Of The Original Women Of Cedars YCC
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Ahead of the 2023/24 campaign, Watford FC would like to advise supporters of a couple of important changes for match-goers.
The club is currently implementing a change to our e-communications platform, meaning at the moment we are unable to get emails out as usual.
So, we’d ask you to share this story with friends and family, as you see necessary, to ensure the information reaches all supporters ahead of match ticket sales commencing.
Firstly, details of an adjustment to our match ticket buying process...
The familiar arrangement for ticket buying groups remains unaltered, however over time the increasing number of seasons used to calculate these groups has become impractical.
The eligibility period for each group will now operate on a rolling basis, including data from the immediate past three seasons, although during this coming season the buying groups will incorporate sales from the curtailed 2019/20 campaign - due to the 2020/21 season being played without full attendance.
The updated buying groups for 2023/24 are as follows:
Home Ticket Groups
- Group A recognises fans who have purchased tickets to 20 or more home league and cup matches since July 2019 and former Season Ticket holders who have relinquished their Season Ticket since July 2019.
- Group B recognises fans who have purchased tickets to between 10 and 19 home league and cup matches since July 2019.
- Group C recognises fans who have purchased tickets to between 1 and 9 home league and cup matches since July 2019.
- Group D recognises fans who currently hold Season Tickets and wish to purchase additional tickets for friends and family who have not purchased before.
The match count does not include friendlies or fixtures played with a restricted capacity.
Season Ticket holders are politely reminded that they are counted as already being a match ticket holder for all home fixtures, therefore a second ticket cannot be assigned to their own Fan ID number.
Away Ticket Groups
- Group A recognises current Season Ticket holders who have purchased tickets to at least 15 away matches since July 2019.
- Group B recognises match ticket purchasers (non-Season Ticket holders) with the same criteria as Group A.
- Group C recognises current Season Ticket holders who have purchased tickets to fewer than 15 away matches since July 2019.
- Group D recognises match ticket purchasers (non-Season Ticket holders) with between 1 and 14 away match ticket purchases since July 2019.
- Group E recognises fans who currently hold Season Tickets and wish to purchase additional tickets for friends and family who have not purchased away match tickets before.
The match count does not include friendlies.
When tickets for a match are expected to reach general sale, tickets may become available to more than one buying group at a time, allowing for a quicker and more efficient sales process.
As previously, whenever our away allocation is unlikely to satisfy the demand for tickets, a temporary buying group will be established.
Official Coach Travel
Our other change is to our offering for supporters travelling to away matches and is an increase in the club-funded price for official coach travel to away fixtures.
As Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury mentioned at the recent Q&A event, the club remains committed to continue subsidising official club coach travel costs for supporters, to ensure a reasonably-priced method of transport remains available to those travelling the country to follow and support the team.
Well-documented increased costs throughout the transport sector and beyond, have meant the capped away travel price will change to £20 for each away fixture, regardless of destination. Whilst we would have hoped to avoid putting in place any increase, we believe this stll heavily-subsidised price gives supporters a well-priced option for away game travel, at a time when finances continue to remain challenging for many.
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Numerous players came and went in the 10 years after the Pozzos took over ownership of Watford FC.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, James Garrett picks out some of those individuals who made their mark at The Vic…
Ikechi Anya’s footballing story is a remarkable one, of a player who never stopped chasing his dream.
He ended up in non-league at the age of 18, despite having made his professional debut for Wycombe Wanderers as their youngest-ever player, aged 16 in 2004. He then spent some time in Spain at the Glenn Hoddle Academy, which aimed to try and get players back into professional football.
In 2011 he signed for Granada, and then spent a year on loan at Cádiz in the Spanish second-tier before securing a loan move to Watford in the summer of 2012.
It took a while for the team to gel in the first Pozzo season, with a large number of new players having joined the Hornets. Head Coach Gianfranco Zola needed time to work out his best formation, which turned out to be a 3-5-2 relying heavily on the use of wingbacks on either side of the pitch.
Initially this wasn’t such good news for winger Anya, but by the second half of the season he had proved his value to the side with some impressive contributions from the deeper position.
He seemed so happy playing for us during this time, and any defensive weaknesses he had were simply made up for by his impressive shifts up and down the pitch in every match. He received a call-up for the Scotland national squad as a result of his displays, which came as a shock only to some pundits who clearly hadn’t seen him play.
Anya was also heavily involved in perhaps the greatest Watford moment of all time. Troy Deeney in fact credits him the most for that goal, as he effortlessly took Marco Cassetti’s clearance from the sky to control the ball dead and start sprinting up the touchline, before passing to Fernando Forestieri. I’m sure you remember the rest…
In the summer of 2013 a host of our loan players were signed permanently, including Anya, and he played nearly every match in what was a difficult season for the team. He did score one of the best individual Watford goals ever, away to Barnsley, as he showed his remarkable speed to run nearly the whole length of the pitch before firing home.
During his third season he played an important role in that difficult wingback slot, as the Hornets were promoted to the Premier League. He also scored a fantastic goal for Scotland away to Germany in a European Championship qualifier, in September 2014.
Despite the odds being stacked against Watford staying up in the 2015/16 season Anya coped well with the quicker and more skilful Premier League, but he began to spend more time on the bench than in previous campaigns. This was much to do with a more pragmatic 4-4-2 approach employed by Quique Sánchez Flores.
With his role in the Scotland squad lying in jeopardy if he wasn’t playing much first-team football he made the decision to leave the Hornets and join Championship side Derby in the summer of 2016. Sadly, injuries began to impact his opportunities after his first season there.
Perhaps most importantly, Watford supporters will remember Anya as a player who always had a smile on his face, and who gave everything for the Golden Boys. He seemed to really love being a Watford player, and we remember his commitment, skill, speed and his constant efforts to get his team playing on the front foot.
Perhaps we’ve had some bigger names at The Vic during the Pozzo era, but Anya’s contributions to some amazing successes shouldn’t be underestimated.
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In this series, writers from The Watford Treasury and YBR! magazines trace the varied careers of players who developed at Watford.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, David Harrison writes about a player who, after a spectacular start here, became so popular with Sheffield United that he has a stand named after him at Bramall Lane.
By the summer of 1967, manager Ken Furphy was building what would become the first Watford squad to reach Division Two. The spine of Furphy’s promotion team was in place, and this wide-eyed 14-year-old was not alone in believing that the 1967/68 season would finally see local dreams come true.
But the season started badly. The football was good but early results poor, with the away form dreadful. Furphy urgently needed to kick-start a season in danger of ending before it began. He turned to the untried Tony Currie, aged 17, with spectacular results.
Tony had joined Watford after spells as a young player with QPR and Chelsea, signing professional forms in May 1967. A natural finisher, he was an instant success. He scored six goals in his first four starts, including two during a memorable home debut against Bristol Rovers, followed by a stunning hat-trick against Peterborough, which caused the football world to take note.
With that latter game taking place in midweek, some serious newspaper writers were drawn to Vicarage Road. The influential David Miller, writing in the Telegraph, observed that ‘not every international player’s professional career begins in celebrated surroundings, and the thought occurred last night that Watford might have such a player in the making’.
After his eye-catching debut, the Watford Observer led with the fairly predictable ‘Currie is Too Hot for Rovers’. Goals were flowing and suddenly we were embarking upon exciting times. Furphy’s team was delivering pretty much what we’d all anticipated back in the summer.
Attendances soared, but the trouble remained away from home. By New Year Watford had scored 34 at home, but just seven on the road. And Tony Currie, for all his precocious ability, couldn’t help address that weakness. In fact, he never scored an away goal for the club.
Tony’s final Watford goals comprised another hat-trick, this time part of a 7-1 thrashing of Grimsby Town, whose hapless full-back Graham Taylor was too busy being run ragged by Stewart Scullion to get anywhere near Currie. But Furphy’s frustration was all too apparent, and by November he was only selecting Tony to play in home games.
The talent was obvious, but his pragmatic manager remained unconvinced that Tony could do the necessary job with consistency. Scouts were soon circling, and it came as no great surprise when Sheffield United, struggling in Division One, pounced. Chairman Jim Bonser sanctioned the deal for £26,500 shortly after Currie’s 18th birthday.
Tony made his first-team debut for the Blades in February 1968, scoring with a superb header against Tottenham. His popularity at Bramall Lane was never in doubt, but impending hero status was confirmed when he scored, both home and away, against Liverpool over Easter. Alas he was unable to help the Blades avoid relegation, but he became a regular, playing every game in 1970/71 as they returned to the top-flight.
Alf Ramsey was sufficiently impressed to award Tony the first of his 17 full England caps in 1972, still aged just 22. However, his international debut was made alongside fellow maverick Rodney Marsh, the combination providing a neat illustration of the expression, ‘Too Much of a Good Thing’.
Blades fans were distraught when, after eight years at Bramall Lane, he moved to Leeds for £245,000 following another relegation. Again, he became enormously popular with the fans (a status he retains to this day, remarkably at both clubs), and remained a virtual ever-present in the England squad. However, his wife never fully settled and in 1979 they moved back to London where Tony joined QPR for £400,000.
He helped Rangers to the 1982 FA Cup final, but knee injuries took their toll and a glittering career rather petered out, following spells with Toronto, Chesham, Southend, Torquay, Tranmere, Dunstable, Hendon and Goole Town. There were probably a few others, too.
With his shaggy, long blonde hair Tony looked like a 1970s glam rocker, but alongside strength, tenacity and deceptive speed, he possessed that precious ability to find a teammate from any distance, while making the ball do whatever he chose. Once established at Bramall Lane, Tony dropped back to orchestrate their attack. These days he might be considered a quarterback, calling the plays from midfield.
Tony featured in what became a classic 1970s football image. Playing for Sheffield United in 1975 he collided with Leicester’s Alan Birchenall. As the pair sat on the ground they puckered up and kissed in a shot that catapulted both men into national prominence, while establishing TC as something of an unwitting gay icon.
Despite racking up well over 500 top-flight appearances, together with those 17 precious international caps, Currie’s career ended without any major trophies. But he was unquestionably one of the great entertainers, having begun a hugely eventful and high-profile career with us at Vicarage Road.
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Dan Gosling and Rey Manaj, both of whom are out of contract, shared pictures on social media of themselves at Watford's training ground.
Watford FC is pleased to confirm that former club captain Tom Cleverley has taken up a role as a Professional Development Phase Coach with the Under-18 squad.
TC joins fellow ex-Hornets Richard Johnson and Jimmy Gilligan on the Academy’s staff, and said of the news: “This opportunity couldn’t have come at a better time in my footballing journey.
“I said recently that injury had taken away the chance for me to carry on playing, so coaching is definitely the next best thing and something I’d been working towards getting into for a while,” added a delighted Cleverley of this recent development.
Tom will also involve himself in ad hoc ambassadorial duties for the club, when coaching commitments allow.
Said Jimmy Gilligan, Watford FC’s Academy Head of Technical Development: “We are delighted that Tom will join Watford FC’s Academy.
“He’ll join us as a PDP coach and work with our Under-18s. Tom will bring a wealth of knowledge and playing experience to the scholars at the club.
“He has worked under some great coaches and managers during his playing career and it's clear, when speaking to him, he wants to share this knowledge with the young players we have at the club,” added former Watford youth-team product Gilligan.
“All the staff within the Academy are delighted to welcome Tom as he takes his first steps of what I am sure will be a long and successful coaching career.”
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Former England, Manchester United and Everton midfielder Tom Cleverley is to remain at Watford as an Academy coach after retiring from playing.
Luther Blissett's birthday message for fellow Watford great Ian Bolton with a look back at pictures of his career at Vicarage Road.
Supporters have another chance to meet and question senior club figures next month with the first At Your Place of the new season..
The first of this season’s informal Q&As between Hornets’ supporters and members of the club’s senior leadership team will happen ‘At Our Place’ on Thursday August 10 at Watford FC’s London Colney training facility, with a 6.30pm start.
This first one is very much on the football theme. Other Q&A events – typically ‘At Your Place’, held in differing local venues – may major on different areas of the club.
The five-strong panel will be formed of Head Coach Valérien Ismaël, Sporting Director Cristiano Giaretta, Technical Director Ben Manga, Club Captain (TBC) along with Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury.
Watford supporters wishing to attend this event are now warmly-invited to submit an email application for one of a limited number of places (around 70-75). Each supporter wishing to attend must apply via separate message.
Please email the club’s Supporter Liaison Officer Chris Hall at chris.hall@watfordfc.com, stating ‘At Our Place’ in the email subject line, and your Fan ID number in the body of your message.
Applications will be accepted between now and the end of Sunday July 23, after which time a ballot will occur and places offered accordingly.
Before we arrive ‘At Your Place’ later in the season, then, we look forward to seeing you ‘At Our Place’ fairly soon!
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The Watford Premier Network returns to Vicarage Road Stadium later this month - on Thursday July 27, 12noon - 2.30pm - with bookings now open for businesses to secure their place with only a limited number of tickets remaining.
The WPN - powered by Network My Club and supported by the Watford Chamber of Commerce - connects business leaders across Watford, Hertfordshire and beyond.
The networking lunch continues to provide decision makers with the ideal platform to connect with like-minded professionals from the region in a supportive, relaxed environment.
And as well as the promise of an inspiring backdrop of the stadium bowl from the View Lounge, July’s guests can look forward to a delicious buffet lunch, teas and coffees throughout to fuel the afternoon’s conversations, and the chance to hear from a special Hornets guest speaker.
Want to secure your place? Tickets are just £45+VAT and can be purchased HERE.
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When England won the Under-21 European Championships recently, it was the first time for 39 years when a Watford winger was in the team.
Over 600 people, including local youngsters, grassroots football team players, adults, members from Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) UK, and participants from community programmes delivered by Watford Football Club Community Sports & Education Trust, all played their part in a 24-Hour Football Marathon.
Following a final count, with relevant expenses accounted for, this unique event raised an amazing £11,090 for charity. The event was hosted over May 20-21 by the Trust, in partnership with AMYA UK, across Vicarage Road Stadium and Watford FC’s training ground in London Colney. The event, sponsored by WTW, raised vital funds for both the Trust and fellow charity Humanity First.
Funds raised from the event will be split evenly between the two charities, providing relief for children’s education, home and away. The money raised will go towards supporting the Trust’s mental health and wellbeing primary school programme, which delivers crucial mental health support to young students in Hertfordshire and Harrow.
Additionally, the funds will support Humanity First’s clean water solutions for villages in Africa, providing access to clean and safe drinking water and enhancing school facilities and equipment.
The round-the-clock challenge started on Saturday morning at 9.45am with local youngsters as they took to the Vicarage Road pitch for Play Like A Pro with their families watching on from the Sir Elton John Stand.
A tournament was next on the schedule, with mixed teams from across the Under-11 and Under-12 age groups competing on the pitch. With the focus being on younger footballers during the morning and early afternoon, it was then the turn of 16 to 18-year-olds.
The pitch markings changed to an 11-a-side match as two of the Trust’s football and education programmes then took to the field, Westfield Football Academy versus Whitmore High School Football & Education Scheme.
With eight hours on the event clock, the players increased in age once again, with 10 adult teams taking over for the final slot at Vicarage Road, including ‘The WTW Warriors’ representing event sponsors WTW and Trust programmes Shape Up and Man On.
As the sun set on Vicarage Road, the metaphorical half-time whistle was blown, and the event made a transfer to the training Ground for the second half.
The first action to take place in the dome was a mini Under-18s tournament organised by the Trust’s PL Kicks programme. It was now the early hours of the morning and event partners AMYA UK took over, taking on the biggest slot of the night with a range of players from across their association’s network. It was a fantastic effort from each and every one of them.
Into the final stages of this challenging feast of football and Croxley Green Under-7s and Universal Elite Football Academy Under-8s were up to the task with sessions in the dome – the penultimate action to take place.
To bring the event to a close in a session full of bright Watford FC yellow were the players from the Trust’s Player Development Centres. As the games came to an end and the clock struck noon, the players gave a big cheer and the 24-Hour Football Marathon was complete!
Thank you to the whole community for playing your part in a fun-filled day of football and philanthropy, to help make a positive difference in communities, home and away.
Leah Crocket, the Trust’s Events & Marketing Officer, said of the event: “Congratulations and thank you to all the players, team managers and spectators for playing their part in a wonderful two days of football and raising an amazing £11,000-plus for two extremely good causes. Thank you must also go to our event sponsors WTW, our friends at AMYA UK, and of course, the many staff and volunteers who helped before and during the marathon, this would not have been possible without their support.”
The regional youth leader of the Hertfordshire chapter of AMYA UK, Saeed Nazir, said: “Islam teaches us that serving humanity is an essential part of our faith. Through such events, as well as fulfilling our religious obligations, we get to bring communities and youth together and have fun playing football whilst raising much-needed funds for various children’s charities. The event was a huge success, and we look forward to continuing our partnership with Watford FC CSE Trust in the future.”
Chairman of Humanity First UK, Dr Aziz Hafiz, said: “We are pleased the event went really well, everyone had fun and together we raised over £11,000 that will help thousands of children here in the UK and in Africa by providing clean water solutions.”
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Ignacio Pussetto, Ashley Fletcher and Maduka Okoye are all on Watford contracts but didn't play a league game between them for the club last season.
Darren Bazeley made nearly 300 appearances for Watford, but now calls New Zealand home and is their new head coach
Exciting young forward Matheus Martins has set his sights on becoming Watford’s next big Brazilian star, after re-signing for the club on a season-long loan deal from Udinese earlier this week.
The 19-year-old hailed the influence of fellow attacker João Pedro during his first six months at the club in the last campaign, when he swapped the Samba sunshine for the English winter and went on to make six appearances for the Hornets.
Alongside João Pedro - who left Hertfordshire for Premier League Brighton at the start of this summer - Richarlison is another ex-Golden Boy revered by Martins, who feels he is now in an ideal position to kickstart his development and add more minutes and goals to his tally.
“I’m very happy to be at Watford again,” Martins said. “My first six months here were good - I gained good experience of the club and of the Championship - but now I definitely feel more at home.
“The biggest thing I had to adapt to was the weather. I’d never seen snow before in my life, so to go from 40 degrees in Rio de Janeiro to the freezing cold did take some getting used to!
“João Pedro really helped me when I first came over, particularly with the language, and I feel like I’m properly at home now because I’m used to the weather, to the town and I know the club and all the people.
“I feel really good here, and this is the right club for me to grow. I’ve seen what other Brazilians have done at this club - like João and Richarlison - and I want to follow in their footsteps and have a big impact.”
Before sealing his return to Vicarage Road, Martins was busy on international duty in May and June, catching the eye with two goals in five appearances as Brazil reached the quarter-finals of the Under-20 World Cup in Argentina.
He said: “The World Cup was a great experience for me and my career. We weren’t able to win the tournament - which ultimately was our objective - but it was good to represent my country on such a big stage.
“I think experiences like that have helped me gain more confidence, and made me more prepared to play more games, get more assists and score goals for Watford and try to help the team push for the Premier League.”
The appointment of Valérien Ismaël in May means Martins will be working under a new Head Coach during 2023/24, and he has enjoyed getting to grips with the boss’ fresh methods during the first three weeks of pre-season training.
Having last tasted competitive action for the Hornets at Burnley in February, the Campo Grande native is counting down to the Sky Bet Championship curtain-raiser at home to Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 5, 3pm KO), when he hopes to strut his stuff in front of the Watford supporters once again.
He added: “I like the new coach a lot. I like his ideas and I can understand well what he wants from us as players. His mentality and the way he wants us to play gives me confidence, and I’ve enjoyed all of the conversations I’ve had with him so far.
“I can’t wait to pull on the Watford shirt again, to begin the season and hopefully start the path to promotion. Helping the team is always my main aim, and I’m looking forward to the rest of pre-season before beginning at home on the opening day.”
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An exciting opportunity has become available at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Laundry Assistant to provide support to the laundry operation of the kit department, including first team and Academy.
The role will be based at the club’s training ground in London Colney and will include evenings, weekends and home and away fixtures.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Previous laundry or kit experience.
- Previous experience in a professional football club or equivalent environment.
- Strong organisational and time management skills.
- The ability to work effectively under own initiative and also as a member of a team.
- Hands on approach with a can do attitude.
- Ability to multitask in a fast-paced ever-changing environment.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Ability to anticipate and prioritise workload.
- Ability to work weekends, evenings and unsociable hours.
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
You would ideally have, but not vital:
- Emergency first aid certificate.
- FA Safeguarding certificate and or equivalent.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Laundry Assistant
Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent full-time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Tuesday July 25, 2023
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the Careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.
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Watford’s Under-18 and Under-21 sides have confirmed their pre-season schedules for 2023/24, with both age groups having already returned to training in preparation for another important season.
The Under-21s’ pre-season schedule is as follows:
- Hertford Town v Watford Under-21 - Saturday July 15 (1pm KO)
- Basingstoke Town v Watford Under-21 - Saturday July 22 (3pm KO)
- Hitchin Town v Watford Under-21 - Tuesday July 25 (7.30pm KO), ticket details available HERE
- Kings Langley v Watford Under-21 - Saturday July 29 (1pm KO), ticket details available HERE
- Bedford Town v Watford Under-21 - Saturday August 5 (3pm KO), ticket details available HERE
The Under-18s will also begin their pre-season schedule on Saturday July 15. The full list is below:
- Watford Under-18 v Plymouth Argyle Academy - Saturday July 15 (11am KO)
- Portsmouth Academy v Watford Under-18 - Tuesday July 25 (11.30am KO)
- Tottenham Hotspur Academy v Watford Under-18 - Saturday August 5 (10.30am KO)
- Crystal Palace Academy v Watford Under-18 - Wednesday August 16 (12noon KO)
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Rhys Healey was pleased to get his first minutes in a Watford shirt in the second half of the Hornets’ 1-1 draw with Arsenal on Saturday afternoon, and can already see signs of Head Coach Valérien Ismaël’s philosophy in the style of play.
The summer arrival from Toulouse came on for former Les Violets teammate Vakoun Bayo on 55 minutes and looked lively in attack, enjoying the process of settling into his new surroundings.
Having missed the majority of 2022/23 with a knee injury, Healey feels he has work to do to “get that level back”, but was pleased with the team’s performance against tough opposition, with Ismaël Koné grabbing the opening goal before Marquinhos equalised in the second 45.
“It felt good!” Healey smiled. “It was difficult, playing with new players in a new system, so it’s about getting minutes in the legs and understanding what the new manager wants us to do, getting our match sharpness up.
“It’s always good playing against that calibre of player to see what level you’re at, we did really well and both teams had chances. It’s only pre-season so the scoreline doesn’t matter but we played well.”
With the group returning to pre-season at the end of June and Healey arriving shortly after, the striker can already see a marked improvement from the start of Ismaël’s time working with the squad.
“It takes time but you can see we’re more fluid now compared to the first week,” continued the 28-year-old. “The more training sessions and games we have, the more you’ll see an improvement. Each game you can see those patterns of play.
“I’m still coming off the back of last year being injured. I’m still a bit behind compared to many of the other players from a game-time perspective but it doesn’t come easy, the main thing is to work as hard as I can to get that level back. I felt good today.”
With just under a month until the Sky Bet Championship kicks off at home to Queens Park Rangers [Saturday August 5, 3pm KO], Healey is looking forward to seeing how the team further progress in building cohesion in training and matches.
“It’s exciting,” added Healey.
“The philosophy we’re looking to implement is one of the toughest for players but the most rewarding at the same time so if we can play the way we want to play, we’ll have a lot of joy and it’s really exciting to get into the season now, but we’ve got a lot of work still to do.”
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Former Watford head coach Xisco Munoz will return to Vicarage Road on October 21 as manager of Sheffield Wednesday.
Former Watford head coach Slaven Bilic has signed a two-year contract as manager of Al-Fateh in the Saudi Arabian Pro-League.
Ismael Kone scored his first goal for Watford and striker Rhys Healey made his debut in a 1-1 friendly draw with Arsenal this afternoon.
The turnover of head coaches at Watford and the owner being based at the training ground is not a problem for Valerien Ismael
The Hornets’ Academy players have taken to the training pitches to begin their work ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.
Check out some of the best pictures from their sessions below.
Back To Work
Cardio Focus
All Smiles
Hands-On Coaching
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Watford will continue their preparations for the new Championship season with a pre-season friendly at Crystal Palace training's ground this month.
Watford FC confirms an extra date has been added to the 2023/24 pre-season schedule, with the Hornets set to face Premier League side Crystal Palace behind closed doors at their Copers Cope training ground on Saturday July 22 (1pm KO).
The fixture will not be accessible to supporters, however live video coverage will be available on Hive Live for a fee of £5.
Further streaming details will be communicated in due course.
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There will be no hiding place for the Watford players as head coach Valerien Ismael guarantees they will have to work hard
Mike Duffy speaks to Anthony from Toulouse news outlet LesViolets.com about new signing Rhys Healey. Rhys made 77 appearances for Toulouse scoring 39 goals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When it comes to anticipating Watford's style of play, head coach Valerien Ismael says not to assume based on his previous jobs
Following news last month of new contract offers made to several players within the Academy ranks, the Hornets are delighted to confirm that deals have been concluded for those listed below.
George Abbott
Position: Defender
Age: 18
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
Hamzat Balogun
Position: Defender
Age: 18
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
James Collins
Position: Forward
Age: 18
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
Aidan Coyne
Position: Defender
Age: 19
Contract: One-year option exercised
Charlie Davis
Position: Midfielder
Age: 18
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
Zak Fraser-Grante
Position: Midfielder
Age: 18
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
Luigi Gaspar
Position: Midfielder
Age: 19
Contract: One-year option exercised
Dawid Hamiga
Position: Midfielder
Age: 18
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
Jonathan Macaulay
Position: Goalkeeper
Age: 18
Contract: Two-year deal with an additional one-year option
Alfie Marriott
Position: Goalkeeper
Age: 19
Contract: Two-year deal with an additional one-year option
Myles Roberts
Position: Goalkeeper
Age: 21
Contract: Two-year deal
In addition, two new players have signed for the Academy ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Laken Torres
Position: Forward
Age: 18
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
Victor Wachowicz
Position: Defender
Age: 17
Contract: One-year deal with an additional one-year option
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Watford got their 2023/24 pre-season campaign underway with a goalless draw at Hertfordshire neighbours Boreham Wood on Wednesday evening (July 5), with Valérien Ismaël enjoying his first outing in the Hornets’ hotseat.
We’ve pulled together a selection of photos below that showcase some of the best bits from the visit to Meadow Park, as a range of players got valuable minutes under their belts ahead of more work back at the London Colney training base.
Setting The Scene (And Reuniting With An Old Friend!)
First-Half Action
Wholesale Changes For The Second Half
In The Dugout
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The 2023/24 Watford FC home kit is on sale now!
Following last week’s pre-sale, the new strip is now available for purchase online and in the club shops at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
For the fourth season running, the Hornets have combined with Kelme to create a stunning, bespoke design. Featuring diagonal etched stripes this term, the black detail is scratched away, letting the Watford yellow shine through.
Similar to Kelme’s first Watford kit in 2020/21, the new shirt features a black raglan sleeve with a yellow back. Under-arm panels give the shirt a fitted feel and the jacquard knit fabric is light and breathable, meaning it looks great from the pitch to the street.
Available in sizes from 1-2 years in mini kit all the way up to 4XL, the shirt features the hornet logo on the back neck, while once again the club’s WE values are imprinted in the half-moon inside it.
Men’s and women’s shirts feature Mr Q and Corpay sponsor branding for the authentic match look, but for the first time all shirts are available to purchase without sponsors for those who prefer.
Visit shop.watfordfc.com to order the new kit, with new trainingwear also on sale as well as the 2023 summer fashion collection and more!
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If there was one word that was said more than any other when talking to Watford head coach Valerien Ismael on Tuesday, it was intensity.
Midfielder Ismaël Koné insisted there were plenty of positives to take out of Wednesday evening’s friendly at Boreham Wood (July 5), as the Hornets got their 2023/24 pre-season campaign underway with an entertaining 0-0 draw.
The 21-year-old played out the second half of the contest at Meadow Park, as one of 11 changes made by Head Coach Valérien Ismaël at the break, and he almost made an instant impact when he hit the post around the 50-minute mark.
Though Watford dominated possession throughout, and enjoyed several chances in front of goal, the hosts held firm to deny them the winner, but Koné said the game provided him and his teammates with an ideal platform to put their behind-the-scenes work into play.
“It was good to get some minutes in,” he said. “We’ve obviously been doing a lot of work on our tactics - how we want to press and attack - so it was good to come out and try different things out.
“We’d practiced how we wanted to break down their block and high press, they maybe didn’t press us as much as we thought but we respected our plan and we created chances, unfortunately we just couldn’t get the goal.
“I hit the post, I tried to hit it right but I just missed. There’s stuff I need to work on, and I need to be more clinical in those areas because that chance could have won us the game, but I’ll keep working on those bits going forward.”
International commitments at the start of summer meant Koné joined pre-season training slightly later than the bulk of the Watford squad, but he feels the experience of helping Canada finish as runners-up at the CONCACAF Nations League Finals has aided his personal development.
Having joined the club from CF Montréal in the January transfer window, he also believes he is now ideally equipped going into the new campaign, with 16 Sky Bet Championship appearances already to his name and the rest of pre-season still to come.
He said: “It was great going home and playing with my brothers for Canada. Unfortunately we couldn’t beat the USA in the final, but we’ll all learn a lot from it and be better next time.
“I obviously came back to England a bit tired because I’d played a lot of games and trained a lot, but it’s all part of the job. I feel I’m finding my groove and I’m looking forward to building more over the next few weeks.
“I definitely feel in a good position now. I know the surroundings, I know the people and the other players, so it’s easier than it was when I first came in. I still consider myself to be one of the new players, so it’s good to be here before the season and keep building that familiarity.”
With three signings through the door so far in this window, together with a string of outgoings, Koné is excited to keep developing relationships with his colleagues ahead of the Championship curtain-raiser at home to Queens Park Rangers on Saturday August 5 (3pm KO).
The Boreham Wood draw also marked boss Ismaël’s first match in the Hornets’ hotseat, and Koné is enjoying working with the former France youth international on a personal and professional basis.
He added: “These friendlies are really important when players are coming in and going out. I think we’re gelling well, we’re finding out a lot about each other and building up chemistry, and the games give us a chance to put that into practice.
“I think he [Ismaël] has a clear idea of what he wants from the team, both in and out of possession, which is always good as a player. He’s a good human being as well, he’s fun to work with so everything is looking good at the moment.”
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New Watford head coach Valerien Ismael sat down with the Watford Observer earlier this week.
The changes in style and approach introduced by head coach Valerien Ismael have had a nod of approval from Ken Sema
A somewhat typical pre-season friendly gave evidence of change but also suggested more reinforcements required
With Watford in the midst of the third week of pre-season training, Valérien Ismaël has been impressed with the attitude and effort his players have shown during some demanding yet vitally important sessions.
The Head Coach has worked his squad hard at the Hornets’ London Colney training base, with double sessions most days as preparations for the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign gather pace.
“It’s been a good start,” said Ismaël. “I think we changed a lot of rules, we’ve changed the mindset, we changed the way to train, a lot of new things for the players and club, but I think the first reaction has been good.
“They’ve bought in and I think the intensity we want to put into the squad is good. It’s good to see that everyone understands the message.
“We for sure want to see a reaction from last season. It was not a good season, it was not the expectation from everyone, so now we just want to change the mindset to make sure we do the right thing.”
While the majority of players returned for pre-season on Monday June 19, some have been reporting later due to international commitments and Ismaël has taken the opportunity to get to know several of the club’s future prospects as well as the more experienced professionals.
Brazilian youngster Matheus Martins re-signed on loan on Tuesday (July 4) to become the third arrival of the summer transfer window - after fellow forwards Rhys Healey and Tom Ince - and Ismaël is encouraged by each of the trio’s contributions behind the scenes so far.
“We try to have a large overview on the squad,” he said. “Even with the younger lads from the Under-21s, we try to invite them to train with us.
“I need a big picture from all the players. Some players are not ready or 100 per cent, we are missing some players, but at some point we will be all together and then we will start to select. At the minute it’s all about getting all the players together, to work with the other players and to give them a chance to show up.
“I think we’ve shown the quality we’re looking for with the three players who have come in so far. Each of them brings something to the squad, and overall we are pleased because we are moving in the market, but not too quickly. We have time to give our players the chance to show up, and then make decisions about what we need to do.”
As well as the crucial work being done on physical fitness, Ismaël has been educating his players on the playing methods he plans to employ in 2023/24, with support from new-look backroom team Dean Whitehead, Omer Riza and Jack Riley.
“Each of the guys [Whitehead, Riza and Riley] play an important role in helping me to get my ideas across,” the 47-year-old said. “Dean is important for reinforcing the message to the players, as well as working on set-pieces, Omer has the inside knowledge having been here for a number of years, and Jack’s work with videos and analysis ensures everyone has the information they need at individual and team level.
“We started on the philosophy last week. The understanding was there straight away and now we start to build up the momentum for the players to make sure that we implement the way to play as good as we can.
“It’s clear we want to have that intensity on the pitch. We want to win the ball high, but at the same time when we gain the ball or when we are in possession, we love the possession a lot and we want to have the creativity, the ID to create chances, and actually to be a complete team out of possession and in possession.”
The next stage of pre-season sees Ismaël and his Golden Boys embark on a trip to National League outfit Boreham Wood on Wednesday evening (July 5, 7.30pm KO), in their first friendly outing of the summer.
The former France youth international is looking forward to seeing the squad’s endeavours put into play on the grass for the first time at Meadow Park, while he is also relishing the opportunity to meet the Watford supporters for the first time.
He added: “I think the main thing at Boreham Wood will be seeing where we’re at after two-and-a-half weeks, and what we need to work on. There’ll be different challenges throughout the season - and I think in this game a lot of it will be about finding solutions in possession - but it will be good just to get that game feeling, get feedback from the players and assess our progress.
“It will be good to meet all the fans for the first time, as well. I’m sure we can all enjoy the game, and hopefully we come away from it without any injury problems!”
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In preparation for the new 2023/24 home kit going on sale, The Hornets Shop at Vicarage Road Stadium will be closed this Thursday (July 6).
The store will reopen on Friday (July 7) at 9am as usual, with the new strip available to buy.
The Watford FC store in the Atria Centre will continue to trade as normal (9am - 6pm), or alternatively, you can visit shop.watfordfc.com.
Pre-Order Now!
Pre-order the new 2023/24 Watford FC home kit HERE ahead of the official on-sale date (Friday July 7)!
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Watford play their first pre-season fixture away at Boreham Wood tonight and head coach Valerien Ismael warned against reading too much into the game.
With Watford in the midst of the third week of pre-season training, Valérien Ismaël has been impressed with the attitude and effort his players have shown during some demanding yet vitally important sessions.
The Head Coach has worked his squad hard at the Hornets’ London Colney training base, with double sessions most days as preparations for the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign gather pace.
“It’s been a good start,” said Ismaël. “I think we changed a lot of rules, we’ve changed the mindset, we changed the way to train, a lot of new things for the players and club, but I think the first reaction has been good.
“They’ve bought in and I think the intensity we want to put into the squad is good. It’s good to see that everyone understands the message.
“We for sure want to see a reaction from last season. It was not a good season, it was not the expectation from everyone, so now we just want to change the mindset to make sure we do the right thing.”
While the majority of players returned for pre-season on Monday June 19, some have been reporting later due to international commitments and Ismaël has taken the opportunity to get to know several of the club’s future prospects as well as the more experienced professionals.
Brazilian youngster Matheus Martins re-signed on loan on Tuesday (July 4) to become the third arrival of the summer transfer window - after fellow forwards Rhys Healey and Tom Ince - and Ismaël is encouraged by each of the trio’s contributions behind the scenes so far.
“We try to have a large overview on the squad,” he said. “Even with the younger lads from the Under-21s, we try to invite them to train with us.
“I need a big picture from all the players. Some players are not ready or 100 per cent, we are missing some players, but at some point we will be all together and then we will start to select. At the minute it’s all about getting all the players together, to work with the other players and to give them a chance to show up.
“I think we’ve shown the quality we’re looking for with the three players who have come in so far. Each of them brings something to the squad, and overall we are pleased because we are moving in the market, but not too quickly. We have time to give our players the chance to show up, and then make decisions about what we need to do.”
As well as the crucial work being done on physical fitness, Ismaël has been educating his players on the playing methods he plans to employ in 2023/24, with support from new-look backroom team Dean Whitehead, Omer Riza and Jack Riley.
“Each of the guys [Whitehead, Riza and Riley] play an important role in helping me to get my ideas across,” the 47-year-old said. “Dean is important for reinforcing the message to the players, as well as working on set-pieces, Omer has the inside knowledge having been here for a number of years, and Jack’s work with videos and analysis ensures everyone has the information they need at individual and team level.
“We started on the philosophy last week. The understanding was there straight away and now we start to build up the momentum for the players to make sure that we implement the way to play as good as we can.
“It’s clear we want to have that intensity on the pitch. We want to win the ball high, but at the same time when we gain the ball or when we are in possession, we love the possession a lot and we want to have the creativity, the ID to create chances, and actually to be a complete team out of possession and in possession.”
The next stage of pre-season sees Ismaël and his Golden Boys embark on a trip to National League outfit Boreham Wood on Wednesday evening (July 5, 7.30pm KO), in their first friendly outing of the summer.
The former France youth international is looking forward to seeing the squad’s endeavours put into play on the grass for the first time at Meadow Park, while he is also relishing the opportunity to meet the Watford supporters for the first time.
He added: “I think the main thing at Boreham Wood will be seeing where we’re at after two-and-a-half weeks, and what we need to work on. There’ll be different challenges throughout the season - and I think in this game a lot of it will be about finding solutions in possession - but it will be good just to get that game feeling, get feedback from the players and assess our progress.
“It will be good to meet all the fans for the first time, as well. I’m sure we can all enjoy the game, and hopefully we come away from it without any injury problems!”
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Defender William Troost-Ekong has left Watford after three years and signed for Greek side PAOK.
Watford FC confirms the permanent transfer of William Troost-Ekong to Greek top-flight side PAOK for an undisclosed fee.
The 29-year-old made 68 appearances during a three-year spell with the Hornets, having arrived in September 2020.
During his debut season, the centre-half was a key part of the record-breaking defensive unit that conceded only 30 goals in 2020/21 – the joint fewest in Championship history and Watford’s lowest ever tally – as promotion was secured.
Having made the step up to the Premier League, the Nigerian international featured 17 times in the top flight during 2021/22, taking the captain’s armband on several occasions.
Troost-Ekong then made a further 17 appearances last season, notably scoring a memorable goal against Luton Town in October 2022, before moving on loan to Italian side Salernitana during the second half of the campaign.
We would like to thank William for his efforts while at Watford FC and wish him all the best for the future.
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Head coach Valerien Ismael expects a decision to be made on the future of Ismaila Sarr soon.
Watford celebrated their first ever game in the top flight of English football with a 2-0 victory over Everton at Vicarage Road on August 28, 1982.
Former Watford, Wolves and Walsall player Darren Bazeley has been appointed the permanent head coach of New Zealand.
The second week of pre-season has seen the Hornets turn up the intensity, with plenty of action taking place at the London Colney training ground.
Check out some of the best pictures below from another week of preparation ahead of the start of the 2023/24 campaign.
Coaching Continues
The Keepers
The Defensive Unit
The Creators
Attacking Prowess
Catch Up With The Earlier Pre-Season Action
Gallery: Day One
Gallery: Day Two
Gallery: Day Three
Gallery: Day Four
Gallery: Day Five
Gallery: Second Week Begins
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Matheus Martins has agreed a new loan deal that sees the Brazilian return to Watford FC for the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign.
The 19-year-old forward originally signed on loan from Italian side Udinese in January, making six appearances for the Hornets during the second half of last season.
Former Fluminense youngster Martins is a Brazil youth international who featured five times at the recent FIFA Under-20 World Cup, scoring twice.
Welcome back, Matheus!
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Match Info
- Boreham Wood v Watford
- Friendly
- Meadow Park, Borehamwood (4,500 capacity)
- Wednesday July 5, 7.30pm
Ticket Information
Adult/OAP: £15
Under-18: £10
Under-12: £5
Under-5: £2
Tickets are available to purchase from Boreham Wood’s website HERE.
For more information on Boreham Wood’s ticketing policy and means of contacting the ticket office via email and over the phone, click HERE.
The Ground
Boreham Wood play their home matches at Meadow Park, Broughinge Road, Borehamwood, Herts, WD6 5AL.
Supporters travelling by car to reach the ground can take either the M1 and exit at Junction 4, or the M25 and exit at Junction 22 (clockwise) or 23 (anti-clockwise).
There are limited parking facilities available at Brook Road Public Car Park, WD6 5HJ and parking charges may apply. The car park is a few minutes’ walk from the ground.
By train, Elstree and Borehamwood Station is the closest station, located under a mile away from the stadium via the Thameslink line. To help plan your journey using the TFL site, click HERE.
Boreham Wood have dedicated facilities for wheelchair-bound and less-able supporters, which includes a viewing area and disabled toilet facilities.
Any supporters who require the use of those facilities can email ticketoffice@borehamwoodfootballclub.co.uk for more information.
Opposition
A sixth-place finish in the National League during the previous campaign saw Boreham Wood qualify for the promotion play-offs. Despite having beaten Barnet in the quarter-finals, the Wood fell short against eventual winners Notts County.
Under manager Luke Garrard and assistant Lloyd Doyley, a legendary former Hornet, the duo will be hoping to use the friendly against Watford as a testing ground for their lofty ambitions ahead of the new season.
Been At Both - Lloyd Doyley
With 443 games to his name – ranking him fifth in the club’s all-time appearance table – Doyley is well and truly a fans’ favourite. Coming through the Academy, the right-back enjoyed many memorable moments as a Hornet, including scoring his first Watford goal in his 269th match against Queens Park Rangers.
Now assistant manager at Boreham Wood, Doyley has enjoyed a successful coaching spell with our opponents, just missing out on promotion to the Football League after defeat to Notts Country in the semi-finals of the National League play-offs.
Head To Head
Overall:
Won: 10
Drawn: 2
Lost: 0
Last Four:
July 2014: Boreham Wood 0-1 Watford (Friendly)
July 2012: Boreham Wood 1-1 Watford (Friendly)
July 2011: Boreham Wood 2-2 Watford (Friendly)
July 2010: Boreham Wood 0-5 Watford (Friendly)
Last Time Out
The last time the two teams went head-to-head came in July 2014 when Matěj Vydra’s goal separated the sides in an exhibition game before the start of the 2014/15 campaign.
Over 700 supporters watched the likes of Ikechi Anya, Heurelho Gomes and Doyley take to the pitch.
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The new Watford home shirt, both outfield and goalkeeper, is now available to pre-order, with or without the Mr Q logo.
The second week of pre-season has seen the Hornets turn up the intensity, with plenty of action taking place at the London Colney training ground.
Check out some of the best pictures below from another week of preparation ahead of the start of the 2023/24 campaign.
Coaching Continues
The Keepers
The Defensive Unit
The Creators
Attacking Prowess
Catch Up With The Earlier Pre-Season Action
Gallery: Day One
Gallery: Day Two
Gallery: Day Three
Gallery: Day Four
Gallery: Day Five
Gallery: Second Week Begins
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Watford FC confirms the departure of long-serving defender Craig Cathcart, following the expiration of his contract with the club.
The Northern Ireland international leaves having played a hugely significant role in the Hornets’ success in recent history, scoring eight goals and helping keep over 70 clean sheets in 262 appearances over two spells, that began with a loan move way back in September 2009.
Then just 20, the now 34-year-old joined from Manchester United, where he had emerged through the academy ranks after being spotted across the Irish Sea. Earlier loans at Belgian side Royal Antwerp and at Plymouth Argyle preceded his switch to Vicarage Road, and he duly showcased his talent throughout 12 outings under Malky Mackay.
After a four-year stay at Blackpool - that saw him turn out more than 100 times for the Seasiders - Cathcart re-joined Watford ahead of the 2014/15 season, this time on a permanent deal.
Upon signing, the Belfast native made his intentions clear, stating: “As soon as I spoke to the guys here it was obvious they want to get promoted. I want to be part of something that’s going to grow, and we’re looking to get into the Premier League.”
Cathcart’s actions certainly lived up to those words, with a goal on his second debut for the club - as a substitute for Gabriel Tamaș at home to Bournemouth in September - setting the tone for a promotion campaign that also featured an audacious bicycle-kick strike against Birmingham City.
Five consecutive years in the Premier League yielded 122 appearances and four goals, while he also featured four times - including in the showpiece - during the Golden Boys’ historic run to the Emirates FA Cup final in May 2019.
After relegation in 2019/20, Cathcart made 25 appearances the following term - in the joint-best Sky Bet Championship defence in history - as Watford bounced straight back to the top-flight, notably scoring the first goal of the season to secure a winning start against Middlesbrough on the opening day.
He played 31 games in the Premier League in 2021/22, before featuring 28 times back in the Championship during the most recent campaign, which also saw him reach the 250-match milestone for the Hornets against Swansea City in December 2022.
Having started his permanent stint in Hertfordshire with 18 Northern Ireland caps to his name, Cathcart has taken that tally past the 70-mark during his time at The Vic, making four appearances at Euro 2016 and remaining an integral part of Michael O’Neill’s set-up today.
Picked to captain his country for a Euro 2024 qualifying double-header earlier this year, Cathcart has also worn the armband on several occasions for the Golden Boys, and his leadership and experience - in addition to his playing qualities - have proved invaluable to the club’s on and off-field exploits over recent years.
On his departure, Cathcart said: “Thanks to all the people at the club that have helped me along the way, through the highs and lows.
“The club has given me a lot, I’ve made some lifelong friendships and some memories that I’ll never forget.
“All the best for the future to everyone connected with Watford.”
We would like to place on record our most sincere thanks to Craig for his contributions to Watford FC, and wish him the very best of luck for the next step in his career.
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Cam Smart speaks to Matt Lansley from the Elm Park Royals podcast to get the low down on new Watford FC man, Tom Ince. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watford FC confirms that club captain Tom Cleverley is retiring from football as a result of injury.
However, some exciting news will soon be announced jointly by the club and Tom.
“No one could have worked harder than Tom did to make it back from several injuries, which he’s tried to do while always providing a positive force around the players,” said Hornets’ Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury.
In tribute to the ex-Premier League winner’s impact at Vicarage Road, Duxbury added: “I can’t speak highly enough about Tom as a person, a player and our captain. Tom is the type of professional all clubs would be delighted to have in their team.
“The year’s loan at the club before he joined again in January 2017 really helped him settle quickly into being a senior player with us, and his experience has proved invaluable over these past six years.”
The former England international first played for Watford on loan from Manchester United during season 2009/10, picking up the club’s Player of the Season award.
Tom then made nearly 150 more appearances in six-and-a-half years after signing from Everton - initially on loan before converting the move into a permanent deal.
Thank you TC, and good luck!
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Three players have left Watford permanently while a fourth has been loaned out until the end of the 2023.
Watford FC confirms the permanent departure of midfielder Domingos Quina to Italian side Udinese.
The 23-year-old scored three goals in 37 appearances for the Hornets after signing from West Ham United in the summer of 2018, including featuring 14 times during the 2020/21 Sky Bet Championship campaign to help secure promotion to the Premier League.
Following loan spells at Granada, Fulham and Barnsley, Quina spent the majority of the 2022/23 season away from Vicarage Road at Elche and then Rotherham United, and he will now look to further his career at the Dacia Arena in Serie A.
Meanwhile, Mario Gaspar’s contract has been terminated by mutual consent. The Spanish defender made 33 appearances in all competitions following his arrival in Hertfordshire last July, and his versatility proved particularly crucial amidst extensive injury problems within the first-team squad around the turn of the new year.
Juergen Elitim has also left Watford FC, having signed a permanent deal at Polish heavyweights Legia Warsaw, while fellow Colombian midfielder Ober Almanza has joined Orsomarso SC on loan until December 31, 2023.
We wish our departing players all the best for the future.
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Following a discussion by EFL clubs regarding the number of substitutes named in matchday squads, Championship clubs have opted to use five substitutes from nine named (an increase from seven named) from the 2023/24 season.
Clubs in League One and League Two will continue to use five substitutes from seven named on the bench.
In accordance with the league’s Articles of Association each division is able to propose and adopt amendments or alterations to a variety of fixture related matters, including the number of substitutes.
At the Annual General Meeting (AGM) held earlier this month, EFL clubs approved a number of other regulation changes that came into effect immediately. These include:
Owners & Directors’ Test
New disqualifying conditions have been added to the Owners and Directors’ Test (OADT) to ensure that the EFL and Premier League’s tests remain aligned. The list of disqualifying conditions has been updated to include:
- Disqualifying individuals who are subject to sanctions
- Prohibiting ownership by state entities from countries which are sanctioned
- Second (or further) bankruptcies/convictions/bans, even if expired or spent
- Convictions for violent offences
- Convictions for fraud of any kind
- Disqualification for wider corporate insolvencies
- Disqualifications by a wider range of government bodies
- Having been removed as a trustee of a pension scheme by the Pensions’ Regulator or the courts
- Expulsion of sporting clubs in other sports (eg. rugby) as the league does for football clubs
- Expanding the period in which insolvency of a company/club counts against a director who has resigned from 30 days to one year
- Reducing the definition of control from 30% to 25%
The OADT has also been updated to treat anybody who is currently undergoing an investigation which may lead to a disqualifying condition, as being subject to a disqualifying condition until such time as they clear the allegations.
Multiball / Towels
The EFL will introduce a multiball system in all its competitions for the 2023/24 season. Match balls will be placed on cones in designated areas at pitch side to help increase the time of the ball being in play. Meanwhile, clubs will no longer be permitted to use towels or other articles, including items obtained from spectators to dry footballs during matches.
Insolvency Events
A new regulation (12.1) has come into effect which requires a club to notify the league promptly once it becomes aware that it is considering, taking or suffering any Insolvency Event. The club and any proposed officeholders in any potential Insolvency Event will be required to meet with the league to ensure that the ongoing obligations of the club can be met during the period of an Insolvency Event. The EFL has also updated its Insolvency Policy to amend the definition of an Insolvency Event in its Articles of Association to ensure the new concept of a ‘Restructuring Plan’ as referenced in the Corporate and Insolvency Governance Act 2020 is included.
Future Financial Information For Leagues One & Two
To better align with the Club Financial Reporting Unit’s reporting practices, clubs in League One and League Two will now be required to submit their Future Financial Information (FFI) by April 30 rather than March 31 each year.
HMRC Reporting
The EFL has updated Regulation 17.1 to include all debts due to HMRC and now requires clubs to report any defaults within two working days.
30-Day Rule
The non-payment of HMRC debt has been added as a trigger of Regulation 52.6, so clubs who accumulate 30 days of late payments in a 12-month period will be unable to sign a player for a fee or any consideration for three full transfer windows. The amendment to the 30-Day Rule also provides for clubs to self-report late payment of any debt covered by Regulation 52.6, plus a right of appeal for clubs triggering the 30-Day Rule.
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In the ‘My Hometown’ series, the Golden Boys reflect on their humble beginnings, lifting the lid on what’s special about the place they call home.
Next up is winger Ken Sema, who hails from Norrköping in Sweden...
How would you describe your hometown?
Norrköping is a small city in Sweden, about an hour-and-a-half from Stockholm. I was born and raised there, I have my family and friends there, and it’s very beautiful. It has a lot of nice architecture and lakes you can stroll around.
Traditional dish?
I don’t know about a traditional dish, but the pizza is really good there. I think it’s the best in Sweden!
Drink you’d have with it?
There isn't really a specific drink that’s special to Norrköping, I don’t think. I don’t drink alcohol, but I usually have normal stuff like water and juice.
Favourite restaurant?
Stadsvakten - it’s a steakhouse, and the meat there is amazing!
Sight you have to see?
The trams there are really special, and really unique. Of course, the lakes and architecture are a must-see as well.
If you could introduce a visitor to one person?
There are quite a few famous people from Norrköping - a handful have played basketball in the NBA. It’s quite a successful place, but I would say they have to meet me!
More From This Series
My Hometown: Tom Dele-Bashiru
My Hometown: Daniel Bachmann
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As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the story of MurWalls Founder and CEO Marc Silver...
Marc explains that the initial concept for MurWalls was to bring street art into people’s homes. It’s fair to say when you look through the national and international coverage, as well as the outpouring of love for their artworks, that vision has been surpassed and then some.
If you were to venture around various cities in this country, not least Watford, you’d see houses and buildings displaying the faces of icons from the world of football, music and film, brought to life by street art.
What began with spray painting his son’s bedroom, led to work with West Ham United and Liverpool. Millions of views on social media later, Marc was introduced to a man who had achieved back-to-back promotions with Watford Football Club during his playing days and was now working within the club’s commercial team – Richard Johnson. The Hornets’ man bought into MurWalls and put Marc in touch with the Trust. And so, the first artwork with Watford began to take shape.
“We’re always looking at ways we can give back, whether that’s through charities or community groups, and this was a good opportunity to start what we wanted to do,” Marc said.
The ambition was there and after speaking with members of Trust staff, it became clear that a mural in honour of the late patron of the Trust, Graham Taylor OBE, would be the focus of their partnership. The perfect wall at Meriden Community Centre was then identified, a hub run by the Trust and opened by the club’s greatest-ever manager in 2016. There was no question for Marc as he recalls his excitement at portraying GT.
He said: “I actually worship Graham Taylor, not just as a football manager but as a person. I’ve heard so many stories about what he did for this club. Putting the club and the fans before himself, that’s a proper person for me. He had the right spirit, and that’s the community spirit that the Trust is built on and the club is built on.”
The result is there for all to see at Meriden Community Centre and Marc remembers the official reveal well, thanks to the attendance of Rita Taylor, Graham’s wife and patron of the Trust alongside her family.
Marc continued: “It was a really special day and I could see everyone was proud of what we’d done. It was nerve-wracking of course, I was blown away by (Rita’s) knowledge of the game, I loved every minute of it.”
With one accomplishment under their belt, others soon followed – there was a live draw along with Lloyd Doyley, then the impressive mural on the grounds of Cornerstone Church, opposite the Vicarage Road Stadium – a work that Marc describes as one of his favourites: “With the proximity to the stadium, it’s just perfect for me.” That particular work was given a helping hand by Rita herself as she pointed out the wrong collar was used in the initial designs.
Now, as you wander through the town of Watford, you’ll see MurWalls scattered throughout, Sir Elton John, Luther Blissett OBE DL, Troy Deeney; the history of the club crystalised on the walls of the town’s buildings.
Marc is keen to make the point that this was only possible due to collaboration, through local authorities, organisations, and of course, the gifted artists MurWalls instructs, including one of their lead artists who grew up in Watford itself, Mr Meana. So as MurWalls continue to plot their continued growth in the wider world, this town will always hold a special place in their hearts.
“It’s like a second home for us,” Marc concluded.
To find out more about MurWalls, click HERE.
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Three players who have only made one appearance between them in 2023 due to injury are back to full fitness and working with the first-team squad.
Watford FC’s 2023/24 home kit is now on pre-sale!
Revealed last Friday (June 23), the fresh strip sees the Hornets combine with Kelme for the fourth season running, with diagonal etched stripes, a black raglan sleeve with a yellow back and the club’s WE values all featuring on the shirt.
Available in sizes from 1-2 years in mini kit all the way up to 4XL, the new kit officially goes on sale from Friday July 7, but supporters are able to guarantee they are among the first to get their hands on it by pre-ordering.
Pre-sales are live now at shop.watfordfc.com, and if you pre-order before midnight on Wednesday July 5 you will receive your kit on the day of release (Friday July 7), when it will be available both online and in the club’s stores at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
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In the ‘My Hometown’ series, the Golden Boys reflect on their humble beginnings, lifting the lid on what’s special about the place they call home.
Next up is midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru, who hails from Manchester in England...
How would you describe your hometown?
Manchester is full of friendly people - someone will always ask you how your day is going when you’re walking down the street! It’s quite a small city - you can get anywhere within about 20 minutes. I always think the air in Manchester is a lot fresher than the air anywhere else - you breathe it in and it’s fresh and crisp!
Traditional dish?
Fish and chips, definitely!
Drink you’d have with it?
There isn't a specific drink I'd have, it depends on how I'm feeling on the day. I guess tea is the drink people traditionally have with fish and chips.
Favourite restaurant?
That’s Tinapa, which is a Nigerian restaurant in the centre of Manchester. The food there is amazing!
Sight you have to see?
That’s definitely the Etihad Stadium, Manchester City’s ground!
If you could introduce a visitor to one person?
There are a lot of famous people from Manchester, but I’ll say my brother because he is a proper Manc and he typifies Manchester as a place.
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Kenny Jackett said players bought into Graham Taylor's Watford philosophy because they knew he could make them and the club successful.
The Hornets’ latest recruit, Tom Ince, is ready to take to the Vicarage Road pitch and is excited to finally don the famous yellow of Watford.
A dynamic winger with a hugely impressive record against the Golden Boys, having notched five goals and four assists in nine matches, the 31-year-old will be hoping to match that for his new side having put pen-to-paper on an initial two-year deal.
When making the decision to move to The Vic, Ince considered his memories from playing against the club, but also the ambition of the current squad and management.
“As soon as Watford came calling, I know it’s a massive club with a great fanbase and I have played at Vicarage Road a few times throughout my long career so far,” Ince began.
“Most importantly for me is that I have always looked at Watford as a Premier League club. Everything about it – the facilities, the players and the history that the club has got. For me, I thought that it was a great challenge and Watford is a club that has always been in the mix trying to push at the right end of the table, trying to get to the promised land.
“I’m here to try and do exactly the same – to try and help the team and help this club achieve promotion this year and get back into the big time.”
When discussing the logistics of the move, Ince was immediately struck by the Hornets’ desire to acquire his services – a huge factor in securing his signature.
“I was at Reading last year and it’s quite well documented that I had a release clause,” he explained.
“It was a frustrating season for me last year with relegation and it’s never nice. Watford were then on the phone and, to be honest, I knew they wanted to get things done quickly. It was nice to have a club that want you.
“I showed them a lot of appreciation with how hard they were trying to work. As soon as I knew the interest was serious and that there was a good opportunity, I just wanted to get the deal done as quickly as possible to show that I’m ready to go.”
That previously-mentioned positive record against the Hornets has given supporters a taste of what Ince is capable of - a record the new signing is certainly aware of.
“So I’ve been told!” he laughed. “It’s not something that enters my mind. You always have those teams when you get lucky or it just seems to fall to you. I’ve enjoyed playing against Watford, they have had big players over the years and a fantastic stadium.
“It’s nice to be wearing the yellow of Watford and hopefully I can recreate the same stats against other teams.”
Ince’s father, and previous manager, Paul, has always played a part in his son’s career as an important mentor, but Tom explained that this was an opportunity that he didn’t need guidance for.
He continued: “As you get older, my dad has always been that shoulder I can lean on as far as advice, but what he has also said throughout my career is that I’m old enough to make those decisions myself.
“I said to him that this is a chance for me at my age to sign for a club trying to do well and playing in the big time. I feel fit as anything and probably had one of my best seasons for a long time last season, so I’m looking to recreate that same form and hopefully try to push up the table.”
Having only just arrived, the England youth international is still getting accustomed to his new surroundings at the London Colney training ground, but he is excited about the future and can’t wait for the first league match against Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 5).
“It’s early days and sometimes you feel like the new kid at school again,” Ince said. “I know Ben Hamer because we shared a couple of seasons at Huddersfield Town. I have said hello to the other lads and I’m sure over the coming weeks, and during training, it will all fall naturally.
“As soon as you come into a new system and a new set-up you just want to get onto the grass and start kicking the ball about. I can’t wait to get the season going. The main aim is to try and do well each week, to try and win football matches, show what I can bring to the table and show why the club wanted to sign me.
“I’m happy to be here and I can’t wait to get going.”
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He played for him, he worked for him - and today Luther Blissett is still the standard bearer for Graham Taylor's philosophy.
As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the story of John Aluma...
We begin with a 16-year-old boy joining a scheme at a local college, unsure of where his career would take him, and coached by a man who would later become his peer.
John’s time at the Trust’s football and education scheme, Westfield Football Academy, began with the dream of making it as a professional footballer, but one day, as he watched Watford Football Club’s Under-18s play at Vicarage Road, he realised he needed a back-up plan.
John said: “Truthfully, I was sitting in row three in the Sir Elton John stand as a 16-year-old, watching the quality and intensity of these players of a similar age and thought for the first time ‘I’m probably not going to make it, maybe I should really consider going into coaching’.”
A pragmatic approach that would serve him well. As his course with Westfield continued and his dream of becoming a professional footballer faded, John attacked the next stage of his career purposefully. Gaining his level-one football coaching qualification, working with year eight pupils at the school and coaching his peers while injured at a tournament are all now listed by John as meaningful experiences that have shaped his future.
He continued to learn and develop, under the stewardship of his coach Dave Byrne, and quickly gained his level-two qualification and joined the Trust as a paid member of casual staff, supporting their Player Development Centres (PDCs).
Present day and John is now employed full-time by the Trust, leading the Westfield Football Academy alongside Dave, and supporting Watford’s Under-10s in the Academy. His transition from player to coach helps him in his role, explaining: “Because I know how they’re thinking and feeling, whether that’s on the pitch or off, I’ve been there.”
John’s progression inspires others, but he is grounded enough to know where his gratitude lies: “The Trust has been a big part of my life for eight years, so I’m definitely thankful. The Trust has given me a pathway and supported me on what I want to pursue as a career.”
The sky’s the limit for John as he sets his sights on coaching at the highest level, but for now he has some simple advice for his players: “Enjoy the moment, enjoy the training and the matches, and see where it takes you.”
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In the ‘My Hometown’ series, the Golden Boys reflect on their humble beginnings, lifting the lid on what’s special about the place they call home.
First up is goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann, who hails from Winzendorf-Muthmannsdorf in Austria...
How would you describe your hometown?
It’s a small village with about 2,000 people. It’s in the countryside and it’s not far from Vienna, so you get a bit of peace and quiet and the mountains, but the city is still nearby.
Everyone knows everyone really, so it feels homely and local. I left quite young to move to England, but I spent a lot of time playing football in Vienna.
Traditional dish?
Wiener schnitzel is a classic Austrian dish. I don’t really eat it anymore, but I had one when we went to Austria on the pre-season tour last summer. It was very nice!
Drink you’d have with it?
Beer is very Austrian, so that would be the ideal choice! Where I’m from, everyone loves beer. There is also an alcoholic apple juice people like over there, which we call Most.
Favourite restaurant?
It’s hard to name just one place, because there are lots of restaurants that serve good, local food. A lot of them are like the pubs we have in England, but a bit posher.
Sight you have to see?
There is loads to see if you travel up to Vienna. Schönbrunn Palace is really famous, and Schönbrunn Zoo is one of the oldest in the world. There is also the Wiener Riesenrad, which is a Ferris wheel and one of the main sights in Vienna, and the city centre is just really nice to walk around, too.
If you could introduce a visitor to one person?
I’d say David Alaba, for the football fans, or maybe Arnold Schwarzenegger. They are both hugely famous in Vienna.
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It's 46 years to the day that Graham Taylor joined Watford, and club legend Nigel Gibbs shares his memories of playing for him
Watford FC’s investigations into alleged sexual abuse of former players by ex-physio Phil Edwards “met the standards expected” by Clive Sheldon KC.
Watford FC is pleased to confirm the arrival of forward Tom Ince from Sky Bet League One side Reading for an undisclosed fee, on a two-year deal with an option for a further 12 months.
The 31-year-old boasts a wealth of experience at a variety of levels in the English game, and he arrives at Vicarage Road having scored 91 goals in 365 Championship outings so far.
The son of former Manchester United and England midfielder Paul Ince, Tom was born in Stockport and joined the Liverpool academy as a youngster, before featuring for Notts County on loan and then properly announcing himself on the senior stage in the wake of a permanent move to Blackpool in August 2011.
Then still in his teens, the England youth international scored in the Championship play-off final at the end of his first season with the Tangerines - though West Ham United would ultimately win promotion - before going on to amass a total of 33 goals in 113 appearances for the club.
Following a brief loan at Crystal Palace in the second half of the 2013/14 campaign - that served him his first taste of the Premier League - Ince went on to join Hull City on a permanent deal that summer, who he represented in the domestic top-flight and in European competition.
Further loans at Nottingham Forest and Derby County preceded a permanent move to the latter in the summer of 2015, while he returned to the Premier League with newly-promoted Huddersfield Town two years later, going on to score twice - including against Watford - in 33 games.
A subsequent switch to Stoke City yielded 14 goals in little over 100 matches across four seasons, towards the end of which he enjoyed temporary spells at fellow second-tier outfits Luton Town and Reading.
After impressing on loan at the Royals - having contributed two goals in 15 appearances - Ince put pen-to-paper on a permanent deal at the Select Car Leasing Stadium last summer, though his further nine goals in 38 league outings couldn’t help prevent relegation to the third tier.
Having netted an impressive five times in nine games against Watford during his storied career, Ince will now be hoping to replicate such form while wearing the Hornets’ famous yellow jersey, as he and the rest of Valérien Ismaël’s charges bid for a Premier League return in the upcoming campaign.
Welcome to Watford, Tom!
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As a club, Watford FC wishes to apologise to all young people who experienced the behaviour perpetrated by the late Phil Edwards, while holding a position of influence and access within the club.
We thank the survivors for their courage and dignity in all of their dealings with Watford FC, their patience also which allowed us to both conduct a thorough internal investigation and work with Clive Sheldon KC and his team with regards to their own independent findings.
We are doing, and will continue to do, everything we can to ensure that the boys, girls, men and women who play for this club – and indeed anyone who works for or with the club – will not have to endure the experiences these young people did.
Watford FC will continue to champion best practice in relation to the safeguarding and welfare of the people in its charge. Further, the input and observations of survivors, based on their experiences, will always be welcome in the future.
Click HERE to access The Clive Sheldon KC Watford FC Addendum.
Support remains available for anyone who believes it would be beneficial to them. If you would like to discuss what support is available, please contact the club’s Head of Safeguarding Rob Clarke in confidence via email: rob.clarke@watfordfc.com. He will connect you with the appropriate support options.
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Tom Ince has been confirmed as Watford’s second signing of the summer after agreeing a two-year deal.
Watford FC’s opening fixture of the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season, against Queens Park Rangers, has been reversed and will now be played at Vicarage Road on Saturday August 5, the club confirms.
With the Hornets’ support, the EFL have agreed to QPR’s request for the change, due to extensive pitch renovation works at their Loftus Road home. The switch means that the Hoops will host Valérien Ismaël’s charges in the sides’ corresponding fixture, on Saturday January 13.
As a result, Watford’s first away trip of the fresh league campaign will be to Stoke City (Saturday August 19), with new Head Coach Ismaël now due to take charge of his first match at The Vic a week earlier than the visit of Plymouth Argyle on Saturday August 12.
All four Championship clashes in January are now set to take place away from home, while a date for the annual ‘Graham Taylor Matchday’ - traditionally held close to the anniversary of GT’s January 2017 passing - will be confirmed in due course.
All of Watford’s 2023/24 league fixtures remain subject to change, with EFL broadcast selections - excluding the opening weekend - set to be announced in due course.
Elsewhere, a date for the Golden Boys’ visit to Stevenage in the first round of the Carabao Cup has been confirmed. The Hornets will travel to the Lamex Stadium on Tuesday August 8, with the match set to kick off at 7.45pm.
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The most successful period in Watford’s history began on this day in 1977, as Hornets legend Graham Taylor shook hands with Sir Elton John and became manager.
Taylor, then just 32 years old, had experience managing in the fourth tier from his time at Lincoln City, and was held in high regard by some of the biggest names in English football.
Weeks before Taylor was appointed, he had been invited to Sir Elton’s Windsor home to discuss the role. The then Watford Chairman had acted on the advice of Don Revie, who was England boss at the time, and presented his vision of top-flight football and European aspirations to Taylor.
Despite an attractive offer from First Division outfit West Bromwich Albion, Taylor took the lower league role with dreams of climbing up the divisions, and was unveiled by Sir Elton at Vicarage Road.
Watford’s greatest ever manager needed little time to settle in, romping to the title for the second time in the dugout, finishing 11 points clear of second-placed Southend United.
Momentum carried on into the next season too as the Golden Boys enjoyed another promotion in 1978/79, and by 1982 ‘Elton John’s Taylor-made army’ had reached the summit of English football.
Sir Elton’s dream came true also, when the Hornets finished second in the top tier to qualify for the UEFA Cup, bringing Europe’s elite to Vicarage Road.
Taylor’s Watford journey lasted until the end of the 1986/87 season, having helped build the club from lower-league strugglers to a mid-table First Division outfit, in addition to an FA Cup final. He departed for pastures new, joining Aston Villa, but the Taylor-Watford partnership would return a decade later as he took the Hornets to two more promotions and a first-ever Premier League campaign in 1999/00.
Continuing to fly the Watford flag as an ambassador, charity supporter and Honorary Life-President until his passing in 2017, Taylor remains the club’s most successful-ever manager, with his achievements living long in the memory of supporters.
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The details for Watford’s trip to face Stevenage in the Carabao Cup have now been confirmed.
Following a successful first week of pre-season action, the squad have resumed their intense preparations as they head into the second week of training.
Check out some of the best pictures below from another day at the London Colney training ground.
Action From Week One
Gallery: Day One
Gallery: Day Two
Gallery: Day Three
Gallery: Day Four
Gallery: Day Five
Warm-Ups
On The Pitch
Guess Who’s Back
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The most famous Watford fan of them all, Sir Elton John CBE, delivered a stunning finale to Glastonbury 2023 from the Pyramid Stage.
In 1906, when Watford’s manager couldn’t get a tune out of his squad, he signed Bert Badger – a professional violinist. Bert is our Hornet Heaven ‘Deceased Player of the Month’ for June. You can read about him here. BERT BADGER Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. More episodes are in the works. Olly & […]
As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the story of young Watford goalkeeper and 2023 Trust Football Champion Alfie Marriott...
Part of Watford Football Club’s Academy from the age of seven, Alfie is now a goalkeeper in the Hornets’ Under-21 set-up and he has regularly trained with the first-team in recent times.
He may be a shot-stopping sensation while representing the club, but away from professional football, the Trust and their Premier League Kicks sessions bring much-needed respite and a chance to score some goals instead of saving them.
“I had some free time on a Monday and my friends were telling me to come down after school. I used to be a central midfielder and got noticed by a few academies.
“When I went on trial to Watford, I went in goal for one game because there wasn’t a goalkeeper available and I have stayed there ever since! Kicks was a chance to get away from the intense work and just chill. We have so much freedom to play!
“As a goalkeeper, we have to be good with our feet so coming down here and playing outfield has helped with that.
“There always needs to be opportunities like Kicks around. You see so many young people going the wrong way in life.”
PL Kicks is the Premier League’s flagship community programme which is designed to engage young people aged 8-18 years old - of all backgrounds and abilities - with football, sport and personal development activities across Watford, Harrow and Hillingdon. Click HERE for more information.
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Watford FC and our Community, Sports & Education Trust continue to support Learning Disability Week by demonstrating the incredible things that people with learning disabilities achieve, smashing misconceptions about what people can do and shining a light on the stigma many still face every day.
In particular, the Trust’s Premier League Inspires programme - which is curriculum-based and available free to all secondary schools or educational establishments - helps to encourage and empower young people to fulfil their potential and raise aspirations.
A big part of this includes working with young people who face barriers to their education, such as mental health conditions, physical and learning disabilities, or environmental factors to develop personal, social, employability and life skills.
Lucy Tearle, Community Project Manager for Young People at the Trust, said: “We have been working with partner agencies and schools to ensure our delivery, training and resources are fully inclusive to support young people with a learning disability and create an environment where everyone can become an ally to stand up and empower others using wide-ranging practices.”
This has resulted in 35 per cent of our referred participants having a disability, including delivery in five special educational needs schools in the local area.
To find out more about Premier League Inspires, click HERE. For more information about all of the programmes offered by the Trust, click HERE.
Learning Disability Week is organised every year by the learning disability charity, Mencap. Click HERE to find out more.
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Young defender Mattie Pollock is itching to build on a strong end to last season by firmly establishing himself in the Watford squad and ultimately helping the Hornets push for promotion in the upcoming fresh campaign.
The 21-year-old has been on the club’s books since joining from Grimsby Town in the summer of 2021, and after spending the subsequent season on loan at Cheltenham Town in League One - where he featured 39 times and won the Robins’ Young Player of the Year award - he endured a somewhat frustrating start to 2022/23 back at Vicarage Road.
After making his debut for the Golden Boys against MK Dons in the Carabao Cup, and featuring a total of five times in yellow, Pollock embarked on a second temporary spell away from Hertfordshire in January, this time north of the border with Scottish Premiership giants Aberdeen.
A hugely successful few months yielded two goals in 15 appearances as Pollock and the Dons secured a third-place finish in the table and European qualification, and the North-East native believes he is now better equipped to bolster Watford’s backline in the Sky Bet Championship.
“The first six months of last season were obviously disappointing, but I went out on loan and I learnt a lot,” he said. “I think I’ve improved a lot, and I think I’ve come back to Watford as a better player and a better person.
“I had a sticky spell and I needed the games. To go up there and play 15 times was great, and I’d say it’s probably the most I’ve enjoyed football since I started playing.
“I can’t speak highly enough of Aberdeen. Everyone at the club was unbelievable - defensively we were good and attacking-wise as well - it all came together and it was a special group to be part of.
“I think the season overall was a big learning curve - including the time I wasn’t playing. I’ve had a good break now, and I’m buzzing to be back. Hopefully this year can be a bit different at Watford, and I’m aiming to hit the ground running in training.”
With the first week of pre-season coming to a close Pollock has enjoyed getting acquainted with new Head Coach Valérien Ismaël and his staff, as he looks to catch their eyes in the run-up to the new term.
Thursday’s announcement of the 2023/24 schedule sees Watford pitted against West Londoners Queens Park Rangers on the opening day (Saturday August 5), and Pollock is eyeing a spot in or around the XI for that match and beyond.
He added: “I’m really excited for pre-season and the new campaign, and to be back amongst the lads at the training ground. There’s a new manager and staff to try and impress, and hopefully I can do that because I want this year to be a bit different.
“It all goes very quickly and the countdown’s already started for that first game. I’m really eager to kick on, and I want to try to work myself into the team or at least be around it. Hopefully it’s a good year for me and everyone at the club.”
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Watford have revealed their new Kelme home kit this morning ahead of the 2023/24, with pre-orders commencing next week.
Following the announcement of the fixtures for the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season, the Watford faithful will be eagerly anticipating the start of the new campaign.
Ahead of the opener against Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 5), we take a look at the stats, facts and figures that surround the freshly-revealed schedule.
Distance
229 – Sunderland’s Stadium of Light remains the ground that is furthest away from Vicarage Road as the crow flies, at 229 miles. Middlesbrough’s Riverside Stadium is ranked second at 205 miles, while newly-promoted Plymouth Argyle slots into third at 184 miles.
12 – The closest ground remains QPR’s Loftus Road, the curtain-raiser this term, at just 12 miles in White City, London. Coming in as runner-up is Millwall at 18 miles, while recently-relegated Southampton rank third at 66 miles.
119 – As the crow flies, Watford supporters will, on average, travel 119.4 miles to away matches this season.
Capacity
49,000 – Once again, the Black Cats’ Stadium of Light remains firmly top for ground capacity in the second-tier, with Sheffield Wednesday’s Hillsborough second at just under 40,000. Another fresh-faced side that is entering the division is Leeds United – Elland Road is ranked third at 37,600.
12,000 – Rotherham United’s New York Stadium is home to the smallest capacity within the Championship at 12,000. Plymouth are second with Home Park’s 17,900 and QPR are third with just over 18,000.
Reunited
This is the first time the Hornets will face Plymouth since April 2010, when a deciding goal from Heiðar Helguson secured a 1-0 victory at Vicarage Road.
The Pilgrims and the Golden Boys will meet back at The Vic on August 12 and at Home Park on New Year’s Day.
Meanwhile, it’s been over eight years since Ipswich Town last faced Watford – playing most recently in March 2015. The two sides will meet on December 12 at The Vic and on April 10 at Portman Road.
Also, recently-demoted Leeds United, Leicester City and Southampton will face Watford in the second-tier having all previously met in 2022 during the 2021/22 Premier League campaign. In the Championship, the Hornets last faced the former top-flight sides in 2015, 2014 and 2012 respectively.
Familiar Foes
5 – This will be the fifth consecutive season that the Hornets and Norwich City have been in the same division, with that record having started in 2019 in the top-flight.
From the current Championship crop, Watford have faced Cardiff City the most of any team having played each other 22 times since the competition changed name in 2004. The Hornets will face the Bluebirds in Wales on October 7 and in Hertfordshire on February 3.
The Golden Boys have played Sunderland on the fewest occasions in the second-tier, going head-to-head only four times.
They will do battle for the fifth and sixth time on October 4 at the Stadium of Light and on April 27 in the penultimate match of the season at The Vic.
Opening Day Memories
9 - Watford have lost just one of their last 16 opening day fixtures, a 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2019. The Hornets have won nine of those games, stretching back to the 2007/08 campaign, including the most recent coming against Sheffield United last term – a 1-0 victory.
The opener at QPR is the first time the Hornets have had an away day to kick off a campaign since 2016. Watford played Southampton on the South Coast that day, with the match ending in a 1-1 draw after Étienne Capoue broke the deadlock.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Day four of pre-season has seen plenty of action as the Watford squad continue their preparations following the announcement of the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship fixtures.
Check out some of the best pictures below from another day back at the London Colney training ground.
More From Pre-Season
Gallery: Day One
Gallery: Day Two
Gallery: Day Three
Back Out On The Grass - 10.30am
The Shot-Stoppers - 11am
Getting Acquainted With The New Equipment - 12noon
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This morning (Thursday June 22) saw the announcement of the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship fixtures, with supporters having eagerly anticipated the news.
The release saw the Hornets confirmed to play Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road (Saturday August 5) in the opening match of the season. Meanwhile, the final encounter of the term comes against Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium (Saturday May 4).
With the first week of pre-season coming to an end, the squad have been put through their paces as the countdown to the curtain-raiser begins.
Ahead of that clash, we have spoken to four members of the squad to gauge their reaction to the newly-released fixtures.
James Morris
“I always look for the first game and the last game when the fixtures come out. And now Southampton are in the league, my former club, I’ve kept an eye on when we will play them.
“When you see the fixtures have come out, you know what’s coming and that’s when you start getting excited.
“Now things start to ramp up and training has been really good. I’ve been getting to know the boss [Valérien Ismaël] and how he wants us to play. It’s been really enjoyable to learn a new style of play and be back with all the boys. Now our eyes are on that first game.”
Tom Dele-Bashiru
“The first match is against Queens Park Rangers and I’m really looking forward to that. I think I played them twice when I was on loan at Reading. One of those games was really exciting because we were 3-1 down and we came back to make it 3-3.
“My eyes are drawn always to the first and last matches. I’m really excited now to get going.
“For me, my time at Watford has been stop and start because of my injuries. I’m hoping now I can stay fit and really help the team during the season. Everyone is looking really sharp and I’m really excited to get on the pitch.”
Ryan Andrews
“The first home match against Plymouth (August 12) will be really important. You always want to play in front of your supporters. That will set the tone.
“If I’m honest, I don’t look at the fixtures too much. It’s important to take it game-by-game and not to look too far ahead. It’s about hitting the ground running. I’m looking forward to playing against QPR as well. When you look at previous matches with them, they have gone both ways so it should be a competitive one.
“Training for that first game has been really good and Valérien Ismaël is very certain on how he wants us to play. He has been drilling it into us from an early stage. I’m hoping it will be a very good season for us.”
Joseph Hungbo
“The fixtures look good and I’m excited. For me, it’s about hitting the ground running in the first two and going to Blackburn Rovers where we will come up against a really tough team. It’s about trying to cause every team problems.
“It’s always bittersweet when you play a former team. I know we play Huddersfield in November. I have built up a lot of great relationships with people on and off the pitch there. I can’t wait to be back at the John Smith’s Stadium, but I have a job to do and I want the three points. It will be great to see everyone, but bring it on.
“It’s been a really intense start to pre-season and the boss has been really demanding in what he wants. He wants to press with intensity and to work as a team. It’s all about the team. There is a good vibe around the place and hopefully we can showcase everything when the first game against QPR rolls around.”
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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An exciting opportunity has become available at Watford Football Club. We are seeking to recruit highly motivated individuals to join our retail team to work matchdays and other peak trading periods. You will be required to work in the club shops, at Vicarage Road Stadium, Atria Watford shopping centre and the retail kiosks located inside the stadium.
You will be expected to provide an excellent shopping environment for all customers, to communicate clearly and positively, and to deliver outstanding customer service. General shop duty experience such as stock replenishment, visual merchandising, till operations and warehouse duties would be an advantage for any applicant, however it is not essential as full training would be provided.
Successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Casual Retail Sales Assistant
Rate of Pay: Hourly, depending on experience
Location: Vicarage Road Stadium, Atria Watford
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: Ongoing
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.
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The Hornets will take on Hertfordshire neighbours Stevenage in the first round of the 2023/24 Carabao Cup, with the match set to take place at the Lamex Stadium during the week commencing Monday August 7 (date and time to be confirmed).
The draw was conducted by Michael Dawson and Danny Cowley live on Sky Sports, following the release of the EFL league fixtures earlier on Thursday (June 22).
Watford last faced Stevenage in competitive action at the same stage of the Carabao Cup in 2014 - when a Lloyd Dyer goal secured a 1-0 win - and the Golden Boys will now once again make the short journey to the newly-promoted League One outfit as they begin their bid for cup success just days after kicking off in the Sky Bet Championship at Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 5).
A disappointing home defeat to Milton Keynes Dons ended the Hornets’ Carabao Cup journey at the second-round stage last season, though they do have pedigree in the competition having reached the semi-finals in 1978/79 and 2004/05.
As a result of this cup draw, the club confirms that the previously scheduled pre-season friendly against Stevenage will no longer take place. Further pre-season updates will be announced in due course.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford have been drawn away to Stevenage in the first round of the Carabao Cup, nine years since their last first-round tie - also at Stevenage.
Overview
Watford will get their 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship campaign underway away at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday August 5, with the fixture marking the Hornets’ first opening-day clash on the road for seven years.
Making the short journey to West London for his first game in charge, Head Coach Valérien Ismaël will be hoping to end Watford’s four-game winless run against the Rs, with both of last year’s match-ups against them ending in defeat.
Ismaël’s first league outing at Vicarage Road is scheduled for the following week (Saturday August 12), with second-tier newboys Plymouth Argyle visiting Hertfordshire for the first time since April 2010, when a Heiðar Helguson strike proved the difference between the teams.
An away venture to Stoke City (Saturday August 19) and a home game versus Blackburn Rovers (Saturday August 26) close out the first month of play, before a trip to Coventry City (Saturday September 2) and successive Vicarage Road fixtures against Birmingham City (Saturday September 16) and West Bromwich Albion (Wednesday September 20) precede the first battle against one of the relegated sides from the Premier League, Leeds United.
That visit to Elland Road is set to take place on Saturday September 23, while a first meeting of the season against 2015/16 top-flight champions Leicester City is in the diary for Saturday November 25 at the King Power Stadium, two weeks before the Golden Boys are scheduled to entertain Russell Martin���s Southampton (Saturday December 9).
It’s Bristol City at home on Boxing Day - when Watford will look to stretch an unbeaten record against the Robins stretching to August 2017 - just under a week before a long trip to Devon to face Plymouth at Home Park on New Year’s Day.
There are six matches scheduled in a busy April before Ismaël’s charges conclude the 46-game season at last year’s play-off semi-finalists Middlesbrough on Saturday May 4, little over three weeks before the 2023/24 Championship play-off final at Wembley on Sunday May 26.
All fixtures are subject to change and may be rescheduled due to cup competitions and international fixtures. Watford’s clash at QPR is not one of four Championship games selected for Sky Sports coverage across the opening weekend, while the remaining EFL broadcast selections for August will be announced in due course.
AUGUST 2023
Sat Aug 5 Queens Park Rangers A
*Tue Aug 8 Carabao Cup R1
Sat Aug 12 Plymouth Argyle H
Sat Aug 19 Stoke City A
Sat Aug 26 Blackburn Rovers H
*Tue Aug 29 Carabao Cup R2
SEPTEMBER 2023
Sat Sep 2 Coventry City A
*Break for international fixtures
Sat Sep 16 Birmingham City H
Wed Sep 20 West Bromwich Albion H
Sat Sep 23 Leeds United A
*Tue Sep 26 Carabao Cup R3
Sat Sep 30 Middlesbrough H
OCTOBER 2023
Wed Oct 4 Sunderland A
Sat Oct 7 Cardiff City A
*Break for international fixtures
Sat Oct 21 Sheffield Wednesday H
Tue Oct 24 Swansea City A
Sat Oct 28 Millwall H
*Tue Oct 31 Carabao Cup R4
NOVEMBER 2023
Sat Nov 4 Huddersfield Town A
Sat Nov 11 Rotherham United H
*Break for international fixtures
Sat Nov 25 Leicester City A
Tue Nov 28 Norwich City H
DECEMBER 2023
Sat Dec 2 Hull City A
Sat Dec 9 Southampton H
Tue Dec 12 Ipswich Town H
Sat Dec 16 Preston North End A
*Tue Dec 19 Carabao Cup R5
Sat Dec 23 Blackburn Rovers A
Tue Dec 26 Bristol City H
Fri Dec 29 Stoke City H
JANUARY 2024
Mon Jan 1 Plymouth Argyle A
*Sat Jan 6 Emirates FA Cup R3
*Tue Jan 9 Carabao Cup SF L1
Sat Jan 13 Queens Park Rangers H
Sat Jan 20 Bristol City A
*Tue Jan 23 Carabao Cup SF L2
Sat Jan 27 Sheffield Wednesday A (EFACR4)
FEBRUARY 2024
Sat Feb 3 Cardiff City H
Sat Feb 10 Leicester City H
Tue Feb 13 Norwich City A
Sat Feb 17 Rotherham United A
Sat Feb 24 Huddersfield Town H
*Sun Feb 25 Carabao Cup Final
*Tue Feb 27 Emirates FA Cup R5
MARCH 2024
Sat Mar 2 Millwall A
Wed Mar 6 Swansea City H
Sat Mar 9 Coventry City H
Sat Mar 16 Birmingham City A (EFACR6)
*Break for international fixtures
Fri Mar 29 Leeds United H
APRIL 2024
Mon Apr 1 West Bromwich Albion A
Sat Apr 6 Preston North End H
Wed Apr 10 Ipswich Town A
Sat Apr 13 Southampton A
Sat Apr 20 Hull City H (EFACSF)
Sat Apr 27 Sunderland H
MAY 2024
Sat May 4 Middlesbrough A
*Sat May 25 Emirates FA Cup Final
*Sun May 26 Championship Play-Off Final
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
Fixture List Download
To access a downloadable 2023/24 provisional fixture list, please click HERE.
Hospitality
For more information about the hospitality packages available at Vicarage Road Stadium during the 2023/24 season, click HERE.
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Watford start the 2023/24 season with their shortest away when they travel to Queens Park Rangers on Saturday August 5.
Watford FC will find out their schedule for the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season on Thursday (June 22) at 9am BST, as the fixture list for the campaign is released.
To find out the running order of the Hornets’ upcoming season in the second tier, keep an eye on the club’s website, app, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, as well as the EFL website.
The Championship campaign kicks off on the weekend of August 4-6, with the Golden Boys looking to secure an opening day win for the fourth successive season. The season will run until the play-off final, which is set to take place on Sunday May 26, 2024.
The Carabao Cup round one draw will also be revealed on Thursday June 22, at 2.30pm live on Sky Sports.
Watford, alongside the other 71 EFL clubs, will enter the 2023/24 competition at the first-round stage, which is divided into northern and southern sections.
Valérien Ismaël’s side will be ball 33 in the southern section, with matches scheduled to take place during the week commencing August 7.
For more information on key dates, click HERE.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures when they are released. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Ben, Mike & Cameron are back to discuss the Watford Fan Forum with Gino Pozzo & Scott Duxbury that happened last Thursday. They also talk about Rhys Healey becoming the first summer signing of the window for The Hornets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Day three of pre-season has seen Watford’s first signing of the summer join the group, with Rhys Healey’s arrival in Hertfordshire having been confirmed.
As the Hornets continue their preparations ahead of the new season, check out some of the best pictures below from the third day back at the London Colney training ground.
More From Pre-Season
Gallery: Day One
Gallery: Day Two
On The Grass - 10am
Healey’s A Hornet - 1pm
Gym Time - 3.30pm
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Day three of pre-season has seen Watford’s first signing of the summer join the group, with Rhys Healey’s arrival in Hertfordshire having been confirmed.
As the Hornets continue their preparations ahead of the new season, check out some of the best pictures below from the third day back at the London Colney training ground.
More From Pre-Season
Gallery: Day One
Gallery: Day Two
On The Grass - 10am
Healey’s A Hornet - 1pm
Gym Time - 3.30pm
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Watford FC are pleased to announce the signing of English striker Rhys Healey on a two-year deal.
The 28-year-old moves to Vicarage Road following a three-year spell in France, where he enjoyed a prolific stint with Toulouse, scoring 39 times in 77 appearances.
Having joined Toulouse – then in Ligue 2 – at the start of the 2020/21 season, Healey netted 15 goals in 33 league matches in an impressive first campaign that also included a Player of the Month award, a third-placed finish and a run to the Coupe de France quarter-finals.
He picked up from where he left off in 2021/22, scoring 20 goals in 32 appearances – finishing as the top scorer in Ligue 2 whilst winning Player of the Month twice and earning a spot in the division’s Team of the Year – as Toulouse won the second tier and were promoted.
After three Ligue 1 outings and one goal during the early stages of last season, injury limited Healey’s gametime for the remainder of the campaign however he did find the back of the net upon his return, scoring in the final fixture against Monaco.
Prior to his switch to France, Healey enjoyed two successful spells at MK Dons, the first a half-season loan in which the Manchester-born forward scored nine times as the Dons earned promotion to League One in 2018/19.
Joining MK Dons permanently ahead of the following campaign, Healey was then voted Players’ Player of the Season and topped the club’s goalscoring ranks with 12 in 21 games.
Having begun his career in Wales, Healey swapped Connah’s Quay Nomads for Cardiff City in 2013 aged 18 and picked up crucial experience during his formative years on loan at Colchester United, Dundee, Newport County, Torquay United and eventually MK Dons.
Welcome to Watford, Rhys!
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Watford FC will find out their schedule for the 2023/24 Sky Bet Championship season on Thursday (June 22) at 9am BST, as the fixture list for the campaign is released.
To find out the running order of the Hornets’ upcoming season in the second tier, keep an eye on the club’s website, app, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, as well as the EFL website.
The Championship campaign kicks off on the weekend of August 4-6, with the Golden Boys looking to secure an opening day win for the fourth successive season. The season will run until the play-off final, which is set to take place on Sunday May 26, 2024.
The Carabao Cup round one draw will also be revealed on Thursday June 22, at 2.30pm live on Sky Sports.
Watford, alongside the other 71 EFL clubs, will enter the 2023/24 competition at the first-round stage, which is divided into northern and southern sections.
Valérien Ismaël’s side will be ball 33 in the southern section, with matches scheduled to take place during the week commencing August 7.
For more information on key dates, click HERE.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2023/24 fixtures when they are released. Just select ‘Sky Bet Championship’ from the dropdown, and then ‘Watford’.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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As the international window comes to a close, it’s been a busy final period for several Hornets involved in qualifying matches and friendlies across the globe.
We begin with Ryan Porteous who enjoyed a 2-0 victory during a long evening for Scotland at Hampden Park, with his match against Georgia (Tuesday June 20) delayed by 90 minutes due to heavy rain.
The Group A qualifier for the 2024 UEFA European Championships was halted after Callum McGregor put the Scots ahead within six minutes. And once the contest had got back underway, Scott McTominay gave the hosts a two-goal lead.
Porteous, who featured at centre-half, played the full match, keeping a clean sheet – his fourth in five games for his national team.
The result puts Porteous’ Scotland top of the group by eight points as they look to qualify for the upcoming Euros.
Meanwhile, Ismaïla Sarr’s Senegal beat Brazil 4-2 in a competitive exhibition match in Lisbon, Portugal (June 20). The Watford winger played the full complement of minutes as goals from Habib Diallo, an own-goal and a brace from Sadio Mané secured the victory.
In a battle of the Hornets, shot-stopper Daniel Bachmann and winger Ken Sema were unused substitutes as the goalkeeper’s Austria side beat Sweden (June 20), securing a 2-0 victory in Group F of the European qualifiers.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by Daniel Bachmann (@danbachmann35)
A late brace from Christoph Baumgartner made the difference at Sema and Sweden’s expense as Bachmann’s Austria strengthened their position at the top of the group.
Also, Colombian Yáser Asprilla was an unused substitute as his national side beat Germany 2-0 in an international friendly (June 20).
Second-half goals from Luis Díaz and Juan Cuadrado ensured that the South American side would come out on top against their European opposition.
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Striker Rhys Healey has joined Watford on a two-year contract after a prolific goalscoring spell in France with Toulouse
Watford FC and our Community, Sports & Education Trust are delighted to support Learning Disability Week, which runs until June 26.
The awareness week is organised every year by the learning disability charity, Mencap. It aims to improve the quality of life for individuals with learning disabilities by raising awareness about important issues, fighting stigma and discrimination, and raising funds for outreach and support programs.
To celebrate, we’re delighted to announce a partnership with Step2Skills and have signed up to their Inclusive Employment Project.
Both the club and Trust have also reached level two of the Disability Confident Scheme and have started working towards level three, which will see us become Disability Confident Leaders as we aim to bring more people with disabilities into our workplaces.
As part of Hertfordshire County Council, Step2Skills adult community learning and employment support service provides opportunities for adults from across the county to get involved in learning and employment within the community.
The service works with people who face barriers to education and employment such as learning or physical disabilities, as well as those with low skills or mental health conditions.
Both the club and Trust share our job vacancies with Step2Skills’ Inclusive Employment Project (partly funded by European Social Fund) and work with their team to consider requests for work tasters or trials, and job carving for their participants.
We also supported a Disability Inclusive Step2Skills job fair, which was held at West Herts College earlier this year and was packed with local employers. The day also offered visitors the chance to meet employers, network with others and discuss local employment and training opportunities.
On the partnership, Dave Messenger, the club’s Equality, Diversity & Inclusion (EDI) Lead, said: “As part of our EDI Strategy we want our workplaces to better reflect the communities we serve, and working with Step2Skills will help us achieve that.
“We’re already getting some great outcomes and hope this is just the start of a rewarding partnership.”
Georgina De-Allie, Employer Liaison Officer at Step2Skills, added: “We greatly value our collaboration with Watford FC and the Community, Sports & Education Trust. This has already generated multiple opportunities for local disabled people, the club and Trust are committed to improving accessibility and inclusion.”
To find out more about Step2Skills and the courses they offer, please click HERE.
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Almost a week on from the first face-to-face meeting between Watford owner Gino Pozzo and fans, a chance to reflect on the occasion.
Pre-season is well and truly underway, with the players continuing their preparations ahead of the new season.
Check out some of the best pictures below from the second day of pre-season.
More From Pre-Season
Gallery: Day One
Back In The Gym - 9.30am
Back To Training - 11am
The Coaches - 3.30pm
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With the announcement of the Sky Bet Championship fixtures getting ever closer this Thursday (June 22) at 9am, it’s time to get fully acquainted with Watford’s opponents ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.
Following the first instalment published earlier this week, take a look at the final 11 clubs in the coming season’s second-tier.
Norwich City
Head Coach: David Wagner
Nickname: The Canaries
Ground: Carrow Road
Capacity: 27,244
Last Meeting
Norwich City 0-1 Watford, January 2023
Last Season
Championship: 13th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Josh Sargent (13)
It was a disappointing campaign for the Canaries last time out as they finished in the bottom half of the second-tier for the first time since the 2017/18 season. David Wagner will be hoping to inspire his side to a brighter season this time round.
Plymouth Argyle
Manager: Steven Schumacher
Nickname: The Pilgrims
Ground: Home Park
Capacity: 17,900
Last Meeting
Watford 1-0 Plymouth Argyle, April 2010
Last Season
League One: 1st (Promoted)
FA Cup: First Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Ryan Hardie (17)
After enjoying an exemplary season in the third-tier, breaking the 100-point barrier, Steven Schumacher will be hopeful of maintaining the Pilgrims’ place in the Championship.
Preston North End
Manager: Ryan Lowe
Nickname: The Lilywhites
Ground: Deepdale
Capacity: 23,404
Last Meeting
Watford 0-0 Preston North End, March 2023
Last Season
Championship: 12th
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Ched Evans (9)
Since returning to the Championship in 2015, Preston have enjoyed a consistent run of mid-table finishes, never finishing below 14th. They sustained that record once again with a 12th-placed finish last season, but manager Ryan Lowe will be looking to press on during the new campaign.
Queens Park Rangers
Head Coach: Gareth Ainsworth
Nickname: The R’s
Ground: Loftus Road
Capacity: 18,439
Last Meeting
Queens Park Rangers 1-0 Watford, March 2023
Last Season
Championship: 20th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Lyndon Dykes (8)
After narrowly avoiding relegation during the last campaign, Gareth Ainsworth will be hoping to recapture the R’s early season form that saw them reach the summit of the Championship table in October 2022.
Rotherham United
Manager: Matt Taylor
Nickname: The Millers
Ground: New York Stadium
Capacity: 12,021
Last Meeting
Watford 1-1 Rotherham United, January 2023
Last Season
Championship: 19th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Chiedozie Ogbene (9)
Following promotion to the Championship, an impressive start to the 2022/23 campaign saw the Millers’ previous manager Paul Warne move to Derby County, leaving Matt Taylor to guide Rotherham United to safety. The boss will be hoping to continue the club’s progress in his first full season in charge.
Sheffield Wednesday
Manager: N/A
Nickname: The Owls
Ground: Hillsborough Stadium
Capacity: 39,732
Last Meeting
Watford 1-0 Sheffield Wednesday, April 2021
Last Season
League One: 3rd (Promoted)
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: Third Round
Top Scorer: Michael Smith (21)
A heroic turnaround against Peterborough United during the semi-finals of the play-offs inspired the Owls to victory in the final over Barnsley. They will certainly be hoping that momentum will carry into the new campaign.
Southampton
Manager: N/A
Nickname: The Saints
Ground: St Mary's Stadium
Capacity: 32,384
Last Meeting
Southampton 1-2 Watford, March 2022
Last Season
Premier League: 20th (Relegated)
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: Semi-Final
Top Scorer: James Ward-Prowse (11)
The Saints are back in the second-tier for the first time since the 2011/12 season following a tumultuous top-flight campaign. Despite this, Southampton’s squad remains competitive with players like James Ward-Prowse looking to return the club back to the Premier League at the first chance.
Stoke City
Manager: Alex Neil
Nickname: The Potters
Ground: Bet365 Stadium
Capacity: 30,089
Last Meeting
Watford 2-0 Stoke City, May 2023
Last Season
Championship: 16th
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Tyrese Campbell & Jacob Brown (9)
It was a disappointing end to the campaign as the Potters ended with no wins in their final seven matches. In Alex Neil’s first full season in charge, the Stoke City boss will be looking to improve on their home form as they hope to better a 16th-place finish.
Sunderland
Head Coach: Tony Mowbray
Nickname: The Black Cats
Ground: Stadium of Light
Capacity: 49,000
Last Meeting
Sunderland 2-2 Watford, April 2023
Last Season
Championship: 6th
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Amad Diallo (14)
It was another impressive season for the Black Cats as they made it back-to-back play-off appearances. Despite missing out on the ultimate prize, being knocked out at the semi-final stage by Luton Town, Tony Mowbray’s players will be hoping for more of the same.
Swansea City
Head Coach: Russell Martin
Nickname: The Swans
Ground: Swansea.com Stadium
Capacity: 21,088
Last Meeting
Swansea City 4-0 Watford, December 2022
Last Season
Championship: 10th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Joël Piroe (20)
A top-half finish saw the Swans impress at points during the last campaign, including an unbeaten run to conclude the season. In their now sixth consecutive term in the second-tier, the Welsh side will be anticipating further developments as they hope to progress towards the play-off positions.
West Bromwich Albion
Head Coach: Carlos Corberán
Nickname: The Baggies
Ground: The Hawthorns
Capacity: 26,850
Last Meeting
Watford 3-2 West Brom, February 2023
Last Season
Championship: 9th
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Brandon Thomas-Asante (9)
After a poor start to the 2022/23 campaign, boss Carlos Corberán oversaw a change in fortunes as he guided West Brom up the table, finishing just three points off the play-off positions. The Baggies will be hoping to capitalise on that momentum heading into the new season.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Academy at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Player Care and Safeguarding Officer to be a part of a forward-thinking team.
They will be responsible for providing a high-quality player care provision throughout the Academy, through successful collaboration with key Academy and club specialists, and stakeholders.
You will play a key role in:
- To assist and support the Safeguarding and Welfare Manager in delivering best practice in safeguarding and welfare within the organisation to highest standards.
- To ensure the Academy operates and remains compliant in accordance with the statutory agencies and football governing bodies.
- Ensure a high-quality player care provision throughout the Academy, through successful collaboration with key Academy team members.
- Develop and successfully coordinate the mechanism for engaging with players and parents to ensure that the right level of support is given to individual players.
- Coordinate and support the Safeguarding and Welfare Manager with the Academy’s host family provision, including being a main point of contact for the host families.
- Be a main point of contact in the reporting and recording of welfare/safeguarding issues within the Academy.
- Organise and deliver the personal life skills plan for Academy players.
- Play a leading role as member of the Safeguarding Management Group to help raise the awareness, standards and understanding of safeguarding across the business.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live locally to Watford/London Colney or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Experience of working with children in a welfare and pastoral-related role.
- An understanding of child protection requirements.
- Experience of working within a football environment, preferably within an Academy environment.
- Valid FA Safeguarding Children Certificate and/or equivalent.
- Valid FA Welfare Officers Workshop Certificate and/or equivalent.
- This role will have regular contact with children, and it is therefore required by law to have a DBS Enhanced Criminal Record Check with children’s barred list check.
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role.
You would ideally have, but not vital:
- Mental Health First Aid qualified.
- Basic First Aid for Sport and/or equivalent.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Player Care and Safeguarding Officer
Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent full-time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Friday July 7, 2023
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the Careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.
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Goalkeeper Jonathan Macaulay made his debut for England’s Under-18s during a memorable 3-2 win over Australia on Sunday (June 11).
The young Hornet had been an unused substitute in the Young Lions’ opening Lisbon International Tournament clash against Norway on Friday (June 9), with the match ending in a 2-2 draw.
In the second game of the competition, the 18-year-old shot-stopper lined up to face Australia in his maiden fixture, helping England to victory in an entertaining tussle.
The Young Lions took a two-goal lead in the first-half after Zach Marsh’s brace put England into the ascendency, but Australia’s Max Caputo and Marcus Younis levelled the score before Watford Academy teammate Adrian Blake scored a late winner.
In the final match of the tournament in Portugal, Macaulay was an unused substitute against the host nation during a 0-0 stalemate on Tuesday (June 13).
Elsewhere, Imrân Louza earnt another cap for Morocco against Cape Verde on Monday (June 12) in an international friendly.
During the 0-0 draw, Louza started the fixture in midfield before being substituted for Ilias Chair in the final 15 minutes.
The 23-year-old could be in line to feature against South Africa (Saturday June 17, 4pm KO UK time) in the penultimate match of Group K in the Africa Cup of Nations qualification stage. The Atlas Lions are currently top of the group with a faultless record.
Finally, Academy midfielder Dawid Hamiga featured for Poland’s Under-18 side (Tuesday June 13) against Slovenia.
Hamiga was a second-half substitute, playing the final half an hour during a 1-0 defeat.
He could also feature in Poland’s next fixture against Montenegro’s Under-18s this Saturday (June 17, 9.30am KO UK time).
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As pre-season begins at the London Colney training ground, some of the Hornets have been busy featuring for their respective national sides across the globe.
It was a packed schedule for Ismaël Koné, who was a key figure in Canada’s CONCACAF Nations League Finals run, playing in the semi-finals and the final of the tournament.
The first fixture saw the midfielder face Panama (Friday June 16) in the final four of the competition, helping Canada see off the Central American side with a 2-0 victory thanks to goals from Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies.
The victory secured Koné’s place in the showpiece event where he came up against the United States of America (Monday June 19). It was a hard-fought fixture, but two first-half goals from the Americans secured the trophy, with the Watford player having featured for the full 90 minutes.
Elsewhere, fresh off the back of an impressive Under-20 FIFA World Cup campaign with Colombia, Yáser Asprilla played in the final 15 minutes of a friendly against Iraq (Friday June 16) for the senior team.
The winger came on for Liverpool attacker Luis Díaz before Colombia’s Mateo Cassierra scored the deciding goal to secure the 1-0 victory. Asprilla’s Colombia will face Germany on Tuesday (June 20, 8pm KO UK time) in another exhibition tie.
Scotland’s Ryan Porteous featured during a 2-1 win over Norway in qualification Group A for the 2024 European Championship (Saturday June 17).
Striker Erling Haaland opened the scoring from the penalty spot after the interval before Lyndon Dykes – who replaced Porteous with 10 minutes to go – and Kenny McLean produced a remarkable late turnaround to secure the win.
The centre-back could face Georgia (Tuesday June 20, 7.45pm KO UK time) in matchday four of the qualifiers as Scotland look to maintain their perfect record at the top of Group A.
Meanwhile, Imrân Louza’s Morocco tasted defeat in the Africa Cup of Nations qualification stage for the first following a 2-1 loss to South Africa (Saturday June 17).
Munir and Zakhele Lepasa gave the hosts a two-goal lead, while Hakim Ziyech only earned the Atlas Lions a conciliation goal with Louza substituted in the 62nd minute.
Ismaïla Sarr played 80 minutes in Senegal’s Africa Cup of Nations penultimate qualifying match against Benin (Saturday June 17). The match ended in a 1-1 draw with Sarr expected to be in action once again tomorrow evening when his side will face Brazil in an international friendly (Tuesday June 20, 8pm KO UK time).
Wide-man Ken Sema came off the bench for Sweden in the second-half during their 4-1 victory against New Zealand (Friday June 16). The 29-year-old could be in line to feature tomorrow (Tuesday June 20, 7.45pm KO UK time) against Daniel Bachmann’s Austria in the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
Also, centre-half William Troost-Ekong was an unused substitute for Nigeria against Sierra Leone (Sunday June 18) during a 3-2 victory for the Super Eagles.
Likewise, goalkeeper Bachmann was on the bench during Austria’s 1-1 draw with Belgium in Group F as part of the Euro 2024 qualifiers.
In the academy, George Abbott featured for Wales’ Under-19 side during a pair of friendlies against Sweden.
The centre-half captained his national side during the first match, a 1-0 defeat (Thursday June 15), before playing the second-half in the subsequent game (Sunday June 18) which ended in a 2-2 draw.
Dawid Hamiga was also on international duty as the youngster played for Poland’s Under-18s against Montenegro (Saturday June 17). The winger featured for 90 minutes as his side ran out 1-0 victors.
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Pre-season has officially begun at the London Colney training ground, with a selection of players being put through their paces as they get ready for the new campaign.
Check out some of the best pictures below from the first day of pre-season.
The Gym - 10am
Physio Tests - 11.30am
On The Pitch - 3.30pm
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Championship club Watford FC has failed to secure planning permission for their training dome near London Colney. Questions were raised why it was needed when Arsenal has a smaller facility next door
With the Sky Bet Championship fixtures set to be announced at 9am on Thursday June 22, it’s time to get fully acquainted with Watford’s opponents ahead of the 2023/24 campaign.
As the Hornets await the fixture list, we run through the first 12 clubs in the coming season’s second-tier.
Birmingham City
Nickname: The Blues
Head Coach: John Eustace
Ground: St Andrew’s
Capacity: 29,409
Last Meeting
Watford 3-0 Birmingham City, March 2023
Last Season
Championship: 17th
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Scott Hogan (10)
The Blues ended the 2022/23 season in disappointing fashion with four defeats in five, but the club were guided away from the relegation positions by former Hornet John Eustace. In his second season in charge at St Andrew’s, Eustace will be hoping to push further up the table.
Blackburn Rovers
Nickname: Rovers
Head Coach: Jon Dahl Tomasson
Ground: Ewood Park
Capacity: 31,367
Last Meeting
Watford 1-1 Blackburn Rovers, February 2023
Last Season
Championship: 7th
FA Cup: Quarter-final
League Cup: Fourth Round
Top Scorer: Ben Brereton Diaz (16)
Having only missed out on the play-off positions due to goal difference, Rovers were unlucky not to play their part in the knockout phase of the second-tier. Although Blackburn enter the new campaign without key figures Bradley Dack and top scorer Ben Brereton Díaz, manager Jon Dahl Tomasson will be hoping to go one step further next year.
Bristol City
Nickname: The Robins
Manager: Nigel Pearson
Ground: Ashton Gate
Capacity: 27,000
Last Meeting
Watford 2-0 Bristol City, April 2023
Last Season
Championship: 14th
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: Third Round
Top Scorer: Nahki Wells (11)
An improvement on a 17th-placed finish during the 2021/22 second-tier season saw Nigel Pearson’s squad finish on the cusp of the top-half positions thanks to contributions from Nahki Wells, Tommy Conway and co. The Robins will be hoping their ninth consecutive season in the Championship will hold something special as talented individuals such as Alex Scott continue to develop at Ashton Gate.
Cardiff City
Manager: Erol Bulut
Nickname: The Bluebirds
Ground: Cardiff City Stadium
Capacity: 33,280
Last Meeting
Watford 1-3 Cardiff City, April 2023
Last Season
Championship: 21st
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Sory Kaba (8)
After just avoiding relegation to League One last campaign, the Bluebirds will be hoping to break a streak of bottom-half finishes. At the helm of the revolution will be new boss Erol Bulut, who will look to bring his experiences in Turkey to the Welsh capital.
Coventry City
Manager: Mark Robins
Nickname: The Sky Blues
Ground: Coventry Building Society Arena
Capacity: 32,753
Last Meeting
Coventry City 2-2 Watford, April 2023
Last Season
Championship: 5th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Victor Gyökeres (22)
A hugely impressive second-half of their 2022/23 campaign saw the Sky Blues reach the play-offs, where they narrowly missed out on promotion to the Premier League after being beaten on penalties by Luton Town. Manager Mark Robins will be looking to go one step further this time out.
Huddersfield Town
Head Coach: Neil Warnock
Nickname: The Terriers
Ground: John Smith’s Stadium
Capacity: 24,121
Last Meeting
Watford 2-3 Huddersfield Town, April 2023
Last Season
Championship: 18th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Jordan Rhodes (6)
Thirty years after his first spell at the club, the return of Neil Warnock heralded an impressive turnaround for the Terriers, as they kept their place in the second-tier. Having confirmed he will remain at the John Smith’s Stadium for the upcoming campaign, Warnock will be looking to carry that momentum into the 2023/24 league season.
Hull City
Head Coach: Liam Rosenior
Nickname: The Tigers
Ground: MKM Stadium
Capacity: 25,586
Last Meeting
Hull City 1-0 Watford, April 2023
Last Season
Championship: 15th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Óscar Estupiñán (13)
Losing only five times in their last 18 matches, the Tigers proved to be a tricky side to beat during the second-half of the 2022/23 Championship season. Liam Rosenior will be hoping to build on their positive form and hit the ground running at the start of the new campaign.
Ipswich Town
Manager: Kieran McKenna
Nickname: The Tractor Boys
Ground: Portman Road
Capacity: 29,673
Last Meeting
Watford 0-1 Ipswich Town, March 2015
Last Season
League One: 2nd (Promoted)
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Conor Chaplin (29)
Having scored 101 goals, earning a club-record 98 points and 28 wins, Ipswich Town secured their return to the Championship in spectacular style after four seasons in League One. The Tractor Boys will be looking to replicate their exciting brand of football back in the second-tier.
Leeds United
Head Coach: N/A
Nickname: The Whites
Ground: Elland Road
Capacity: 37,890
Last Meeting
Watford 0-3 Leeds United, April 2022
Last Season
Premier League: 19th (Relegated)
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: Third Round
Top Scorer: Rodrigo (15)
A disappointing top-flight campaign concluded in relegation, ending their three-year stay in the Premier League. After enduring 16 years away from the top division of English football previously, Leeds supporters will be hoping a new Head Coach can inspire them to return at the first time of asking.
Leicester City
Head Coach: Enzo Maresca
Nickname: The Foxes
Ground: King Power Stadium
Capacity: 32,261
Last Meeting
Watford 1-5 Leicester City, May 2022
Last Season
Premier League: 18th (Relegated)
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: Quarter-Final
Top Scorer: Harvey Barnes (13)
Following nine consecutive seasons in the top-flight – which included the Foxes lifting the Premier League title during the 2015/16 season – Leicester City have returned to the Championship. Just like other relegated sides Leeds United and Southampton, the Foxes will be hoping for an instant response.
Middlesbrough
Head Coach: Michael Carrick
Nickname: Boro
Ground: Riverside Stadium
Capacity: 34,742
Last Meeting
Middlesbrough 2-0 Watford, January 2023
Last Season
Championship: 4th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Chuba Akpom (29)
One of the most exciting teams in the division, Michael Carrick’s Middlesbrough secured a place in the play-offs last time out, but missed out to eventual runners-up Coventry City. Under the former Manchester United player’s tutelage, the Boro faithful have plenty to be hopeful about heading into 2023/24.
Millwall
Manager: Gary Rowett
Nickname: The Lions
Ground: The Den
Capacity: 20,146
Last Meeting
Watford 0-2 Millwall, December 2022
Last Season
Championship: 8th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Tom Bradshaw (17)
Despite a disappointing end to the 2022/23 season that saw Millwall just miss out on the play-off places, manager Gary Rowett will be looking to build upon plenty of positives in his fifth season in charge of the London-based club.
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Combining football and studying, playing in the FA Youth Cup and first-team training: Gabriel Ortelli's talks about his first year as an Academy Scholar
Archive pictures of Watford in pre-season training ahead of their first season in Division One in July 1982.
Subjects covered in the final part of the fans' Q&A include debt, directorship, communication and a desire for a pre-season trip !
Fans at the Q&A asked Pozzo and Duxbury if they need to do more reflecting, and asked the owner why he isn't a director.
After thousands of votes over the past few weeks, it’s finally time to crown the most memorable moment from a century of Watford FC at Vicarage Road!
As we near the end of our year-long VR100 celebrations, a dedicated team of Watford-supporting experts on Hornets history have worked hard to draw up a list of The Vic’s 100 most memorable moments, from the opening game on August 30, 1922 right up until the VR100 Matchday on August 30, 2022.
For three weeks, supporters have taken part in the first, second, third and fourth of four online votes, with a final round of voting to then decide the order for the top 10 most memorable moments to have taken place at The Vic.
With voting having closed, it’s now time to run down your final ranking!
- READING’S GHOST GOAL (20/09/2008)
Tenth on the list is surely the strangest refereeing decision seen at Vicarage Road. Reading took the lead against the Hornets - in a game that eventually finished 2-2 - when linesman Nigel Bannister flagged for a John Eustace own goal instead of a corner after the home midfielder challenged Noel Hunt, much to the confusion of all in attendance. Bannister managed to persuade novice referee Stuart Atwell to award the goal - a decision that led to him being excused from ref duties for the next six weeks.
- THE GARY PORTER SHOW (23/10/1993)
In ninth is Gary Porter’s incredible one-man show. Three goals down with 20 minutes to play, the Hornets looked dead and buried against Bolton until a quickfire Gary Porter hat-trick - culminating in a last-minute penalty - inspired an incredible turnaround that sealed an improbable 4-3 victory.
- ELTON JOHN PERFORMS (05/05/1974)
Earning the number eight spot is Honorary Life-President, Sir Elton John. Having become Vice President in 1973 and later joined the board, boyhood Watford fan and global popstar Elton John played his first Vicarage Road concert to over 31,000 supporters, generating nearly £30,000 for the club.
- GT SIGNS OFF FOR FINAL TIME (28/04/2001)
Coming in at number seven is Graham Taylor’s final farewell to the Vicarage Road crowd at the last home game of the 2000/01 campaign - a 1-1 draw against Tranmere - drawing the curtain on his second permanent spell in charge by embarking on a lap of honour at full-time, delivering an emotional speech and being presented with a giant bottle of champagne.
- GT RETURNS (24/02/1996)
Just missing out on a top-five spot is Graham Taylor’s return. With the Hornets rooted to the bottom of the Division One table, GT returned to the club as General Manager alongside fellow legends Luther Blissett and Kenny Jackett in the lead up to the visit of Ipswich. After being given a hero’s welcome, GT couldn’t prevent a 3-2 defeat to the Tractor Boys.
- LIVERPOOL KNOCKED OUT (21/02/1970)
In fifth is a momentous cup win over the Reds. Back in 1970, Liverpool came to town in the FA Cup quarter-finals and Vicarage Road’s second largest crowd of all-time, 34,047, was treated to a glorious afternoon thanks to Barry Endean’s flying header in a 1-0 win.
- ‘UNSTOPPABLE’ LIVERPOOL TROUNCED (29/02/2020)
Making fourth is another famous victory over the red side of Merseyside. Liverpool’s hopes of avoiding defeat for an entire Premier League season were ended in sensational style at the hands of the Hornets, with an Ismaïla Sarr brace and a Troy Deeney goal sealing a famous 3-0 win that ended the joint-longest winning streak (18) and the second-longest unbeaten run (44) in English top-flight history.
- EUROPEAN GLORY (28/09/1983)
Earning a bronze medal is Watford’s first-ever European match at Vicarage Road, just five years after featuring in Division Four. The Hornets defeated Kaiserslautern 3-0 to secure a 4-3 aggregate win as teenage debutant Ian Richardson scored twice.
- SEVENTH HEAVEN (02/09/1980)
Ranking as the runner-up is Watford’s incredible comeback against Southampton. Trailing 4-0 going into the second leg of a League Cup second-round tie, Watford pulled off an astonishing 7-1 win with Malcolm Poskett (2), Ray Train, Martin Patching, Ian Bolton, Ross Jenkins and Nigel Callaghan on target in a 7-5 aggregate victory.
- THAT DEENEY GOAL (12/05/2013)
Finally, ranked as the most memorable moment over The Vic’s 100-year history is, of course, that Deeney goal - with more than 50 per cent of the vote! After Manuel Almunia’s heroics at one end, talismanic forward Troy Deeney blasted the ball past Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel at the other to emphatically finish off one of the most remarkable passages of play ever seen in football, cueing absolute pandemonium inside Vicarage Road. From Johnny Phillips’ commentary chaos to Gianfranco Zola’s fall and two pitch invasions, the Hornets’ route to the play-off final could barely have been more theatrical.
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There were serious and passionate pleas from Watford fans at the Q&A to bring the family club feel back to Vicarage Road
Fans at the Q&A with Gino Pozzo and Scott Duxbury were very keen to discuss Mogi Bayat, and also learn more about the club's debts
Watford FC is pleased to announce that Dean Whitehead, Omer Riza and Jack Riley will join Head Coach Valérien Ismaël’s backroom staff ahead of the new campaign.
Assistant Head Coach Whitehead joins the Hornets with plenty of football experience having featured more than 500 times for the likes of Sunderland, Stoke City and Middlesbrough.
Most notably, Whitehead won the Championship in 2005 and 2007 with the Black Cats, playing a significant role in both campaigns. The ex-midfielder also reached an FA Cup final with the Potters in 2011, before getting promoted to the top-flight with Huddersfield Town in 2017.
The 41-year-old moved into coaching during the 2018/19 season, working alongside then Terriers boss David Wagner before going on to take charge of the Under-17s in the same campaign. In 2019, Whitehead moved to League One side Shrewsbury Town before switching to Port Vale, helping the latter secure promotion to the third-tier as part of the coaching set-up.
In July 2022, he linked up with Ismaël for the first time during the Head Coach’s stint at Beşiktaş. Most recently, Whitehead was a part of Cardiff City’s first-team coaching staff, departing in January 2023.
Riza, who now takes the role of First-Team Assistant Coach, is a familiar name to Watford supporters having taken charge of the club’s Under-21 side since the 2020/21 season.
The former forward came through Arsenal's youth set-up, making more than 250 career appearances for clubs including Cambridge United, Denizlispor and Trabzonspor. During his time as a coach with the Hornets - having joined in August 2018 - Riza has also worked with The FA and England, earning his UEFA Pro Licence in 2022.
Having helped oversee the development of players such as Ryan Andrews, James Morris and Tobi Adeyemo, the 43-year-old will be a familiar face to the dressing room contingent during his work alongside Ismaël in the coming season.
Also joining the backroom staff is experienced Video Analyst Riley. Having previously worked in key roles behind the scenes with Ismaël at Barnsley, West Bromwich Albion and Beşiktaş, the 29-year-old completes the Watford Head Coach’s team.
Welcome Dean and Jack, and congratulations Omer!
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Troy Deeney's recent podcast interview prompted much debate, and chairman Scott Duxbury gave his take on it at last night's fans' forum.
Omer Riza will be Valerien Ismael’s first-team assistant coach, with Dean Whitehead appointed as assistant head coach.
Gino Pozzo explained at the fans forum what he does, and the roles of Ben Manga and Cristiano Giaretta
New head coach Valerien Ismael, players being signed for him, and that famous 'hell or high water' quote, discussed last night at the Watford fans' forum.
The early part of the fans' forum with Gino Pozzo and Scott Duxbury looked at the changes in head coach.
Watford owner Gino Pozzo began the Q&A at the club's training ground with some opening comments.
Watford owner Gino Pozzo and chairman Scott Duxbury have answered questions from fans at the club's training ground
Watford FC and MrQ are delighted to announce a new long-term partnership, which will see the logo of the locally-based gambling company adorn the front of the club's shirts.
Independently-owned and operating from St. Albans since its 2018 inception, MrQ.com becomes the club's principal partner for the forthcoming 2023/24 season and beyond.
The multi-year agreement represents a record-breaking deal for an EFL club.
"It's a great new chapter for the club and for us," said Savvas Fellas, MrQ.com founder. "We're excited for next season. Our business was built in St. Albans and the people who have shaped it are Hertfordshire born and bred and so we're excited about expanding on that local story."
Savvas added: "We're looking to raise our profile but this deal represents a lot more than just a sponsorship; it's a partnership, and we're keen to play our part in the local community."
Positioned as a challenger brand within the industry, MrQ identifies potential behavioural problems and proactively intervenes, believing the use of technology can help reduce the number of people with gambling-related problems in the UK and is aligned to their core vision, 'To shift the world's perception of what gambling should be - fun'.
"Our business is built on strong values, a set of first principles in which we make all day-to-day decisions on," explains Savvas.
"These include fairness, value entertainment and crafting with care - and these are embodied within everything we do for our players.
"We have a responsibility to make sure that we don't just adhere to regulations but that we go above and beyond the call of duty. This is where the technology and data come into everything we do. We have built our business and reputation entirely on openness, honesty and care."
Watford FC's Commercial Director Paul O'Brien said of the partnership: "The MrQ agreement is a very strong financial deal for the club and it also has longevity.
"MrQ has impressive roots in the local area and shares great synergy with our club values. As a Hertfordshire-based business, they are looking to impact really positively in the community."
See below to watch both Savvas and Paul talk about this exciting new partnership.
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As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the story of Watford Museum Curator Sarah Priestley...
Twenty years ago, Watford Museum was planning an exhibition to be called Goal-den Years that would focus on the highly successful Graham Taylor eras at Watford Football Club. During the extensive research work that goes into an exhibition, Museum curator Sarah found that a theme soon became clear.
She said: “Part of that was mapping out the community history and discovering about the Junior Hornets scheme and the Trust, seeing how much it meant to people, and collecting some of those stories. People were telling me this is important; this needs to be collected and needs to be shared.”
From there, a relationship formed between the Trust and both the Museum and its curator, Sarah, who also happened to be a football fan and now Watford FC season ticket holder.
Sarah continued: “We were then working together with the Learning Centre [a space at Vicarage Road Stadium managed by the Trust], talking to the young people and children, helping them connect with the club. They [the Trust] were doing amazing things there.”
That important connection continued over the years, and there have been countless examples of collaboration for the benefit of the local community. A particular project highlighted by Sarah was the engagement with 16 and 17-year-olds as part of the Trust’s delivery of the National Citizen Service.
Teenagers soon got to work on painting walls and helping collect items for a specific Watford FC section, including the FA Cup final rosette from 1984. Another was the Heritage Lottery Funded project for the Trust’s 25th-anniversary celebrations, supporting the collation of stories for the commemorative book and hosting a unique exhibition looking back at the charity’s history.
The partnership then expanded further still, with the pivotal role of Watford Museum in the early stages of a brand-new project, Golden Memories, using recollections, merchandise, and unique items to shape the success of the programme, supporting people with a mild-to-moderate dementia diagnosis to reminiscence about times familiar to them.
“That was so exciting for us, seeing how history and football heritage can really connect and help bring people joy,” Sarah said.
The list could go on and on as the Museum continues to support, most recently being a stop-off as part of the fundraising charity walk, The Taylor Trek. Yet, this wasn’t just a partnership of organisations, but a partnership of people, as the Trust also helped Sarah and her family.
Sarah continued: “I’ve now started to go to Feel Good Fitness at the Meriden Community Centre. I’ve not been to a gym in way over 30 years and for me, I don’t think I could have gone anywhere else, but knowing it was the Trust, I felt I could go and I’m absolutely loving it. Helping people lead happier, healthier lives is incredible.”
As the mum of a trans teenager, the work the Trust and club both carry out in the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) space is also vitally important and a reason for pride from Sarah, who said: “Everything is so inclusive, so I know my family would be included. It’s really important to me to know the club and Trust cares.”
There’s clearly a mutual benefit here and Sarah is clear about why this relationship works. She added: “The Trust is just amazing, so inspiring, and they do so much. It’s out there making such a difference and always looking to improve and looking for the next opportunity and challenge. I love that.”
More From This Series
The Story Of Lifesaving Weight Loss
The Story Of A Fundraiser Called Frances
The Story Of Future Trust Coaches
The Story Of A Trust Treasure Who Became A True Golden Boy
The Story Of A Friend & Writer
The Story Of The Original Women Of Cedars YCC
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A live blog of tonight's Gino Pozzo Q&A with fans, as well as a verbatim transcript afterwards, will be free to access on the WO website.
Watford FC confirms that a live blog for the duration of the evening will now replace the previous audio recording arrangements at tomorrow’s Fans Q&A with Gino Pozzo & Scott Duxbury (Thursday June 15).
Everyone involved with the event understands that the questions set and answers provided will all be on-the-record, so therefore as well as a live blog, supporters will also be able to read a full transcript from the evening at some point during the following day.
Given its long history of impartial coverage of the club and its ability to provide a free-to-access platform, the club has asked The Watford Observer to be present and provide the blogging service for supporters who wish to follow the evening but were unable to secure one of the 80 places available. The Watford Observer will also publish the full transcript mentioned above.
The Q&A, taking place at the club’s London Colney training facility, is set to start at 7.00pm with Gino & Scott speaking with supporters successful in the recent ballot to attend the event.
Following these discussions and in negotiation with the Supporters Group organising tomorrow’s event, the club is also pleased to confirm that the popular, informal ‘At Your Place’ events will re-commence during the 2023/24 season; every eight weeks or so at various local venues with Scott Duxbury in attendance at the majority, along with a range of different senior club officials and other figures of interest to Hornets’ supporters.
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Watford FC’s hopes of making its temporary training dome permanent to support their next Premier League bid is set for refusal.
As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the story of Antony Nolan...
The Trust’s weight management programme has been supporting adults to lead healthier lifestyles for free since January 2015.
Shape Up was initially launched in Hertfordshire as a male-only offer in response to an identified need to engage more men in weight-loss courses. Now, we can reflect on a course that has worked collaboratively with health professionals and helped thousands of people to lose weight.
It has now also expanded to offer courses in Harrow, as well as offering tailored courses for females, and those with a physical and/or learning disability and those with a severe mental illness.
An illustration of the programme’s impact is the story of Antony. Since originally taking part in the core 12-week course of Shape Up in 2021, Antony has lost over nine stone of weight.
Now attending a graduate’s programme at the Meriden Community Centre, Antony continues to support the project, always willing to assist in any way he can, including being a motivator for new Shape Up participants.
Summing up his experience, Antony said: “I cannot thank [Trust staff member] Shaun and the Shape Up team enough for saving my life. I feel so much better about myself, I’m gaining self-esteem I haven’t had in years. I look better in my clothes and I’m more active with my kids, running around the park, playing football and getting up the climbing frames.”
More From This Series
The Story Of A Fundraiser Called Frances
The Story Of Future Trust Coaches
The Story Of A Trust Treasure Who Became A True Golden Boy
The Story Of A Friend & Writer
The Story Of The Original Women Of Cedars YCC
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Mark Evans salutes the qualities of Hornets legend Heidar Helguson as the Watford Observer again shares a story from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
Two goalkeepers are among the older Watford Academy players to be offered new contracts.
Watford FC is pleased to confirm new contract offers for several players within the Academy ranks.
From the Under-21s, goalkeepers Alfie Marriott and Myles Roberts join defender Aidan Coyne in being offered new deals, while midfielder Luigi Gaspar’s contract has been extended until 2025.
Following the news that Tobi Adeyemo signed his first professional deal in April, fellow Under-18s George Abbott, Hamzat Balogun, James Collins, Charlie Davis, Zak Fraser-Grante, Jack Grieves, Dawid Hamiga and Jonathan Macaulay have also been offered contracts.
A contract offer was made to Adrian Blake, however the forward will be joining Dutch outfit Utrecht when he turns 18 next month.
The following Under-21 players will be departing the club upon the end of their contracts this summer: Max Delyfer, Jordan Fankwe, Damani Hunter, Adian Manning, JJ McKiernan and Ezio Touray.
Meanwhile, several Under-18s will also be leaving the Hornets at the end of their scholarships: Andres Aguilar, Christos Batzelis, Aaron Benn, Ethan Goulding, Bogdan Marian, Billy Osborn and Harvey Peters.
We thank all departing players for their contributions to Watford FC and wish them well.
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Troy Deeney has claimed he told Watford officials “I will injure every player until you sell me” when he wanted to join Leicester in 2016.
It’s time to crown the most memorable moment from a century of Watford FC at Vicarage Road!
As we near the end of our year-long VR100 celebrations, a dedicated team of Watford-supporting experts on Hornets history have worked hard to draw up a list of The Vic’s 100 most memorable moments, from the opening game on August 30, 1922 right up until the VR100 Matchday on August 30, 2022.
For little under three weeks, supporters have taken part in the first, second, third and fourth of four online votes - each comprising of 25 moments - featuring golden goals, amazing matches, promotion parties and even some non-footballing occasions.
The top two moments from each of the four groups - as well as the two highest-performing third-placed moments - have been put into a final top 10 shortlist, and now it’s up to you to help determine which is indeed the most memorable with one final round of voting.
Read on to remind yourself of each moment - listed in chronological order - and then cast your vote to tell us which you believe to be the most memorable. Voting for this final round closes at 12noon on Friday June 16, when the overall winner will be revealed.
- LIVERPOOL KNOCKED OUT (21/02/1970)
Liverpool came to town in the FA Cup quarter-finals and Vicarage Road’s second largest crowd of all-time, 34,047, was treated to a glorious afternoon thanks to Barry Endean’s flying header in a 1-0 win.
- ELTON JOHN PERFORMS (05/05/1974)
Having become Vice President in 1973 and later joined the board, boyhood Watford fan and global popstar Elton John played his first Vicarage Road concert to over 31,000 supporters, generating nearly £30,000 for the club.
- SEVENTH HEAVEN (02/09/1980)
Trailing 4-0 going into the second leg of a League Cup second-round tie against Southampton, Watford pulled off an astonishing 7-1 win with Malcolm Poskett (2), Ray Train, Martin Patching, Ian Bolton, Ross Jenkins and Nigel Callaghan on target in a 7-5 aggregate victory.
- EUROPEAN GLORY (28/09/1983)
Just five years after featuring in Division Four, Watford played their first European match at Vicarage Road and defeated Kaiserslautern 3-0 to secure a 4-3 aggregate win. Teenage debutant Ian Richardson scored twice for a young, injury-affected Hornets squad.
- THE GARY PORTER SHOW (23/10/1993)
Three goals down with 20 minutes to play, the Hornets looked dead and buried against Bolton until a quickfire Gary Porter hat-trick - culminating in a last-minute penalty - inspired an incredible turnaround that sealed an improbable 4-3 victory.
- GT RETURNS (24/02/1996)
With the Hornets rooted to the bottom of the Division One table, Graham Taylor returned to the club as General Manager alongside fellow legends Luther Blissett and Kenny Jackett in the lead up to the visit of Ipswich. After being given a hero’s welcome, GT couldn’t prevent a 3-2 defeat to the Tractor Boys.
- GT SIGNS OFF FOR FINAL TIME (28/04/2001)
Graham Taylor bid farewell to the Vicarage Road crowd for the last time at the final home game of the 2000/01 campaign - a 1-1 draw against Tranmere - drawing the curtain on his second permanent spell in charge by embarking on a lap of honour at full-time, delivering an emotional speech and being presented with a giant bottle of champagne.
- READING’S GHOST GOAL (20/09/2008)
Surely the strangest refereeing decision seen at Vicarage Road, Reading took the lead against the Hornets - in a game that eventually finished 2-2 - when linesman Nigel Bannister flagged for a John Eustace own goal instead of a corner after the home midfielder challenged Noel Hunt, much to the confusion of almost all in attendance. Bannister managed to persuade novice referee Stuart Atwell to award the goal - a decision that led to him being excused from ref duties for the next six weeks.
- THAT DEENEY GOAL (12/05/2013)
After Manuel Almunia’s heroics at one end, talismanic forward Troy Deeney blasted the ball past Leicester goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel at the other to emphatically finish off one of the most remarkable passages of play ever seen in football, cueing absolute pandemonium inside Vicarage Road. From Johnny Phillips’ commentary chaos to Gianfranco Zola’s fall and two pitch invasions, the Hornets’ route to the play-off final could barely have been more theatrical.
- ‘UNSTOPPABLE’ LIVERPOOL TROUNCED (29/02/2020)
Liverpool’s hopes of avoiding defeat for an entire Premier League season were ended in sensational style at the hands of the Hornets, with an Ismaïla Sarr brace and a Troy Deeney goal sealing a famous 3-0 win that ended the joint-longest winning streak (18) and the second-longest unbeaten run (44) in English top-flight history.
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Ahead of the 2023/24 season, work is already well underway at Vicarage Road to get the pitch ready for the new campaign.
Having recently been highly commended in the latest EFL Grounds Teams of the Season awards, the Hornets’ grounds team are in the process of creating and nurturing their next masterpiece.
Before it comes to fruition, take a look below at what’s been going on at The Vic over the past few weeks...
The Work Begins
The Pitch Rests
Sun Beats Down
Just Add Water
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Forward Adrian Blake has signed a four-year deal with FC Utrecht, the Dutch side have announced this morning.
Adrian Blake scored winner and Jonathan Macaulay played full 90 minutes as England Under-18s beat Australia 3-2 in the Lisbon International Tournament.
It’s summer. Sit out in the garden, or take a walk in the fields, and listen to our topical summer special about a Watford fan who adopts an unusual way of coping with his negative feelings about the club. You can listen in all the usual places and here: Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. […]
Watford FC Women’s Barclays Championship return will take place on the weekend of August 26/27, with preparations already underway for the new campaign.
Following a year-long absence from the second-tier, the Hornets will be facing eight of the same sides that were in the division in 2021/22, with Southampton, Birmingham City and recently-relegated Reading presenting fresh opposition.
In a change from the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division regulations, international duty will provide a break in fixtures for the Golden Girls. The first break comes between Monday September 18 and Tuesday September 26.
Damon Lathrope’s side also return to the FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup, contested between sides from the Super League and Barclays Championship. The group stage for the Conti Cup kicks off in midweek, Wednesday October 11 and Thursday October 12, with the final taking place on the weekend of March 30/31, 2024.
Having competed in the first and second rounds of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup last season before elimination at the third-round stage to Championship rivals Crystal Palace, the Hornets enter the cup at round three this term, which will be played on Sunday December 10. The final, to be played at Wembley, will take place on the weekend of May 11/12, 2024.
Eight months on from the opening day, the final fixtures in the Championship season will be played together on the weekend of April 27/28, 2024, with a specific date to be announced.
A date for the release of the 2023/24 fixtures will be announced in due course.
A list of the key dates can be found below:
- Championship start date - August 26/27, 2023
- First FIFA Women’s international window - September 18-26, 2023
- FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup group stage begins - October 11/12, 2023
- Vitality Women’s FA Cup third round - December 10, 2023
- FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup final - March 30/31, 2024
- Final day of the season - April 27/28, 2024
- Vitality Women’s FA Cup final - May 11/12, 2024
Please note, all dates are subject to change.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Human Performance department at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Lead Academy Physiotherapist to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing the medical provision within the Professional Development Phase (PDP). The role will focus primarily on medical screening, progressive rehabilitation and providing pitch-based medical cover for the Under-21 squad, along with the development of an education programme for our PDP players.
Duties will involve a close working relationship with the Academy Head of Performance and the Senior Academy Physiotherapist in the development of the medical provision provided to all Academy players, to satisfy the department and club vision. The role will be based at the club’s training ground in London Colney and will include working all Under-21 games (home and away) and extend to cover Under-18 games when required. Other duties include working closely with the Academy Physiotherapist (U9-U16) to coordinate Casual Physiotherapists covering U9-U16 training and matches every week.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hard-working and flexible to the requirements of the role and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford and London Colney or the surrounding areas, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- BSc (Hons) in Physiotherapy
- Membership of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy (CSP)
- Membership of the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)
- Valid pitchside emergency aid qualification FA ATMMiF (or Equivalent / or enrolled onto a course)
- Valid FA Safeguarding certificate
- Experience in a sporting domain, preferably within an academy setting
- Familiarity with musculo-skeletal screening, movement analysis and correction of motor patterns
- Competent in the prescription of strength and conditioning programmes
- An ability to build rapport with key stakeholders, obtain and manage important information
- Must be able to communicate and interact with a wide range of staff
- Must have the ability to work on own initiative and under pressure
- Must have the ability to develop within the role, learn new skills and deal with change
- Must be highly organised and assertive with strong communication and time management skills
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
You would ideally have, but not vital:
- MSc in Physiotherapy or working towards
- Understanding of the Elite Player Performance Plan legislation and rules
- Experience in a senior medical role within an academy setting
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Lead Academy Physiotherapist
Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Friday June 30 2023
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.
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Young forward Adrian Blake strutted his stuff on the international stage ahead of the weekend, helping England’s Under-18s rescue a late 2-2 draw against Norway in Portgual on Friday (June 9).
The 17-year-old - who featured for the Hornets’ first-team on three occasions in all competitions during 2022/23 - completed 78 minutes of the Young Lions’ opening Lisbon International Tournament clash, while club teammate Jonathan Macaulay was an unused substitute.
After Norway had earned a two-goal lead - through quick-fire efforts at the end of the first half and then two minutes after the restart - a Romain Esse strike and Rio Kyerematen’s 92nd-minute equaliser ensured the spoils were shared.
Blake, Macaulay and the rest of Head Coach Neil Ryan’s charges will be looking to build on the result when they go up against Australia next on Sunday (June 11, 11am KO UK time), ahead of a clash against hosts Portugal on Tuesday (June 13, 5pm KO UK time).
Elsewhere, Blake’s fellow teenage attacker Yáser Asprilla has been called up by Colombia’s senior national team, following his series of sparkling recent displays at the FIFA Under-20 World Cup.
The 19-year-old scored two goals before the youth side ultimately fell to Italy in the quarter-finals of the tournament in Argentina, and he will now look to make a similar impression at the top level in two exhibition matches.
Colombia are due to play Iraq in Spain next Friday (June 16, 8pm KO UK time), before taking on four-time world champions Germany on Tuesday June 20 (7.45pm KO UK time).
Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann could add to his cap-tally for Austria, after being named in Head Coach Ralf Rangnick’s squad to face Belgium (Saturday June 17, 7.45pm KO UK time) and Sweden (June 20, 7.45pm KO UK time) in European Championship qualifying action.
The 28-year-old - who has played for his country on 13 occasions, including at Euro 2020 - made the most league appearances of any Watford player during 2022/23, missing just one of the 46 Sky Bet Championship games through suspension.
As previously announced, Watford teammates Ismaïla Sarr, Ismaël Koné, William Troost-Ekong, Ken Sema, Ryan Porteous and Imrân Louza have also been selected for international duty.
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The Championship club said making their training facility permanent would support their bid to rejoin the Premier League, which it was relegated from in the 2021/22 season after finishing on just 23 points
Our Vicarage Road centenary celebrations are set to conclude with an exciting event at the stadium and an opportunity to meet some club legends.
Being held on the evening of Thursday July 13, supporters attending will be split into groups who will be taken on simultaneous guided tours of Vicarage Road Stadium, each accompanied by a distinguished former player.
Following these rare 90-minute tours, guests will move on to the Horizons hospitality lounge for a Q&A with the club legends, with welcome drinks and street food provided.
The Upper Graham Taylor Stand concourse will also house a fascinating exhibition of unique artefacts spanning a century of history at the stadium, making the evening an ideal way to round off our year-long ‘Vicarage Road 100’ celebrations.
There will be just 100 places available for the event, which will start at 7.30pm, with tickets priced at £100.
Any surplus after event costs will be donated to the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust.
Tickets will be on sale at tickets.watfordfc.com from 12noon on Monday June 12.
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Watford Observer explains why they feel they should be allowed to attend next week's fans forum.
The Watford Observer will not be able to attend next week’s fans’ forum with Gino Pozzo and Scott Duxbury.
Discussions are continuing between the Hornets and representatives of three out-of-contract senior players: Craig Cathcart, Tom Cleverley and Dan Gosling.
With nearly 20 years’ combined service to Watford between the trio, all parties have agreed that there should be no rush in determining what – if any – future any one of them might have with the club.
Technical Director Ben Manga said: “We must continue to assess what is best to support our Head Coach Valérien [Ismaël] so it is important that we do not close off any options right now, while it is still early in the summer.”
Meanwhile, midfielder Leandro Bacuna and striker Britt Assombalonga will definitely not be remaining at Vicarage Road. The club thanks them for their contribution and wishes them both well for the future.
Four of these five names will appear on the ‘Retained & Released List’ against Watford FC’s name when the EFL makes its official publications soon. Dan Gosling’s name will not; his contract was cancelled by mutual consent ahead of season’s end, however he has continued to rehab with the club’s support staff after his Achilles tear late last year.
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Tom Cleverley and Craig Cathcart will be listed as ‘released’ on the EFL list of all member clubs' players – but that may not be the end of the story.
A judge has dismissed a bankruptcy petition lodged by tax officials against former Watford star John Barnes.
Midfielder Ismael Kone is the latest of a number of Watford players to be called up for international duty.
The Frank Soo Foundation has successfully organised a local grassroots football tournament to recreate Watford FC’s 1987 tour of China to participate in the Great Wall Cup.
Comprised of teams representing China’s Liaoning and Hubei provinces, Japan’s Mitsubishi, South Korea, Romania and Watford FC, the tournament represented the connection between the East and South East Asian (ESEA) communities in the Watford area and the club.
Following the same format and fixtures of the original competition, the modern recreation saw Japan’s Mitsubishi (Kaminari Kazoku FC) face Hubei in a tense final, which ended 1-0 with Kaminari Kazoku’s Shun Okayama scoring the winner.
Played at Watford FC’s training ground, the original Great Wall Cup trophy and various other pieces of memorabilia were on display. Club legends Ian Bolton and Luther Blissett OBE DL were on hand to share their previous tour experiences and hand out trophies and medals.
Blissett, top scorer of the original tournament, said: “Ties between Watford and China have been there for a long time and exist now with the Frank Soo Foundation and ESEA Hornets. It’s beautiful to see and long may that continue.”
Karen Stephanou, Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Lead, said: “We’ve got a brilliant working relationship with the Frank Soo Foundation and it’s been really encouraging to see the East and South East Asian community engage with the club and Trust.
“To be able to replicate the Great Wall Cup that was held in the 1980s is really special and it continues to exemplify Graham Taylor’s and Sir Elton John’s legacy of a being a real family club.”
Yu Kadrok, Kaminari Kazoku FC’s manager, said: “It was great to win the Great Wall Cup and it’s truly amazing that a top Championship football club like Watford FC is continuing to help support grassroots football events for our community.”
About The Frank Soo Foundation
The Frank Soo Foundation was set up to promote and support the legacy of Frank Soo, the first player of Asian descent to play for England (unofficial war time caps), by inspiring the next Frank Soo to play for England or another home country, working with local ESEA communities to build better relationships and supporting anyone from an ESEA background in their pursuit in football or sport in general. Click HERE to find out more.
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Chris Wilder There have been any number of weird managerial spells at Watford over the last decade (yes, yes, law of averages and so on well done, carry on…). Billy McKinlay’s work experience. Slaviša Jokanović earning a flamboyant promotion and then not having his contract renewed. Xisco’s “all about the vibes” spell. Few have been […]
The Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association joined Watford Football Club Community Sports and Education Trust to raise thousands for charity over one weekend
Luther Blissett and Ian Bolton helped present the medals when a grassroots football tournament was held to honour the Hornets’ 1987 Tour of China.
Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust are being represented by Little Green School at this year’s Premier League Primary Stars National Girls Football Tournament, being held at Leeds United’s Elland Road Stadium today (Wednesday June 7).
The National Girls Football Tournament is one of the competition elements of the Premier League Primary Stars programme.
Primary school children representing 20 Premier League, English Football League and National League clubs are taking part in a group stage competition, before knockout matches commence to determine the winners. Newport County are the current title holders having won the tournament in 2022.
Richard Masters, Chief Executive of the Premier League, said: “Football is a game that everyone can enjoy and has the potential to empower and inspire people in their everyday lives.
“The tournament is a highlight of the Premier League Primary Stars calendar and every year I am impressed by the passion, teamwork and standard of play shown by all participants. Once again, I am sure this will be an exciting, competitive day of football.”
More than 14,500 girls representing more than 100 professional football clubs from across England and Wales competed for their chance to represent their respective clubs in this year’s tournament. Participating teams have already won regional heats, earning themselves the chance to play on the pitch at Elland Road in Watford kit.
The tournament gives those taking part the opportunity to experience the life of a Premier League footballer for the day and compete under the watchful eye of Premier League and Women’s Super League match officials.
Lou Barry, the Trust’s School Sport Project Manager, said: “We are looking forward to attending the PL Primary Stars National Girls U11 finals where Little Green School will again be representing Watford FC.
“The girls will be looking to build on their brilliant performance last season to see if they go can one better and win the tournament. We look forward to them creating more magical memories and representing the badge with pride.”
Premier League Primary Stars enables teachers to use resources across English, PSHE, PE and Maths, to support children to develop skills and values that are crucial to success in later life. Currently 103 professional football clubs from across the leagues run in-classroom Premier League Primary Stars sessions in local partner schools.
The free programme also provides teachers and parents with downloadable resources across a range of curriculum subjects at Key Stage 1 (age 5-7) and Key Stage 2 (age 7-11), developed by teachers for teachers, and in collaboration with experts such as the National Literacy Trust.
More than 61,000 teachers have signed up to access free online national curriculum-linked resources.
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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From signing as an Academy scholar to a first-debut at home and away - it's been quite a 12 months for Michael Adu-Poku
Our look back at the most memorable moments from a century of Watford FC at Vicarage Road continues!
As we near the end of our year-long VR100 celebrations, a dedicated team of Watford-supporting experts on Hornets history have worked hard to draw up a list of The Vic’s 100 most memorable moments, from the opening game on August 30, 1922 right up until the VR100 Matchday on August 30, 2022.
Supporters have so far voted on the first, second and third of four groups of 25 moments. Now, we’re asking you to vote on moments 76-100, which take us from the early 2010s through to present day.
Read on for information on each moment, and then cast your vote to tell us which you believe to be the most memorable. Voting for this round closes at 5pm on Sunday June 11.
The most popular moments once voting in all four sections has taken place will be put into a top 10, before one final round of voting to rank these cherished occasions in order.
- DOYLEY BREAKS DUCK (07/12/2009)
Homegrown hero Lloyd Doyley warmed the hearts of Watford fans the world over when he finally scored his first goal for the club on his 269th appearance, converting a stunning diving header to level the scores against QPR in a game the Hornets would go on to win 3-1. Naturally the effort was awarded Goal of the Season and t-shirts were even printed to commemorate the occasion.
- EUSTACE’S OVERHEAD KICK (14/08/2010)
Then-skipper John Eustace lit up Watford’s first home clash of the 2010/11 season - which saw former boss Aidy Boothroyd return to The Vic with Coventry - with the combative midfielder acrobatically making it 2-0 from an outrageous angle before the Sky Blues rescued a point late on.
- ASSOMBALONGA’S ACADEMY MILESTONE (17/03/2012)
Young forward Britt Assombalonga became the 50th Academy player to make his first-team debut for the Hornets since the Academy was created in 1998, when he lined up from the start against Coventry. Assombalonga - who was initially spotted playing for the club’s Community Sports & Education Trust - re-joined Watford for a second spell earlier this year.
- VYDRA’S LEICESTER VOLLEY (12/05/2013)
The first of many highlights on a particularly memorable day - and perhaps sometimes wrongly overlooked - Czech forward Matěj Vydra levelled the aggregate score of Watford’s play-off semi-final tie against Leicester with a spectacular over-the-shoulder volley in the 15th minute of the second leg.
- ALMUNIA’S DOUBLE SAVE (12/05/2013)
Goalkeeper Manuel Almunia kickstarted 20 seconds of unforgettable drama with an incredible double save to deny Leicester’s Anthony Knockaert from sealing Leicester’s passage to the play-off final, first stopping the Frenchman’s penalty with his legs before somehow recovering to keep out the follow-up.
- THAT DEENEY GOAL (12/05/2013)
After Almunia’s heroics at one end, talismanic forward Troy Deeney blasted the ball past Kasper Schmeichel at the other to emphatically finish off one of the most remarkable passages of play ever seen in football, cueing absolute pandemonium inside Vicarage Road. From Johnny Phillips’ commentary chaos to Gianfranco Zola’s fall and two pitch invasions, the Hornets’ route to Wembley could barely have been more theatrical.
- MILLWALL REMEMBRANCE MATCHDAY (01/11/2014)
Marking the 100th anniversary of the start of the First World War, Watford’s Remembrance Matchday against Millwall saw the home players turn out in that season’s commemorative black and white kit. Supporters turned the Rookery End into a foil mosaic depicting a giant poppy before kick-off, while 14-year-old pupil Tom Watts - in his Watford Grammar School uniform - sounded the Last Post.
- GRAHAM TAYLOR STAND (29/11/2014)
Watford FC recognised the contribution of the club’s greatest ever manager by renaming the Rous Stand as the Graham Taylor Stand in 2014. Ahead of kick-off at that November’s home game against Cardiff, GT was joined by members of his family as he made his way on to the pitch and through a guard of honour of former coaching staff and players from his two hugely successful permanent spells in charge.
- SIR ELTON JOHN STAND (13/12/2014)
Former Chairman and Owner - and current Honorary Life-President - Sir Elton John opened the newly-built stand at Vicarage Road named in his honour, before the Hornets’ home match against Wigan. Sir Elton addressed the crowd from the centre circle, after walking on to the pitch alongside partner David Furnish and sons Zachary and Elijah, describing the day as one of the greatest of his life.
- IGHALO’S BLACKPOOL BRILLIANCE (24/01/2015)
Odion Ighalo spearheaded an incredible second-half turnaround after Watford went into half-time 2-0 down to bottom side Blackpool, with the Nigerian striker netting four times in amongst Troy Deeney, Matěj Vydra and Gabriele Angella goals to help the Hornets score seven for the first time since April 2003.
- PROMOTION PITCH INVASION (02/05/2015)
Atdhe Nuhiu’s stoppage-time strike cruelly denied Watford the Championship title, as they were held 1-1 by Sheffield Wednesday on the final day, but with promotion having been secured at Brighton the week before, Hornets fans still marked the team’s success with a memorable pitch invasion.
- LIVERPOOL BRUSHED ASIDE (20/12/2015)
Having enjoyed a strong start to life back in the big-time, the Golden Boys recorded their fourth consecutive Premier League win - and first of the season over the so-called ‘big six’ - when they made light work of Liverpool’s visit to The Vic, with an early Nathan Aké opener and an Odion Ighalo brace sealing a 3-0 scalp that moved them to within a point of the top four.
- MAN UNITED STUNNED (18/09/2016)
After beginning life under Walter Mazzarri without a win in their first three league outings, Watford recorded their second successive victory in style at home to José Mourinho’s Manchester United, as an early Etienne Capoue strike, Juan Camilo Zúñiga’s first goal in yellow - less than a minute after coming on - and an injury-time Troy Deeney penalty sealed a famous 3-1 win.
- SENSORY ROOM OPENED (10/12/2016)
Designed for autistic children who may otherwise struggle to cope in the noisy environment of a football stadium, kitted out with a state-of-the-art calming area and offering an excellent view of the match from a comfortable and accessible viewing location, Watford’s Sensory Room was opened for the first time as the Hornets triumphed over Everton 3-2.
- CLEVERLEY SHOOTS DOWN THE GUNNERS (14/10/2017)
Tom Cleverley’s injury-time winner sealed Watford’s first home win over Arsenal in just under 30 years, with the former England midfielder popping up late to complete a spectacular comeback after Troy Deeney’s penalty had earlier cancelled out a Per Mertesacker header. Speaking to BT Sport, Deeney then gave a scathing assessment of Arsène Wenger’s post-match analysis.
- CHELSEA HIT FOR FOUR (05/02/2018)
A wonderful Daryl Janmaat goal - which saw the Dutchman cut in from the right wing, play a one-two with Roberto Pereyra and beat another couple of defenders before scoring with his weaker left foot - was the first of three late Watford strikes that helped down defending Premier League champions Chelsea 4-1 in Javi Gracia’s first home game in charge.
- GT STATUE UNVEILED (04/08/2018)
Little over a year-and-a-half after his passing, a statue of Watford’s greatest ever manager Graham Taylor was unveiled at The Vic before a pre-season friendly against Italian outfit Sampdoria, billed as the Graham Taylor Matchday. The unveiling of the statue - created by award-winning sculptor Douglas Jennings and positioned outside The Hornets Shop - was performed by GT’s family.
- FOUR WINS OUT OF FOUR (02/09/2018)
Javi Gracia’s Golden Boys made it four wins out of four for the first time at the start of a season for 30 years by seeing off Tottenham - who had similarly begun the match with a 100 per cent record - 2-1, thanks to Troy Deeney and Craig Cathcart goals.
- PALACE PIPPED IN FA CUP (16/03/2019)
Second-half substitute Andre Gray scored two minutes after coming on to help sink Crystal Palace 2-1 and send the Hornets to the FA Cup semi-finals for the sixth time in the club’s history. An emotional Heurelho Gomes led the full-time celebrations, with the Brazilian goalkeeper believing he had just played his last game at The Vic.
- ‘UNSTOPPABLE’ LIVERPOOL TROUNCED (29/02/2020)
Liverpool’s hopes of avoiding defeat for an entire Premier League season were ended in sensational style at the hands of the Hornets, with an Ismaïla Sarr brace and a Troy Deeney goal sealing a famous 3-0 win that ended the joint-longest winning streak (18) and the second-longest unbeaten run (44) in English top-flight history.
- PROMOTION SECURED BEHIND CLOSED DOORS (24/04/2021)
Xisco Muñoz’s Golden Boys clinched promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking with two games to spare, as Ismaïla Sarr’s composed 11th-minute penalty proved enough to see off Millwall. Though there were no fans in attendance - due to the Covid-19 pandemic - many gathered outside the stadium to greet the Head Coach and his players after full-time.
- VILLA DEFEATED AFTER PANDEMIC (14/08/2021)
Watford marked their Premier League return with an entertaining 3-2 victory over Aston Villa in front of a full house for the first time after the pandemic, with Emmanuel Dennis and Cucho Hernández both notching debut goals. NHS staff from Watford General Hospital did a lap of honour at half-time, and were applauded by both sets of supporters for their efforts and sacrifices during Covid-19.
In 2018 Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust created a programme to play its part in tackling the increasing cases of suicide rates in men, as well as the ongoing negative stigma and barriers around men’s mental health.
Five years on, that programme – Man On! – has gone from strength to strength and is now supporting men across three venues.
Every week Man On! brings together a group of like-minded men to build positive relationships and support networks through 90-minute sessions that combine football and wellbeing workshops and conversations.
Men, aged over 18 years old, can access these sessions completely free of charge, thanks to funding from Hertfordshire County Council, Three Rivers District Council and Watford & Three Rivers Trust (W3RT).
The Trust is also able to draw on the valued partnership of Watford Borough Council, Herts Mind, Hertfordshire Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust (HPFT) and Just Talk Herts.
James Lindsay is a regular Man On! attendee and was recently awarded ‘Mental Health Champion’ at the Trust’s Gala Dinner.
James spoke of the session’s impact on him personally: “I feel much fitter, and I also have gained plenty of self-confidence; the exercise helps me reduce stress and feel good.”
Fellow participant Lee Jackson added: “I actually get to talk to people when I want, and when I don’t people in the group understand.”
See below for details on the three venues now running:
Monday
William Penn Leisure Centre
WD3 8JN
6-7.30pm
Tuesday
Cotlandswick Leisure Centre
AL2 9EB
3–4.30pm
Wednesday
Meriden Community Centre
WD25 9ET
3–4.30pm
To find out more about Man On! and to download a referral form, you can visit the website HERE or contact taylor.morrison@watfordfc.com
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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Just days after representing his country at the Under-20 World Cup Finals, Yaser Asprilla has been picked for the Colombia senior squad.
Nick Catley looks at the player who literally did it on a Tuesday night in Stoke – and changed a season – as the Hornets were promoted to the Premier League.
As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the the story of future Trust coaches Millie and Alice...
We really enjoy the community feel when we are delivering on the Premier League Kicks programme. Having worked on the Premier League Inspires project at our school, we got a taste of the great work of the Trust and wanted to support it further.
Within the programme, we had to deliver a social inclusion project where we supported disadvantaged young female participants to take part in sports. When delivering the sessions, we developed a real buzz for coaching and wanted to transition into a permanent volunteer role.
Alongside our weekly PL Kicks coaching sessions, we have since obtained our Level One Coaching qualification, supported by the team, and are currently going through a coaching clinic.
Throughout our work at the Trust, we have gone on to volunteer at the Watford FC Men’s games as ball girls, lead fundraising events for The Taylor Trek and currently sit on our Youth Board, which entails promoting child-led changes on the PL Kicks team.
We really enjoy supporting the sessions, as it helps improve our development. It’s extremely rewarding, and great to give back to the community. Hopefully, going forward, we will enlist as casual coaches and look forward to working with the Trust in the future.
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The Story Of A Trust Treasure Who Became A True Golden Boy
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During another busy weekend of action for Watford players across the globe, Yáser Asprilla saw his national side, Colombia, crash out of the Under-20 World Cup at the quarter-final stage following a 3-1 defeat to Italy (Saturday June 3).
The Hornets’ young forward, wearing the number 10 shirt for his country, played the entire fixture but was unable to affect the contest as the European nation booked their place in the final four.
During the tournament, Asprilla was a shining light for his side scoring two goals while contributing to a memorable run for the 2003 semi-finalists.
Meanwhile, Matheus Martins was also knocked out of the international competition as Brazil were defeated by Israel 3-2 (June 3).
In a thrilling quarter-final match that saw the contest go to extra-time, Martins set-up the opener in the tie as Marcos Leonardo fired it home. But, Israel levelled almost immediately through Anan Khalaili’s header.
With the match level after 90 minutes, the game entered extra-time where Matheus Nascimento scored for Brazil before Hamza Shibli fired back for Israel. Forward Dor David Turgeman would deliver the killer blow in stoppage time to Martins’ side – who have won the tournament five times previously.
The Watford winger enjoyed an impressive campaign out in Argentina, notching two goals and assisting his teammates on a few occasions despite Brazil falling before the semi-final stage.
Elsewhere, Academy goalkeeper Jonathan Macaulay and winger Adrian Blake have received call-ups to England’s Under-18 squad.
Ahead of a trip to Portugal this week for three games at the International Tournament of Lisbon, Macaulay and Blake will join the Young Lions’ 23-man squad.
The duo could potentially face Norway (Friday June 9, 11am KO UK time), Australia (Sunday June 11, 11am KO UK time) and host nation Portugal (Tuesday June 13, 5pm KO UK time).
Blake’s fellow young forward Dawid Hamiga has been called up by Poland’s Under-18s, ahead of games against Slovenia (June 13, 4.30pm KO UK time) and Montenegro (Saturday June 17, 10.30am KO UK time), while 18-year-old defender George Abbott could feature for Wales’ Under-19s as they face off against Sweden twice (Thursday June 15, 6pm KO and Sunday June 18, 3pm KO).
Ismaïla Sarr has been included in Senegal’s senior squad to face Benin (June 17, 8pm KO UK time) and Brazil (June 20, 8.30pm KO UK time) later this month.
The match against Benin is the penultimate game in Group L to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations. Sarr’s national side have already booked their place at the tournament being hosted by the Ivory Coast, boasting a current record of four wins from four outings.
Also, Ismaël Koné has been called up to Canada’s national team ahead of the CONCACAF Gold Cup.
With one place yet to be decided in Group D, Koné will face confirmed opponents Guatemala and Cuba in late June and early July during the competition before the knockout stage commences.
Finally, William Troost-Ekong made a cameo appearance for Salernitana in Italy’s Serie A, during a 2-0 defeat to Cremonese (June 3).
The defender had scored in a 3-2 victory over Udinese in his previous appearance, with Salernitana having confirmed survival in the top-flight comfortably by more than 10 points.
Troost-Ekong has also been called up to Nigeria’s national squad for their penultimate group stage qualifying match against Sierra Leone (June 18, 5pm KO UK time), with the Super Eagles currently top of Group A.
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Attacking midfielder Poppy Wilson has won the Watford FC Women Goal of the Season award for the 2022/23 campaign.
In a closely-fought competition with eight spectacular strikes up for the gong, Wilson’s header in the FA WNL play-off final against Nottingham Forest proved to be the most popular with 41 per cent of the vote.
The deciding goal at Stadium MK in the league’s showpiece event, Wilson headed Gemma Davison’s looping cross back towards goal, beating the Forest goalkeeper and sending the Watford faithful into raptures.
A moment that would eventually confirm promotion to the Barclays Women’s Championship during the 1-0 victory, Wilson wheeled away in celebration before being surrounded by her teammates.
The 23-year-old enjoyed a productive debut campaign with the Golden Girls, amassing 23 goal involvements – 15 goals and eight assists – in 30 appearances.
Closely followed in second place was Bianca Baptiste’s rocket against Oxford United (30%), with Annie Rossiter’s long-range strike against MK Dons ranking third (12%).
Congratulations to Poppy, and all the nominees.
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Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann has been announced as the goalkeeping coach for the World XI at Sunday’s Soccer Aid match.
Details are confirmed for a fans’ Q&A with Owner Gino Pozzo and Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury, with the meeting to be held on Thursday June 15 at the Hornets’ London Colney training ground.
As first announced in the Chairman’s Wigan Athletic programme notes, the evening event has been co-ordinated between various supporter broadcasters, writers and representative groups - with the club playing a facilitating role only.
With a ballot now open for those who wish to attend HERE, successful applicants will be contacted after it closes at the end of tomorrow (Tuesday June 6).
Questions for the club’s Owner or Chairman can be submitted in advance HERE.
Supporters can also enter the ballot and submit questions via Slido’s home page HERE, using codes 8963 220 and 3750 490 respectively.
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Two of Watford’s Under-18 players have been selected by England Under-18s for the International Tournament of Lisbon.
The Watford FC Women Development Team are hosting trials at the club’s London Colney training ground this month, with the opportunity to register interest now available.
Taking place on Thursday June 15 (7-9pm) and Sunday June 25 (12-2pm), the trials will take place in the dome, open to players aged 16-23.
The young Golden Girls currently play in the FA WNL Reserve South East Division, enjoying plenty of successful results on the pitch in recent seasons, and will enter the new campaign with Renée Hector in charge.
Click HERE to register your interest. Successful applicants will be contacted in due course.
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The 4-0 derby win over Luton will live long in the memory of Watford fans, both for the glory of the victory and the glimpse of what might have been
37- Matheus Martins A few questions here. The first is moot, I guess, as the last decade should have told us but I’m still curious. “Whose player is he?”… Udinese, most of the internet agrees, but no mention of a loan on the official site (although “signed terms with Watford” is a little nonspecific). More […]
Chair of trustees Simon Macqueen and Watford Community Director Rob Smith look to the future of Watford FC's Community Trust.
Eight Golden Girls strikes have been nominated for the 2022/23 Goal of the Season, with voting now open to supporters via the official Watford FC app until Monday June 5 at 5pm.
You can download the app on iOS and Android.
Topping the goalscoring charts in a promotion-winning campaign, 102 goals have been whittled down to an impressive shortlist which you can view and find out more about below.
Nominees
Goal A - Grace Garrad v AFC Wimbledon (A)
Former Hornet Garrad broke the deadlock in an otherwise uneventful FA WNL Cup encounter with AFC Wimbledon in November, firing home an audacious strike from 35 yards out to send the travelling support into raptures and the Golden Girls into round two.
Goal B - Flo Fyfe’s first v Fulham (H)
Another cup win in November saw the Golden Girls put seven past Fulham in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup, with the pick of the bunch coming from winger Fyfe, who lofted the ball carefully past Holly Cowan half-an-hour into the tie.
Goal C - Annie Rossiter v MK Dons (H)
Capping off a 5-1 win in January, Rossiter received a through ball from Ellie Head and, spotting goalkeeper Chloe Sansom off her line, chipped the ball over and in from 25 yards out.
Goal D - Anne Meiwald v Portsmouth (H)
A wet and windy top-of-the-table clash with Portsmouth promised to be an eventful encounter, and Damon Lathrope’s side made home advantage count, winning 2-0 at Grosvenor Vale. Last year’s GOTS winner Meiwald connected with a well-delivered free-kick from Gemma Davison to head home the opener, putting the Hornets in front in some style.
Goal E - Faye Brough v MK Dons (H)
A closer affair against the Dons saw the game level at 1-1 late on, prompting Lathrope to introduce new signing Faye Brough from the bench. The Japanese forward controlled Meiwald’s throw-in with composure, swivelling to strike the ball in the air and seal three vital points in the push for promotion.
Goal F - Bianca Baptiste v Oxford United (H)
The first of two contenders in a season-defining victory against then league leaders Oxford United, Baptiste ran onto a long pass from Rossiter and lashed into the top corner, swinging momentum the way of the hosts with a crucial equaliser.
Goal G - Araya Dennis v Oxford United (H)
On-loan Arsenal youngster Dennis scored her first senior goal in emphatic fashion in the second half at Vicarage Road, chasing down a pass from Davison and arrowing a shot from outside the box to score what would ultimately prove to be the winning goal against the U’s.
Goal H - Poppy Wilson v Nottingham Forest (N)
The goal that decided the FA WNL play-off final against Nottingham Forest at Stadium MK last month, Wilson met Davison’s sweeping cross with a trademark header at the far post, prompting wild celebrations from the Watford end and on the pitch.
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Watford FC Women are pleased to announce the appointment of Renée Hector as Development Team Head Coach, following the departure of Jo Williams after five seasons at the club.
Williams leaves the Golden Girls to pursue new opportunities having initially joined Watford in September 2018, taking up the Head Coach role after a spell as assistant.
Overseeing a successful period for the youth side including a 13-game unbeaten run, the club wishes Williams the best of luck for the future.
Former Hornets defender Hector becomes Head Coach having served as part of Williams’ staff during the 2022/23 campaign, as part of her coaching journey.
A serious injury suffered in 2020 meant Hector would start working towards her coaching badges, and the 27-year-old earned the UEFA B licence in January.
Hector began her playing career with Watford and made over 50 appearances, leaving for Tottenham Hotspur in 2016 and later turning out for Charlton Athletic before re-signing at Vicarage Road in 2020.
“We’d like to wish Jo the best of luck, and thank her for all she has done at the club,” said Interim General Manager Laura Dyer. “Jo took on the Development squad after I moved into the first-team set-up and made it her own in five successful years at Watford, and we appreciate all of her hard work and professionalism.
“We’re delighted to appoint Renée as Development Team Head Coach. It’s a great step for Renèe in her coaching career. She’s been a successful part of this club in her playing days, and her experience will inspire the next generation at Watford.”
Best of luck Jo and congratulations, Renée!
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Watford’s Under-15s enjoyed a memorable triumph in France as they won the Camon International Tournament over the weekend of May 27 and 28.
Hosted by French amateur football club US Camon, the Hornets’ youth side fought off tough opposition to get their hands on the trophy during a sweltering trip.
Topping their group after victories over French side AS Nancy and Belgium’s Crossing Schaerbeek, and draws against Etoile-Matoury and Amiens SC, Watford built up good momentum heading into the knockout phase.
In the semi-finals against US Boulogne, Jai-Dea Moulton scored for the Hornets, but the match ended level at 1-1 culminating in a penalty shootout where Watford edged it 3-1.
Marat Galajevs, Alvin Isufi and Tony Cowie all scored their spot-kicks, and goalkeeper Seb Thrussell made two saves during the shootout.
In a tense finale, Watford beat ESTAC Troyes 1-0 with Galajevs’ first-half penalty ultimately proving the difference - giving the Young Hornets a taste of silverware. In addition, during the post-match festivities, Watford shot-stopper Thrussell was named Goalkeeper of the Tournament.
Lead Youth Development Phase Coach for the Under-15 and Under-16 age groups, Armand Kavaja, was delighted to win the tournament, heaping praise on his players for their efforts on the continent.
Kavaja said: “I want to congratulate the boys. I thought they were excellent throughout the journey. We take the boys abroad not just for footballing reasons, but just as importantly it’s an opportunity for us to look at how they behave and how they react.
“For example, when they are travelling together, are they respectful to other people around them, are they representing the Watford badge in the right way? It’s a way of assessing them as people as well as players. They were all brilliant and very well behaved which is really important to us as we want to bring good people into our environment.
“The boys were one of the youngest, if not the youngest team in the tournament, but they stood up to the challenge. They were very controlled in what they did and applied themselves in the right manner. Their quality showed.
“We won our group, then won the semi-final on penalties. We were completely dominant in the final, taking the lead in the first half and were really controlling the game. The boys were very positive in what they tried to do. All the staff were very pleased and proud of the boys. It’s great to finally come home with the trophy.”
With Watford having participated in the tournament six times previously, Academy Director Richard Johnson and Head of Technical Development Jimmy Gilligan believe it’s a great platform for the young players to continue their development.
Gilligan said: “What it showed Richard [Johnson] and I was how the players could deal with different circumstances put in front of them during the games. They played against high-pressing, aggressive teams as well as teams who sat back and allowed us a lot of the ball.
“We also showed great patience at times, especially in the final after we went 1-0 up. Watching the boys use their tactical knowledge of how to manage a game was really good. Credit is also reserved for the coaching staff and multidisciplinary team who took the players across to France.
“Having come away with the trophy, we feel the weekend was a real success in not just winning something, but also the development and education of the players in a different environment.”
Johnson added: “We’d also like to thank Kevin Thomson, Intelligent Cleaning, for his ongoing support for the Academy which enables us to take our players on tours such as this and provide them with such great experiences.”
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30 pictures looking back at Watford's promotion celebration following their Play-Off Final victory against Bolton Wanderers in 1999
As part of the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust’s 30-year anniversary celebrations, a series of accounts from staff, volunteers, partners and participants have been compiled in the ‘30 Stories for 30 Years’ publication, that also includes the annual Impact Report for 2022.
All of the stories, and the Impact Report, can be viewed online HERE. Should you wish to request a hard copy, please email kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com.
Next up is the story of a Trust treasure who became a true Golden Boy...
It’s often said there’s no place like home, and upon his return to Watford FC in January 2023 – little under 10 years on from his initial departure – Britt Assombalonga expressed his delight at going full circle back to where it all began.
The seasoned DR Congo international’s story started somewhat unconventionally with the Hornets’ Community Sports and Education Trust, when – after enrolling at Hertswood School in Borehamwood aged 16 – he discovered an impact scheme that combined education and playing football.
Impressive performances on the pitch quickly raised eyebrows within the club’s Academy ranks, and following a successful trial, a scholarship and strong displays at Under-18 and reserve level, Assombalonga was rewarded with a professional contract in 2011, and ultimately his first-team debut in March 2012.
“The journey up to the first team happened very quickly,” he said. “I was involved through my college initially, and I really enjoyed being part of the community events, playing football and just having an association with Watford FC.
“We used to play games on Wednesdays, and Chris Andrews, who ran the centre, told me the football club wanted to have me in for a trial. It came as a shock, but before I knew it I was lining up for the first team against Coventry!
“The Trust certainly opened the door for me to go on and enjoy a career as a professional footballer, but even before that it really helped me engage with my community and combine my studies with sport, which I’m really grateful for.”
After only four senior Watford appearances – and loan spells at Wealdstone, Braintree Town and Southend United – Assombalonga left Watford for Peterborough United in July 2013, going on to enjoy a stellar decade in League One and the Championship at the Posh, Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough, and abroad with Turkish outfit Adana Demirspor.
At the age of 30, he re-signed terms at Vicarage Road on an initial short-term contract and assumed squad number 34 – the first number he was assigned as a Hornet back at the very beginning. Assombalonga wasted no time before getting involved with Trust events as a Golden Boy once more.
He said: “I loved my time at my other clubs, but I always followed Watford and I was over the moon to come back.
“It was a bit strange having left as one of the youngest, and then being one of the older heads in the squad when I re-signed, but I was keen to use my experience to help the up-and-coming players, as well as all the kids out in the community who are like I was at the very start.
“I helped at an event at Westfield Academy a few weeks after re-joining. It was great to answer questions about my story and what it takes to be a footballer. It’s always nice to see the smiles on kids’ faces, because I know first-hand how important the Trust’s programmes are.”
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Watford’s Junior Hornets programme has recently surpassed 3,000 members since the scheme was refreshed back in February 2022.
Junior Hornets is our free supporters group for Watford fans aged 0-15, with exciting benefits including a membership pack upon joining, access to regular events and a website containing quizzes, word searches and many other downloads and activities!
As part of the refresh, Ann Swanson – a key driver in Watford FC becoming ‘The Original Family Club’ in the late 1970s and 1980s – became the new Junior Hornets patron, while the Family Stand was also renamed in her honour.
And - with membership numbers ever-increasing - it was a busy campaign for Junior Hornets members during 2022/23, with plenty of fun events to get involved in, such as:
- Designated Junior Hornets Away Days - featuring discounted match tickets and coach travel to selected away fixtures, competitions, games and prizes - have proven popular, with more planned for the coming season.
- Lucky Junior Hornets members were invited to play a game of mini-golf at Puttshack Watford, where they were surprised by some of their favourite Watford FC players, including Daniel Bachmann and Helen Ward.
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Two Junior Hornets were invited to join the Grounds Staff for the day, assisting our award-winning team pre-match, during half-time and after full-time, during a second-tier fixture against Blackburn Rovers.
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There was an exclusive Christmas party and a Junior Hornets Fun Day held at Watford’s training ground where members got a chance to meet their favourite players.
Ahead of the new 2023/24 season, simply visit juniorhornets.watfordfc.com to sign up to become a Junior Hornets member and keep an eye out for future competitions and events.
Junior Hornets members aged between 5-11 will also be able to apply for traditional matchday mascot packages for the 2023/24 season. More information on the 2023/24 mascot package application process will be available in due course.
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With Italy celebrating Festa della Repubblica today (June 2), we take a look at five Italian players who have had a significant impact on the Hornets during their careers…
Filippo Galli
Arguably the most decorated player to have ever turned out for the Hornets, Filippo Galli joined the club with five Serie A titles and three Champions League victories to his name. Although he might’ve only featured for one season at Vicarage Road, his desire and tough-tackling approach were huge assets in 2001/02.
Signed by fellow Italian Gianluca Vialli, Galli joined as a veteran of the game at 38-years-old but featured 29 times. He was runner-up for Player of the Season in his only campaign with the Golden Boys, taking on the captain’s armband sporadically. Despite an unremarkable season, Galli stood out as a composed general in defence, notching his only goal against Walsall.
Marco Cassetti
A vastly experienced defensive conductor, Marco Cassetti had earned five caps with Italy before moving to the Hornets in 2012. The versatile Italian was equally adept at playing full-back or centre-half, even featuring at right-wing on several occasions. During his first season at Vicarage Road, Cassetti played over 40 times including three appearances in the Championship play-offs.
He would earn himself seven assists, the highest figure for a Watford defender that campaign, and he would also play the third-most minutes as the Hornets finished third. The following season would be more difficult, but Cassetti would still play over 30 games, departing Watford at the end of the campaign.
Gabriele Angella
A centre-half with a unique finishing ability, Gabriele Angella spent three years at Vicarage Road. On his home debut Angella fired two past Bournemouth in a 6-1 victory and the Italian defender would notch five more goals that season, finishing third in the goalscoring ranks at Watford despite his position as a protector.
During the following 2014/15 campaign Angella helped Watford secure promotion to the top-flight, featuring over 30 times in a more than productive season. He spent his final year at Watford on-loan at Queens Park Rangers before returning to Italy and Udinese. Now 34, he still plies his trade in his home nation for A.C. Perugia Calcio.
Stefano Okaka
Stefano Okaka joined the Hornets from Anderlecht at the start of the 2016/17 season, bringing with him an imposing presence on the pitch. The Italian striker struggled with injuries upon arriving at Vicarage Road, but would notch his first two goals against Everton in a 3-2 victory. He would score against Southampton and Chelsea under compatriot manager Walter Mazzarri before the end of the campaign.
Injuries would continue to plight his spell at Watford, after he made a bright start to the following season with a goal against Liverpool in a 3-3 draw. He would depart for Udinese on-loan helping them avoid relegation, eventually making the move permanent after 39 games in yellow.
Fernando Forestieri
As a dynamic and versatile forward Fernando Forestieri regularly played a key role in Watford’s successes during the early-to-mid 2010s. The Argentine-born footballer chose to represent the nation of his parents, Italy, making appearances for the youth teams in the early stages of his career.
Originally, Forestieri joined the Hornets on-loan from Udinese, but would go on to make the move permanent in January of 2013 as he became a cult hero, striking and assisting at important times, including goals against Huddersfield and Leicester.
The passionate player would continue to feature in yellow throughout the following years, hitting a hot-streak during the 2013/14 campaign and scoring just 28 seconds after being substituted on against Bolton Wanderers in the 2014/15 promotion season.
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Our look back at the most memorable moments from a century of Watford FC at Vicarage Road continues!
As we near the end of our year-long VR100 celebrations, a dedicated team of Watford-supporting experts on Hornets history have worked hard to draw up a list of The Vic’s 100 most memorable moments, from the opening game on August 30, 1922 right up until the VR100 Matchday on August 30, 2022.
Supporters have so-far voted on the first and second of four groups of 25 moments. Now, we’re asking you to vote on moments 51-75, which take us from the early 1990s, through the turn of the millennium and into the late noughties.
Read on for information on each moment, and then cast your vote to tell us which you believe to be the most memorable. Voting for this round closes at 5pm on Tuesday June 6.
The most popular moments once voting in all four sections has taken place will be put into a top 10, before one final round of voting to rank these cherished occasions in order.
- ENGLISH CHAMPIONS DEFEATED (10/11/1992)
A last hurrah for the old Vicarage Road terrace, second-tier Watford powered to a 2-1 victory over reigning English champions Leeds in the third round of the League Cup thanks to a David Holdsworth header, a Jason Drysdale penalty and a goalkeeping masterclass from Perry Suckling.
- NEW VICARAGE ROAD STAND OPENED (18/09/1993)
Costing approximately £2.3m, and with an original capacity of 5,800, the new Vicarage Road Stand took just under four months to build and opened on September 18, 1993, with a 3-1 victory over Notts County.
- THE GARY PORTER SHOW (23/10/1993)
Three goals down with 20 minutes to play, the Hornets looked dead and buried against Bolton until a quickfire Gary Porter hat-trick - culminating in a last-minute penalty - inspired an incredible turnaround that sealed an improbable 4-3 victory.
- PETCHEY PROTEST (15/03/1994)
A 3-0 defeat to Grimsby prompted home supporters to vent their frustration at Chairman Jack Petchey, with a pitch invasion culminating in an attempt to storm the Directors’ Box.
- KLINSMANN COMES TO TOWN (06/08/1994)
Over 14,000 supporters turned up to catch a glimpse of German World Cup winner Jürgen Klinsmann’s first appearance for Tottenham, as the North Londoners were held to a 1-1 draw by the Hornets in a keenly-observed pre-season friendly.
- JOHNNO DOWNS GT’S WOLVES (30/08/1994)
A late Richard Johnson screamer powered Watford to a 2-1 victory over highly-fancied Wolves, while putting a dampener on Graham Taylor’s emotional return to The Vic as an opposition manager for the first time.
- GT RETURNS (24/02/1996)
With the Hornets rooted to the bottom of the Division One table, Graham Taylor returned to the club as General Manager alongside fellow legends Luther Blissett and Kenny Jackett in the lead up to the visit of Ipswich. After being given a hero’s welcome, GT couldn’t prevent a 3-2 defeat to the Tractor Boys.
- EMOTIONAL ELTON (07/09/1997)
Just a day after performing a reworked version of Candle in the Wind at the funeral of Diana, Princess of Wales, an emotional Elton John was given a standing ovation by the Vicarage Road crowd before watching Watford beat Wycombe 2-1 from the Directors’ Box.
- PALMER STARTS IN GOAL (28/04/1998)
Versatile Golden Boy Steve Palmer started in goal for Watford’s final home match of the 1997/98 campaign against Bournemouth, helping him on his way to completing the set of wearing every shirt number from one to 14 throughout the season.
- PLAY-OFF HOPES KEPT ALIVE (03/04/1999)
Remembered for being the game that kickstarted an unlikely push for the play-offs, nine-man Watford came from behind to beat Tranmere 2-1 in a hotly-contested clash that saw Allan Smart sent off for playing his part in a brawl after Michel Ngonge’s winner.
- HYDE’S BABY CELEBRATION (10/04/1999)
Midfielder Micah Hyde ended a barren sequence of 45 games with his first goal for over a year in a 2-0 win over Bolton, rifling a 20-yard shot into the top corner and subsequently paying tribute to son Tyrique - who had been born two days earlier - with the ‘rocking the baby’ celebration.
- ONE FOOT IN THE FINAL (16/05/1999)
After seven wins and a draw in their last eight games of the regular season, Michel Ngonge nudged Graham Taylor’s Hornets one step closer to a top-flight return with an early winner in the first leg of the Division One play-off semi-finals at home to Birmingham.
- HOME FANS MOVE TO ROOKERY (07/08/1999)
Having been built during the 1994/95 season, and boasting a capacity of just under 7,000, the Rookery Stand became the home fans’ end for the start of the 1999/00 Premier League campaign, with the first game delivering a 3-2 defeat to Wimbledon.
- SMART SINKS CHELSEA (18/09/1999)
On the back of a run of three successive defeats, Watford enjoyed their first big home scalp of the 1999/00 season against Chelsea, courtesy of Allan Smart’s first goal since his strike in the play-off final that had sealed the club’s place in the Premier League.
- HELGUSON’S DEBUT STRIKE (15/01/2000)
Signed by Graham Taylor as a complete unknown midway through the season, Icelandic forward Heiðar Helguson soon made his mark with a debut goal against Liverpool that set the tone for the first of two successful spells at The Vic.
- WOOTER’S SOLO GOAL (10/03/2001)
Dutchman Nordin Wooter - who had joined the Golden Boys for a then club-record fee in 1999 - lit up The Vic with a fine solo goal against Norwich, cutting in from the right and going past three defenders before dispatching an equaliser that helped set up a 4-1 win.
- GT SIGNS OFF FOR FINAL TIME (28/04/2001)
Graham Taylor bid farewell to the Vicarage Road crowd for the last time at the final home game of the 2000/01 campaign - a 1-1 draw against Tranmere - drawing the curtain on his second permanent spell in charge by embarking on a lap of honour at full-time, delivering an emotional speech and being presented with a giant bottle of champagne.
- ISSA DROPPED (26/09/2001)
Having become the third Watford player needing to be carried off in consecutive games, with a shoulder problem, defender Pierre Issa was dropped off his stretcher halfway along the Rookery End during a 3-3 draw with Birmingham that saw debutant Lloyd Doyley come on in his place.
- ROBINSON RUNS RIOT (27/11/2001)
A Paul Robinson masterclass inspired an extra-time 3-2 victory over Premier League Charlton in the fourth round of the League Cup, with the homegrown hero scoring a fabulous goal in between Paolo Vernazza and Heiðar Helguson strikes during one of the highlights of Gianluca Vialli’s reign.
- SIMPSON’S APPEAL (05/10/2002)
Amidst severe financial difficulties - with staff facing wage cuts and the players having been asked to take a 12 per cent wage deferral after the collapse of ITV Digital - new Chairman Graham Simpson led an appeal to supporters to do whatever they could to help ‘Save Our Club’ ahead of the Hornets’ 1-0 win over Brighton.
- SOUTH-COAST DOUBLE (30/11/2004)
Ray Lewington’s Hornets secured a second major semi-final in three seasons by dispatching the Premier League’s South-Coast neighbours Southampton 5-2 and Portsmouth 3-0 in successive League Cup rounds, with a Heiðar Helguson brace and a Bruce Dyer goal seeing off Pompey in the last eight.
- LEWINGTON’S MOMENT (25/01/2005)
Just two months before his departure from the club, boss Ray Lewington led the Hornets to a brave semi-final exit from the League Cup at the hands of Liverpool - who would go on to win the Champions League later that year - with Steven Gerrard notching the only goal of the second leg that made it 2-0 on aggregate.
- PENALTY PRACTICE (17/04/2006)
After seeing his team beat Ipswich 2-1 in their penultimate home game of the 2005/06 season - thanks to a Darius Henderson brace - Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd brought his players back on to the pitch to take part in a mock penalty shootout, ahead of a looming play-off campaign, urging the crowd to make lots of noise.
Watford’s young international stars, Yáser Asprilla and Matheus Martins, have secured safe passage into the final eight of the Under-20 World Cup after they both won their respective knockout games on Wednesday (May 31).
Asprilla - who scored one goal in 39 appearances for the Hornets during 2022/23 - unleashed a rocket of a strike after the interval against Slovakia to take Colombia to a two-goal lead after Óscar Cortés had opened the scoring.
The forward played out the remainder of the tie as the 2003 semi-finalists ran out 5-1 victors over their European opponents, with a brace from Tomás Ángel Gutiérrez and a final Cortés goal completing the job in the Round of 16.
The 19-year-old has now booked a date with Italy in the quarter-finals of the competition this Saturday (June 3, 10pm KO UK time), with the Azzurri having beaten England in the previous round.
Elsewhere, Martins’ Brazil saw off Tunisia despite being down to 10 men for the second half of the contest.
Marcos Leonardo and Andrey Santos had given Brazil the ascendancy before the break, but Robert Renan was dismissed on the stroke of half-time leading to a tense end to the tie.
In the end, there were three goals after the 90th minute with the first scored by Martins, sliding the ball past the on-rushing Tunisian shot-stopper. Santos fired Brazil to four before Mahmoud Ghorbel reduced the deficit for Tunisia.
With the 4-1 victory, Martins’ Brazil have set up a tie with Israel in the final eight of the tournament on Saturday (June 3, 6.30pm KO UK time).
Also, Ken Sema has been called up by Sweden’s senior national side ahead of their fixtures against New Zealand (Friday June 16, 6pm KO UK time) and Austria (Tuesday June 20, 7.45pm KO UK time).
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The longest-serving player at Watford Women Adekite Fatuga-Dada is among five who have been released by the club.
Watford FC Women confirms the departure of six Hornets following the conclusion of the 2022/23 campaign, with five players released as preparations begin for the 2023/24 Barclays Championship season.
Club captain Helen Ward confirmed her on-pitch retirement in March, with Wales’ all-time top goalscorer lifting the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division and Play-Off trophies to close out an illustrious career.
Following 113 appearances and eight successful years with the Golden Girls in her second spell at the club, Adekite Fatuga-Dada will be leaving Watford this summer having played a part in her second promotion in yellow.
Returning in 2015 from Arsenal having started her football journey in Hertfordshire, Fatuga-Dada made her debut that August against Doncaster Rovers Belles and became a fan favourite from the wing, contributing 16 goals and consistently leading the assists charts.
The playmaker was vital to promotion under Clinton Lancaster in the curtailed 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons and appeared regularly in the Championship during 2021/22, with injury keeping her out of action at several points in the most recent campaign.
Goalkeeper Georgie Ferguson also departs after two seasons at the club, signing in the summer of 2021. The 20-year-old spent a season-and-a-half as first choice between the sticks, making 39 appearances including 17 in 2022/23.
Nicola Gibson was a regular fixture in Damon Lathrope’s side in her single season at Grosvenor Vale, appearing 29 times and netting once from defence.
Gibson will be departing alongside fellow 2022 arrival Emily Wallace, who made 22 appearances for the club following her move from Oxford United last August.
Winter signing Faye Brough is the final name to be departing the Hornets. The Japanese forward played 13 times after joining in February, netting goals against MK Dons, Wolverhampton Wanderers and Plymouth Argyle.
“We would like to wish the departing players all the best for the future,” said Interim General Manager Laura Dyer. “They have played a fantastic part in our successful season and they have given us commitment and effort throughout.”
The full list can be found below:
Retired: Helen Ward
Released: Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Emily Wallace, Faye Brough, Georgie Ferguson, Nicola Gibson
We thank all departing players for their efforts and wish them luck for the future.
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Yaser Asprilla scored a stunning goal and Matheus Martins was also on target as Colombia and Brazil reached Under-20 World Cup quarter-finals.
Mattie Pollock is desperate to get a proper chance in the Watford first team, but also knows he may have to leave to get game time
25- Leandro Bacuna 1979/80 was my “first” season. I didn’t visit Vicarage Road until the very last day but by this time I was a devotee… sucking up every page of every match programme and every piece of news that Dad would pass on. (His match report from the home draw with Sunderland in December: […]
A gallery of Watford fans' pictures from the Hornets' 2-0 victory over Bolton Wanderers in the 1999 Play-Off Final at Wembley Stadium.
The second part of Andrew French's personal memories of Watford's first win at Wembley in May 1999 focusses on the day at Wembley Stadium
Fans are set to get the first chance to see Watford in action under new head coach Valerien Ismael in a friendly at Boreham Wood.
The Watford Observer has once again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
Watford are refusing to comment on claims Cristiano Giaretta has agreed a new contract to remain as Sporting Director at Vicarage Road.
In the first of a two-part article, Andrew French - then Watford's Communications Manager - shares stories from the build-up to the 1999 Play-Off Final
19- Vakoun Bayo Daughter 2’s evolution as a Watford supporter has been a joy to behold. From coming to her first game – the pre-season friendly with Udinese in 2014 – wide-eyed and completely oblivious to what football was beyond it being something her sister did, and that she was allowed to do when she […]
On Season 2, Episode 51 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford Women getting promoted to the FAWNL Championship with a 1-0 over Nottingham Forest at Stadium MK in Milton Keynes. And: Watford men end a miserable season on a high with a 2-0 win over Stoke. Also: One of the saddest days in Watford's recent history, and the Hornets didn't even kick a ball.
Episode published: May 28, 2023
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The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Watford 2, Stoke 0: https://bit.ly/42lFTjN
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Archive pictures of Watford's Open Day at the start of the 1981/82 season that ended with a historic promotion to the First Division.
The announcement in March of Watford legend Helen Ward’s impending retirement sparked tributes from inside the club and across the game, as footballers, coaches and supporters sent their well-wishes to Wales’ all-time top goalscorer.
With the official matchday programme for the Golden Girls’ dramatic 2-1 win over Oxford United dedicated to the striker back in April, supporters were given the chance to pay their tributes to Ward’s career.
Supporter Messages
“Thank you for all you have done for Watford and women’s football in general. You are a real legend of the game and will be remembered by all of us as our captain! All the best for your retirement!”
From Mark, Bradley & Sophie Hancock
“A huge thanks to Helen for not only everything she’s given and done for Watford over the years, but also for women in football. Using her voice and platform to raise awareness, coming back to play professionally after becoming a mum and allying herself to campaigns like Proud Hornets. Watford FC is a community club, a family club, and I really feel as if Helen has always understood that to her core and done what she could to embody that and create change on and off the pitch. How blessed we are to have had the legend that is Helen Ward as Club Captain.”
Kate Lewers, Women of Watford FC Supporters Group
“Favourite moment? There have been many! For fittingly that ‘fourmidable’ performance at Vicarage Road on Easter Sunday, in the stars & inevitable. Good wishes throughout Helen, you’ve been a top exemplary inspiring role model to all with a 100% remarkable career & you always have time for everyone.”
James Martin
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“There are too many great moments on the pitch to mention, she’s been great off it too. After starting The Watford FC Women Supporters Group we started doing YouTube interviews. The skipper was a fantastic interview, she had lots of time for us and it was great fun. Also, she wrote to me on my wedding day a couple of years ago, wishing me luck, so it’s my turn to return the wishes! Thank you skipper, it’s been an honour watching you and good luck for whatever the future brings!”
David Quick
“Helen is a great ambassador for Watford on the pitch and in the community. She happily took the time to answer questions and have pictures taken when she came to visit an Aylesbury Vale Dynamos Girls training session last year. The girls and coaches loved it and were so inspired. My daughter, Jessie, is a big fan too who will now have to choose a new favourite player. Good luck Helen.”
Wes Butler
“Thank you for being the perfect role model. For club and country, you’vebeen a constant inspiration for everyone. This sport will forever be in your debt, because it’s people like you who make the beautiful game what it is. Creating memories that will last a lifetime with dedication and charisma. Wales wouldn’t be where we are without you. Wishing you all the best for your future, wherever is next in your journey. We know you’ll be fantastic. My hero... Diolch yn fawr Wardy!”
Ash
“Thank you for everything! From seeing you score four at both The Vale and The Vic, to meeting you at full time, there have been so many memories. Wishing you the best in the future and good luck!”
El
“As a mum of a girl and a teacher - I can’t thank Helen enough for everything she does to promote women’s football. She’s a fantastic role model and has done so much for Watford FC Women. I can’t wait to see where she takes women’s football in the future. Thank you, Helen.”
Louise McLellan
“Helen is my favourite player. She’s great, scores so many goals and always chats to the fans.”
Isobel, aged nine.
Ward’s current teammates and members of staff within the Hornets set-up also gave short messages in tribute to their captain, including the likes of Head Coach Damon Lathrope and long-serving teammate Adekite Fatuga-Dada.
Player And Staff Messages
“The GOAT!”
Bianca Baptiste
“A leader, an ambassador, a legend! Overall top person.”
Laura Dyer, Interim General Manager and Assistant Coach
“My idol! A pleasure to have been able to share the pitch and learn from her. An unreal person, just wish she was funnier!”
Flo Fyfe
“Super Helen Ward! What a legend. An honour to be a part of her team.”
Annie Rossiter
“Goal machine!”
Kalani Peart
“A model pro and role model.”
Damon Lathrope, Head Coach
“A privilege to work with a Watford legend.”
Ilirjan Memaj, goalkeeper coach
“What a player, and an even better human!”
Melis Mehmet
“Legend!”
Lois Edwards
“A Watford and Wales legend - a pleasure to work with.”
Dene Field, analyst
“What an honour it’s been to share the pitch with such a legend. Scores goals for fun, leads from the front, pushes us to be better, a shoulder to cry on and a friend forever. Helen Ward is irreplaceable and will be missed so much!”
Megan Chandler
“My car buddy, my partner in creme egg crime, my favourite person to assist! Gonna miss you skipper!”
Adekite Fatuga-Dada
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Helen Ward called time on her illustrious 22-year footballing career on Saturday (May 20) following a victory against Nottingham Forest which confirmed promotion to the second tier.
To commemorate her time with the Hornets, here is a look back at Ward's career through a selection of pictures.
Early Days & A Stellar Career
Back For A Second Spell At Watford
Lifelong Memories
Flying High
One Last Season
Cymru
Wales Photos: FA Wales
Over 600 people, including local youngsters, grassroots football team players, adults, members from Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) UK, and participants from community programmes delivered by Watford Football Club Community Sports and Education Trust (Trust), all played their part in a 24-Hour Football Marathon.
The charity event was hosted on Saturday and Sunday (May 20-21) by the Trust, in partnership with AMYA UK, across Vicarage Road Stadium and Watford FC’s training ground in London Colney. The event, sponsored by WTW, raised vital funds for both the Trust and fellow charity Humanity First.
The round-the-clock challenge started on Saturday at 9.45am. Children between the ages of six and 11 years old kicked off the event as they took to the Vicarage Road pitch with their families watching on from the Sir Elton John Stand.
There were two sessions that ran until 1pm in an activity referred to as Play Like A Pro, which included a home changing room tour. It was during this period that the Chairman of Watford Borough Council, Councillor Amanda Grimston, came along to show her support for the community event.
A tournament was next on the schedule with mixed teams from across the Under-11 and Under-12 age groups competing on the pitch. Those included Garston Ladies, Hillingdon Abbots, Kings Langley FC, Macs, Parkfield, St Ives Rangers Girls, Watford Youth Sports, Wealdstone FC, and two teams from the Trust’s Premier League Kicks (PL Kicks) delivery in Cotlandswick and Meriden. It was a great afternoon of football in the sun, with Parkfield winning the tournament.
With the focus being on younger footballers during the morning and early afternoon, it was then the turn of 16 to 18-year-olds. The pitch markings changed to an 11-a-side match as two of the Trust’s football and education programmes took to the field, Westfield Football Academy versus Whitmore High School Football and Education Scheme.
With eight hours on the event clock, the players increased in age once again, with an adult tournament taking over for the final slot at Vicarage Road. The football was played in good spirits with 10 teams involved, including ‘The WTW Warriors’ representing event sponsors WTW. Also involved were teams representing two further Trust programmes from their health and wellbeing department - Shape Up and Man On.
As the sun set on Vicarage Road, the metaphorical half-time whistle was blown, and the event made a transfer to Watford Football Club’s training ground for the second half.
The first action to take place in the dome at the training ground was a mini Under-18s tournament organised by the Trust’s PL Kicks programme. Joining the teams made up of players from the Cotlandswick and Meriden PL Kicks sessions were Kinsbourne Youth and St Josephs. It was the latter that would run out winners in this tournament.
It was now the early hours of the morning and event partner AMYA UK took over, taking on the biggest slot of the night with a range of players from across their association’s network; a fantastic effort from each and every one of them.
Into the final stages of this challenging feast of football and Croxley Green Under-7s and Universal Elite Football Academy Under-8s were up to the task with sessions in the dome as the penultimate action to take place.
Bringing the event to a close in a session full of bright Watford FC yellow were players from the Trust’s Player Development Centres. As the games came to an end and the clock struck noon, all involved gave a big cheer and the 24-Hour Football Marathon was complete!
Leah Crocket, the Trust’s Events & Marketing Officer, said of the event: “Congratulations and thank you to all the players, team managers and spectators for playing their part in a wonderful two days of football and raising vital funds for two extremely good causes. Thanks must also go to our event sponsors WTW, our friends at AMYA UK, and of course, the many staff and volunteers who helped before and during the marathon; this would not have been possible without their support.”
As the total fundraising amount and expenses are worked through, the donations pages are still open. You can support players HERE, or donate directly HERE, leaving a note ‘24-Hour Football Marathon’.
Money raised from this event will go towards children’s relief efforts home and away. This includes:
Home – Watford FC CSE Trust
- Mental wellbeing primary school programme delivered in Hertfordshire and Harrow.
- Educational workshops.
Away – Humanity First
- Clean water solutions for villages in Africa.
- Enhancing school facilities and equipment for children in Africa.
A name synonymous with Watford and the women’s game, Helen Ward has enjoyed a stunning 22-year career. Winning silverware, huge matches and making memories along the way, the forward has cemented herself as a legendary figure.
Following her retirement, we take a look back at her career, reminiscing on her journey to Watford immortality.
Early Beginnings
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Born in England, but representing Wales on the international stage, Ward is a lifelong supporter of Watford. A proud season ticket holder in the Rookery Stand, the clinical striker began her association with the Golden Girls in 1995 at the age of nine, having seen an advert.
Ward certainly knew she had talent having been told by her older brother: ‘You’re not bad.’ The leader rose through the ranks and became captain of the women’s side, having made her debut in yellow back in 2001.
Going on to secure the Southern Premier League title in 2007, the achievements kept coming as Ward made her international debut for Wales. Coming against Luxembourg, the then 21-year-old notched a memorable goal on her international bow to open her account for Cymru.
Moving Up The Footballing Ranks
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With plenty of game-time and experience under her belt with the Hornets, Ward made the decision to join Arsenal in January 2009 to further continue a career which was going from strength to strength.
Notably, she scored on her debut for the Gunners in the Women’s FA Cup, and having made it to the final of the competition, Ward was unlucky not to be crowned victor as Everton upset the odds and beat Arsenal 3-2.
However, she would eventually taste success, winning her first league title with the red side of North London in 2009, even playing against the Golden Girls on a few occasions. Having enjoyed a successful, but ultimately concise spell at Arsenal, Ward moved to rivals Chelsea where she would spend the next three seasons of her career.
A Potential Return?
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After her Chelsea spell, Ward signed for Reading, but the most significant moment in her career so far came on the international stage; becoming Wales’ leading all-time scorer, overtaking Ian Rush.
In October 2013, during her spell with Reading, Ward was quoted in the Watford Observer as saying: “I have a lot of affection for the club and I always think I will make my way back there at some point.”
Following the conclusion of her four-year spell with the Royals – and after an eight-year absence – the Watford supporter made good on her word and returned to Vicarage Road in 2017.
Back In Yellow
Having re-joined the club, and being re-appointed as captain on her arrival, Ward continued to impress over the coming seasons for Watford and Wales.
When the pandemic struck, she was forced to look for a temporary move away whilst waiting for the Golden Girls’ season to resume. After a short spell at London Bees, Ward returned to Watford, helping to win promotion via upward movement to the FA Women’s Championship. And despite relegation back to the third-tier this season after, Ward reached a century of Wales caps.
She enjoyed one final season at The Vic during the 2022/23 campaign and hoped for a successful end to a stellar career. After announcing her plans to retire at the end of the campaign, Ward helped lead the Golden Girls to a first-place finish in the FAWNL Southern Premier Division – notably scoring four goals in one game at Vicarage Road against Bridgwater United in April.
She would make her final appearance against Billericay Town on May 7, coming off the bench with 25 minutes left to play.
Despite not making it off the bench during the play-off final at Stadium MK against Nottingham Forest, which secured promotion back to the Championship, Ward was a significant figure in the dressing room throughout the season and will be sorely missed on the pitch having ended the season as top goalscorer.
A Watford fan who lived the dream, Ward will always be welcome at The Vic, recently explaining to BBC Radio Wales: “I couldn’t have wished for a better end to the season and a final send-off; it’s been absolutely perfect.”
A cartoonist whose work became a much-loved part of this newspaper’s coverage of Watford FC for many years has been chosen as one of the 100 people who made Watford.
When Salernitana secured their place in Serie A for another season it earned Watford €400,000 in the process.
Helen Ward insisted she couldn’t have hoped for a better conclusion to her illustrious playing career than last Saturday’s FA WNL play-off final victory (May 20), which sealed the Golden Girls’ immediate promotion back to the Barclays Women’s Championship.
The 37-year-old had announced that she would be hanging up her boots at the end of the 2022/23 season back in March, and immediately then set her sights on signing off in style.
Though an unused substitute in the Stadium MK showpiece against Nottingham Forest – that saw Poppy Wilson head the Hornets to glory – Ward more than played her part in the team’s success, topping the scoring chart with 18 goals in 25 appearances in all competitions throughout the campaign.
“I couldn’t have wished for a better end to the season and a final send-off, it’s been absolutely perfect,” Ward told BBC Radio Wales, after proudly lifting the coveted play-off final trophy aloft alongside Megan Chandler at full-time in Milton Keynes.
“It’s amazing, I’m just so proud, not just today but for the whole season. It would’ve been nice to have got on the pitch, but the opportunity didn’t come up and that’s just football.
“Today isn’t about me, it’s about Watford and what we’ve done as a club. I’ll take a 1-0 win and not getting on the pitch any day because it means my club is back in the Championship, where it deserves to be.
“I feel like I’ve done my part and I’ve enjoyed some incredible moments over the years. It’s been absolutely unbelievable.”
Having broken the record to become Wales’ all-time leading goalscorer and hit the net over 160 times in yellow across 22 seasons in senior women’s football, Ward explained how she used her experience to aid Watford’s progression from the FA WNL Southern Premier Division, particularly after the final-day heartbreak of relegation last term.
And though she admitted the thought of not having to prepare for a gruelling pre-season ahead of 2023/24 is a little strange, the former Arsenal, Chelsea and Reading striker is looking forward to keeping a close eye on the Golden Girls’ future fortunes from the other side of the white line.
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She added: “You go through ups and downs as a player, and I’ve just been trying to use those experiences to help my teammates as we’ve got a fairly young squad.
“I’ve just tried to help them along the way when needed, but most of the time they’ve taken it upon their shoulders and they’ve dealt with everything that’s been thrown at them.
“We sort of put those demons of last year to bed [relegation], and to bounce back up at the first ask is amazing. I’m so proud of this club and everybody involved in it.
“I think things have been building up over the last couple of years [towards retirement], but particularly over the last couple of months since I announced it. But the thought of not turning up for the first day of pre-season in July is amazing!”
In light of the Vicarage Road centenary celebrations earlier this season, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Mike Raggett writes about the striker whose efforts sparked a promotion run and delivered several ecstatic moments for Vicarage Road fans – not least two goals against Liverpool.
The chant of ‘Always believe in your soul. You’re indestructible’ rings out loud and lustily from the massed stands as wannabe Spandau Balladeers salute the second of Odion Ighalo’s goals against… Liverpool. We knew he was good in the Championship but could he do it at the top level too?
Ighalo initially joined on a season-long loan from – you guessed it – Udinese in July 2014. By October that loan was converted into a permanent signing and his performances, especially alongside Troy Deeney, were a significant factor in Watford gaining promotion in 2014/15 to the Premier League. Deeney and Ighalo forged a very impressive strike partnership running fearlessly at Championship defenders.
Odion Jude Ighalo was born in Lagos, Nigeria in 1989, played for local clubs before being scouted for Norwegian side Lyn for whom he made 20 appearances in 2007/08 before being recruited by Udinese and sent out to Granada on loan. At the time, the Pozzo family owned Udinese, Granada and Watford and were often vilified for their extensive inter-club loan policy. In two spells at the Spanish club he scored 32 goals before joining Watford.
Perhaps the high point of the promotion run for Odion, wearing shirt number 24, was when he scored four second-half goals against Blackpool. After a sub-par first half Watford found themselves 2-0 down to the league’s bottom club. Shortly after the restart, Ighalo taps in a great cross from Miguel Layun. Deeney equalises soon afterwards, and then Ighalo gets his second by tussling strongly but fairly with the Blackpool defenders to slot home from a tight angle. Suddenly Watford are in the lead. A great run from Ikechi Anya feeds Matej Vydra the fourth before Angella makes it 5-2 and then Ighalo gets his hat-trick by heading in Deeney’s shot which rebounded off the post. His fourth is thanks to Deeney, who selflessly crosses it to give the Nigerian his 12th of the season. The victory took the Hornets to within three points of second-placed Middlesbrough and four of leaders Bournemouth.
Later in 2015 Ighalo made his debut for Nigeria, saying: "I feel good because it is my dream to play for my country." He went on to be the top scorer in qualifying for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations with seven goals and netted four times for the Super Eagles as they finished the campaign in third place. By this time he’d left Watford to play in China for Changchun Yatai in 2017/18 and Shanghai Shenhua in 2018/19.
But let’s go back to December 20, 2015, when on a three-game scoring spree Ighalo joined the ranks of Barry Endean and Tommy Mooney in netting in victories against highly-fancied Liverpool. It has to be said that at the time, after four wins on the spin, we were standing seventh in the table, two places above Liverpool. Nathan Ake opened the scoring with a tap-in after keeper Bogdan dropped a Ben Watson corner. But if that goal was a bit fortunate the second was superb. Deeney lofted a through ball for Ighalo, who brushed Martin Škrtel aside and slotted home off the post. His second goal, sealing his man-of-the-match award, was started by his own intervention in midfield – with passes to Deeney and from Valon Behrami he ran into space to head home and guarantee the victory. He now had 28 goals in the 2015 calendar year, the best tally in any of the leagues, and he and Troy Deeney were the most prolific partnership for goals and assists in the Premier League. It would bring him the Player of the Month award for December and the manager’s equivalent for Quique Sanchez Flores.
It really is a curse isn’t it? It would be 599 minutes into 2016 before Ighalo would find the net again – against Arsenal in the FA Cup. His exciting time at Watford would end rather limply – in 2016/17 he scored only one goal and failed to find the net in his last 15 games with us before leaving for China in January 2017. He returned to Premier League football on loan at Manchester United in 2020 but after the Covid-affected season reduced his opportunities, he signed for Al-Shabab in Saudi Arabia, and later Al-Hilal. The Odion Ighalo Foundation has used some of the substantial salary he received on his transfer to China to establish several charity initiatives in Nigeria including an orphanage in Lagos.
He gave us a couple of seasons of real excitement and goals galore so let’s celebrate the “indestructible I-gha-lo” and his “power to know”!
It proved to be a spectacular ending to a hugely memorable season as Watford Women were promoted to the Barclays Women’s Championship with a 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the FA WNL play-off final.
Following their success, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures that surround the Golden Girls’ 2022/23 campaign.
18 – Club captain Helen Ward leads the way as top goalscorer for the Golden Girls, having notched that many in just 25 appearances. In total, in the league, that tally ranks Ward third.
15 – Gemma Davison ranks top within the Watford ranks for assists, and joint-top alongside Oxford United’s Naomi Cole in the division. Davison is closely followed by teammates Bianca Baptiste (14) and Annie Rossiter (12).
24 – Ward and Davison made 24 goal contributions each throughout the campaign.
44 – Wales and Watford Women’s top goalscorer Ward either scored a goal or contributed an assist every 44 minutes.
31 – Three Golden Girls are ranked joint-top for appearances in yellow this term: Megan Chandler, Alli Palisch and Rossiter. That statistic also puts all three joint-top in the FA WNL Southern Premier Division.
101 – The total number of goals scored by the Golden Girls this season. An impressive figure, it’s at least 22 more than any other side in the division.
6 – Alongside the most assists, Davison also earned the league’s Player of the Match award the single most times within the Golden Girls’ ranks.
3 – Ward is tied for the most penalties converted this season, having notched three from the spot.
48 – The best goal difference in the league belongs to Watford, with at least 10 more than Oxford United who are ranked second for the statistic.
2,806 – Centre-half Chandler featured in the most minutes for the Golden Girls during the season.
15 – Versatile operator Palisch helped earn the most clean sheets within the squad.
Attacking duo Yáser Asprilla and Matheus Martins both notched their first goals of the FIFA Under-20 World Cup on Wednesday night (May 24), helping boost their respective nations’ tournament credentials over in Argentina.
Nineteen-year-old Asprilla - who scored one goal in 39 appearances for the Hornets during 2022/23 - finished off a well-worked team move to equalise for Colombia against Japan, before Tomás Ángel grabbed the winner for the South Americans with just over half-an-hour to play.
The 2-1 win seals Colombia’s progression to the Round of 16 with one game to spare in Group C, which will see them take on winless Senegal back in La Plata on Saturday (May 27, 10pm KO UK time).
In Group D, Matheus Martins played his part in Brazil’s emphatic 6-0 triumph over the Dominican Republic, as the five-time champions kickstarted their campaign after falling 3-2 to Italy in their first outing.
Martins - who came on as a 77th-minute substitute - scored the sixth goal of the night in injury-time, after Sávio, Marcos Leonardo, Pedroso, Giovane and Marlon Gomes strikes had opened up a healthy lead.
Level on points with Italy, second-placed Brazil will be looking to clinch a place in the knockout stage with victory over Nigeria - who have so far won two from two - at the Estadio Único Diego Armando Maradona on Saturday (May 27, 7pm KO UK time).
Back in the UK, defender Mattie Pollock completed 90 minutes for loan club Aberdeen as the four-time champions saw off St Mirren 3-0 in the Scottish Premiership.
With just one game to go - away at champions Celtic on Saturday (May 27, 12.30pm KO) - the Dons have now guaranteed a third-place finish in the league standings, and European football for next term.
14- Hassane Kamara Ultimately it’s the disappointment that inflates the problem here. Amongst the charred embers of the previous season one of the few sparks that belligerently refused to die was this irrepressible left back who never stopped moving, loved a sliding tackle and was one of very few to find relegation staring him in […]
The Golden Girls have enjoyed a special 2022/23 campaign, sealing a first-place finish in the FA WNL Southern Premier Division and promotion to the second-tier after victory over Nottingham Forest in the play-off final.
Here are some of the highlights captured on social media from throughout the season…
To begin, Watford Women got their season underway with an important 3-2 victory over Gillingham, with Helen Ward etching her name onto the scoresheet with a dinked finish.
After the men’s side had beaten Luton Town 4-0 back in October, the Golden Girls featured straight after and made it back-to-back 4-0 wins with victory over London Bees.
One of the most memorable moments of the season came in November 2022 against AFC Wimbledon in the FA WNL Cup, when Grace Garrad produced this strike in the dying seconds.
Not long after announcing she would be retiring at the end of the 2022/23 campaign, Ward took to the Vicarage Road pitch to score an impressive four times against Bridgwater United in April.
View this post on InstagramNew Watford head coach Valerien Ismael is aiming to add an ex-Watford player to his coaching staff ahead of the start of pre-season.
Watford legend Luther Blissett OBE DL has paid tribute to Watford Women after they clinched promotion back to the Championship
CCTV images have been released as part of a probe into group fighting linked to Watford FC’s match with Luton.
The Hornets were delighted to welcome Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust to host a vibrant and inclusive Family Fun Day at the club’s Vicarage Road home.
Sunday’s (May 21) event aimed to bring the local community together for a day of fun-filled activities, fostering a sense of togetherness and promoting cultural exchange. It attracted a diverse audience from all walks of life, creating an atmosphere of inclusivity and celebration. With an impressive turnout, over 5,000 people joined in across the course of the day, perfectly showcasing the community’s enthusiasm for coming together.
The stadium was transformed into a lively hub of excitement, offering a feast of engaging activities for all age groups. Attendees had the opportunity to explore a variety of stalls, featuring local businesses, community organisations and cultural treats. From delicious food vendors serving tasty meals to artisans showcasing their crafts, there was something for everyone.
Particularly popular among children, a range of activities took place on the pitch. The laughter and joy echoed throughout the ground as families came together to partake in the festivities and fully utilised the exciting inflatables and sports on offer. Furthermore, football enthusiasts displayed their skills on the pitch, engaging in friendly kickabouts and matches which showcased their passion for the game.
During the afternoon Dhuhr, the second of five daily prayers observed by the Muslim community, was performed in congregation on the Vicarage Road pitch with both men and women participating. The Adhan (call to prayer) was heard over the Vicarage Road PA system and was led by Imran Khan from WMYCT.
The event was made possible through the collaborative efforts of the Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust, Watford Football Club and numerous community partners who generously supported the initiative, including Watford Borough Council. Their unwavering commitment to promoting unity and fostering strong community bonds was evident throughout the day.
Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust also expressed sincere gratitude to Watford Police, the Fire Station, My Wellbeing W3RT, Watford Women’s Centre, Everyone Active, Abbey Badminton Club, Beezee Bodies, the community, local businesses and all the volunteers and club staff who dedicated their time and effort to make the Family Fun Day a resounding success.
“As an organisation deeply rooted in the community, we are thrilled to have hosted such a successful Family Fun Day,” said Zahid Zarin, Chairman for Watford Muslim Youth Centre. “Our aim was to create an environment where people from all backgrounds could come together, enjoy themselves, and strengthen the community spirit. The event was a testament to the power of unity and the shared values that bind us all.”
Imran Khan, Secretary Trustee of Watford Muslim Youth Centre, said: “The Family Fun Day at Watford Football Club exceeded our expectations in terms of attendance and the positive impact it had on the community. We are grateful for the support and collaboration from our partners and the entire community.”
Dave Messenger, EDI Lead for Watford Football Club, added: “We were delighted to host the Family Fun Day with our partners from the Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust and to see that so many people enjoyed the event. We look forward to further opportunities to work with the Trust in the future and value their support for our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion work at Watford FC.”
More on Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust
The Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust was set up in May 2012 with the aim of establishing a multi-purpose community centre in Tolpits Lane, Watford. The Centre will be an interactive space offering a wide range of educational and recreational activities to people of all ages and backgrounds. WMYCT are already designing services and activities to be implemented and hope their endeavours will promote togetherness within Watford and help build bridges between various ethnic groups.
The Trust has raised approximately £2m and requires a further £500k to complete their construction project. Donations are welcome to help them achieve this goal:
Lloyds Bank
Account Name: WMYC
Account Number: 01467260
Sort Code: 77-95-51More details can be found HERE. Follow WMYCT on Instagram or Twitter for further information.
Contact Us
For full details on the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion work we are doing across Watford Football Club and the Community Trust, please click HERE.
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The dust continues to settle on the Golden Girls’ incredible 2022/23 season, with Saturday’s FA WNL play-off final win over Nottingham Forest adding promotion to the Southern Premier Division title credentials that were secured on the final day of the normal campaign earlier in May.
Following jubilant celebrations the players have now kick-started a period of relaxation and recuperation, ahead of pre-season and what promises to be an enticing 2023/24 Barclays Women’s Championship showdown.
Here, we take a month-by-month look back at how Damon Lathrope’s side restored their second-tier place at the first time of asking, with a feast of big wins, important goals and defensive masterclasses yielding significant success.
August
Having suffered relegation in heart-breaking fashion at the end of 2021/22, and with a change of Head Coach and a number of player incomings and outgoings, there was huge anticipation ahead of Watford’s first game of the new season at home to Gillingham on Sunday August 21.
It was a familiar face who broke the deadlock at the Hornets’ new Grosvenor Vale home, as Helen Ward opened her account for 2022/23 in the 18th minute, before strikes from Bianca Baptiste and Drè Georgiou secured a 3-2 win and three opening-day points.
Ward grabbed her second goal in successive games on the road at Bridgwater United the following week (Sunday August 28), before Francesca Ali notched her first for the club to make it 2-0 and cement back-to-back wins.
September
The Golden Girls were forced to wait two-and-a-half weeks for their next bout of FA WNL Southern Premier Division action (Tuesday September 13), and a midweek trip to Portsmouth under the lights delivered a disappointing 2-0 defeat that boss Lathrope admitted wasn’t good enough.
He said: “Fair play to them - they had a game plan, and they really made it frustrating for us. We know we weren’t at it tonight, but we know we’ve got loads more in us and I think we need to use this result as a bit of a wake-up call.”
Those words seemed to rally the Watford squad, as goals from Georgiou, Annie Rossiter, Anne Meiwald, Grace Garrad, Melis Mehmet and Flo Fyfe earned an emphatic 6-0 home victory over Cheltenham Town just five days later (Sunday September 18).
A rousing FA WNL Cup determining-round win over Norwich City by the same scoreline (Sunday September 25) - thanks to strikes from Ellie Head, Fyfe, Nicola Gibson and a Ward hat-trick - sealed the team’s place in the first round of the competition, while rounding off September in ideal fashion.
October
A tricky clash away to eventual third-place finishers Oxford United ended in Watford’s first draw of the season (Sunday October 2), with Megan Chandler’s early goal being cancelled out by Leah Burridge’s header in second-half stoppage-time.
Lathrope’s charges didn’t dwell on that setback however, with three high-scoring league victories - at home to Plymouth Argle 5-1 (Sunday October 9) and 4-0 away to both Crawley Wasps (Tuesday October 11) and London Bees (Sunday October 23) - ensuring they completed October unbeaten.
November
Cup competition was at the forefront of the Hornets’ endeavours at the start of November, with a 30-yard Garrad strike in the last minute of extra-time clinching a dramatic 1-0 win at AFC Wimbledon in the first round of the FA WNL Cup (Sunday November 6).
The following week’s visit of Fulham in the opening round of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup proved a more straightforward affair (Sunday November 13), with a brace each for Poppy Wilson, Fyfe and Baptiste - as well as a Gemma Davison strike - contributing to a 7-1 win.
Back on league duty towards the end of the month though (Sunday November 20), a first home loss of the campaign - 3-2 against Billericay Town - dealt a blow to the side’s title and promotion aspirations, with late strikes from Rossiter and Davison proving insufficient to claim a share of the spoils.
Remaining upbeat, Lathrope said: “One result doesn’t define us. It’s an opportunity to bounce back and we’ve had it before at Portsmouth, and we got a great response off the back of it.
“Yes, we’re really disappointed, and we’ll look at it and make sure that we learn from it. But by no means do we overthink it. We can’t let it affect what we do next.”
December
Two December outings delivered two positive results - as once again Watford hit back with an immediate response to adversity - and things got underway with a convincing 6-0 win over Crawley in the FA Cup (Sunday December 4) that once again saw Ward steal the headlines by scoring her 150th and 151st goals for the club.
A re-arranged FA WNL Cup tie against Hashtag United eventually took place in the dome at the London Colney training ground (Saturday December 17), with an extra-time 5-3 victory - courtesy of Head, Georgiou, Ali, Garrad and Wilson goals - sealing the Golden Girls’ passage to the third round.
January
Such cup success was not to be replicated away at Championship outfit Crystal Palace at the turn of the new year (Sunday January 8), with a 5-1 defeat at Hayes Lane bringing Watford’s FA Cup journey to an end at the third-round stage.
Victory by the same scoreline over MK Dons would ensure the team’s progress to the semi-finals of the FA WNL Cup three weeks later however (Sunday January 29), as Ward notched another double at Grosvenor Vale.
February
Home and away clashes against title rivals Ipswich Town topped and tailed February, with a late Wilson header rescuing a point for the Hornets at Grosvenor Vale at the start of the month (Sunday February 5) after Lucy O’Brien had put the visitors ahead.
Successive wins at Cheltenham (Sunday February 12) and at home to MK Dons (Sunday February 19) and Portsmouth (Wednesday February 22) - 3-1, 2-1 and 2-0 respectively - cut the gap between Watford and then leaders Pompey to five points, with Lathrope’s team having played three games fewer.
A first league defeat since November was to come at Ipswich on Sunday February 26 though, with a Sarah Brasero-Carreira strike settling a evenly-match game, setting up a mouth-watering conclusion to the Southern Premier Division season.
March
Before the Golden Girls resumed their tilt at league success, they impressively dealt with their first meeting against Northern Premier Division opposition in the last four of the FA WNL Cup (Sunday March 5), defeating Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 thanks to first-half goals from Georgiou and Faye Brough at The Vale.
Knowing they were to face-off against Nottingham Forest in the showpiece the following month, Lathrope said: “I’m over the moon for the group. I think we got what we deserved on the day, it was a very solid performance.
“We knew what we were coming up against in Wolves and nullified their threats, and were really good ourselves.”
That win seemingly spearheaded an incredible run of form that yielded league wins over Gillingham (Sunday March 12), Crawley (Wednesday March 15) and MK Dons (Sunday March 26) - 2-0, 6-0 and 5-0 respectively - maintaining the squad’s push for top spot in the standings.
April
Watford began a busy April by hitting the net five times in succession - winning 5-2 at Plymouth (Sunday April 2) and then 5-1 at home to Bridgwater United (Sunday April 9) - with the latter taking place in front of 1,127 supporters at Vicarage Road.
Another three points at home to London Bees on Sunday April 16 kept the heat on Ipswich, Oxford and Portsmouth towards the top of the table, before the Hornets travelled to Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium a week later (Sunday April 23) to take on Forest for FA WNL glory.
Davison and Wilson goals weren’t to be enough to prevent an agonising extra-time 3-2 defeat, but with a potentially season-defining league match-up against Oxford under the Vicarage Road lights in store just four days later (Thursday April 27), Lathrope’s team had no time to rest on their laurels.
Long-range strikes from Bianca Baptiste and Araya Dennis secured a vital 2-1 win in front of another four-figure crowd, leaving the Golden Girls top with one game left to play, albeit having played one game more than Oxford.
May
A 3-0 victory at Billericay Town (Sunday May 7) - courtesy of Davison, Wilson and Baptiste goals - ensured Watford had done all they could in their battle for first place, and indeed the title was secured thanks in part to Oxford’s defeat at Ipswich.
Having won eight league games on the trot, just one battle remained against FA WNL Cup foes Nottingham Forest (Saturday May 20), this time at Stadium MK with a spot in next year’s Championship at stake.
Wilson’s first-half header proved the difference between the teams on the day, exacting revenge on the Tricky Trees for that cup defeat and cueing memorable scenes for all in yellow at the full-time whistle.
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After closing out the 2022/23 season in style, with a memorable 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the FA WNL play-off final, Watford Women are looking forward to testing their skills in the Barclays Women’s Championship next term.
Before they kickstart their preparations for 2023/24, we take a look at some of the best pictures from a historic campaign on and off the pitch.
Opening The Season In Style
Smashing Six Past Cheltenham Town
Eight-Goal Thriller Against Hashtag United
Back Home At The Vic
Cup Final Heartbreak
Play-Off Immortality
Incredible Supporters
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As we near the end of our year-long VR100 celebrations, what better way to reminisce than by looking back at the most remarkable moments from a century of Watford FC at Vicarage Road.
A dedicated team of Watford-supporting experts on Hornets history have been working hard to draw up a list of the 100 most memorable moments to have occurred at The Vic, from the opening game on August 30, 1922 right up until the VR100 Matchday on August 30, 2022.
Featuring golden goals, amazing matches, promotion parties and even some non-footballing occasions, whittling a century of incredible moments down to just 100 proved a tricky but rewarding task.
And now it’s over to you! We’re asking supporters to tell us what they believe to be the stadium’s most memorable moments by taking part in an online vote that will be split into four groups of 25 moments, listed in chronological order.
The most popular moments once voting has taken place will be put into a top 10, before one final round of voting to rank these cherished occasions in order.
First up, our initial 25 includes memorable moments from the grand opening all the way up to the late 1970s. Read on for information on each moment, and then cast your vote to tell us which you believe to be the most memorable. Voting for this round closes at 5pm on Sunday May 28.
1.THE GRAND OPENING (30/08/1922)
Vicarage Road was formally opened by Colonel Charles Healey, who conducted a ceremony and kicked the match ball onto the pitch ahead of a 0-0 draw with Millwall, played in front of 8,618 fans.
2.PAGNAM SCORES FIRST WATFORD GOALS AT THE VIC (30/09/1922)
In the stadium’s fourth match, Fred Pagnam finally netted Watford’s first goals at the new venue, bagging a hat-trick in a 4-0 win over Exeter City.
3.MUMMERY FIRES FIVE (05/01/1924)
Eddie Mummery became the first and only Watford player to score five goals in a single league match at The Vic, doing so in an 8-2 win over Newport County.
4.HISTORY-MAKING WIN (27/11/1926)
Just four years after moving to Vicarage Road, Watford posted a remarkable 10-1 win over Lowestoft Town in the FA Cup, still the club’s biggest ever victory.
5.MCBAIN MASTERCLASS (12/01/1929)
Tommy Barnett scored the game’s only goal, but half-back Neil McBain was the star performer as Watford beat mighty Preston in the FA Cup, their first ever win over opponents from a higher division.
6.PLAYERS ASSIST BUILDING WORK BEFORE CUP UPSET (13/02/1932)
In the build-up to Watford’s surprise 1-0 win over Second Division Bradford in the FA Cup fifth round, the players and manager Neil McBain all got their hands dirty with essential building work required to increase the ground’s capacity by 5,000.
7.FASTEST HAT-TRICK (20/12/1933)
Billy Lane scored a three-minute treble in a 6-0 win over Clapton Orient; the fastest hat-trick ever seen at The Vic. It’s just a shame it was only witnessed by a lowest ever league crowd of 1,309!
8.FIRST 30,000+ ATTENDANCE (28/01/1950)
The first crowd of more than 30,000 packed into Vicarage Road as 32,384 watched a 1-0 FA Cup loss to Manchester United, most famous for a Taffy Davies effort that appeared to cross the line but was not given.
9.UNDER THE LIGHTS (13/10/1953)
Installed for around £3,000, floodlights were used at The Vic for the first time against Luton Town in the specially-launched ‘Watford FC Invitation Cup’, with evening fixtures opening up important new revenue opportunities.
10.RAMPANT ROY NETS THREE (07/09/1954)
A remarkable 7-1 win over Crystal Palace was inspired by centre-forward Roy Brown, who became the first black player to score a hat-trick for Watford.
11.ROOKERY ROOF REVEALED (22/08/1959)
A project undertaken by the Supporters Club, the new 200-foot-long Rookery Stand cover was in place for a goalless draw with Stockport County, offering welcome shelter at an end that had been uncovered since 1948.
12.TOP-FLIGHT TRIUMPH (09/01/1960)
For the first time in club history, Watford overcame First Division opposition by beating Birmingham 2-1 in the FA Cup, with the 31,314 attendance still in the Vicarage Road top five.
13.HOLTON HAT-TRICKS (16/04/1960)
Having already scored three against Chester just 24 hours earlier, Cliff Holton bagged a second hat-trick in as many days as Gateshead were comprehensively beaten 5-0.
14.PROMOTION PARTY (03/05/1960)
Having secured promotion from Division Four with a game to spare, Watford’s 2-2 draw with Walsall on the final day was played against a backdrop of celebration, with fans flooding onto the pitch at full-time.
15.LIVESEY WONDER GOAL (08/02/1964)
Described as one of Watford’s finest ever goals, popular forward Charlie Livesey lit up The Vic with a solo effort in a 2-1 win over Oldham, collecting the ball around halfway and charging through the defence before driving a crashing shot home.
16.CURRIE DEBUT GOALS (16/09/1967)
Seventeen-year-old Tony Currie announced himself to the Vicarage Road faithful in style, scoring twice on an unforgettable debut in a 4-0 win over Bristol Rovers.
17.SCULLION SOLO STRIKE (21/10/1967)
Even the opposition keeper applauded when skilful winger Stewart Scullion dribbled past five players, saw an initial shot saved before beating another five and scoring in a 5-0 win over Stockport. The Watford Observer called it ‘one of the greatest goals ever seen at Vicarage Road’.
18.GT’S GRIMSBY TROUNCED (02/12/1967)
Stewart Scullion was at his tricky best once more as Watford dispatched Grimsby Town 7-1, giving a certain fresh-faced Mariners full-back named Graham Taylor a torrid time.
19.ATTENDANCE RECORD SET (03/02/1969)
Still the biggest ever crowd at Vicarage Road, 34,099 packed in to see Watford take on Manchester United in an FA Cup replay, with George Best and Denis Law excelling in a 2-0 win for the European Cup holders.
20.WEIRD & WONDERFUL (11/03/1969)
Surely the strangest goal to have been scored at The Vic, Brian Owen’s bizarre strike deflected 50 feet into the air before being caught by the wind and dropping into the net as Tranmere Rovers keeper Jim Cumbes went in search of the ball behind the Rookery goal!
21.SECOND-TIER STATUS SECURED (15/04/1969)
Forty-nine years after joining the Football League, Watford finally reached Division Two thanks to a 1-0 win over Plymouth with four games to spare at the end of a history-making 1968/69 season under Ken Furphy.
22.FRANKS BEATS BANKS (24/01/1970)
The first of two FA Cup giant-killings witnessed at The Vic in the space of a month, Division One Stoke City were beaten 1-0 courtesy of a long-range strike from Colin Franks that whistled past World Cup-winning keeper Gordon Banks.
23.LIVERPOOL KNOCKED OUT (21/02/1970)
Liverpool came to town in the FA Cup quarter-finals and Vicarage Road’s second largest crowd of all-time, 34,047, was treated to a glorious afternoon thanks to Barry Endean’s flying header in a 1-0 win.
24.ELTON JOHN PERFORMS (05/05/1974)
Having become Vice President in 1973 and later joined the board, boyhood Watford fan and global popstar Elton John played his first Vicarage Road concert to over 31,000 supporters, generating nearly £30,000 for the club.
25.NINE MEN? NO PROBLEM! (16/04/1977)
A 2-0 home win against Huddersfield Town might on paper appear unremarkable, but not when you consider it was achieved with nine men following first-half red cards shown to Tony Geidmintis and Alan Mayes, prior to a Keith Mercer double.
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Vice-captain Megan Chandler led Watford Women in Saturday's play-off victory and said she felt they always had the game under control.
The Watford Observer has once again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
Teenage attacker Yáser Asprilla shone on the international stage over the weekend, as Colombia kicked off their FIFA Under-20 World Cup journey with a 2-1 victory over Israel in Group C on Sunday (May 21).
The 19-year-old - who scored one goal in 39 appearances for the Hornets during 2022/23 - completed the full 90 minutes for the 2003 semi-finalists in La Plata, Argentina, as an Óscar Cortés penalty and a late Gustavo Puerta strike sealed the three points.
Colombia will next take on Japan - who beat Senegal 1-0 in their opening game - back at the Estadio Único Diego Armando Maradona on Wednesday (May 24, 10pm KO UK time).
Over in Group D, fellow young forward Matheus Martins played 45 minutes for Brazil, as they fell to a narrow 3-2 defeat against Italy later the same day in Mendoza.
The five-time champions will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways against the Dominican Republic - who kicked off with a 2-1 defeat to Nigeria - next time out (Wednesday May 24, 10pm KO UK time).
Back in the UK, defender Mattie Pollock was in domestic action for loan club Aberdeen on Saturday (May 20), as the Scottish Premiership gradually draws to a close.
The 21-year-old headed the Dons in front away to Hearts just past the half-hour mark, before the Edinburgh side struck back either side of the break to seal a 2-1 win.
The gap between Aberdeen and Hearts in third and fourth respectively is now just two points with two games of the season remaining, with the former - and Pollock - set to welcome St Mirren to Pittodrie next on Wednesday (May 24, 7.45pm KO).
Elsewhere, William Troost-Ekong came on for the final 12 minutes of Salernitana’s 2-2 draw at Europa League finalists Roma in Serie A on Monday night (May 22). The Garnets sit 15th in the standings with two matches left to play.
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Watford Women goalkeeper Jacqui Goldsmid was extremely modest about the vital saves she made in Saturday's play-off victory.
Watford Women Head Coach Damon Lathrope has been commended for an excellent first season in charge of the Golden Girls, picking up the Manager of the Season award for the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division having achieved promotion to the Barclays Women’s Championship at the first time of asking.
Winning the accolade on the night of Watford’s play-off final win over Nottingham Forest at Stadium MK, the 33-year-old won 17 of 22 league games in 2022/23 and also steered the Hornets to the FA WNL Cup final, which ended in narrow defeat to Saturday’s opponents back in April.
Upon receiving the gong, Lathrope credited his staff for their hard work throughout a successful campaign.
“It’s a great honour to receive the award, but without doubt I receive it on behalf of all the staff,” said Lathrope. “What fantastic people we have to support the players, and everyone in the team has played a huge part in the successes this season, so thank you and congratulations to them.”
Lathrope wasn’t the only FA WNL Awards winner in yellow, with Development Team forward Lily Dolling taking home the Golden Boot in the Reserves South East & Central Division, scoring 23 goals in 17 games.
Congratulations, Damon and Lily!
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Watford Women produced an incredible performance to beat Nottingham Forest 1-0 in the FA WNL play-off final at Stadium MK on Saturday (May 20).
There was plenty of reaction on social media to the confirmation of the Golden Girls’ promotion back to the Barclays Women’s Championship at the first time of asking.
One of the first to post her appreciation was Helen Ward, who brought to a close a memorable 22-year playing career.
Plenty of Ward’s teammates got involved with the celebrations, as Annie Rossiter, Anne Meiwald and goalscorer Poppy Wilson gave their reaction to the result.
Watford Women boss Damon Lathrope was delighted with the result and took to Twitter to give his reaction.
Echoing the Head Coach’s post-match sentiment, Flo Fyfe and Gemma Davison posted about the character within the Golden Girls’ squad.
View this post on InstagramShe said before the game she'd take a 1-0 win - that's exactly what she got! And midfielder Drè Georgiou was Player of the Match on Saturday.
Former Watford, Liverpool and England footballer John Barnes has paid money owed to the tax authority.
Head Coach Damon Lathrope insisted promotion was just reward for his players’ on and off-field dedication throughout 2022/23, after Watford Women defeated Nottingham Forest in Saturday’s (May 20) FA WNL play-off final to secure an immediate return to the Barclays Women’s Championship.
Poppy Wilson’s first-half header proved the difference in a hotly-contested clash between the Northern and Southern Division champions at Stadium MK, who had gone head-to-head in a similarly close FA WNL Cup final in April.
There was to be no disappointment for the Golden Girls this time around though, with this latest victory marking their ninth in a row in league competition, and Lathrope was full of praise for his squad after the full-time whistle.
“It feels unreal, to be honest,” he said. “We set our targets and aims for the season right back in the summer last year, and we’ve probably exceeded them if anything.
“It’s the least the group deserves, and I’m delighted for them. We all genuinely believed we’d do it - I told them before we left the training ground that we were ready and that the prep has been going on for 10 months - and they’ve gone out there and got the job done.
“I can’t praise them highly enough. They work all day, they come into training in the evening, and the way they work and dedicate themselves is outstanding.
“I think their strength in mentality has arguably been the biggest shift. We can’t forget the heartache of relegation last season - that’s the sort of thing that leaves scars - and they’ve shown huge courage to go again.
“As coaches we talk about wanting to help the players on and off the field, so they’re in the best place to cope with adversity in whatever walk of life it might come. They’ve shown how mentally strong they are this year, and as a team we’ve won the league and secured promotion our way, playing our own brand of football.”
A large proportion of the 3,007 fans in attendance in Milton Keynes were there in support of Watford, and having also drawn fan-counts of over 1,000 on two occasions at Vicarage Road during the campaign, Lathrope hailed his side’s growing following.
He said: “It means everything to all of us, to have such amazing support. All of our friends and family were there, and then to see so many other people come down and give us that backing is just brilliant.
“I think people see how we go about things, how much the players care and the brand of football they try to play, and that makes them want to watch us. We’ve had loyal fans throughout the year and people gradually start to follow us, and we appreciate it all massively.”
While focused on celebrating having added promotion to the league title credentials that were secured on the final day of the normal season away at Billericay Town, Lathrope reserved a mention for Forest and the commendable display they produced.
And, though still early days, he explained it won’t be long before his thinking turns to the 2023/24 Championship season, when they will bid to build on a fantastic year back in the second-tier.
The 33-year-old added: “I’ve been on the wrong side of a play-off defeat as a player, so I feel for Forest because I’ve been there and I know how it feels.
“For us, we’re going to enjoy the moment for now and then we’ll start talking about next year. We’ll need a big push - it’s going to be the toughest Championship ever with two teams going down - and we’ll have those conversations about how we can give ourselves a chance of being really competitive.”
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It was a special day for Watford Women on Saturday (May 20), as they secured promotion back to the Barclays Women’s Championship at the first time of asking thanks to a memorable 1-0 victory over Nottingham Forest in the FA WNL play-off final.
Five of the season’s stars - Megan Chandler, Jacqui Goldsmid, Poppy Wilson, Flo Fyfe and Drè Georgiou - all played their part in the famous win.
Matchday skipper Chandler helped maintain the all-important clean sheet, while goalkeeper Goldsmid made crucial stops to deny Forest a potential route back into the game.
Away from the reliable backline, Wilson headed in the crucial deciding goal, Fyfe helped see out the win by injecting energy into proceedings as a second-half substitute, and Georgiou was named Player of the Match for her efforts in midfield.
Reflecting on their achievements after the showpiece event, the proud Golden Girls were overjoyed to have accomplished their goal for the campaign and are excited for the future in yellow.
Megan Chandler:
“I feel speechless, to be honest. What a day. I’m so proud of the girls. We have worked so hard this season and we got our reward.
“I didn’t ever feel nervous, I don’t think. I felt like we were fully in control, even though we soaked up a bit of pressure at the end. The fans were fantastic and it’s almost like they sensed that we needed to bring a bit more to the table and we heard them. I think that’s what, in the end, helped us to push through. I don’t really know what to say. We’re champions! It’s amazing.
“It’s exhausting. We’ve had big game after big game. You know when you get to the point when you’re almost ready for it to end in a good way because you’ve achieved so much and it’s so big. It’s been a full circle and we’ve been fantastic all season long. We deserved it today and I’m so happy for the team and the fans. We did it as a family.
“We knew at the back of last year [to get relegated] was an awful feeling. We have used that as motivation this season and we have deserved to be there. We will give as much as we can during pre-season to be fit and ready to go. We’re ready, we’re so ready.”
Jacqui Goldsmid:
“It still doesn’t feel real. I think we all knew we deserved it and we all knew we could back each other and trust each other, and that’s what makes it better – we did it as a team and as a family.
“You let auto-pilot kick in and you just do it. That’s why you want to be a goalkeeper, to make those big saves. Sometimes I kick myself for asking for a big save to be made and sometimes it comes off and it’s great! That’s what you play for. That’s your job.
“The fans have been amazing all season. I’ve never felt anything like it. Every game they’ve come to they’ve picked us up. That’s why we won. We can do our work, but they are the ones that help drive us when we’re struggling. It means the world and they are amazing.”
Poppy Wilson:
“Today was a result of how hard we’ve worked over the last 10 months. We’ve really clicked in the last three months I would say in particular. The way we play is just so nice to be a part of. I think it suits every individual we have in the team and getting the win today is the perfect icing on the cake for a hard-working season.
“It was a special ball from Gemma [Davison] as always and I just thought if I can step back then I can get a little bit of momentum with my run. I thought I’d try and direct it over the keeper, but if I’m honest I didn’t expect it to go in.
“It all happened very quickly but I saw the ball hit the net, and I couldn’t believe it. Then I heard the crowd and then everyone was running towards me. It’s a very special moment that will live with me for a very long time.
“The work that Damon [Lathrope], Matt [Bevans] and Laura [Dyer] put in behind the scenes is incredible, and I don’t think anyone in our league or the league above works as hard as they do. It’s a credit to them when we go and perform on the day. What we do is all down to them. To me it never felt like we were going to let it slip once we got ahead. It was an amazing experience.”
Flo Fyfe:
“It is unbelievable. I think we’re back where we deserve to be. I am buzzing. It was a tight game, but we saw it over the line which was something that we couldn’t do in the last game of the season last year.
“The fact that we could do it this year is an unbelievable feeling, it is amazing. There are a lot of good teams in the third-tier, but at the end of the day, we played very good football, and we have some great players.
“I think we are back where we belong. It was a very unfortunate last game of the season, it didn’t go our way last year, but this year, it has. It just really shows the team that we are and where we deserve to be.”
Drè Georgiou:
“The gaffer [Damon Lathrope] said that we were only 1-0 up and we still had another 45 minutes to put the game to bed. It’s just about keeping your head and for me, I did have to keep my head a bit.
“I’ll put my body on the line for the team so whether that was getting a red card, I would take it. I’m just lucky I didn’t! The main aim for the team that gets promoted is to stay up, so that will obviously be our main aim next season.
“We got to the back end of it last year in the Championship, and it didn’t quite go how we wanted. But it’s a new manager, it’s a new style of play and hopefully we can show what we’re about in the Championship.”
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Damon Lathrope ended his first season with promotion back to the Championship, the Southern Premier Division Title and the Manager of the Season Award
10- João Pedro This was how it was supposed to be of course. The fuel that fed our establishment in the top flight was to be stuff like this… and it couldn’t be more romantic. A kid from Brazil, picked up not for peanuts but for far less than Fluminense realised they could have gotten for him […]
Poppy Wilson said the memory of heading home the winning goal that earned Watford Women promotion will live with her for a very long time.
Watford Women secured an immediate return to the Barclays Women’s Championship by edging past Nottingham Forest 1-0 in a mouth-watering FA WNL play-off final in Milton Keynes.
Poppy Wilson’s first-half header ultimately proved the difference between the Northern and Southern Premier Division champions, adding promotion to the Hornets’ title-winning credentials in 2022/23.
Having caught every moment as the game unfolded at Stadium MK, we’ve pulled together a selection of photos below, showcasing some of the best bits from the unforgettable afternoon.
The Calm Before The Storm - The Build-Up To Kick-Off
Wilson Heads In The Winner - Nottingham Forest 0-1 Watford 17’
First-Half Action
Second-Half Battles
The Full-Time Scenes
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From misery to sheer delight in 12 months – Watford Women bounced back to the Championship at the first attempt as they beat Nottingham Forest 1-0
Tickets for tomorrow’s Women’s Championship Play-Off, which kicks off at 1pm at Stadium MK, will be available to purchase on the day.
Head coach Damon Lathrope believes the playing surface at Stadium MK can make a vital difference for Watford Women in tomorrow's promotion play-off.
The Watford fans are enjoying watching a team that are doing the badge proud - that's the view of Bianca Baptiste
When she announced her retirement earlier in the season, Helen Ward knew that to get promotion with Watford meant her career ending in a play-off
Drè Georgiou is hoping she can help Watford Women secure promotion on Saturday and start to erase the memory of last season’s relegation.
5- William Troost-Ekong William Troost-Ekong is a great bloke. This much, surely, is beyond dispute. Even were he not a Watford supporter, who celebrated scoring in the derby game in front of the visiting fans just as you’d hope that a Watford supporter would… he’d still be a great bloke. Thinks about things. Witness his “carbon […]
If Watford Women achieve promotion to the Championship on Saturday, then one unforgettable pass from Annie Rossiter will have played a major part.
Watford Women were relegated from the Championship in the cruellest of fashions 12 months ago, and Megan Chandler is ready to get them back there
The Watford Observer has once again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
The winners of Watford FC’s End of Season Awards were revealed ahead of the Hornets’ final outing of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship campaign at home to Stoke City on Bank Holiday Monday (May 8).
The trophies handed out included Young Player of the Season, Goal of the Season, Supporter of the Season and Women’s Player of the Season, with Graham Taylor’s grandson and Hornets’ season ticket holder Jake Colley presenting the prize for the Men’s Player of the Season.
Graham Taylor Men’s Player of the Season: João Pedro
Presented by Jake Colley
João Pedro is the 2022/23 Graham Taylor Player of the Season, as voted for by Watford supporters.
The Brazilian forward has enjoyed a prolific season for the Hornets, notching 11 goals during 35 appearances in yellow.
Having joined the club back in January 2020 from Fluminense, the 21-year-old has gone from strength to strength, becoming a mainstay in the Watford side.
He hit the ground running at the start of the season with a decisive goal in the 1-0 victory over Sheffield United at Vicarage Road, before scoring against Queens Park Rangers in August as well.
João Pedro would go on to enjoy an impressive run of scoring during the autumn months as he coverted a memorable strike against Luton Town during the 4-0 victory back in October, adding to his tally with a header against Wigan Athletic the following game.
Crucial braces against Reading and Huddersfield Town would follow before succumbing to injury during December.
The forward came back and enjoyed an impressive spell of form during 2023, including goals against Coventry City, Bristol City and eventual league winners Burnley.
Alongside wearing the captain’s armband on multiple occasions, João Pedro won Player of the Month three times during the season, as well as Goal of the Month in December.
Following the announcement of his departure to Brighton & Hove Albion, João Pedro bid farewell to the Watford faithful prior to the final match of the campaign against Stoke City.
Men’s Young Player of the Season: James Morris
Presented by Tom Cleverley
Highly-rated full-back James Morris is this year’s Watford FC Young Player of the Season.
The 21-year-old has enjoyed an extended run in the first-team this campaign after making his debut for the Hornets against Leicester City in the Emirates FA Cup during the 2021/22 season.
Nominated for the award by the Academy leadership team of Richard Johnson and Jimmy Gilligan, Morris made 14 appearances in all competitions in 2022/23, including his league debut against Swansea City back in October.
Morris would earn his first clean sheet for the Hornets against Norwich City during his first start in a vital 1-0 victory at Carrow Road.
And the left-back has topped off an impressive campaign with a new three-year contract.
Women’s Player of the Season: Megan Chandler
Presented by Damon Lathrope
This year’s Women’s Player of the Season is defender Megan Chandler.
Known for her tough-tackling and impressive one-versus-one defending, the central defender has made more appearances than any other player this term, deputising as captain whenever Helen Ward has been absent from the starting XI.
In only her second season as a central defender, former midfielder Chandler has been a huge part of the success the Golden Girls have enjoyed.
With her defensive efforts a huge part of her game, Chandler has also contributed in attack scoring twice this season, including a vital opener against title rivals Oxford United last month.
A leader and influential personality on and off the pitch, Chandler captained the Golden Girls to a 3-0 victory over Billericay Town on Sunday (May 7), securing the National League Southern Premier Division title.
Now a promotion play-off match against Northern Premier League winners Nottingham Forest awaits Chandler and the Golden Girls.
Goal of the Season: Ismaïla Sarr (West Bromwich Albion 1-1 Watford)
Senegalese winger Ismaïla Sarr’s halfway line strike against West Bromwich Albion was crowned as this campaign’s Goal of the Season.
The 25-year-old, who has notched 10 goals and six assists for the Hornets this term, scored the impressive goal back in August.
After picking up the ball in his own half at the Hawthorns, the Senegalese star spotted goalkeeper David Button off his line and unleashed an outrageous shot that flew into the back of the net.
With the goal coming on the third anniversary of his move to the Golden Boys, Sarr ran off in celebration cueing pandemonium in the Watford away end.
Supporter of the Season: Geoff Wicken
Presented by Tommy Mooney
Earning the award for his work leading the ‘Vicarage Road 100 Years’ project group for the past year and beyond, Wicken has been an integral part of the celebration for the important milestone.
Wicken also wrote the book ‘100 Years at Vicarage Road’, which took an in-depth look at the glorious history found within The Vic, focusing on photos, player stories and supporter memories from a century of stadium evolution.
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James Morris was pleased to conclude the 2022/23 campaign with a 2-0 victory against Stoke City, with the left-back also marking the occasion by being presented with the club’s prestigious Young Player of the Season award.
The 21-year-old was a second-half substitute in the clash against the Potters, bearing witness to both goals, with the first coming moments after he stepped onto the pitch through Imrân Louza before Keinan Davis secured the points.
Having made his league debut for the club earlier in the season, and gradually established himself in the first-team squad, Morris is proud to have added another achievement to his list.
And after recently signing a new three-year deal at Vicarage Road, he is hoping to continue his development and progression in 2023/24.
Morris - who now has 12 Sky Bet Championship appearances to his name - said: “It’s been a long season, but that’s a lovely way to finish with a win and a clean sheet at home in front of the fans. We couldn’t have asked for a better way to end the season.
“[The Young Player of the Season award is] a massive achievement for me. It’s another proud moment. Obviously, you put in the work all season and to be awarded with something at the end of the season makes it all worthwhile. It’s a great honour to be the Young Player of the Season.
“It’s a good way to finish. To have them all here [fans] and get the win and the clean sheet - it rounds off the season. It’s not been the season we wanted, but hopefully we can push on next season and get back to where we belong.
“I’ll have a little break and relax now, but then it will be straight back to it, getting fit and ready for pre-season. I want to hit the ground running at the start of next season.”
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Chris Wilder was pleased to wrap up Watford’s 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season with victory over Stoke City, though he admitted there was still a sense of what might have been among the squad and staff following their mid-table finish in the standings.
The Hornets’ 17th triumph of the 46-game campaign came courtesy of Imrân Louza and Keinan Davis strikes in the second half at Vicarage Road, leaving them 11th on 63 points, six behind Sunderland in the final play-off position.
Though the top-six was never achievable on the final day, Head Coach Wilder was happy with the way his players fought to the end to sign off for the summer in the right manner, delivering the desired result for the majority of the 20,100 fans in attendance.
He said: “My message to the players has always been that we go right until the end - we’ve spoken about that on a few occasions now - and although I think the game could have gone in any direction today really, we’re delighted we’ve been able to get the win we were all hoping for.
“Both teams had good moments in the first half, then in the second half we got the goals in quick succession and it ended up being pretty comfortable. I don’t think it was ever going to be full-tilt, but getting the three points is a small consolation for what has been a disappointing period.
“Being able to bring on the young boys was good as well, and up their minutes at The Vic, so overall we have to be pleased with what’s come out of today.”
While Jack Grieves and Adrian Blake stepped off the bench with roughly five minutes of normal time remaining, fellow Academy starlet Ryan Andrews impressed once again in his sixth consecutive start in the second-tier.
Wilder said: “There’s been a lot of talk about young players, and Ryan in particular, but what those guys achieve is in their hands. We as coaches are just small pieces in the process.
“Ryan deserved his debut, and he has deserved to stay in the team since. There’s no sentiment out there. Now it’s up to him to build on this and carve out a successful career for himself.
“He’s athletic and he’s a natural footballer, and I think the supporters have really taken to him because of his performances. I’m really pleased for him and the other young guys, and I hope they keep it up.”
Reflecting on his 11 games in charge of the Golden Boys - since being appointed in March - Wilder stressed his disappointment with the overall output of his efforts, but insisted he has no regrets.
“We needed more, obviously, but in the end we’ve finished where we’ve finished because that’s where we deserve to be,” he added. “We’re six points off it and we should have been a lot closer, but there are a variety of reasons why we’re not.
“I think the three home games - against Cardiff, Huddersfield and Wigan - did it for us. We didn’t do enough in those games, and we’ve paid the price.
“But you learn from these experiences, and from a personal point of view I’ll be a better manager going forward. For now, we’re all just going to enjoy today’s result.”
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There was a lap of appreciation from the players for the fans at the end of the game, but Chris Wilder knew the season shouldn't have ended today
A season of disappointment and under-achievement at least ended on a winning note as Watford beat Stoke City 2-0 to finish in 11th place in the Championship.
Watford end the season with a win in a game that was low on quality but high in chances (and errors)
An exciting opportunity has become available within Watford Football Club’s Academy. We are looking to recruit an Academy Head of Recruitment to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for implementing and managing the recruitment process, and to recommend players suitable for the Academy across all three phases of the player pathway (Under-8s to Under-21s).
You will play a key role in:
- Collating appropriate information to support the Academy recruitment process at the club. This will include subjective and objective data
- Building a network of Academy Scouts and contacts, to give training, support and direction to those Scouts on a day-to-day basis to ensure that they carry out their role effectively
- Managing a database of potential Academy players
- Gathering market intelligence to feed into the recruitment process which assists the decision-making on players
- Maximising the talent ID opportunities made available to us through the relationship with the Community Sports & Education Trust
- Working with the Academy Management and Professional Development Lead Coaches to facilitate recruitment at the Professional Development Phase
- Contributing to the decision-making process when signing, retaining, and releasing players through the AMT
- Working with the Academy staff to develop and maintain a retention strategy for all our young players
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hard-working and flexible to the requirements of the role and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford and London Colney or the surrounding areas, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- Hold the recognised FA Talent ID qualification Level 3 or above
- Experience of identifying players appropriate for a professional football club and/or academy
- Experience of using PMA system
- Network of contacts within the game
- FA Safeguarding Certificate
- Analytical and process driven in approach
- Excellent communication skills
- Excellent organisational and time management skills
- The ability to work effectively under own initiative and also as a member of a team
- Hands on approach with a can-do attitude
- Ability to multi-task in a fast paced, ever changing environment
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Ability to anticipate and prioritise workload
- Excellent IT skills including Word, PowerPoint and Excel
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
You would ideally have, but not vital:
- Experience of leading a small team
- Experience of working within sporting environment, preferably football
- Understanding of all governing bodies’ rules and regulations (PL, The FA, EPPP, EFL etc.)
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Head of Recruitment
Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Friday May 26 2023Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CVvia email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
Hi again. The final part of our four-part story is out now. You can listen in all the usual places and here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8296668-the-old-enemy-part-four-s20-e4 If you prefer an MP3, you can download one here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8296668-the-old-enemy-part-four-s20-e4.mp3?download=1 Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin.
Three first-half goals gave Watford Women victory over Braintree and with it the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division title.
Chris Wilder pulls no punches when assessing performances, and says there must be change at Watford as he's had the same issues as his predecessors
Watford will honour a football trailblazer before they kick-off their final game of the season against Stoke City tomorrow.
125 years ago today we lost a football club. Watford St Mary’s were sacrificed for the greater good of football in the town. Since then, they’ve been the forgotten branch of Watford FC’s history. It’s time to put things right and remember them. Below is an early team photo of St Mary’s, not long after […]
Watford FC’s Sky Bet Championship season comes to a close at Vicarage Road this Bank Holiday Monday, with Chris Wilder’s Hornets looking to sign off for the summer on a positive note against Stoke City (May 8, 3pm KO).
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 campaign, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
In November 2022, The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
The CEOs of the EFL, Premier League, FA & FSA recently released a joint statement reminding supporters about the dangers of pitch incursions. Click HERE to read more.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Stoke City, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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The List. Every player to have been linked with moves in or out since the closure of the January window. To be kept up to date until the closure of the window so bookmark if you Like This Sort Of Thing. A very low bar of credibility is employed, but a mere “I think Watford […]
Hello everyone. The third part of our four-part story is out now. You can listen in all the usual places and here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8295910-the-old-enemy-part-three-s20-e3 If you prefer an MP3, you can download one here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8295910-the-old-enemy-part-three-s20-e3.mp3?download=1 Part four will be released on Coronation Bank Holiday Monday. Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin.
Chris Wilder has urged his players to deliver the supporters an end-of-season smile, as Watford prepare to conclude the Sky Bet Championship campaign at home to Stoke City on Bank Holiday Monday (May 8, 3pm KO).
Though the play-offs are out of reach - with the Hornets sitting in 13th place after 45 games, on 60 points - the Head Coach is hopeful the team can build on a number of positives exhibited during last weekend’s dramatic draw at Sunderland, and sign off for the summer on a high.
“It’s a big game on Monday, and as I’ve said on a number of occasions, I’ve always been focused on going through right to the end of the season,” Wilder said. “We need to finish on a high, and the supporters will be wanting to see a big finish.
“There were good things from the Sunderland game, but I’ve talked about there needing to be improvement across the four cornerstones of the game - tactically, technically, physically and mentally - and we need to be better to turn losses into draws and draws into wins, instead of the other way round.
“Physically and mentally we struggled at times last week - we couldn’t get up to the ball or get out from a conditioning point of view, and then mentally we needed to quieten them down for a period after we scored our second goal, and we didn’t do that.
“We know overall it’s been an extremely disappointing season, and a win on Monday wouldn’t solve everything, but it would make people feel a bit better and it’d kickstart the work for next season in the right way, so we’ll be aiming to do that. There has to be pride every time you put the shirt on, and we’ll do what we can individually and collectively to get the right result.”
Visitors Stoke travel to Hertfordshire with a point to prove themselves, with Alex Neil’s side seven points further back in the standings after a similarly inconsistent 2022/23, and Wilder is expecting a hard-fought battle at The Vic.
He said: “Stoke are another big club in the division, and I suppose their season has been similar in aspects to ours. They’ll have had good parts and bad parts, but like us ultimately they deserve to be where they are in the table.
“They’ve got a talented manager and a lot of good players, but for whatever reason it’s not quite worked out on the pitch. I’m sure they’ll have a similar mindset to us, in terms of wanting to finish the season with a win, so we will need to be wary of their threats.”
In terms of team news, teenage attacking duo Yáser Asprilla and Matheus Martins will be missing having travelled to South America for the Under-20 World Cup, but Wilder suggested some other youngsters could be involved in his squad.
“There are a couple of players unavailable, but a few of the younger players have trained with us this week so we’ll see how that goes,” Wilder added. “Jack Grieves, Adrian Blake and James Morris have all been with us.
“I’ve been a bit disappointed not to have used them more, but going to places like Sunderland you have to make sure the timing’s right. I had a chat with Jimmy Gilligan and Richard Johnson earlier in the week and I’m really impressed with the work they’re doing with the Academy, and there’s a lot of exciting talent coming through.
“We’ve seen that with Ryan Andrews breaking through recently, and the likes of James, Adrian, Jack and Tobi Adeyemo all playing games this season. I’m a big believer that there has to be a pathway, but also they have to earn the right to be selected. If any of them do make the team on Monday, it’ll be because they deserve it.”
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As the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division season comes to a close, Watford will be looking to pick up right where they left off last time out (Thursday April 27) - when they claimed a thrilling 2-1 win over title rivals Oxford United at Vicarage Road - as they face Billericay Town on their travels this weekend (Sunday May 7, 2pm KO).
A win is a must, with Oxford required to drop points against fellow contenders Ipswich Town to see Damon Lathrope’s side crowned southern division champions for 2022/23. For the league winners, Nottingham Forest await in the play-off.
The Ground
Billericay Town play at the New Lodge (CM12 9SA), a ground used by both the women’s and men’s club sides.
The ground offers plenty of seating and standing around the artificial surface, with covered standing the full width of the pitch behind both goals. There is also plenty of covered seating, with a large stand by the club house, and a stand that runs the length of the pitch on the far side.
For those driving to the game, there is limited parking at the ground with local street parking available within a short walk from the ground. If parking in the local area, please be mindful of residents.
If you are travelling via public transport, the nearest station is Billericay, which is a mile from the ground - around a 20-minute walk.
Tickets
Tickets for Sunday’s game - priced at £5 for adults and £2 for Under 16s - can be purchased in advance HERE or at the gate.
Please note that only card payments are accepted, which also extends to food and drink at the ground.
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The Match
Billericay Town remain the only side to inflict a defeat on the Golden Girls at Grosvenor Vale this season, racing into a 3-0 lead ahead of the interval and holding out resolutely as the hosts rallied and fought back to 3-2 but couldn’t find the all-important equaliser.
Since then the Essex side have won seven times in 17 outings, with four of those wins coming in cup matches, and they find themselves sitting in sixth place in their first season at this level.
Lathrope and the Watford faithful will be heading to Essex hoping for a continuation of their recent form, knowing that only a win will be enough to keep them in the running for the league title.
While results elsewhere will need to go in their favour, three points would cap off a fantastic season and be a fitting send off for club legend Helen Ward, who could play her final game for the club.
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Watford FC confirms the transfer of João Pedro to Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee – effective from the summer transfer window open date.
While the deal details will remain between the two clubs, the initial fee and potential add-ons rank it among the very highest transfer fees secured in EFL history.
The Brazilian forward will depart Vicarage Road with the club’s best wishes as he pursues European ambitions with Roberto De Zerbi’s Seagulls.
“It can be a surprise to no one that João Pedro leaves us now for the Premier League,” said the club’s Technical Director Ben Manga.
“Supporters will understand this agreement is right for all involved. This early action allows us to plan an effective transfer window as we seek to build a competitive team for next season.
“The transfer happening so soon allows us to start the important work for this summer transfer window.”
Supporters will get a chance to say farewell to Watford’s No.10 before kick-off at the final game of the 2022/23 season against Stoke City at Vicarage Road on Bank Holiday Monday May 8.
Manga added: “To announce this news now will give our supporters a chance to reflect on João Pedro’s time here since January 2020, so everyone can be ready to say goodbye and good luck.”
João Pedro has scored 24 goals in 80 starts for the Golden Boys, adding a further 29 appearances as a substitute.
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The love for Joao Pedro among Watford fans is certainly reciprocated by the player himself, and he has taken to social media to express that.
Brighton moved swiftly to capture the signature of Watford's Joao Pedro as they were aware of interest in the player from home and abroad.
Joao Pedro has completed his move from Watford to Brighton in a deal that could potentially be worth £35m.
Chris Wilder has urged his players to deliver the supporters an end-of-season smile, as Watford prepare to conclude the Sky Bet Championship campaign at home to Stoke City on Bank Holiday Monday (May 8, 3pm KO).
Though the play-offs are out of reach - with the Hornets sitting in 13th place after 45 games, on 60 points - the Head Coach is hopeful the team can build on a number of positives exhibited during last weekend’s dramatic draw at Sunderland, and sign off for the summer on a high.
“It’s a big game on Monday, and as I’ve said on a number of occasions, I’ve always been focused on going through right to the end of the season,” Wilder said. “We need to finish on a high, and the supporters will be wanting to see a big finish.
“There were good things from the Sunderland game, but I’ve talked about there needing to be improvement across the four cornerstones of the game - tactically, technically, physically and mentally - and we need to be better to turn losses into draws and draws into wins, instead of the other way round.
“Physically and mentally we struggled at times last week - we couldn’t get up to the ball or get out from a conditioning point of view, and then mentally we needed to quieten them down for a period after we scored our second goal, and we didn’t do that.
“We know overall it’s been an extremely disappointing season, and a win on Monday wouldn’t solve everything, but it would make people feel a bit better and it’d kickstart the work for next season in the right way, so we’ll be aiming to do that. There has to be pride every time you put the shirt on, and we’ll do what we can individually and collectively to get the right result.”
Visitors Stoke travel to Hertfordshire with a point to prove themselves, with Alex Neil’s side seven points further back in the standings after a similarly inconsistent 2022/23, and Wilder is expecting a hard-fought battle at The Vic.
He said: “Stoke are another big club in the division, and I suppose their season has been similar in aspects to ours. They’ll have had good parts and bad parts, but like us ultimately they deserve to be where they are in the table.
“They’ve got a talented manager and a lot of good players, but for whatever reason it’s not quite worked out on the pitch. I’m sure they’ll have a similar mindset to us, in terms of wanting to finish the season with a win, so we will need to be wary of their threats.”
In terms of team news, teenage attacking duo Yáser Asprilla and Matheus Martins will be missing having travelled to South America for the Under-20 World Cup, but Wilder suggested some other youngsters could be involved in his squad.
“There are a couple of players unavailable, but a few of the younger players have trained with us this week so we’ll see how that goes,” Wilder added. “Jack Grieves, Adrian Blake and James Morris have all been with us.
“I’ve been a bit disappointed not to have used them more, but going to places like Sunderland you have to make sure the timing’s right. I had a chat with Jimmy Gilligan and Richard Johnson earlier in the week and I’m really impressed with the work they’re doing with the Academy, and there’s a lot of exciting talent coming through.
“We’ve seen that with Ryan Andrews breaking through recently, and the likes of James, Adrian, Jack and Tobi Adeyemo all playing games this season. I’m a big believer that there has to be a pathway, but also they have to earn the right to be selected. If any of them do make the team on Monday, it’ll be because they deserve it.”
SEO ImageAs we approach the closing stages of another exciting season across the Premier League, EFL, Women’s Super League, Women’s Championship, National League System and the FA Cups, there remains plenty to play for in all competitions, with titles, silverware, promotion, European qualification, play-off and relegation places all at stake.
The passionate support of fans is a vital part of what makes football so special in this country. It is completely understandable that emotions run high, particularly at this stage of the season when there is so much to play for.
However, we must remind supporters that in the interests of safety and wellbeing for everyone inside our stadiums, the pitch is for players, managers and officials, while the stands are there for fans to support their team.
At the end of last season, we witnessed some unwelcome scenes when fans entered the field of play without permission at several grounds. Even if this is done in celebratory fashion, any supporter who comes onto the pitch is breaking the law and putting the welfare of players, coaches, club staff and fellow fans at risk.
We know that this unacceptable behaviour is carried out by a minority of fans, and their actions do not represent most supporters, but they risk ruining the fantastic experience of a football match for everyone.
At the start of this season, the Premier League, EFL, NLS Leagues and The FA worked with the Football Supporters’ Association to introduce new measures and stronger sanctions to tackle anti-social and criminal behaviours, such as entering the pitch and the use of pyrotechnics.
This includes automatic club bans and police action, and we have seen cases this season which have led to fans receiving criminal records. This can impact employment and education prospects, restrict ability to travel overseas, and could result in a prison sentence. Club bans can also extend to accompanying parents or guardians of children who take part in this activity.
As we reach the exciting culmination of another thrilling football season, we want fans to continue to show their positive support as this can make all the difference to a team’s fortunes.
But our message is clear: fans must stay in the stands and avoid any unnecessary disruption at such a crucial point of the season.
Love Football, Protect the Game.
Richard Masters, Premier League Chief Executive
Trevor Birch, EFL Chief Executive
Mark Bullingham, FA Chief Executive
Kevin Miles, FSA Chief Executive
Kelly Simmons, Director of the Women’s Professional Game
Jack Pearce, Chair of The FA Alliance CommitteeSEO Image
Watford FC confirms the transfer of João Pedro to Brighton & Hove Albion for an undisclosed fee – effective from the summer transfer window open date.
While the deal details will remain between the two clubs, the initial fee and potential add-ons rank it among the very highest transfer fees secured in EFL history.
The Brazilian forward will depart Vicarage Road with the club’s best wishes as he pursues European ambitions with Roberto De Zerbi’s Seagulls.
“It can be a surprise to no one that João Pedro leaves us now for the Premier League,” said the club’s Technical Director Ben Manga.
“Supporters will understand this agreement is right for all involved. This early action allows us to plan an effective transfer window as we seek to build a competitive team for next season.
“The transfer happening so soon allows us to start the important work for this summer transfer window.”
Supporters will get a chance to say farewell to Watford’s No.10 before kick-off at the final game of the 2022/23 season against Stoke City at Vicarage Road on Bank Holiday Monday May 8.
Manga added: “To announce this news now will give our supporters a chance to reflect on João Pedro’s time here since January 2020, so everyone can be ready to say goodbye and good luck.”
João Pedro has scored 24 goals in 80 starts for the Golden Boys, adding a further 29 appearances as a substitute.
SEO ImageThe physical and mental shortcomings of the Watford squad are two things Chris Wilder says must be put right this summer.
A Watford fan has been handed a football banning order after storming the pitch during an away fixture.
Watford FC are delighted to welcome back Manuel Almunia, Ikechi Anya and Daniel Pudil for Monday’s match against Stoke City (May 8, 3pm KO), with the trio hosting a signing session at The Hornets Shop before the fixture.
With more than 300 appearances between them, the former Watford players return as we edge closer to the 10-year anniversary of Troy Deeney’s iconic play-off semi-final goal against Leicester City on May 12, 2013.
The signing session will take place from 12-1pm BST at The Hornets Shop in Vicarage Road and we advise supporters to arrive early in case of large queues.
The trio will also help to launch a brand-new ‘That Deeney Goal’ capsule range in-store, before appearing pitchside before the Stoke City match and at half-time.
We ask that any supporters requiring special access to the shop signing session contact disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or chris.hall@watfordfc.com (Chris Hall, Supporter Liaison Officer) in advance, to help ensure these needs are met on the day.
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Teenage attacking duo Yáser Asprilla and Matheus Martins will miss Watford’s end-of-season clash against Stoke City on Bank Holiday Monday (May 8, 3pm KO), having been called up to represent their respective nations at the 2023 FIFA Under-20 World Cup in Argentina.
Nineteen-year-old Asprilla - who has scored one goal in 39 appearances during his first season at the club - will look to spearhead Colombia’s progression from Group C, as they take on Israel (Sunday May 21, 7pm KO UK time), Japan (Wednesday May 24, 10pm KO UK time) and Senegal (Saturday May 27, 10pm KO UK time).
Having played his part in Brazil’s warm-up fixtures recently, Martins - also 19 - will now aid the five-time champions’ fortunes on the main stage in Group D, against Italy (Sunday May 21, 10pm KO UK time), the Dominican Republic (Wednesday May 24, 10pm KO UK time) and Nigeria (Saturday May 27, 7pm KO UK time).
The tournament begins with hosts Argentina taking on Uzbekistan on Saturday May 20 (10pm KO UK time), and runs until the final at the Estadio Único Diego Armando Maradona in La Plata at 10pm UK time on Sunday June 11.
Coverage of the competition in the UK will be exclusively on Eurosport. Good luck, lads!
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The Watford Observer's Watford correspondent Andrew French appeared on the Italian football show Bianconero this week
As the curtain comes down on the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship campaign, Watford prepare to face Stoke City (Monday May 8, 3pm KO) in the final match of the season.
Ahead of the contest, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the second-tier encounter.
Previous Meetings
The last four league meetings between Watford and the Potters at Vicarage Road have been won by a one-goal margin.
Only against Bristol Rovers (7) are Watford on a longer ongoing league winning streak against a side currently in the Football League than Stoke (3), and the Hornets could win four league games in a row against the Potters for the first time since April 1985.
Since a 1-0 win at Vicarage Road in December 2004, Stoke City are without a win in their last eight Championship encounters with Watford, failing to score in six of those games.
Recent Form
Watford have won their final league game of the season just once in the last 10 seasons, with victory last coming in a 2-0 home triumph over Swansea City in 2020/21.
Stoke City haven’t lost their final league game of the season in any of the last 11 seasons, since losing 1-0 to Wigan Athletic in 2010/11.
The Hornets have won just one of their last six league games in which they’ve scored first, letting a two-goal lead slip against Sunderland last time out.
Opposition Stat Attack
Tyrese Campbell leads the way for goals scored within the Potters’ ranks this season, with nine. The striker has also had the most shots on target (37) and the most shots off target (22) for Stoke.
Lewis Baker, Campbell and Dwight Gayle are all tied for first-place in the assists rankings, with each player notching five. Ben Wilmot has attempted the most passes overall (2,055) and the most passes in his own half (1,105). Morgan Fox has played the most passes in the opposition’s half (972).
In defence, Fox has also attempted the most tackles (84), while former Hornet Wilmot has made the most interceptions (68), clearances (128) and blocks (25).
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Watford FC will be joining with the ESEA Hornets – a supporters’ group for people from the British East and South East Asian community – to celebrate the 81st anniversary of the first Black or Asian footballer playing for England.
May 9, 1942 saw the England debut of Frank Soo, who was also the first player of Chinese descent to play in the English Football League.
He started his playing career at Stoke City, who visit Vicarage Road on Monday (May 8, 3pm KO), providing the ideal opportunity to honour a genuine footballing trailblazer.
Watford FC, ESEA Hornets and the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust will combine to celebrate Soo’s achievements, while Frank Soo researcher Lewis Peers will feature in a discussion at an event prior to the Stoke City match at Watford Museum.
Born in Buxton on March 8, 1914, Soo played alongside Stoke greats such as Sir Stanley Matthews, Tommy Sale and Freddie Steel. He was regarded as one of the greatest defensive midfielders of his time and went on to become Potters captain in the 1938/39 season.
His career was interrupted in its prime by World War II, when he joined the Armed Forces like many of his contemporaries. Soo’s greatest accolade was playing nine times for England in Wartime and Victory Internationals, making his debut against Wales in Cardiff. He also represented the Armed Forces Teams and even captained the RAF England Select XI. Though his caps aren’t considered ‘official’, he has been acknowledged as an England player by The FA.
Soo ended his playing days at Chelmsford City before embarking on a coaching career predominantly in Scandinavia. During his time, he took the Norwegian Olympic Football Team to the Helsinki Olympics in 1952 and won the Swedish Allsvenskan in 1954/55 with Djurgardens IF. Although he never stayed at one club for long, many players have spoken about how hard he made them train and the emphasis he placed on fitness.
His nomadic managerial career perhaps explains why he has been largely forgotten, however, during his career even his wedding was reported on by national newspapers – something that did not happen regularly before the age of celebrity footballers. Unfortunately, now very few people outside Stoke and of a certain age remember his name.
Alan Lau, co-founder of the Frank Soo Foundation, chairman of ESEA Hornets and winner of the Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust’s Diversity & Inclusion Award, said: “We will pay homage to Frank Soo, who was a trailblazer of his time. Predating the first Black player to play for England, Viv Anderson, by 36 years, we hope that his name can be written rightfully alongside England’s greats.”
More information:
Frank Soo Foundation
ESEA HornetsSEO Image
Sixteen years ago today, on May 5, 2007, the Hornets earned an unlikely win at high-flying Reading in the Premier League. Danny Shittu opened the scoring on this memorable occasion, and recalled the victory in an interview first published in matchday programme The Hornet...
In football the highs often feel higher when times are tough, and victories feel greater when expectations are low. This could certainly be said for Watford’s trip to the Madejski Stadium at the end of the 2006/07 Premier League campaign.
Aidy Boothroyd’s team were already relegated when they visited Reading in May, yet the Hornets faithful travelled for one final away day in the top flight and were rewarded with a rare and impressive victory, thanks to Danny Shittu’s first Premier League goal and a late strike from Marlon King.
“It had been really tough for us that season. There were many games where we’d played really well but not got the points we wanted,” recalled Shittu, who had joined the Hornets after promotion from the Championship the previous summer. “To win that game when it wasn’t something we were used to, it meant so much to us. We had a team that worked so hard every game, so when you get that win, it’s a buzz that’s hard to explain. It was a really great feeling.”
This result was certainly hard-fought, with the visitors having to weather a storm for the first hour against a team chasing a UEFA Cup place. Reading’s Dave Kitson rattled the bar and Leroy Lita tested Ben Foster more than once, yet with every missed chance, Watford’s belief seemed to grow.
“Even in games you’re not playing in, when you see a team constantly miss chances, you’re always thinking the other team is going to have one chance and put it away,” said Shittu. “I think that’s kind of what happened for us in that game. They did have a lot of chances and we were lucky we had Ben Foster in goal behind us. He kept us in that game, and they missed a lot of chances as well.”
Watford’s opportunity fell in the 60th minute, when Lee Williamson curled a free-kick from deep into the box. Reading inexplicably pushed forward as the ball was delivered, attempting to catch Watford’s attackers offside, but misjudged their line horribly and Shittu found himself in acres of space to net his one and only Premier League goal.
“At that time there were some clubs practising that, squeezing up and trying to catch people offside,” remembered the towering centre-half, who would often venture forward for set-pieces. “But I wasn’t expecting it, I don’t think any of us were expecting them to do that. It was a bit of a shock, and it’s one of those where you score and for a moment you’re thinking ‘was I offside?’ But I wasn’t very worried about myself, I was more worried if Marlon King touched the ball or not and maybe they were going to say he was offside. To tell the truth though, I was mostly worried about finishing properly!”
Shittu and King were both onside, and the defender needn’t have worried about his finish either, as he showed the composure of a seasoned forward to slot home with his right foot.
“It’s massive pressure, when you’re by yourself and you’ve got to do that,” he said, having scored his first Hornets goal in the League Cup earlier that season with a header against Newcastle United. “When you’ve got so much time, you know it has to be right. That’s what makes us professional footballers, because you’ve got to get it right more times than wrong. I was lucky that in that moment I was able to strike the ball really well. It was one of my sweetest finishes and I was really proud of that moment.”
Watford then battened down the hatches until five minutes from time, when King scored a second to allow everyone in the Watford camp to breathe a little and enjoy their fifth win of the season.
“His was easy, it was just a little header, that’s usually my kind of goal!” joked Shittu of the striker’s finish, which came about after goalkeeper Marcus Hahnemann spilled Tommy Smith’s cross. “When that second goal came, especially so close to the end, it was a massive breather. Obviously, you still don’t think any game is over, but when you’ve kept a clean sheet for such a long time in the game and then your striker goes and scores that much-needed second goal, it definitely took some pressure off us.”
Soon the referee was blowing his final whistle and the travelling supporters, who had little to cheer that season, were able to bow out of the Premier League by celebrating an unlikely victory on their final away day.
“The fans were always behind us, they always supported us,” said Shittu. “When we won, we were celebrating like we won the league, and it was just amazing. They knew we were giving it our all and that we wanted to do well. Things were just not going the way we wanted them to go, but still they supported us, and they were there for us. That was an amazing feeling, that game. When we scored and when we won, the fans were buzzing.”
With his goal vital to the success, from the stands emerged inevitable renditions of Shittu’s iconic song, comparing him with England international Sol Campbell to the tune of ‘Chim Chim Cher-ee’.
“It was one of the best songs I’ve had made for me!” said Shittu. “People don’t understand how much it means to me, because they don’t know how much of an influence Sol Campbell had on my career. I wouldn’t have believed I was able to do it if it wasn’t for him. He was big and strong and fast. It was him who gave me the courage and the passion to believe I could make it, even though I never actually met him or spoke to him until I was in my 30s. I used to watch him on Match of the Day, and I thought, if he can do it, I can do it. So, for me to even play one game in the Premier League, let alone score, it meant so much.”
After this season Shittu had one more at Watford and he impressively scored another nine goals, yet the Hornets narrowly missed out on an immediate return to the top flight. Despite the ultimate disappointment though, Shittu has very fond memories of his time at Vicarage Road.
“We wish it could have gone another way and we could have given it a better fight to stay in the Premier League, but it was still an amazing season for each and every one of us, because of the connection, the bond we had in that team,” said the Nigeria international, who embodied the family spirit of the club and has since won recognition for his work in the community.
“It was a real proper family club, and we were all really close. The main thing is the bond we had in that team. Even though we went down, the bond was still there. We were like brothers, we were family. We looked after each other and we were together all the time. My seasons at Watford are definitely some of the highlights of my career.”
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All UK-based and overseas Watford fans will be able to tune in to live video coverage of the Hornets’ home clash against Stoke City on Monday afternoon (May 8, 3pm KO).
With Chris Wilder’s charges looking to draw the campaign to a close with three points, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
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Watford FC are delighted to welcome back Manuel Almunia, Ikechi Anya and Daniel Pudil for Monday’s match against Stoke City (May 8, 3pm KO), with the trio hosting a signing session at The Hornets Shop before the fixture.
With more than 300 appearances between them, the former Watford players return as we edge closer to the 10-year anniversary of Troy Deeney’s iconic play-off semi-final goal against Leicester City on May 12, 2013.
The signing session will take place from 12-1pm BST at The Hornets Shop in Vicarage Road and we advise supporters to arrive early in case of large queues.
The trio will also help to launch a brand-new ‘That Deeney Goal’ capsule range in-store, before appearing pitchside before the Stoke City match and at half-time.
We ask that any supporters requiring special access to the shop signing session contact disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or chris.hall@watfordfc.com (Chris Hall, Supporter Liaison Officer) in advance, to help ensure these needs are met on the day.
SEO ImageThere had been many noteworthy encounters throughout the 1981/82 campaign, but for the sheer significance of the match, the Watford players had probably not appeared in a more important game then when they played Wrexham.
This was the night on which, after 100 years of existence, Watford had the chance to reach the First Division of English football.
The maths was straightforward. The Hornets were in second place with three games to go, in the days when the top three went up. One last push, one last win over Wrexham at The Vic and nothing could stop Graham Taylor and his side from marching into the top-flight.
Going into that game, promotion was all but inevitable. Even if Watford fell short against the Dragons, their rivals would have to conjure up something pretty special to elbow their way past the Golden Boys.
This was a group that knew all about clinching promotion, having done it in the Fourth and Third Divisions in the past. It was a team that included Luther Blissett and John Barnes – footballers with more than enough talent to step into most top division teams.
It was a special side where each player knew his job, a side that blended youth and experience, and was destined to clinch promotion. They were utterly focused on claiming the ultimate prize come season's end. And then there were the visitors, Wrexham, hovering on the brink of the relegation zone, having scored just two goals in six games.
But Watford didn’t underestimate the challenge and refused to lose focus, even if the fixture seemed favourable.
The opening to the game was as frenetic as you would have expected. Wrexham retreated deep into their own territory in the hope of securing at least a point from the evening, while Watford poured forward in search of that crucial first goal.
Chances came and went, but after 33 minutes Nigel Callaghan fed captain Pat Rice down the right. His cross was perfectly played, and Ross Jenkins rose highest to fire a header into the back of the net.
Collective relief spread around Vicarage Road, but following the interval, Wrexham were a far more potent threat. The relief dispersed as soon as it had arrived as the crucial second goal refused to arrive. There was no opportunity for that release of tension.
And then, finally, after 89 minutes it happened. A neat combination between Barnes and Wilf Rostron, and Jenkins was there waiting at the near post to place the ball past the goalkeeper. The strike was followed by bedlam in the stands and eventually on the pitch.
Once a sense of normality had been restored and the action restarted, the referee blew the final whistle, and the ground was once again awash with yellow and red as it was made official – Watford were in the First Division for the first time in their history.
It was quite an evening of celebration, replicated in the final home game of the season four days later against Leicester City, as the Watford faithful celebrated not just promotion, but the victory in the FA Youth Cup against Manchester United.
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More than 8,000 seats are being contested across 230 authorities in England, with polls in more than 170 district wards in Hertfordshire alone
Watford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
Next to take on the questions is defender Kalani Peart, who signed for the Hornets in August 2022.
Peart, 23, has featured nine times in the league for Damon Lathrope’s side this campaign.
Best mate: Lois Edwards
We both came in as new players this season and created a bond; I feel like she’s my little sister.Last to buy dinner: Kalani Peart
Me – I have to say myself. I’m a university student right now, so money’s tight, but when I’m up, send the bill my way!Worst dressed: Jacqui Goldsmid
I’m only saying her because I take pride in keeping my trainers clean and hers are always dirty.Dressing room DJ: Anne Meiwald and Flo Fyfe
More so Meiwald these days but I definitely prefer when Flo’s on the music. We listen to similar genres.
Teacher’s pet: Annie Rossiter and Megan Chandler
This one’s tough but I’m going to go for Annie and Meg!Always late for training: Adekite Fatuga-Dada
It would have been Fran Ali but now she’s left I’m not too sure. Might have to say Ade!Most likely to disgrace themselves at the Christmas party: Anne Meiwald and Melis Mehmet
I’ve heard some stories about those two on a night out, so definitely them.
First on the dance floor: Bianca Baptiste
Doesn’t even have to be a dance floor, she’s always dancing regardless!Best at FIFA: Annie Rossiter
She’s one of the gamers in the team so I’m going for her.Best future manager: Helen Ward
She’s played with some great players at the highest level. With all that experience and knowledge she’s generated, I’m sure she’ll be perfect for management.SEO Image
Yaser Asprilla will not be available for Watford’s final game as the club have allowed him to fly to Colombia ahead of the Under-20 World Cup
He was in charge of 66 games while at Watford, but Javi Gracia has been fired by Leeds after 12 matches at the Premier League strugglers
A referee is set to officiate in his first game at Championship level when Watford face Stoke City on Monday.
Cliff Holton scored the last of his unforgettable 42-goal league campaign on this day in 1960, in the club’s historic Division Four season.
The Hornets had never tasted the feeling of promotion before in their near-40 years as a Football League club, but entered the 1959/60 season with a newfound confidence and superstition. Not only did Championship-winning Holton move into the centre-forward role having served as an excellent defender the season prior, but Watford opted to ditch the blue for their now familiar yellow strip.
Holton, nicknamed the ‘Big Fella’, was in defence for the opening three games of the season, with three consecutive losses prompting the position change. To say the former Arsenal forward didn’t look back would be an understatement. The club’s penalty taker scored in a 3-1 win over Crewe Alexandra, and helped the Hornets hit Oldham for six before another storming display against Hartlepool which ended 7-2.
Prolific in cup competition too, Holton netted twice in a thumping of lower league side Wycombe Wanderers and played a key role in Watford’s run to the fifth round of the FA Cup, losing ultimately to Sheffield United in a replay. His total outside of the league was a respectable six goals.
As if Holton hadn’t set the bar high enough, he proceeded to score a hat-trick on back-to-back days over Easter against Chester and Gateshead. Promotion was then sealed with a win at Workington, courtesy of another Holton goal.
“We want Cliff!” echoed around Vicarage Road on the season’s final day, Holton on 41 goals and up against Walsall. Inevitably, he scored again, taking the tally to 48 in all competitions in just 52 games. Strike partner Dennis Uphill certainly deserves credit too for the Golden Boys’ first promotion since before the 1920s, chipping in with 36 of his own.
A serial goalscorer, Holton would reach 105 goals in 166 appearances for Watford before joining Northampton Town, where he would replicate his excellent form and enjoy promotion with the Cobblers and Crystal Palace in the space of three seasons. Iconic strikers have followed in the footsteps of the Oxford-born attacker at Watford, but very few have managed to match his impact in front of goal at Vicarage Road.
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As a first-year scholar, Josh Mullins has enjoyed a fruitful campaign during his ninth year at the club he calls his own.
The centre-half has seen plenty of action on the pitch for the Under-18s during the 2022/23 season, while breaking into the Under-21 side and playing an integral role during the Academy’s run to the fifth-round of the FA Youth Cup.
For the 17-year-old, it all began as a dream to play for Watford. A Hornets supporter himself, Mullins’ memories of Vicarage Road stretch back further than his own appearances in the famous yellow jersey.
“I think my earliest memory of actually coming to the The Vic and watching a game was against Blackpool. I must’ve been about three years old, and I came with my dad,” Mullins explained.
“Obviously, a lot has changed since then - the stadium, players and everything. Growing up I remember players like Ikechi Anya and Fernando Forestieri. I used to love their pace and them scoring goals – Almen Abdi – those sorts of players. And of course, Troy Deeney. I remember watching games and, unfortunately, I missed that game against Leicester City, but moments like that made me fall in love with the club.
“I’ve watched players like Craig Cathcart who have been here a very long time. He has been a very good, consistent player and I have looked up to him as I’ve been growing up. At the minute, I look at players like Ryan Porteous who have come in and have shown a lot of passion. Hopefully, he’ll keep doing that for the club.”
Mullins’ own journey as a player with the Hornets started unintentionally, but the defender was never going to pass up on the opportunity to emulate his idols.
He continued: “I started at Under-6, but it wasn’t a planned trial. I was asked to play for my dad’s mate’s team against Watford in a trial game and he needed an extra player on the day. I came and played, and Watford asked me to come back and stay until Under-9s and I signed my first contract.
“It was unbelievable, and my family were really proud of me. Knowing that I was going to be playing for the club I supported and grew up watching was amazing.
“I remember the day they asked me. I didn’t have greatest training session that day and they spoke to me and said that they would like to have a quick meeting with me and my dad. And I was thinking what is this about? They’ve pulled me in, handed me a big bag of kit and said that I’ll be here next year.”
The next big step on the path to playing at The Vic was to earn a scholarship, which came with its challenges following the global pandemic.
“It was tough,” Mullins said. “Under-16s is quite a big year and we had Covid before that so we had a shorter time to showcase ourselves. It was tough trying to manage it with schoolwork as well.
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“It was a good challenge, and towards the end when you’re playing up [with the Under-18s] and you’re doing well, it gives you that confidence. It was good to get that scholarship at the end of the hard work.”
Now a fully-fledged scholar, Mullins refuses to take the opportunity for granted and has grasped it with both hands. Following a debut for the Under-21s and further consolidation of his place within the Under-18s, the defender made his first appearance in the FA Youth Cup against Lincoln City this term, where he scored in a 3-0 victory.
“It’s been a brilliant experience,” he said. “I remember being sat at The Vic watching the Chelsea game in last season’s FA Youth Cup, thinking hopefully that will be me next year. And thankfully it was.
“It was a really good time. Everyone was really positive, trying to fight for their place - healthy competition. To find out that I would be starting [against Lincoln] – I was delighted. And then to get a goal in that first game was also nice.”
Having cemented his position in defence, Mullins would feature in the next two matches at The Vic, an aspiration realised.
Following a 3-1 victory against Everton and a 4-2 defeat in the following round to finalists Arsenal, looking back on the experience of playing in the prestigious competition,Mullins believes he will only be better for it as he battles for a professional contract.
He added: “I was quite nervous about the Everton game. It was the first time that I’d played in front of a crowd, especially at Vicarage Road, but when you’re walking out, listening to the song and the crowd, it gives you that extra boost which you don’t get from a normal game.
“We were unlucky to lose [against Arsenal] and looking back on it now obviously I’m disappointed, but it was a great learning experience to say that we’ve pushed that team right to the end, and they’ve gone on to get to the final.
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“I remember Charlie Daniels [Under-18 Lead Coach] saying to the second-years after the game that this is the last time they’ll be playing the in the FA Youth Cup, but the first-years will hopefully have another year. It made me realise, although I was very disappointed at the time, we have another go at it. We will work hard next year and hopefully push further than we did this year.
“Next year I want to try and play in the Under-21s as much as I can. I want to fight for that professional contract at the end of it. That is the main goal, and then the small goals are that I want to be training with the first-team and get that experience. I did some of that in pre-season, but I would love to do it more consistently and get that proper taste of what it’s like.”
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Six years before Watford and Bristol City battled it out for the Division Two title on the final day of the season, the Hornets and the Robins faced off in the same league in a game of different significance.
Luther Blissett would step out onto a football pitch as a Watford player for the final time, capping off an unbelievable career in yellow spanning three spells and 503 competitive appearances.
The record goalscorer and appearance maker had come a long way since making his debut 16 years earlier against Barnsley, a prolific 18-year-old forward from the youth ranks, spearheading a Watford side which climbed through the divisions, all the way to a second-placed finish in the top tier.
For a game with low stakes, an entertaining encounter ensued. On-loan Robins forward Andy Cole opened the scoring only for Jason Drysdale to equalise soon after.
Cole doubled his tally in the second half to restore the visitors’ lead before a defensive error allowed Darren Bazeley to bring the sides level for the third time that afternoon.
Trevor Putney’s low, placed shot had just enough power to ripple the net and put Watford ahead for the first time in the game after a spell of dominance from the Golden Boys, with an enjoyable game turning crazy after the hour-mark. No fewer than three Bristol City players, Ray Atteveld, Wayne Allison and Mark Aizlewood, saw red for a mixture of mistimed fouls and poor language directed at officials.
If the game needed any more action, Blissett’s introduction from the bench would provide exactly that. The almost inevitable took place with three minutes left of normal time when Blissett, as he had done 185 times before that, found the target, a thumping header at the back post.
Not the only Watford legend and loyal servant to get in on the act, Nigel Gibbs then added gloss to the scoreline with a stoppage-time rocket from range on the same day he picked up his Player of the Season award, netting one of only five goals scored for the Golden Boys in over 400 appearances.
Blissett marked an end to his unforgettable Hornets career in style, adding to an already emphatic legacy at the club on his final game.
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For five seasons Andy Hessenthaler fuelled the Watford engine room with his stamina and seemingly endless reserves of energy.
As the season reaches its conclusion, Watford’s loanees have been playing their part at their temporary homes.
To begin, in the battle to stay afloat in the Sky Bet Championship, Huddersfield Town took a big step towards safety thanks to the contribution of Joseph Hungbo in a 2-1 win over Cardiff City (April 30).
The winger scored the Terriers’ opening goal with half-an-hour left to play, which set the away side on the path to an important victory with two matches remaining.
In the National League, Shaq Forde rescued a point for York City against second-placed Notts County (April 29), striking in the 88th minute to level the score at 1-1.
At the home of County - Meadow Lane - Forde exhibited impressive composure to slot the ball past the goalkeeper in a one-versus-one scenario.
That point clinched on the final day of the fifth-tier season means that the Minstermen secure a 19th-place finish.
Meanwhile, JJ McKiernan featured in Eastleigh’s final-day 1-1 draw with FC Halifax Town (April 29).
Falling victim to a late equaliser, McKiernan’s side confirmed a ninth-place finish in the National League, just four points off the play-off places.
Elsewhere, William Troost-Ekong was an unused substitute as Salernitana played out a 1-1 draw with top-of-the-table Napoli (April 30), as the defender’s side notched a late equaliser to delay their opponents winning the Serie A title.
In addition, Domingos Quina was named on the bench in Rotherham United’s 1-0 victory over Middlesbrough (May 1), that ensured the Millers will be playing Championship football next term.
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Watford’s automatic promotion from Division Two was confirmed before the Hornets rocked up to Craven Cottage in a partying mood on this day in 1998, but the title was at stake with first-placed Bristol City in action away at Preston North End.
The Hornets’ disappointing draw with Grimsby Town a week earlier had seen the Robins edge ahead in the title race, leaving Graham Taylor’s side in need of a better result than their Somerset rivals to clinch the top spot.
Away supporters carrying portable radios packed the Thameside stadium, eagerly awaiting updates from Deepdale while keeping a close eye on the action.
Steve Palmer completed his one to 14 set of shirt numbers too, listed as number nine for the season’s climax.
Gifton Noel-Williams’ opener caused chaos in the Watford end when he effortlessly slotted home Micah Hyde’s low cross from close range, putting the Hornets on top on 34 minutes.
Fulham were in a promotion battle of their own slightly lower in the table, searching for a spot in the play-offs and equally awaiting results from elsewhere, but Ray Wilkins’ side faltered in front of goal despite having a grip on the game in the first 45.
Those in the know quickly diffused the scoreline in the other game among the away stand as Preston led City 2-1, adding to an already-confident group of supporters and buoying Taylor’s side on the pitch.
It was far from a smooth journey to the title in the second period, however. Fulham’s Paul Peschisolido had a goal disallowed before Peter Beardsley’s strike counted minutes later. Watford were still ahead of Bristol City, but barely.
Knowing a goal against the Hornets in either game would spell an end to their title hopes, Watford took the league into their own hands. A lofted Darren Bazeley cross found the head of Alon Hazan, who selflessly nodded back into the box for Jason Lee to convert, right in front of a sea of yellow.
Both sides could celebrate after the game, with other results confirming Fulham’s place in the Division Two play-offs.
Bristol City couldn’t turn around the deficit in Lancashire and handed the title to Watford on the final day. Supporters entered the pitch to join their heroes in celebration, safe in the knowledge that Watford were a league-winning, Division One side next season.
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Six years before Watford and Bristol City battled it out for the Division Two title on the final day of the season, the Hornets and the Robins faced off in the same league in a game of different significance.
Luther Blissett would step out onto a football pitch as a Watford player for the final time, capping off an unbelievable career in yellow spanning three spells and 503 competitive appearances.
The record goalscorer and appearance maker had come a long way since making his debut 16 years earlier against Barnsley, a prolific 18-year-old forward from the youth ranks, spearheading a Watford side which climbed through the divisions, all the way to a second-placed finish in the top tier.
For a game with low stakes, an entertaining encounter ensued. On-loan Robins forward Andy Cole opened the scoring only for Jason Drysdale to equalise soon after.
Cole doubled his tally in the second half to restore the visitors’ lead before a defensive error allowed Darren Bazeley to bring the sides level for the third time that afternoon.
Trevor Putney’s low, placed shot had just enough power to ripple the net and put Watford ahead for the first time in the game after a spell of dominance from the Golden Boys, with an enjoyable game turning crazy after the hour-mark. No fewer than three Bristol City players, Ray Atteveld, Wayne Allison and Mark Aizlewood, saw red for a mixture of mistimed fouls and poor language directed at officials.
If the game needed any more action, Blissett’s introduction from the bench would provide exactly that. The almost inevitable took place with three minutes left of normal time when Blissett, as he had done 185 times before that, found the target, a thumping header at the back post.
Not the only Watford legend and loyal servant to get in on the act, Nigel Gibbs then added gloss to the scoreline with a stoppage-time rocket from range on the same day he picked up his Player of the Season award, netting one of only five goals scored for the Golden Boys in over 400 appearances.
Blissett marked an end to his unforgettable Hornets career in style, adding to an already emphatic legacy at the club on his final game.
SEO ImageWatford’s Under-21 side are set to welcome Burnley to The Vic on Tuesday May 9 (1pm KO) in the PL Professional Development League, in the final fixture of the campaign for the Academy side.
Tickets are now available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Seating is in the Sir Elton John Stand only and is unreserved. Ambulant seating is available in block SEJ1, while wheelchair bays on the platform in block RS8 of the Rookery Stand will be open. Please see below for more information regarding wheelchair & ambulant disabled tickets.
Season Ticket holders can gain complimentary access to the match by scanning their regular Season Ticket at the ticket readers adjacent to the turnstiles of the Sir Elton John Stand.
Ticket Prices
Season Ticket Holder: Free
Adult: £5
65 & Over: £3
18 & Under: £1Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
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Only five wins, just 21 goals and more bad performances than good. Following Watford on the road this season has been extremely tough.
On Season 2, Episode 50 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford men's first team snatching a draw from the jaws of their would-be victory at Sunderland. The home team trailed 2-0 after 69 minutes before getting a draw with a minute of injury time left. Also: Watford Women get a massive come-from-behind 2-1 Vicarage Road win against top-of-the-table Oxford to temporarily top the FAWNL Southern Premier Division. And: Joao Pedro is on his way to the Seaside as the Seagulls of Brighton And Hove Albion have reportedly agreed a transfer fee of around £30 million for Joao's services. The deal, when finalised, will be announced when the transfer window is open. Plus: Watford match commentator Jon Marks of salutes Watford fans in a message during the Hive Live commentary at the Stadium Of Light. (Companion writing/YOU ORNS! Observation: https://bit.ly/3KNmOkj)
Episode published: April 30, 2023
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfc
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Sunderland 2, Watford 2: https://bit.ly/3LmC3j4
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NEW SOCIAL MEDIA ADDITIONS FOR YOU ORNS! - Follow on Mastodon: https://mstdn.social/@YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC.This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
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1- A few words of explanation are likely needed for context. Yes, this was a bit bloody silly. Nobody’s denying this. But at the end of a second disappointing season on the hop of great concern to me personally is the resilience of Daughter 2 to All Of This. I was fourteen by the time […]
Despite talk in the week about bringing more of the club’s younger players into the team and squad, there were no additions at Sunderland yesterday.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are back to discuss Watford throwing away a 2 goal lead at The Stadium of Light. Plus they also discuss Watford's future.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Chris Wilder was understandably frustrated after Watford were cruelly denied all three points by Patrick Roberts’ last-gasp equaliser in the 2-2 draw at Sunderland, but the Head Coach was buoyed by a better sense of character and overall quality by his side in the North-East.
Following back-to-back defeats, and up against the high-flying, play-off chasing Black Cats, the Hornets stunned the Stadium of Light by taking a 2-0 lead by the 69th minute through headed goals from centre-back partners Christian Kabasele and Ryan Porteous.
Former Golden Boy Luke O’Nien reduced the home side’s deficit within seconds though, before Roberts struck at the death, and Wilder was left to rue what might have been, while identifying Sunderland’s first as a crucial turning point.
“We just ran out of steam a bit,” the 55-year-old said. “You have to have legs in the team, and we got a bit sloppy and couldn’t get up to the ball to stop them gaining the initiative.
“I think there are certain aspects from a conditioning point of view that need looking at, and I’ve said that earlier this season, because really we should be coming on strong in those last 10-15 minutes, and going toe-to-toe.
“The biggest thing - which I said to the players - is that as soon as you go 2-0 up in a place like this, with the crowd and everything else, you can’t turn it over to them straight away. We didn’t see the period after our second goal out, and they scored which gave them more energy. In the end their equaliser was a fabulous finish.”
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In terms of the goals scored by Kabasele and Porteous, Wilder explained they were both successful examples of work put in by the players and coaches during their match preparation at the London Colney training ground.
He said: “We asked Imrân [Louza] to take a bit of pace off his deliveries today, and it worked. You don’t have to whizz it in, you just need to put it in a good area and have the desire to go and head the ball.
“Set plays are an important part of the game, and I’d like us to be associated with scoring from them. We did a bit to play off the right areas, and it was pleasing to score two goals like that today.”
Despite having conceded two goals, Wilder hailed Watford’s defending for the majority of the encounter, while also picking out teenager Ryan Andrews for praise after another stellar performance at full-back.
He added: “We defended well in general, and we wanted to defend which was good to see. I thought Ryan had another great game, and today was a brilliant experience for him in front of 45,000 fans. He was up against Jack Clarke as well - who’s had a terrific second half of the season - so he can be really pleased and proud.
“I talked about other youngsters, but I’ve played and managed here [Sunderland] so I know what it’s like, and it’s a difficult place to come. I’d imagine a lot of people expected us to turn up and roll over, so I’m pleased with our approach, and I hope the travelling fans were too. We’ve got one more game to come, so we’ll have a look at the squad in the week and see what we can do to get a competitive team out for that one.”
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It was another game where Chris Wilder saw his side get themselves into a lead only to watch points slip away.
It wasn’t a win and it was another two-goal lead surrendered, but at least Watford showed fight and character.
The chances that Joao Pedro will soon become a Brighton player have grown today as the announcement of the Watford line-up showed he’s not travelled
With nothing but pride to play for, Watford face play-off contenders Sunderland in front of a sold-out Stadium of Light
Hello everyone. The second part of our four-part story is out now. You can listen in all the usual places and here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8289806-the-old-enemy-part-two-s20-e2 If you prefer an MP3, you can download one here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8289806-the-old-enemy-part-two-s20-e2.mp3?download=1 Parts three and four will be released over the Coronation Bank Holiday weekend. Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & […]
Chris Wilder has laid out his expectations ahead of Watford’s final two outings of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season, with a long trip up to play-off chasing Sunderland next in store on Saturday afternoon (April 29, 3pm KO).
Two defeats on the bounce have left the Hornets’ Head Coach itching for a return to winning ways, and although he believes there was a marked improvement at Hull last time out (Saturday April 22), he is hoping for another step up in the right direction in the North-East.
“We need a bit more from the players,” Wilder said. “I think most people who watched us last weekend would have said we deserved something from the game, but to turn those losses around you’ve got to step out of that comfort zone a bit more, and take your levels a bit higher.
“I said to the players three or four weeks ago that I’m going right to the end of this season. We’re going to do that - we still have lots to play for even though we maybe should have more to play for - and the players have the ability to really affect what people think of them, and to get the results we all want.
“Sunderland are obviously in the thick of the play-offs race. It’s a huge club with huge support, so it’ll be a big test. We’ve got an obligation to put out a strong team and push them as hard as we can, and go and get a win for ourselves first and foremost.”
Having come up through the League One play-offs last term, and brought boss Tony Mowbray in to replace Alex Neil a few weeks into the season, Sunderland’s ascent to sixth place after 44 games has certainly impressed Wilder.
He said: “I’m a huge admirer of Tony. I’ve known him a long time, and he’s done a terrific job wherever he’s been.
“I’m envious of them in the fact they’ve got lots to play for tomorrow, but we’ve still got lots to offer and it should be a really good contest. There’ll be over 40,000 fans there willing their team to go on and get a big result, but we know what we’re going into and we’re ready to meet that head on.”
Young defender James Morris signed a contract extension during the week, capping off a successful campaign for the Golden Boys’ Academy talent that has also seen the likes of Ryan Andrews and Tobi Adeyemo flourish.
Wilder hinted that there could be some further involvement for a select number of players looking to increase their senior minutes before the season’s end, while also offering an update on the squad members who have been sidelined for much of his tenure.
He added: “I’ve talked a lot about the Academy, and there are some great guys involved who are working tirelessly to produce the next wave of talent. There has to be a pathway, and I’m a big believer that players should be involved if they’re good enough.
“James [Morris] has been good enough to play, Ryan [Andrews] has come in and done really well, and there have been a few others who have impressed me as well when I’ve watched the Under-21s.
“[Adrian] Blake’s been involved with the first-team since I’ve been here, really. [Jack] Grieves is highly spoken of - by people including Tom Cleverley - and one or two will stick with us and we’ll see where we are in the next couple of games.
“Elsewhere, [Samuel] Kalu’s been back involved training at a very low level, and a couple - including [Francisco] Sierralta - have had some minutes with the Under-21s. I’m not seeing wholesale changes from now until the end of the season, but we’ll keep picking the team we think is best suited to getting the right result.”
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Sunderland v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Match Info
- Sunderland v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Stadium of Light
- Saturday April 29, 3pm KO
- Blue away kit
Officials
- Referee: Gavin Ward
- Assistant Referees: Mark Dwyer and Adam Crysell
- Fourth Official: Thomas Parsons
Opposition
Sunderland will expect more than 40,000 supporters at the Stadium of Light as they welcome the Hornets. The Black Cats are involved in a closely-fought race for a play-off place, currently ranked sixth in the second-tier and level on points with Millwall and Blackburn directly below them.
Coming into the match off the back of an important 2-1 victory over West Bromwich Albion (Sunday April 23), and having not lost a game since mid-March, Tony Mowbray’s men will be aiming to secure three points and boost their hopes of securing back-to-back promotions.
Stats Buzz
This is Sunderland’s first home league game against Watford since the 2016/17 Premier League campaign.
Watford are unbeaten in their last two league meetings with Sunderland (W1 D1). They last had a longer such run between March 1992 and September 1993 (4).
Hornets Head Coach Chris Wilder has won all three previous league meetings with Sunderland; only against Swindon does he have a better 100 per cent win rate against a side in the Football League.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Sunderland In Numbers.
Team News
In his pre-match press conference, Watford boss Chris Wilder hinted that Academy stars such as Jack Grieves and Adrian Blake could add to their senior minutes before the end of the season, but that wholesale changes shouldn’t be expected. Samuel Kalu (hamstring) is back training at a low level, while Francisco Sierralta (foot) stepped up his road to recovery with some minutes for the Under-21s at the start of the week.
For Sunderland, manager Tony Mowbray stated in his pre-match press conference that there have been no changes to the injury list among his squad, with no further injuries or returns. Dan Ballard is set to miss the contest, while Danny Batth has recently joined Ross Stewart in being ruled out for the rest of the season.
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What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“We need a bit more from the players. I think most people who watched us last weekend would have said we deserved something from the game, but to turn those losses around you’ve got to step out of that comfort zone a bit more, and take your levels a bit higher.
“I said to the players three or four weeks ago that I’m going right to the end of this season. We’re going to do that - we still have lots to play for even though we maybe should have more to play for - and the players have the ability to really affect what people think of them, and to get the results we all want.
“Sunderland are obviously in the thick of the play-offs race. It’s a huge club with huge support, so it’ll be a big test. We’ve got an obligation to put out a strong team and push them as hard as we can, and go and get a win for ourselves first and foremost.”
Tony Mowbray, Sunderland Head Coach:
“I don’t think we sit here and think about stuff like that [play-offs]. We just have to play the games and finish the season.
“We are just preparing to play Watford - a really dangerous Watford team I would suggest, with the quality of players at the top end of the pitch they’ve got.
“They have lots and lots of really good attacking players, with the likes of Ismaïla Sarr and Keinan Davis. If they bring their best game they can give anybody in this division problems, so we have to be very mindful of that.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 11
Drawn: 15
Lost: 18Last Six:
September 2022: Watford 2-2 Sunderland (Championship)
April 2017: Watford 1-0 Sunderland (Premier League)
December 2016: Sunderland 1-0 Watford (Premier League)
May 2016: Watford 2-2 Sunderland (Premier League)
December 2015: Sunderland 0-1 Watford (Premier League)
February 2005: Sunderland 4-2 Watford (Championship)Golden Flashback
Watford’s most recent victory against Sunderland came back in April 2017, when Miguel Britos’ lone goal secured the Hornets’ first league win over the Black Cats since 1999.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Sunderland v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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There will be no sentimentality, but Chris Wilder said he will now look to get younger players on the pitch for the last couple of games.
Chris Wilder has laid out his expectations ahead of Watford’s final two outings of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season, with a long trip up to play-off chasing Sunderland next in store on Saturday afternoon (April 29, 3pm KO).
Two defeats on the bounce have left the Hornets’ Head Coach itching for a return to winning ways, and although he believes there was a marked improvement at Hull last time out (Saturday April 22), he is hoping for another step up in the right direction in the North-East.
“We need a bit more from the players,” Wilder said. “I think most people who watched us last weekend would have said we deserved something from the game, but to turn those losses around you’ve got to step out of that comfort zone a bit more, and take your levels a bit higher.
“I said to the players three or four weeks ago that I’m going right to the end of this season. We’re going to do that - we still have lots to play for even though we maybe should have more to play for - and the players have the ability to really affect what people think of them, and to get the results we all want.
“Sunderland are obviously in the thick of the play-offs race. It’s a huge club with huge support, so it’ll be a big test. We’ve got an obligation to put out a strong team and push them as hard as we can, and go and get a win for ourselves first and foremost.”
Having come up through the League One play-offs last term, and brought boss Tony Mowbray in to replace Alex Neil a few weeks into the season, Sunderland’s ascent to sixth place after 44 games has certainly impressed Wilder.
He said: “I’m a huge admirer of Tony. I’ve known him a long time, and he’s done a terrific job wherever he’s been.
“I’m envious of them in the fact they’ve got lots to play for tomorrow, but we’ve still got lots to offer and it should be a really good contest. There’ll be over 40,000 fans there willing their team to go on and get a big result, but we know what we’re going into and we’re ready to meet that head on.”
Young defender James Morris signed a contract extension during the week, capping off a successful campaign for the Golden Boys’ Academy talent that has also seen the likes of Ryan Andrews and Tobi Adeyemo flourish.
Wilder hinted that there could be some further involvement for a select number of players looking to increase their senior minutes before the season’s end, while also offering an update on the squad members who have been sidelined for much of his tenure.
He added: “I’ve talked a lot about the Academy, and there are some great guys involved who are working tirelessly to produce the next wave of talent. There has to be a pathway, and I’m a big believer that players should be involved if they’re good enough.
“James [Morris] has been good enough to play, Ryan [Andrews] has come in and done really well, and there have been a few others who have impressed me as well when I’ve watched the Under-21s.
“[Adrian] Blake’s been involved with the first-team since I’ve been here, really. [Jack] Grieves is highly spoken of - by people including Tom Cleverley - and one or two will stick with us and we’ll see where we are in the next couple of games.
“Elsewhere, [Samuel] Kalu’s been back involved training at a very low level, and a couple - including [Francisco] Sierralta - have had some minutes with the Under-21s. I’m not seeing wholesale changes from now until the end of the season, but we’ll keep picking the team we think is best suited to getting the right result.”
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Sunderland v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
SEO ImageGraham Taylor began to draw the curtain on his Watford career in April 2001, taking to the Vicarage Road dugout for the final time against Tranmere Rovers on this day 22 years ago.
In the same week that Watford made their most recent change to the club badge, making ‘Watford’ upper case at the top of the crest, and three years to the day since Steve Palmer lined up in goal to complete his impressive array of squad numbers, Tranmere came to town as Taylor’s last visiting opponents in Division One.
Supporters held back tears around the stadium as Watford’s greatest ever manager walked out of the tunnel to the applause and cheers his career greatly deserved.
The matchday programme was chock full of tributes and well wishes, from Sir Elton John’s entertaining recounts of the greatest years in club history, to memories shared by club staff and partners.
Taylor’s programme notes were packed with emotion too. The manager named 120 of his favourite matches, talked fondly about off-the-pitch events he regularly attended, and closed with a heartfelt thank you that included a familiar ‘keep smiling’.
“What I really like about looking back on my time at Watford is that it makes me smile and I have such a wonderful warm feeling,” said Taylor.
“Thank you all and time has certainly flown by since Rita, myself and our two girls Joanne and Karen made that journey from Lincoln in 1977. It was, of course, a journey that changed our lives and what a wonderful time it has been.”
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Over 750 games, GT delivered a meteoric rise through the divisions in two successful spells as manager. Having reached the First Division and an FA Cup final in the 1980s, and established a tightly-knit and talented group which overcame the odds and became the only Watford side ever to play in Europe, Graham Taylor’s achievements couldn’t fit in a programme.
Nor could supporters express their gratitude in a single afternoon, as the boss led his Hornets side from the technical area in a back-and-forth encounter with the Super White Army. The game itself wasn’t one for the memory books, but Taylor’s most expensive-ever signing, Allan Nielsen, scored an excellent late header to ensure the game ended 1-1 at The Vic.
The loudest cheers of the afternoon came during the lap of honour, Taylor showing his appreciation for the undying support of the Watford faithful. Red and yellow cards were held aloft in the Rookery End spelling out 'thank you', with Taylor’s family watching on lovingly from the stands. An emotional speech followed from the great man, before he was presented with a champagne bottle of a size worthy of his stature.
His reign as manager came to a close but the Graham Taylor legacy continues to this day, six years after his passing. The committed work in the Watford area and surrounding community which started in the 1970s with Taylor in charge was something he never stopped supporting, leaving Watford fans around the world with a story to tell of the club’s greatest ever.
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Two stunning goals in the space of seven second-half minutes took Watford to the top of the league and kept their title dream very much alive.
Watford head into their penultimate fixture of the 2022/23 season on Saturday (April 29, 3pm KO), as they travel to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland in the Sky Bet Championship.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the second-tier encounter.
Previous Meetings
This is Sunderland’s first home league game against Watford since the 2016/17 Premier League campaign.
Watford are unbeaten in their last two league meetings with Sunderland (W1 D1). They last had a longer such run between March 1992 and September 1993 (4).
Hornets Head Coach Chris Wilder has won all three previous league meetings with Sunderland; only against Swindon does he have a better 100 per cent win rate against a side in the Football League.
Recent Form
Both sides have scored in each of Sunderland’s last seven league games at the Stadium of Light (W1 D4 L2), with the Black Cats scoring 11 goals and conceding 15 (3.7 goals per game).
The Hornets have conceded the opening goal in just four of their last 13 Championship games, however all four occasions have been away from Vicarage Road, with the Hornets losing each time.
Three of Sunderland’s last six goals scored in the Championship have come via Dennis Cirkin, while each of their last 13 goals in the competition have come from players aged 22 and under.
Opposition Stat Attack
Amad Diallo leads the way for goals within the Sunderland ranks, with the Manchester United loanee on 12 this campaign. The Ivorian has also had the most shots on target (26), while Patrick Roberts has had the most shots off target (18).
In midfield, Jack Clarke has contributed the most assists (9), while Luke O’Nien has attempted the most passes (1,922). Danny Batth is top for the most passes attempted in his own half (1,398) while Dan Neil has attempted the most passes in the opposition’s half (987).
Defensively, Neil has made the most tackles (97), while Batth has made the most clearances (158) and O’Nien is top for blocks (33) and interceptions (65).
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Watford have offered enhanced professional contracts to Academy players Adrian Blake and Harry Amass.
An exciting opportunity has become available within the Academy Sport Science & Medical Department at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit an Academy Therapist to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing medical care to all players in the U6-U16 age groups.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic and flexible to the requirements of the role and the business. Applicants should ideally live local to Watford, London Colney or the surrounding areas, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- Qualified Chartered Physiotherapist or graduated Sports Therapist
- Hold a ITMMiF qualification or equivalent trauma training qualification
- Experience of working within a medical set-up in youth sport
- Be able to work effectively in a team environment and operate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary support team
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
You would ideally have, but not vital:
- Hold the ATMMiF qualification or equivalent
- Three or more years’ experience within an academy setting
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Physiotherapist/Sports Therapist
Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Friday May 12 2023Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CVvia email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
More than 12,000 Watford season ticket holders renewed during the club’s ‘Early Renewal Price Offer’ period, a retention rate of nearly 90%.
Watford head into their penultimate fixture of the 2022/23 season on Saturday (April 29, 3pm KO), as they travel to the Stadium of Light to face Sunderland in the Sky Bet Championship.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the second-tier encounter.
Previous Meetings
This is Sunderland’s first home league game against Watford since the 2016/17 Premier League campaign.
Watford are unbeaten in their last two league meetings with Sunderland (W1 D1). They last had a longer such run between March 1992 and September 1993 (4).
Hornets Head Coach Chris Wilder has won all three previous league meetings with Sunderland; only against Swindon does he have a better 100 per cent win rate against a side in the Football League.
Recent Form
Both sides have scored in each of Sunderland’s last seven league games at the Stadium of Light (W1 D4 L2), with the Black Cats scoring 11 goals and conceding 15 (3.7 goals per game).
The Hornets have conceded the opening goal in just four of their last 13 Championship games, however all four occasions have been away from Vicarage Road, with the Hornets losing each time.
Three of Sunderland’s last six goals scored in the Championship have come via Dennis Cirkin, while each of their last 13 goals in the competition have come from players aged 22 and under.
Opposition Stat Attack
Amad Diallo leads the way for goals within the Sunderland ranks, with the Manchester United loanee on 12 this campaign. The Ivorian has also had the most shots on target (26), while Patrick Roberts has had the most shots off target (18).
In midfield, Jack Clarke has contributed the most assists (9), while Luke O’Nien has attempted the most passes (1,922). Danny Batth is top for the most passes attempted in his own half (1,398) while Dan Neil has attempted the most passes in the opposition’s half (987).
Defensively, Neil has made the most tackles (97), while Batth has made the most clearances (158) and O’Nien is top for blocks (33) and interceptions (65).
SEO ImageWatford FC’s Grounds Team have been highly commended in the 2022/23 EFL Grounds Teams of the Season awards.
Led by Head Groundsman Scott Tingley, Watford’s Grounds Team have once again produced and maintained the award-winning playing surface at Vicarage Road. The staff at The Vic have previously won the 2017/18 Premier League Grounds Team of the Year prize and the 2020/21 EFL Championship Grounds Team of the Season gong.
This campaign, the team have worked under challenging conditions including readying the pitch in time for the beginning of the season following Sir Elton John’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour concerts back in the summer.
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Speaking on the achievement, Tingley said: “I am immensely proud of my team for yet again producing one of the best surfaces in the country in what has been a very difficult year for us as a group, but also the grounds industry as a whole.
“Fixture congestion due to the World Cup, challenging weather conditions and the difficult start due to the concerts last summer have all contributed, but the team have worked tirelessly and with a great level of pride and dedication. Thank you to the whole team!”
To inform the decision-making for the awards, pitch marks are provided by the referee and away team manager for all EFL league matches. The top clubs from each division with the highest divisional average are then visited by Neil Rodger, from STRI (Sports Turf Research Institute), where further assessments are carried out, which cover pitch quality, environmental conditions and usage, resources, management and sustainability.
Once all club visits have taken place, in-depth reports and recommendations are submitted to the Playing Surfaces Committee, at which point winners are determined. Winners receive a trophy and certificate, while Highly Commended clubs receive a certificate.
Burnley were named the victors in the Championship award for this term, while Stoke City’s pitch was also highly commended.
A full list of this season’s winners was announced by the EFL today:
Sky Bet Championship
- Grounds Team of the Season - Burnley
- Highly Commended - Watford
- Highly Commended - Stoke City
Sky Bet League One
- Grounds Team of the Season - Derby County
- Highly Commended - Portsmouth
- Highly Commended - Ipswich Town
Sky Bet League Two
- Grounds Team of the Season - Newport County
- Highly Commended - Carlisle United
- Highly Commended - Stockport County
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In light of the Vicarage Road centenary celebrations earlier this season, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Ian Grant writes about a local boy and fan favourite whose performance in one particular cup-tie encapsulated everything we loved about him.
Technically speaking, Paul Robinson was playing at left wing-back when top-flight Charlton Athletic turned up at Vicarage Road for a Worthington Cup fourth-round tie in November 2001. That’s where his name presumably appeared when Gianluca Vialli drew up the team, anyway. It didn’t entirely work out like that, though.
As a local lad and youth-team graduate, Robinson quickly became a fan favourite for his, um, competitive approach to defending, after making his debut as a teenage substitute in the early minutes of a derby game. First impressions were of a proper full-back - all snarl and studs; booked often, usually with justification; scored rarely - but they were deceptive, for he truly flourished when asked to push forward rather than merely hold his ground. Having contributed brilliantly to a win over Chelsea under Graham Taylor, he was one of very few players to flourish under Vialli’s tutelage, adding depth and subtlety to his game. He’d already scored a couple of goals that season, including one with a trademark take-it-all tackle in the opposition box against Wimbledon. So, yes, he was at left wing-back in this game. Oh, and everywhere else. I suspect he’d have had a go as rush goalie if Alec Chamberlain had let him.
He had the time of his life. Back then, Charlton were a beacon club, holding their own in Premiership mid-table despite limited resources, and theirs was a cup scalp worth claiming. Our football under Vialli was often tepid, possession without purpose or passion, but we tore into them, sacrificing no principles but taking no prisoners: notably, Paolo Vernazza’s opener came out of chaos created by both wing-backs in advanced positions, Robinson stampeding towards the penalty spot and Lloyd Doyley chancing his arm with a shot from inside the box, albeit one headed towards the corner flag. It was to be that kind of evening: a breathless, ridiculous, end-to-end cup-tie which remains among the finest games of football I’ve ever seen.
Charlton equalised just before half-time. Robbo scored on the hour. It’s a beautiful goal: Micah Hyde dancing around tackles, Gifton Noel-Williams with a deft lay-off, Vernazza drifting a languid pass from deep into space inside the right side of the box. The camera follows the ball; in the stands, our eyes did likewise. Suddenly, Paul Robinson appears, far from home, hurtling across and forward as fast as his legs will go, as gleefully out of place as a pitch invader fleeing a steward; he turns the ball home with his right foot as the Rookery explodes. “What was he doing there?!” asks Mike Vince on the commentary. I’ve still no idea, Mike.
We attacked, they attacked. We nearly scored, they nearly scored. They hit the post. We missed a penalty, won by You’ll Never Guess Who, sprinting up the left wing with the urgency of someone chasing the last night bus out of a dodgy part of town, shoved over by a defender trailing desperately in his wake. It’s surprising that he didn’t insist on taking it, really. Charlton’s second equaliser, in stoppage time, ushered in another half-hour of this mayhem, welcome in hindsight if not at the time. Heiðar Helguson restored the lead with a typically fearless far-post header.
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Few things in life bring a smile to my face quite as readily as this, from the second period of extra-time: Paul Peter Robinson, as full of running as if he’d just come off the subs’ bench, bombing into the Charlton half on the break, chin jutting out with intent, fists clenched, every muscle taut, every instinct gone a bit feral. He gets as far as the edge of the area, beats the keeper with his shot, begins to celebrate only to see it rebound off the inside of the post. He claims a corner, ploughs an unsuspecting opponent into the turf just to be sure, bellows and gestures furiously at the linesman. Everything I love about football is in those delirious, giddy moments.
Charlton hit the post again late on, Robbo doing a jig in front of the visiting fans as the ball bobbles to safety. It meant absolutely nothing: we got stuffed at Hillsborough in the next round, finished in the bottom half, nearly went bust. For the Man of the Match, however, it was a landmark on an upwards trajectory that’d take him back to the top-flight, sold to promotion-bound West Brom in October 2003 in a valuable, if reluctant, contribution to our ailing finances. His refusal to celebrate with his team-mates as the Baggies thrashed us upon his eventual return to Vicarage Road in 2007 was both noble and a little heart-breaking. When he was ours, he held nothing in check. This victory ultimately meant nothing, but football has rarely been more fun.
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Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, in partnership with Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) UK and Humanity First, is excited to announce a 24-hour charity football marathon at Watford FC’s training ground on Saturday May 20 and Sunday May 21, 2023.
The 24-hour charity football marathon promises to be an exhilarating and action-packed event, featuring non-stop football matches with teams competing around the clock. Participants can expect a fun-filled day of football, camaraderie and community spirit, all for a great cause.
Funds raised from the event will provide relief for children and go towards supporting the Watford FC CSE Trust’s mental health and wellbeing primary school programme, which delivers crucial mental health support to young students in Hertfordshire and Harrow. Additionally, the funds will support Humanity First’s clean water solutions for villages in Africa, providing access to clean and safe drinking water, a basic human right that is often taken for granted.
Community Director at Watford FC CSE Trust, Rob Smith, said: “We look forward to welcoming a range of players to the Hornets’ home away from matchdays. It promises to be a great community event.
“We’re thankful to AMYA and Humanity First for their collaboration on this project, and thanks in advance to those who are able to take part and support our cause.”
Luqman Bajwa, the National Vice President of the AMYA and the lead organiser of the “Mercy 4 Mankind” charity events, said: “We are grateful for the opportunity to collaborate with Watford FC CSE Trust and Humanity First for this wonderful event. As a youth organisation committed to serving humanity, we are excited to contribute to the charitable efforts and make a positive difference in communities.”
The 24-hour charity football marathon is open to participants of all ages and skill levels, and everyone is encouraged to come and join in the fun while supporting these worthy causes. There will be opportunities for corporate sponsorship and donations to further support the fundraising efforts.
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“We are proud to be part of this meaningful initiative that brings together sports, charity and community,” said a representative from Humanity First. “We look forward to a successful event and making a real impact through the funds raised for our clean water solutions in Africa.”
Don’t miss this exciting opportunity to support Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, AMYA UK, Humanity First, and their impactful charity work. For more information, registration and sponsorship opportunities, please click HERE or contact leah.crocket@watfordfc.com.
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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At recent away matches we’ve been aware of an increase in the use of the ‘g-word’, which is the derivative of gypsy used at the end of a popular chant about our local rivals.
We are fully aware that our supporters have used this chant for several years, and that the reminders issued ahead of the home match against Luton in October and across the season represent the first time we have been specific about it. We’re also aware that many of our supporters consider the word to be ‘football banter’ and ‘part of the game’ rather than a racist word.
The barriers which Roma, Gypsy and Traveller people face in modern Britain have been laid bare in unprecedented survey data recently released, which reveals extremely high levels of racial assault. The figures were recorded as part of the Evidence for Equality National Survey (Evens) of ethnic and religious minorities, which included the largest number of Roma, Gypsy and Traveller participants in any national survey to date. The research found that 62 per cent of Gypsy or Traveller people had experienced a racial assault. The percentage exceeded that for any other ethnic minority group, while one in three experienced a physical racist attack.
Our position on racism and all other forms of discrimination inside stadiums and in reply to our social media posts has been made very clear through the promotion of the We Campaign, which was created to help us tackle incidents of discrimination as and when they happen. The word in question is racist, its use can be classed as a hate crime and we will no longer ignore its use at our matches.
Having been at the forefront of football’s campaign to be fully inclusive since Graham Taylor and Sir Elton John joined forces to put Watford on the map, we don’t believe for one moment that our supporters would use other more commonly-known racist or discriminatory words in chants.
The club is currently investigating three separate incidents that were reported following the Luton Town match, and thanks those supporters who have called out the use of the g-word. We remain proud of our record in this regard and ask everyone to play their part in tackling discrimination by no longer using the g-word in chants.
Click HERE to find out more about Watford FC’s commitment to Equality, Diversity & Inclusion.
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The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Leo Ramirez-Espain.
While he currently features for the Under-16s, Ramirez-Espain has broken into Charlie Daniels’ Under-18 side on a number of occasions during the 2022/23 campaign.
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How would you describe your playing style?
I see myself as a ball-playing midfielder who is comfortable in tight situations. I like to increase the tempo of the game, but I’m not the most direct player. In terms of inspirations, I look at Rodri because he has a wide range of attributes, and he increases the tempo of the team.Your footballing idol?
I would say Andrés Iniesta. I think his ability to change the game both on and off the ball with his vision and everything was perfect. His passing range was perfect.Biggest influence?
Definitely my dad. At a young age, I knew it was a dream of mine to be a professional footballer and he has pushed me to try and achieve my goal.-dynamic\_image.jpg)
Most talented teammate?
There are some really talented players to choose from. I’ll go with Zavier Massiah-Edwards because of his change of pace and the way he can win the game in one magical moment.Favourite football memory?
The Floodlit Cup last year, in a group game against Norwich City. We were 2-0 down, we needed to win the game and with eight minutes to go we came back and scored three goals - I got the assist for the last-minute winner.Your aims for the future?
In the near future, I’m looking forward to more Under-18 football and Under-21 football. Then obviously in the coming couple of years I would love to make my first-team debut.-dynamic\_image.jpg)
Best advice you’ve received?
Just because you aren’t the centre of attention, such as not scoring goals, don’t think that people don’t recognise what you’re doing.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
Being an agent would be pretty cool, or just being in and around sport in general.How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace - 74
Shooting - 78
Passing - 87
Dribbling - 85
Defending - 75
Physicality - 72
OVERALL - 85Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Anything from Nando’s
Favourite song: Goosebumps by Travis Scott
Favourite boots: Puma Futures in yellow
Favourite TV show: The Boys
Favourite kit: The 2015/16 Tottenham Hotspur home kitSEO Image
The Golden Girls are back at Vicarage Road less than three weeks after a big win over Bridgwater United at the home of the Hornets on April 9, now facing a season-defining clash with league leaders Oxford United on Thursday night (April 27, 7.45pm KO).
The 5-1 victory over Bridgwater - which involved a goal for Annie Rossiter and four for Helen Ward - makes The Vic a familiar setting for Damon Lathrope’s side going into the top-of-the-table match-up, and another three points would lift them above their opponents and into top spot in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division, albeit with the U’s having played one game fewer.
Looking to bounce back from their 3-2 defeat in the FA WNL Cup final to Nottingham Forest on Sunday (April 23), the Golden Girls need nothing but a win to stay within realistic reach of the league title.
Fan Guide
With the game being played at Vicarage Road, it may be slightly different to your usual experience if you’re a regular at Grosvenor Vale or are used to a men’s matchday at The Vic.
All seating for the match will be unreserved and will be situated in the Sir Elton John Stand. Food and drink will be on sale throughout the match from the kiosks inside the stand.
The Hornets Shop will be open until kick-off, with FA WNL Cup final merchandise still available at a reduced price.
Paid parking is available in the multi-storey car park next to the hospital, or in Watford town centre a 10-minute walk away.
The nearest train station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction station is about a 20-minute walk. Watford also has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
- Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
- Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
- Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
- Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1
Watford Men’s and Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will need to show proof of their season card to gain entry for £1.
The Match
Oxford United arrive at Vicarage Road sitting atop the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division table, with seven wins from seven since a shock 2-1 defeat away at the hands of Cheltenham Town in early February.
While prolific in front of goal, it is perhaps the side’s defensive record that shows why they come into the game as league leaders, conceding only 11 league goals this season.
They are second only to Watford for goals scored with 47 this term, and in their County Cup they’ve proved to be a class above the rest, beating East Oxford 15-0 in the final last weekend.
When the sides last met in October an early Megan Chandler goal was cancelled out by a late Leah Burridge equaliser for the U’s, denying the Hornets an impressive three points on the road.
The fixture was originally scheduled for Sunday March 17, and then April 12, but Grosvenor Vale was deemed unplayable following a pitch inspection on both occasions.
Be sure to get down to The Vic as come rain or shine a match to be remembered awaits. Be loud and get behind the Golden Girls as the race for the top heats up.
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Watford could be facing a crowd of around 45,000 at the Stadium of Light on Saturday, and more than 98% of them will be Sunderland fans.
Watford will be hoping to spark a strong end to the season when they travel to Sunderland on Saturday (April 29, 3pm KO) - their penultimate fixture in the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship.
Ahead of the clash at the Stadium of Light, find out below how you can follow all the action on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST.
- This game is included in monthly, seasonal and half-seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford Women’s final match of the season has been put back a week to the same day their two title rivals will face each other.
The referee has been appointed for Watford’s trip to Sunderland which is set to be played in front of the biggest crowd the Hornets have faced this season.
It was another busy week of action for Watford’s squad members out on loan around the country and on the continent, as we arrive at the business end of the season.
To begin, goalkeeper Myles Roberts won the Manager’s Player of the Season award for his outstanding performances for National League South outfit Welling United throughout the 2022/23 campaign.
The 21-year-old, who also finished as runner-up in the Wings’ Player of the Season vote, was recalled by the Hornets recently and featured on the bench during Easter Monday’s 2-2 draw at Coventry City in the Sky Bet Championship.
Speaking about his journey at Watford and his loan spells at the likes of Welling, Roberts said: “I think [loans are] crucial and, being a goalkeeper, the only way you improve is through experience. For me, it was about going and getting that valuable experience and then taking it back in the building at Watford, either with the first-team or Under-21s.”
Elsewhere, Mattie Pollock continued his impressive run of form at high-flying Scottish top-flight side Aberdeen, as his temporary club beat second-placed Rangers 2-0 on Sunday (April 23).
Having played 90 minutes, the centre-half helped keep Rangers’ attack at bay as Aberdeen secured another three points in their bid to maintain their third-place position. Since joining the Dons, Pollock has featured in every fixture and has kept five consecutive clean sheets.
In the English Championship, Ashley Fletcher featured for Wigan Athletic in a 2-1 victory over play-off chasing Millwall (April 22), coming on as a second-half substitute. The Latics are four points adrift of safety with two games remaining.
Also in the second-tier, Domingos Quina completed 81 minutes of Rotherham United’s 2-1 defeat at Bristol City (April 22), leaving them 19th and three points clear of danger with three outings to go.
In Belgium’s top-flight, Vakoun Bayo’s RSC Charleroi drew 2-2 with top-of-the-table KRC Genk (April 23). The striker played the full 90 minutes as his temporary side just missed out on securing a European play-off spot by two points.
In Italy’s Serie A, William Troost-Ekong came onto the pitch in the second half of Salernitana’s 3-0 victory over Sassuolo (April 22), helping his side keep a clean sheet. That result leaves them 14th with 31 games played.
Shaq Forde’s York City all but confirmed their place in the National League for next season with a 2-2 home draw with Aldershot Town (April 22). The forward featured for 76 minutes of the contest and won a spot-kick that was converted by Lenell John-Lewis, to make the score 1-1. The Minstermen are three points ahead of 21st-placed Torquay - with a far superior goal difference - with one game to go.
Also in the fifth-tier, JJ McKiernan played in a goalless draw between Eastleigh and Solihull Moors (April 22), coming close to breaking the deadlock on a few occasions. With one final fixture remaining - away at Halifax next Saturday (April 29) - the Spitfires are three points off the play-off places with a largely inferior goal difference, meaning their top-seven hopes have effectively ended.
Ethan Goulding’s Oxhey Jets fell 6-1 at Egham Town in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North on Saturday (April 22), while they then rounded off their 2022/23 campaign with a 3-0 win away at Hilltop on Tuesday evening (April 25). The Jets finish the season three points adrift at the bottom of the table.
On the international scene, young forward Matheus Martins has been busy starring for Brazil’s Under-20s in Spain. The 19-year-old featured for 45 minutes of a 1-0 win over the Dominican Republic on April 19, before scoring a penalty and completing 80 minutes of a 4-1 victory over Uzbekistan three days later. Martins played an hour as he and his side then concluded their trio of friendlies with a 1-1 draw with Iraq on Tuesday (April 25), ahead of his return to London Colney.
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Watford’s Under-21 side are set to welcome Burnley to The Vic on Tuesday May 9 (1pm KO) in the PL Professional Development League, in the final fixture of the campaign for the Academy side.
Tickets are now available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Seating is in the Sir Elton John Stand only and is unreserved. Ambulant seating is available in block SEJ1, while wheelchair bays on the platform in block RS8 of the Rookery Stand will be open. Please see below for more information regarding wheelchair & ambulant disabled tickets.
Season Ticket holders can gain complimentary access to the match by scanning their regular Season Ticket at the ticket readers adjacent to the turnstiles of the Sir Elton John Stand.
Ticket Prices
Season Ticket Holder: Free
Adult: £5
65 & Over: £3
18 & Under: £1Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
SEO ImageWatford FC Women have been informed that their final game of the 2022/23 FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division season against Billericay Town will now take place on Sunday May 7 (2pm KO), in line with other fixtures in the league calendar.
League leaders Oxford United, who take on the Hornets at Vicarage Road on Thursday night, still have three games remaining in their league season due to involvement in cup competition and match postponements, and as a result have had their final fixture away at third-placed Ipswich Town also rearranged for May 7. To ensure a level playing field for all three sides in the running for top spot, the Golden Girls will play on the same day, with the fixture moved from Sunday April 30.
The winner of the league will go into a Barclays Championship play-off on Saturday May 20 at Stadium MK against the winner of the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division.
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Watford FC is delighted to announce that James Morris has signed a contract extension, putting pen to paper on a three-year deal with an option for a further year.
The 21-year-old, who joined the Hornets’ Academy in August 2021, has featured 13 times in yellow this term having broken into the first-team squad at left-back.
Pleased to have signed a new deal, Morris expressed his happiness at extending his stay at Vicarage Road.
He said: “I’m absolutely delighted. I’ve enjoyed the two years that I’ve been here, so to make it an extra three is something that makes me really excited to see what the future holds.
“It’s been a great year for me personally to get involved with games. To have played in a couple of big games like Norwich City and Sheffield United - it has been a great experience and a great learning curve for me.”
Having made his debut for the club in January 2022 against Leicester City in the Emirates FA Cup, Morris has enjoyed a rapid rise into the first-team picture.
“It’s been a bit of a whirlwind,” he added. “I think last year I didn’t really expect to play at all, so to be given my debut was a massive thing.
“This year, at the start of the season, I wasn’t really in the first-team, but now at the end of the season I have played a lot of games and it’s been good. The most important thing is that there has been a lot learnt and I’ve really enjoyed it.
“We have a lot of experience in the squad, which has been good for me and that has helped me to develop.”
Focusing on making the supporters proud, the full-back appreciates his relationship with the Watford faithful and is hoping to continue to deliver for them.
“It is a great feeling and they have been really good with me,” Morris continued. “I’m a young player so it has been nice to get out there in front of the fans. Especially the games when we have won, to go out at the end and clap them is a really great experience.
“I just want to push on now. I think next season, obviously, for me personally I want to have a good season and the club as well. We know this year hasn’t been the best with what we wanted to achieve, but next year hopefully we can push on and get promoted. Personally, I just want to play as many games as possible and keep developing.”
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There were not many redeeming features about Dave Bassett’s spell as Watford manager but it did mean fans were able to enjoy watching Glyn Hodges in action.
Watford’s Hassane Kamara made it 50 appearances in yellow during the Sky Bet Championship fixture against Hull City (Saturday April 22).
The 29-year-old, who moved to Vicarage Road back in January 2022 from Ligue 1 outfit Nice, has been a regular contributor to the Hornets over his nearly one-and-a-half-year spell.
Alongside his half-century for the Golden Boys, the Ivorian has notched a goal and two assists, as well as two caps for his national side against England and Lesotho.
Kamara began his journey at Watford by making his debut in a 1-1 draw with Newcastle United at St. James’ Park in the Premier League.
For the remainder of the 2021/22 campaign, the left-back was an ever-present when available for selection, notably scoring against Manchester City at the Etihad Stadium in April 2022.
Despite having only been at the club for fewer than six months, Kamara was awarded the Graham Taylor Player of the Season trophy at the final home match of the campaign in recognition of his committed performances.
Heading into the current season in the second-tier, Kamara was deployed in different positions to begin with, including at right-wing-back, however he earned an attacking contribution from his more familiar left-back role against Stoke City in a 4-0 victory, assisting Ismaïla Sarr’s opener.
With 10 clean sheets to his name so far in the Championship this term, he has also proved to be a regular part of the Hornets’ defensive structure.
Kamara will be hoping to enjoy a positive end to the current season as he prepares to face Sunderland (Saturday April 29) and Stoke City (Monday May 8).
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Damon Lathrope felt immense pride after Watford’s narrow 3-2 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest in the FAWNL Cup final, praising his side’s mentality after the game with another important match on the horizon in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.
Taking the lead after two minutes through Gemma Davison, the Golden Girls faced an intense Forest side who struck back through Charlotte Greengrass in the first half before going ahead 10 minutes after the break, with Poppy Wilson equalising to take the game to extra-time.
Gianna Mitchell’s winner condemned Watford to heartbreak in the 115th minute, but Lathrope believed his side could reflect on the game positively.
“I’m disappointed for the girls because they deserved to win in my opinion,” said Lathrope, 34. “It was a very good game and a great showcase for this league, two very good teams both trying to win the game.
“Fair play to them, they came out and set up really aggressively to start with and then changed it up, which is a credit to our girls that we made them change shape, and it was a great game. It’s just a shame we haven’t come out on top.
“At the time that third goal went in I thought we were on top and we were looking like the team that was going to nick it if anyone. That’s the way football goes sometimes but I’m really proud of the group.”
Facing league leaders Oxford United on Thursday at Vicarage Road in a potentially season-defining clash, Lathrope has no doubts that his players will be keen to respond.
“They’ll be sore tonight,” added Lathrope, speaking after the final whistle. “They’ll be disappointed but we’ll go in on Tuesday, we’ll do our prep work and I will not have to motivate this group of players for that game.
“They’re already talking about it and we know if we produce what we know we can, we can beat anyone on our day.
“We’ll do the work we need to do to make sure we’re ready for Thursday and the players will be raring to go for sure.”
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Watford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
Next to take on the questions is goalkeeper Jacqui Goldsmid, who signed for the Hornets in August 2022.
Goldsmid, 23, has featured 12 times between the sticks for the Golden Girls this campaign.
Best mate: Lois Edwards
I’ve known Lois since I was 10 and we’ve grown up playing together so she’s definitely someone that I’m close with in the team.Last to buy dinner: Kalani Peart
I actually have no idea but I feel like she would be good at getting out of paying!Worst dressed: Helen Ward
It’s going to have to be Helen with the crocs.Dressing room DJ: Anne Meiwald
Mei all the way for this! I love the throwbacks that she plays and she is definitely one of the better DJs I’ve experienced in my football career.
Teacher’s pet: Annie Rossiter
She’s always the first one out and ready and the last one to leave.Always late for training: Gemma Davison
It’s only because of work but it’ll have to be Gem. But she always sticks around for extras after!Most likely to disgrace themselves at the Christmas party: Nicola Gibson
I don’t think it takes Nic many drinks to have a good time at a party, put it that way!
First on the dance floor: Bianca Baptiste
I’ll probably say Bee as the only time I’ve been out with the girls, she definitely had a good time dancing.Best at FIFA: Georgie Ferguson and Alli Palisch
Gee and Murph did officially win the tournament so it’s going to have to be them!Best future manager: Alli Palisch
She is really good at coaching others. She’s always helping and teaching others and I think she’d make a great coach in the future.SEO Image
Vicarage Road is one of several Watford venues which will welcome voters on Thursday, May 4
Hello everyone. This month’s “Deceased Watford Player Of The Month” was awarded a knighthood. (If you’re thinking it can’t have been for football, you’re correct.) You can learn about him here: https://is.gd/VMs9LX Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin.
On Season 2, Episode 49 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford's men being tamed at Hull City 1-0. Meanwhile, Watford's women fight hard in a tough 3-2 extra time defeat to Nottingham Forest in the FAWNL Cup Final. Also: Former Watford man Tommy Mooney fails during commentary at the weekend. Watford FC technical director Ben Manga and the future of Watford on the pitch. (Companion writing/YOU ORNS! Observation: https://bit.ly/3KNmOkj)
Episode published: April 25, 2023
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfc
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Hull 1, Watford 0: https://bit.ly/3n02RO8
Follow You Orns! on Fanbase @youorns: https://fanbase.app/youorns
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NEW SOCIAL MEDIA ADDITIONS FOR YOU ORNS! - Follow on Mastodon: https://mstdn.social/@YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC.This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
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The head coach of Watford Women says he will not need to motivate his players for their big clash with Oxford United following their cup final defeat.
It was another busy week of action for Watford’s squad members out on loan around the country and on the continent, as we arrive at the business end of the season.
To begin, goalkeeper Myles Roberts won the Manager’s Player of the Season award for his outstanding performances for National League South outfit Welling United throughout the 2022/23 campaign.
The 21-year-old, who also finished as runner-up in the Wings’ Player of the Season vote, was recalled by the Hornets recently and featured on the bench during Easter Monday’s 2-2 draw at Coventry City in the Sky Bet Championship.
Speaking about his journey at Watford and his loan spells at the likes of Welling, Roberts said: “I think [loans are] crucial and, being a goalkeeper, the only way you improve is through experience. For me, it was about going and getting that valuable experience and then taking it back in the building at Watford, either with the first-team or Under-21s.”
Elsewhere, Mattie Pollock continued his impressive run of form at high-flying Scottish top-flight side Aberdeen, as his temporary club beat second-placed Rangers 2-0 on Sunday (April 23).
Having played 90 minutes, the centre-half helped keep Rangers’ attack at bay as Aberdeen secured another three points in their bid to maintain their third-place position. Since joining the Dons, Pollock has featured in every fixture and has kept five consecutive clean sheets.
In the English Championship, Ashley Fletcher featured for Wigan Athletic in a 2-1 victory over play-off chasing Millwall (April 22), coming on as a second-half substitute. The Latics are four points adrift of safety with two games remaining.
Also in the second-tier, Domingos Quina completed 81 minutes of Rotherham United’s 2-1 defeat at Bristol City (April 22), leaving them 19th and three points clear of danger with three outings to go.
In Belgium’s top-flight, Vakoun Bayo’s RSC Charleroi drew 2-2 with top-of-the-table KRC Genk (April 23). The striker played the full 90 minutes as his temporary side just missed out on securing a European play-off spot by two points.
In Italy’s Serie A, William Troost-Ekong came onto the pitch in the second half of Salernitana’s 3-0 victory over Sassuolo (April 22), helping his side keep a clean sheet. That result leaves them 14th with 31 games played.
Shaq Forde’s York City all but confirmed their place in the National League for next season with a 2-2 home draw with Aldershot Town (April 22). The forward featured for 76 minutes of the contest and won a spot-kick that was converted by Lenell John-Lewis, to make the score 1-1. The Minstermen are three points ahead of 21st-placed Torquay - with a far superior goal difference - with one game to go.
Also in the fifth-tier, JJ McKiernan played in a goalless draw between Eastleigh and Solihull Moors (April 22), coming close to breaking the deadlock on a few occasions. With one final fixture remaining - away at Halifax next Saturday (April 29) - the Spitfires are three points off the play-off places with a largely inferior goal difference, meaning their top-seven hopes have effectively ended.
Ethan Goulding’s Oxhey Jets fell 6-1 at Egham Town in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North on Saturday (April 22), while they are set to go again on Tuesday evening (April 25, 7.45pm KO) against Hilltop. The Jets currently sit three points adrift at the bottom of the table.
On the international scene, young forward Matheus Martins has been busy starring for Brazil’s Under-20s in Spain. The 19-year-old featured for 45 minutes of a 1-0 win over the Dominican Republic on April 19, before scoring a penalty and completing 80 minutes of a 4-1 victory over Uzbekistan three days later. Martins and his side are set to complete their trio of friendlies against Iraq on Tuesday (April 25, 6pm KO UK time), before he heads back to London Colney.
SEO ImageAdrian Blake’s third goal in two games earned Watford Under-21s a 1-1 draw with Sheffield Wednesday at Vicarage Road.
Ismaïla Sarr’s early-season wonderstrike away at West Bromwich Albion has been crowned the EFL Goal of the Season.
In only the Hornets’ second outing of the ongoing Sky Bet Championship campaign (Monday August 8) - that ultimately finished 1-1 - the Senegal international stunned the Hawthorns with an audacious chipped effort from his own half in the 12th minute after spotting home stopper David Button off his line.
Having opened his account for 2022/23 in such style, Sarr has since taken his goal tally to 10 in the league, including strikes in the reverse fixture against the Baggies in February, and in the Golden Boys’ last home clash against Cardiff City.
Announced at Sunday evening’s EFL Awards (April 23), the 25-year-old’s West Brom effort beat off competition from Preston North End’s Brad Potts, Sheffield Wednesday’s Barry Bannan, Doncaster Rovers’ Harrison Biggins and Marcelino Núñez of Norwich City to claim the coveted prize.
Watford were also shortlisted for the Diversity award at the event in London, with that prize going to fellow second-tier outfit Middlesbrough.
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Watford Women suffered extra-time heartbreak as their hopes of winning the FA WNL Cup ended in a 3-2 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest.
Ismaila Sarr’s stunning strike from inside his own half against West Bromwich Albion has won the EFL Goal of the Season award.
Manga says he has a lot of confidence in his work as sets out his ambitions for Watford
Head coach Chris Wilder felt his Watford side did enough not to have ended up the losers at Hull.
Hassane Kamara stressed Watford could have few complaints with their 1-0 defeat away at Hull City in the Sky Bet Championship - his 50th game for the Golden Boys.
An Ozan Tufan penalty proved the difference between the two sides in a match of few clear-cut chances, with the Hornets contributing two of the three shots on target throughout the 90 minutes.
Defender Kamara explained there was a thirst among the squad to come out fighting following midweek disappointment at home to Cardiff, and though he and his teammates produced an improved display, he was ultimately frustrated with the final score.
“Today before the game we wanted to show pride and come out and win the game, to spark a good finish to the season,” the 29-year-old said. “We weren’t able to do that, and it’s very disappointing for us and for the fans.
“I can’t say that we deserved more from the game - I think we deserved what we got. We didn’t do the right things, and although they didn’t have loads of chances, ultimately we didn’t stop them scoring so we can’t be happy.
“We need to be better at the fine details, in defence and in attack. We need to reflect and take on the feedback, because it’s not been good enough.”
Among a few contentious decisions during the game, Hull were awarded a penalty when Ryan Andrews felled Regan Slater, and Watford were denied a spot-kick when the ball appeared to strike the arm of Jean Michaël Seri.
Kamara said: “It was disappointing to concede the penalty, but as a team we have to be more focused on the details.
“Maybe we should have had one as well, but sometimes decisions go against you and you can’t dwell on them. It’s up to us to find another way to get something from the game, so we cannot hide behind decisions made by the referee.”
With just two games of 2022/23 remaining, Chris Wilder’s charges next travel up to Sunderland for their final away trip of the campaign (Saturday April 29, 3pm KO), and - with a home game against Stoke also to come - Kamara is determined to sign off for the summer by giving the supporters something to smile about.
The Ivory Coast international added: “We have to carry on right to the end, because for now the season is still alive. We will do everything we can for the supporters, and so we can finish with our heads held high.”
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Head Coach Chris Wilder was disappointed to see his side fall to a 1-0 defeat against Hull City, but felt the Hornets deserved something from the match.
The Tigers took a first-half lead from the penalty spot as former Watford midfielder Ozan Tufan placed the ball past Daniel Bachmann, forcing the Hornets to depart the MKM Stadium empty-handed.
Looking back on the game, Wilder believes the Hornets at least matched their hosts in an even second-tier contest.
“I thought we deserved something from the game,” Wilder began. “I’ve managed a lot of Championship games, and that is a typical Championship game where someone punishes you for the mistake you make and then we don’t punish them for the mistakes they make.
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“I thought we tried everything to get back into the game. There weren’t many counter-attacks or dominant spells from the opposition and I thought the attitude was good. I thought we deserved something out of today.
“From our point of view, I thought tactically we were good. We got the press right and the shape of the team right. There was nothing in it in the first half other than the scoreline.
“Maybe they will look at it as having dodged a bullet in terms of not having a penalty go against them. When it’s going against you a little bit, these things happen. We just needed a big moment and I do believe if we got that big moment through the chances that we created or a little bit more quality, then we are bang in the game. I saw a team that wanted to get something from the game which was, in my opinion, a positive.”
The Watford boss was keen to have his say on the two penalty incidents - one awarded to Hull City for a tackle from Ryan Andrews, and another waved away for Watford after the ball appeared to hit Jean Michaël Seri’s arm.
Wilder added: “I have no complaints around the [first] penalty decision. From our point of view, it’s a rash challenge from a young man who wanted to win the ball. There were a couple of mistakes before and then Ryan made a rash tackle, and they put the penalty away.
“How we haven’t got a penalty I will never know. It is 100 per cent a penalty. There was too much of a reaction straight away from everybody. I have seen it on the tablet on the sideline and I’ve looked at it afterwards, and it’s a definite penalty.”
Despite the result, Wilder felt he couldn’t fault the players for their efforts on the pitch at the MKM Stadium.
He said: “From a character and attitude point of view, I thought it was a decent effort. After Wednesday night and everything that was said, I’m not being easy on the players or sympathetic because they are professional footballers, but it is a testing time for them. They have to show through adversity what they are all about. I think we all have to.
“It’s not going for them at the moment and as I mentioned, it was a tight Championship game. Through adversity, I saw a team at half-time that wanted to get something out of the game.”
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Watford slipped to another defeat and while the performance wasn't anything special, it was a step up on some recent dire displays.
Ismaïla Sarr’s early-season wonderstrike against West Bromwich Albion has been nominated for the EFL Goal of the Season award.
The Senegal star lit up the Hawthorns in the 12th minute of the Hornets’ second outing of the current Sky Bet Championship campaign, that ultimately finished 1-1, picking up the ball in his own half before spotting home stopper David Button off his line and unleashing an outrageous shot that flew all the way into the back of the net.
Having opened his account for 2022/23 in such style, Sarr has since taken his goal tally to 10 in the league, including the opener during Wednesday’s disappointing defeat at home to Cardiff City (April 19).
The winner of the EFL Goal of the Season gong – chosen by an independent judging panel - will be announced at Sunday evening’s EFL Awards event in London (April 23), with Preston North End’s Brad Potts, Sheffield Wednesday’s Barry Bannan, Doncaster Rovers’ Harrison Biggins and Marcelino Núñez of Norwich City the other nominees.
Watford will be hoping for double success at the EFL Awards, with the club having also been shortlisted for the Diversity prize alongside Bolton Wanderers and Middlesbrough.
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The Golden Girls are one game away from glory in the FA WNL Cup, facing Nottingham Forest in Sunday’s final at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium (April 23, 3.30pm KO).
Going into the game on the back of seven wins on the bounce in all competitions, Damon Lathrope’s side are raring to go, with victories over Norwich City, AFC Wimbledon, Hashtag United, MK Dons and Wolverhampton Wanderers leading up to the competition’s climax.
Live Stream
Available on our club YouTube channel and streamed with three cameras and live BBC commentary, supporters can follow along from home and show their support using the live chat function.
Fan Guide
With the FA WNL Reserve Cup final contested at the Pirelli Stadium (DE13 0AR) earlier in the day, turnstiles for Watford’s final open at 2.30pm.
Parking is available at Burton Albion at a cost of £5, as well as further spaces in the Ryknild Industrial Estate for the same price nearby.
Burton railway station is around a mile-and-a-half away from the Pirelli Stadium. As you come out of the station turn left and go down the hill. Turn right into Derby Street and from there it is a straight road up to the stadium. It should take about 25 minutes to walk.
Operated by Trent Barton, the Burton upon Trent to Pirelli Stadium service departs from the railway station every 30 minutes.
The bus journey time between Burton town centre and the Pirelli Stadium is around six minutes and covers a distance of around two miles.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance and at the gate at the following prices:
- Adults - £5
- Concessions (U16, 65+, Disability) - £2.50
- Under-10 - FREE
The Match
Only a second encounter of the season with northern opposition after the semi-final win over Wolves, the Hornets enter the game in a rich vein of form with promotion still a possibility.
Sunday’s opposition may also be in line for a place in the play-off final, currently sitting atop the FA Women’s National League Northern Premier Division, two points ahead of second-placed Burnley.
Forest are the highest scorers in the third-tier, amassing 78 goals in 21 games with a 12-1 win over Fylde in January their biggest margin of victory.
Top goalscorer Charlotte Greengrass has 21 goals to her name in the league this term and is on course to secure the golden boot.
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Chris Wilder says the Watford players need to react today after the criticism and boos on Wednesday night.
Hello everyone. Our new series is a four-part story. The first part is out now. You can listen in all the usual places and here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8285676-the-old-enemy-part-one-s20-e1 If you prefer an MP3, you can download one here: https://audioboom.com/posts/8285676-the-old-enemy-part-one-s20-e1.mp3?download=1 Part two will be out next weekend, and parts three and four over the Coronation Bank Holiday weekend. […]
It’s not just Ben Manga that Watford brought to Vicarage Road when they appointed him as Technical Director in December...
Anticipation is building for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Cup final against Nottingham Forest on Sunday (April 23, 3.30pm KO), with players and Head Coach Damon Lathrope previewing what promises to be an exciting contest.
Scoring 19 goals en route to the final, the Golden Girls are seeking a league and cup double, taking on the free-scoring Northern Division league leaders at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium.
Lathrope’s side are hoping to build on a seven-game winning run in Staffordshire, and the group are prepared for an opportunity to “showcase how far we’ve come”.
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Damon Lathrope, Head Coach:
“Cup finals are a fantastic occasion. They are what you dream of as a kid - an opportunity to create memories that last a lifetime.
“The mood has been great in training - there is a great feel of confidence and excitement. The players will give everything they have got.”
Megan Chandler, defender and vice-captain:
“The group is really excited - as players these are the games you want to play in. We’ve prepared really well over the last few weeks, the mood around the camp is extremely positive and we know it’s an opportunity to showcase how far we’ve come as a team, the type of football we play and the togetherness we have. It will be a great occasion to be involved in and one we are so ready for.
”It will mean everything. It’s been a long time since I’ve been involved in a cup final, so I’m really excited to be in one with Watford. We’ve come such a long way since the back end of last season and everyone has worked tirelessly all season long - the girls, staff, fans - it’s been a real team effort. I know we will do the badge proud on Sunday! I can’t wait. Come on you ‘Orns!”
Emily Wallace, defender:
“We’re very motivated as a group and I think that shows, not just now in the time that it matters but throughout the whole season. We’ve been so together and expect such high standards from each other, so now’s the time to show everyone that we’re capable of winning the cup and the league. This group is such a special group and I don’t think we deserve less than that.
“As a young footballer, winning trophies and medals is something you always dream of, so now is the time that we can finally have a chance to play in a final and hopefully bring a trophy home, which has been a long time coming at Watford.”
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Jacqui Goldsmid, goalkeeper:
“This cup run’s been amazing. As a whole squad you can see the depth and how everyone has played their part, so to get into the final and get the win, complete the double and lift some silverware would be great.
“You want to be playing in finals and be surrounded by your teammates, working hard for each other and pushing to lift silverware.
“As women you grow up not thinking you’ll walk out to crowds and in front of people cheering. To see that coming about more and more is amazing, and to be a part of that and experience it is something I’ll remember forever.”
Annie Rossiter, forward:
“It was a goal we set out for at the start of the season - to reach the cup final - and we’re there. We’re all really excited, but nothing changes - we’ll still train hard and be ready for when it comes.
“We’ve kept the intensity and competitiveness of training really high all year - that’s the kind of squad we have and the quality in the group.
“These are the occasions you want to be involved in, and I’m grateful to Watford for giving me the opportunity to play in these games.”
Tickets for the match remain on sale on Burton Albion’s website, priced at £5 for adults, £2.50 for under-16s and over-65s, with entry free for children under 10.
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It’s now only injuries that are preventing Chris Wilder from starting to give more of the club’s younger players game time in the first team.
Technical Director Ben Manga says he only wants players at Watford who truly want to be at the club
Match Info
- Hull City v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- MKM Stadium
- Saturday April 22, 3pm KO
- Blue away kit
Officials
- Referee: Oliver Langford
- Assistant Referees: Rob Smith and Mark Stevens
- Fourth Official: Stephen Martin
Opposition
Having enjoyed a five-match unbeaten run in the second-tier, Hull City were finally defeated by Middlesbrough last time out as they lost 3-1 at the Riverside (Wednesday April 19).
The Tigers are currently ranked 16th in the table under the stewardship of Liam Rosenior, who made more than 150 appearances for the club as a player.
Rosenior will be hoping for a victory against the Hornets, as he and his charges look to bounce back from midweek disappointment and spark a positive end to the 2022/23 season.
Stats Buzz
Only in two previous Football League seasons have both games between Hull and Watford been drawn - in the third-tier in 1963/64 and second-tier in 1969/70.
Watford have won two of their last 10 league games against Hull City, failing to score in their last two against the Tigers.
Hull have kept six clean sheets in their last seven home league games, losing 3-1 to already promoted Burnley in the other game.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Hull City In Numbers.
Team News
Ahead of the match against the Tigers, the Hornets’ boss Chris Wilder gave an update on his squad’s fitness.
He said: “There were a couple of bumps and bruises after Wednesday [v Cardiff City], but hopefully those players will be alright in terms of selection for the weekend. James Morris took a whack playing for the Under-21s during the week - so we’ll look at his situation - but we should have the same group that’s been available for most of my time here.
“Craig Cathcart had a bang in training, so he’s been out of action for the last couple of games. He’s in line to train today [Friday April 21], and hopefully he’ll travel with the group to Hull.
“There’s been a lot of talk about Academy players, particularly with Ryan Andrews having come into the team. There’s a pool of players we’ve been looking at, and I would like to have Jack Grieves and Tobi Adeyemo involved, but unfortunately they’re injured at the moment. Adrian Blake is going to be involved with us, which is good.”
For Hull City, centre-back Alfie Jones will be missing with a quadricep tear that has kept him out of the last two outings. Forwards Aaron Connolly and Óscar Estupiñán remain unavailable, as well.
What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“We all know that Wednesday night was hugely disappointing, and the lucky ones will have the opportunity to put that right on Saturday. When you get beaten like that, I always think the best answer is to be found on the pitch.
“In the face of criticism, we have to respond. I know what my reaction would have been as a player, and how a good footballing pro would react, and it’s up to our players to show the appropriate quality and characteristics. They need to chuck a few punches back to that last performance and criticism, and show the right attitude.
“There’s still loads to play for - there are nine big points at stake, and we have an obligation to fight to the best of our ability for the fans spending their hard-earned money coming to support us. We’ll fight right to the end, and that continues at Hull.”
Liam Rosenior, Hull City Head Coach:
“We’re safe in the league, so that’s the objective for the season done. We’re trying to build something special for next season, and now we’re playing against a really good Watford team full of very good individual players.
“There’ll be spells in the game when we’ll be on top, and there’ll be spells when they’re on top - it’s about whether we can take control of those moments, because in our last game [v Middlesbrough] we were tremendous at times but switched off for a period, which is unacceptable. For us to get to where we want to be, we need to be winning games and playing well at the same time.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 12
Drawn: 16
Lost: 17Last Six:
December 2022: Watford 0-0 Hull City (Championship)
April 2017: Hull City 2-0 Watford (Premier League)
October 2016: Watford 1-0 Hull City (Premier League)
April 2013: Hull City 0-1 Watford (Championship)
December 2012: Watford 1-2 Hull City (Championship)
April 2012: Watford 1-1 Hull City (Championship)Golden Flashback
Watford’s most recent victory in the second-tier against Hull City came in April 2013 at the MKM Stadium, where Troy Deeney’s late first-half strike gave the Hornets the full three points.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Hull City v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Chris Wilder is expecting a big response from his Watford players away at Hull City this weekend (Saturday April 22, 3pm KO), following Wednesday night’s disappointing home defeat at the hands of Cardiff City.
Three goals in 11 first-half minutes were enough to undo a positive start to the midweek clash against the Bluebirds, serving a huge blow to the Hornets’ slim play-off hopes, and prompting an honest assessment of the display from the Head Coach.
But with three games of the campaign remaining Wilder believes the quick turnaround provides the players with a good chance to do their talking on the pitch, and he is clear that he expects much better from his whole squad.
“We all know that Wednesday night was hugely disappointing, and the lucky ones will have the opportunity to put that right on Saturday,” the 55-year-old said. “When you get beaten like that, I always think the best answer is to be found on the pitch.
“In the face of criticism, we have to respond. I know what my reaction would have been as a player, and how a good footballing pro would react, and it’s up to our players to show the appropriate quality and characteristics. They need to chuck a few punches back to that last performance and criticism, and show the right attitude.
“Setbacks happen - in all walks of life - and you’ve got to keep going; you can’t just put the white flag up. I’ve experienced plenty throughout my career, but you can’t just pack in. I think that’s why people have longevity and success in the game, and we have to take Wednesday night on the chin and come back in the right way now.
“The fans travelling up to Hull will be expecting the group to perform, and from my point of view I’m looking for improvement in all four corners of the game - technically, tactically, physically and mentally. The players have got to do their jobs in their positions, and play together as a team.
“There’s still loads to play for - there are nine big points at stake, and we have an obligation to fight to the best of our ability for the fans spending their hard-earned money coming to support us. We’ll fight right to the end, and that continues at Hull.”
Wilder explained that he doesn’t expect many changes to list of players available for the trip up to East Yorkshire, though he did hint that one or two individuals could be back involved.
He said: “There were a couple of bumps and bruises after Wednesday, but hopefully those players will be alright in terms of selection for the weekend. James Morris took a whack playing for the Under-21s during the week - so we’ll look at his situation - but we should have the same group that’s been available for most of my time here.
“Craig Cathcart had a bang in training, so he’s been out of action for the last couple of games. He’s in line to train today [Friday April 21], and hopefully he’ll travel with the group to Hull.
“There’s been a lot of talk about Academy players, particularly with Ryan Andrews having come into the team. There’s a pool of players we’ve been looking at, and I would like to have Jack Grieves and Tobi Adeyemo involved, but unfortunately they’re injured at the moment. Adrian Blake is going to be involved with us, which is good.”
While eager to see his side bounce back to success at the MKM Stadium Wilder is aware of the threats posed by Hull City, who held the Golden Boys to a hard-fought 0-0 draw at Vicarage Road in the reverse fixture in December.
The Tigers currently sit 16th in the second-tier standings - six points behind Watford - but had been on a five-game unbeaten run under Head Coach Liam Rosenior before defeat at high-flying Middlesbrough last time out.
Wilder added: “It’s the same as every game in this division - we know it’s going to be a tough game, and we know we’re going to have to tick a lot of boxes to get a result.
“I’ve known Liam for a while - I had contact with him while he was working in the media, and during his time in the game - and he’s a bright young coach. He took the big step to Hull after his work with Wayne Rooney at Derby, and he’s got his team playing in a certain way. It’s a difficult place to go, but we’ll do our best to come away with the full share of the spoils.”
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A referee who has yet to take charge of a Watford game this season is due to be in the middle tomorrow when the Hornets travel to Hull City.
Watford head into their penultimate away fixture of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season this Saturday (April 22, 3pm KO), as they travel north to the MKM Stadium to face Hull City.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we pick out five former Hornets who also represented the East-Yorkshire outfit during their playing days…
Brian Garvey
A sturdy defensive half-back who helped Watford reach the Second Division for the first time and made a substitute appearance in the 1969/70 FA Cup semi-finals, Brian Garvey kickstarted his playing career at hometown club Hull City in the early 1950s.
With his father having played rugby league for Hull FC in the 1920s, Garvey joined the Tigers on apprentice terms in 1953, before turning professional five years later. After making over 250 appearances in black and amber Garvey left for then Division Three side Watford in 1965, going on to serve in the Hornets’ backline until the turn of the new decade.
While at Vicarage Road Garvey played a key role in sealing promotion to the Second Division in 1968/69, and with 201 games under his belt he departed for Colchester United where he played a part in their famous FA Cup victory over Leeds United in 1971.
Dennis Booth
A trusted companion of Graham Taylor, midfielder Dennis Booth was lured to Vicarage Road from Lincoln City by the great man soon after the pair had steered the Imps to a top-10 finish in Division Three, a year after their Fourth-Division triumph.
Booth featured prominently as Watford secured successive promotions to the Second Division, and having contributed two goals in 117 appearances he moved North-East after three seasons, where he again helped inspire a progression through the divisions.
After playing league football for nearly two decades, and having figured regularly in five promotions and just one relegation, Booth was elevated to assistant manager at Hull in 1985, and he later reunited with GT as a coach at Aston Villa.
Steve Terry
Centre-half Steve Terry came through the ranks at Watford in the early 1980s alongside the likes of Kenny Jackett and Nigel Callaghan, making his debut in a 5-0 defeat at the hands of Sunderland aged just 17. Despite that tricky introduction to the first-team, he would go on to establish himself as a key man under Graham Taylor, enjoying much of the club’s success and featuring in the 1984 FA Cup final.
Having made over 200 appearances in yellow – including three in the UEFA Cup – the Clapton-born man left for Hull in the summer of 1988, as part of Eddie Gray’s squad rebuilding exercise. Two years and 69 games later Terry signed terms at Northampton Town, before closing out a successful career in non-league.
Richard Jobson
Richard Jobson was merely a teenager with a dream when Watford boss Graham Taylor was first made aware of his burgeoning potential, the latter ultimately offering him the opportunity to swap non-league Burton Albion for a shot at the First Division in the autumn of 1982.
After leaving behind a civil engineering degree he was partway through - that he had been balancing with his part-time playing commitments - the jump up to the big time didn’t appear to faze defender Jobson, and after making his debut against Reading in December he went on to amass 13 league appearances as the Hornets finished second in the top-tier.
With first-team opportunities increasingly hard to come by the Hull-born man left for his hometown in February 1985, helping the Tigers secure immediate promotion from the Third Division under Brian Horton. Five years and over 200 appearances in the North East preceded high-profile stints at Oldham Athletic and Leeds United, before Jobson briefly returned to The Vic on loan in 2000 in between stints at Southend, Manchester City, Tranmere and Rochdale at the tail end of his career.
Joshua King
Norway international forward Joshua King was starting to make waves at Premier League giants Manchester United when he linked up with Hull City on a temporary basis in the second half of the 2011/12 season, after joining the Red Devils as a 16-year-old.
The now 31-year-old had already shown flashes of his potential during stints at Preston North End and Borussia Mönchengladbach, before playing an important supporting role for Nick Barmby’s Tigers with one goal in 18 Championship games.
After another loan at Blackburn - that was eventually made permanent - and spells at AFC Bournemouth and Everton, King joined the Hornets in the summer of 2021. After five goals in 32 games in the Premier League - including a hat-trick at Goodison Park - King departed ahead of the current campaign.
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Watford travel to Hull City this Saturday (April 22, 3pm KO), as they look to bounce back from a disappointing defeat to Cardiff City in midweek and spark a positive end to the 2022/23 campaign.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the Sky Bet Championship encounter.
Previous Meetings
This is Hull City’s first home league match against Watford since April 2017 - a Premier League meeting where the Tigers won 2-0.
Only in two previous Football League seasons have both games between Hull and Watford been drawn - in the third-tier in 1963/64 and second-tier in 1969/70.
Watford have won two of their last 10 league games against Hull City, failing to score in their last two against the Tigers.
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Recent Form
Hull City have won just one of their last eight league games. Indeed, only Rotherham United (16), Luton Town and Coventry City (both 15) have drawn more Championship games in 2022/23 than the Tigers (14).
Watford have won none of their last seven away league games, since a 1-0 win over Norwich City in January.
Hull have kept six clean sheets in their last seven home league games, losing 3-1 to already promoted Burnley in the other game.
Opposition Stat Attack
Óscar Estupiñán is the top goalscorer at Hull City with 13 strikes to his name, with the forward also top for shots on target (25) and shots off target (33). Meanwhile, Regan Slater has the most assists (4) and the most dribbles attempted in the Tigers’ squad (61).
Midfielder Jean Michaël Seri has made the most passes in the opposition’s half (865) and attempted the most crosses (84).
Alfie Jones has attempted the most passes (2,062), with the majority of them coming from inside his own half (1,460). The defender is also top for clearances (153), blocks (27) and interceptions (46).
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The way forward for Watford under Ben Manga will be by using their scouting network, and far less work with agents
Six head coaches in two seasons has drawn as much criticism from Watford's fans as it has from the media - and Ben Manga wants to change that trend
Hiring and retaining managers. Signing players. In fact, everything on the sporting side of Watford FC. That is Ben Manga's wide-ranging remit.
Technical Director Ben Manga categorically denies Watford have held discussions with Francesco Farioli about taking charge of the Hornets next season
Watford’s Technical Director Ben Manga has given us his first in-depth exclusive interview since joining the club.
Watford will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways - and spark a strong end to the 2022/23 season - when they travel to Hull City this Saturday (April 22, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the Sky Bet Championship clash at the MKM Stadium, find out below how you can follow all the action on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Two banners, a pitch invader, a fan stopped from purchasing tickets and allegations of a comment about free speech - all in the last three home games
This Easter school holiday, 1,216 children were active, developed skills and took part in activities with friends - while making some new ones - thanks to various offers from Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust. Adding some excitement to the many different courses, a range of stars from Watford men’s first-team met with local youngsters for photos, autographs and to join in the fun!
That total number included 909 children on football holiday courses at Roundwood Park in Harpenden and Westfield Community Sports Centre in Watford over the two weeks of the school holidays, as well as one week at Cedars Youth and Community Centre in Harrow. That equates to an average attendance of 50 children at each venue every day. These courses aim to develop youngsters’ footballing ability through drills, matches and coaching.
The Hornets players who paid a visit to the courses included Craig Cathcart, Francisco Sierralta, George Abbott, Hassane Kamara, Imrân Louza, James Morris, Leandro Bacuna and Mario Gaspar.
The Trust delivers holiday camps at no cost to children on the free school meals initiative, ensuring youngsters are provided food and activity throughout the school breaks, in addition to their in-school support. These Holiday Activities and Food (HAF) programmes are funded by the Department for Education (DfE).
Sessions are delivered at the two community hubs - the Cedars Youth and Community Centre in Harrow, and Meriden Community Centre in North Watford. The Watford-based camps, known as HAPpy (Holiday Activity Programme) courses, are a partnership between Hertfordshire County Council, Herts Sports Partnership and Hertfordshire Community Foundation. A total of 162 children attended throughout the week, with 42 unique individuals benefiting from the course, which included football, dodgeball, arts, crafts and workshops, as well as their hot lunch.
Similarly, the camp at Cedars Youth and Community Centre - delivered in partnership with Young Harrow Foundation, commissioned by Harrow Council - was held during week two of the holidays with 120 children attending over the course of the week.
Finally, Watford defender Ryan Porteous attended Meriden Community Centre as the community hub hosted players from the Under-16 age group at the Trust’s Girls Player Development Centre. The players were taking part in the Hertfordshire FA Leadership Award, delivered by the county FA and funded by Herts Sports Partnership. As well as developing their skills as coaches, there was signposting to the relevant online courses and opportunities to follow up with a referee course and an introduction to coaching football when the players turn 16 years old.
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated defender Tom Georgiou.
While he currently features for the Under-16s, Georgiou has broken into Charlie Daniels’ Under-18 side this campaign, including featuring in the FA Youth Cup.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’m comfortable and patient on the ball as a centre-back. I like to play through the thirds, but my main aim is to stop goals. I like playing out from the back, that’s a key aspect of my game.Your footballing idol?
I’ve got three players that I like to look up to. On the ball Andrea Pirlo, and then defensively John Terry and Rio Ferdinand. Terry for his defensive ability and Ferdinand for his ability on the ball.Biggest influence?
Definitely my dad. He introduced football to myself and my older brother, so he has been key to my journey.
Most talented teammate?
Harry Amass is a very good player. He is quick, powerful and a technical left-back. Also, I would say Leo Ramirez-Espain, who is a very technical midfielder who is very comfortable on the ball. I enjoy playing alongside him and he receives the ball really well.Favourite football memory?
The Floodlit Cup last year where we beat Fulham in the semi-final. They were a very good team to play against, but we scored a few screamers and managed to get past them.Your aims for the future?
I want to play first-team football as high up the football pyramid as possible.
Best advice you’ve received?
You’re only as good as your next game. You have to keep performing. You can’t just get carried away or too low on one performance.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I would probably go down the coaching route in football or maybe a trade as a plumber.How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace – 75
Shooting – 70
Passing – 87
Dribbling – 70
Defending – 86
Physicality – 85
OVERALL – 85Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Indian takeaway
Favourite song: Money Trees by Kendrick Lamar
Favourite boots: Nike Tiempos in black
Favourite TV show: Power
Favourite kit: Arsenal’s 1999/00 home kit with Dreamcast on the frontSEO Image
To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
Her name was Lola, she was a showgirl - and her nephew is one of only four head coaches to take Watford to Wembley…
Quique Sánchez Flores came from a famous family in which his father, Isidro, played for Real Madrid, his godfather was all-time Argentine great Alfredo Di Stéfano... and his aunt Lola was one of the most celebrated flamenco dancers in Spain.
In two spells, her theatrical influence lived on and infiltrated the cradle of artistic performance known as Vicarage Road. Few managers or head coaches in this parish have commanded an aura, or a sense of gravitas, like QSF.
Although the sequel wasn’t as happy as the original, he didn’t have a lot of luck, notably in that VAR ‘masterclass’ at Tottenham, the sensational 3-2 comeback win against Arsenal that didn’t quite happen, and the Southampton equaliser created by a blatant handball with the grace of putting the cat out.
Personally, I liked Sánchez Flores. First impressions often count the most, and our inaugural discussion in 2015 - about his famous family - was an enjoyable introduction.
“For me, it is very important to entertain supporters. I compare this profession with theatre artists,” said Quique, who won the Europa League with Atletico Madrid in 2010 - beating Roy Hodgson’s Fulham in the final.
“When we are preparing a performance, it is important to create emotion in the stands. I have been many times in theatres and amazing places watching not only my aunt but some of the most brilliant dancers, artists and performers in Spain. Those experiences help me to try and be a better manager.”
After that precursory chat with the Hornets’ head honcho at Sopwell House, I remember bumping into Harry Kewell, then Watford’s Under-23 coach, back at the training ground.
It was the first day of the Ashes Test at Trent Bridge, and Kewell - who had been on the grass all morning - was keen to find out the score.
I told him Australia had scored 60. “For how many wickets down?,” enquired the former Leeds and Liverpool winger, who was born in the Sydney suburb of Smithfield. “All of them - all out,” I replied. Kewell’s pained expression, after Stuart Broad’s 8-15, was a picture.
Quique’s full season in charge of Watford, in 2015/16, may have tailed off after the insipid FA Cup semi-final defeat against Crystal Palace.
But that did not diminish the joy of the quarter-final win at Arsenal (even for those of us who tore a calf muscle leaping up to celebrate Adlène Guedioura’s phenomenal hit), or those four consecutive wins just before Christmas against Aston Villa, Norwich, Sunderland and Liverpool, or the spell he cast over Newcastle - three times.
And when the magic 40-point mark was reached at West Bromwich Albion, thanks to Heurelho Gomes’ twin penalty saves to foil Saido Berahino, it was a job well done - especially as Watford had been the hipsters’ and tipsters’ unanimous favourites for relegation.
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On Season 2, Episode 48 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford ceding a 1-0 lead as charitable hosts to bottom-four strugglers Cardiff City, who obliged with three unanswered goals in eleven minutes before halftime at Vicarage Road. Plus: Chris Wilder's honest and welcome assessment of Watford FC men's players. Also: The Watford FC men's first team players must be held accountable by fans and the Club for their pitiful performances. And: The playoffs were out of the question for Watford FC months and months ago. (Companion writing/YOU ORNS! Observation: https://bit.ly/3KNmOkj)
Episode published: April 19, 2023
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The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Watford 2, Bristol City 0: https://bit.ly/3KIeWzh
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Chris Wilder spent more than 20 minutes talking in his press conference after the defeat to Cardiff, and he pulled no punches.
Chris Wilder provided a frank assessment after the Hornets’ frustrating 3-1 defeat to Cardiff City under the lights at Vicarage Road.
A bright start which saw Ismaïla Sarr score an impressive opener dwindled when Kion Etete, Cedric Kipré and Sory Kaba hit three before half-time, with the Golden Boys unable to provide a second-half response.
Defeat leaves Wilder’s side in 12th and five points adrift of the play-off places, leaving the Head Coach to rue a lack of togetherness against the Bluebirds.
“To say it wasn’t great is maybe the understatement of the year,” admitted Wilder.
“We had a plan for 10, 15 minutes and the players stuck to the plan, scored a fabulous goal and then we went off-plan. That’s the fourth or fifth time we’ve been in the game and it goes from team to individual. Instead of doing the right thing and being a team player it goes out of the window and everybody wants to be the star of the show.
“We watch and analyse - and we watched and analysed Cardiff - and it was exactly how we’d want the game to be: we score a goal, move the ball around and stretch them. Then we go off-plan and it allows them a sniff, they take it and in a heartbeat they’re 3-1 up, and the complete complexion of the game changes.”
Unable to build on Saturday’s positive result against Bristol City, Wilder reflected on Watford’s recent shortcomings, having dropped points from winning positions several times.
“You can’t drop points against Wigan, Huddersfield, Coventry and Cardiff, and expect to be anywhere near the play-offs,” continued Wilder, 55.
“No disrespect intended to Wigan - we should be putting them to bed after scoring the first goal, then the same again happened, and it’s a bit of a theme. Scoring the first goal against Huddersfield and exactly the same happened, scoring against Coventry and scoring a second, it goes all individual and allows them to sniff back into it, and we go under.
“I’ve never restricted the players, and never said ‘don’t try things’. The first goal epitomises everything that’s good about us, we work the ball into a great area, it’s a fabulous ball and a great knock back with a great finish. That’s a really good team goal, let’s do the same, but we didn’t.
“We allowed the opposition to get back into the game, they sniffed we were weak mentally and physically, and scored three. I don’t think the players turned it in, we had three or four good opportunities, but then again I’ve got centre-forwards trying to get it off the back four, left-wingers on the right wing and right-wingers on the left wing, just losing our shape and trying to do what they can do to get back into the game.”
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Defensive capitulation sees Watford collapse to 3-1 defeat to Cardiff City City at Vicarage Road in the Championship.
Watford Women will return to Vicarage Road next week to face Oxford United in their huge clash at the top of the table.
Watford FC Women are delighted to announce that their final home game of the season against league leaders Oxford United will take place at Vicarage Road next Thursday night (April 27, 7.45pm KO).
Currently on a seven-game winning run and set to face Nottingham Forest in the final of the FA WNL Cup on Sunday at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium (April 23, 3.30pm KO), the Hornets return to The Vic in a season-defining FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division clash.
A crowd of 1,127 turned out to see Damon Lathrope’s side defeat Bridgwater United 5-1 on April 9, in a game which saw club legend Helen Ward score four goals.
The Oxford clash has twice been postponed due to poor weather conditions, and will now be contested at Vicarage Road under the lights in front of supporters, with capacity capped at 2,000.
Ticket Information
Tickets are available to purchase now from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved in the Sir Elton John Stand, and as for matches at Grosvenor Vale, Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below.
Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Tickets will be issued as print-at-home e-tickets, with those already purchased for the original fixture remaining valid.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
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Match Info
- Watford v Cardiff City
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Wednesday April 19, 7.45pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: Jarred Gillett
- Assistant Referees: Dan Cook and Simon Long
- Fourth Official: John Busby
Opposition
Currently sat one place above the relegation places, Cardiff City have struggled this season, winning just twice since the start of March. The Bluebirds come into the game at The Vic off the back of a 4-1 defeat to second-placed Sheffield United on Saturday (April 15).
Manager Sabri Lamouchi, who joined in January, will be hoping for a positive result against the Hornets after the Welsh side were defeated 2-1 in the reverse fixture back in November.
Stats Buzz
Watford have won five of their last six league matches against Cardiff City, scoring two or more goals against the Bluebirds in all five such victories.
Cardiff won their most recent visit to Watford in the second-tier and are looking to win consecutive away matches against the Hornets for the first time since October 1934.
Watford have lost three of their last four home league matches played on Wednesdays, since a 2-0 win over Wycombe Wanderers in March 2021.
Team News
Ahead of the match against the Bluebirds, the Hornets’ boss Chris Wilder gave an update on his squad’s fitness.
He said: “We have a couple of players coming back. A couple of the boys played in the Under-21s [during a 3-1 victory over Birmingham City]. Francisco Sierralta played 60 minutes in the Under-21s, and James Morris got a little bit of a bang, so we will assess him.
“Apart from that, Leandro [Bacuna] came off at half-time [against Bristol City], but we are hopeful he will be available. From a health point of view, we are in decent shape.”
For Cardiff City, they will be without forward Callum Robinson for the foreseeable future. Rubin Colwill won’t be available, either.
What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“Sabri Lamouchi is an experienced manager and he knows the division well. I can imagine, on the whole, it’s been a disappointing season.
“They are fighting for their lives. I know they have a group of players who have all played in the Championship, and they will be desperate to stay in the Championship as individuals.”
Sabri Lamouchi, Cardiff City Manager:
“We go again against probably the best squad in the league in Watford. We will do our best to get a positive result.
“It’ll be tough, but we’re aiming for maximum points. We know why we must give our best. The club deserves to stay in the Championship, and I know the players will do everything they can for that.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 23
Drawn: 14
Lost: 23Last Six:
November 2022: Cardiff City 1-2 Watford (Championship)
March 2021: Cardiff City 1-2 Watford (Championship)
December 2020: Watford 0-1 Cardiff City (Championship)
February 2019: Cardiff City 1-5 Watford (Premier League)
December 2018: Watford 3-2 Cardiff City (Premier League)
December 2014: Cardiff City 2-4 Watford (Championship)Golden Flashback
One of the club’s most memorable Premier League outings, Watford secured a 5-1 victory over the Bluebirds in February 2019. A brace from Troy Deeney and a Gerard Deulofeu hat-trick ensured they would be travelling back to Hertfordshire with three well-earned points.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Cardiff City, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Watford and Cardiff City face off on Wednesday night (April 19, 7.45pm KO), in what promises to be an enticing Sky Bet Championship clash, and the teams have shared dozens of successful players over the years.
As Head Coach Chris Wilder and his charges prepare to host the Welshmen under the Vicarage Road lights, here are five who represented the Hornets and the Bluebirds during their playing careers.
Fred Pagnam
Scoring Watford’s last-ever goal at Cassio Road and their first at Vicarage Road, Pagnam netted a hat-trick to ensure “the Brewers” ran out winners at their stadium for the first time against Exeter City in 1922, writing himself into the club’s history books forever.
Pagnam had arrived from Cardiff City a year earlier, where he had plied his trade for only a year but enjoyed considerable success. Firing in eight goals in 14 games to ensure their promotion to the First Division, he left the Welsh side for £1,000 and a 50 per cent sell-on fee, one of the earliest examples of this clause in English football.
Heiðar Helguson
Icelandic striker Heiðar Helguson spent seven years at Watford over two spells. Helguson scored 75 times in a yellow shirt following a move from Norwegian side Lillestrøm Sportsklubb, and that kickstarted a memorable career in England which saw the powerful forward play for the likes of Fulham and Queens Park Rangers, joining Cardiff in 2012.
South Wales was his final UK destination before moving home, scoring eight goals as Cardiff earned promotion to the Premier League.
Jordon Mutch
Joining Watford as an exciting young midfielder on an initial one-month’s loan, Jordon Mutch arrived with little expectations but impressed Watford fans with his tenacity and creativity on the ball for a player of his age. Then 19, Mutch, parent club Birmingham City and the Hornets agreed to extend the loan further until January 2011, making 21 appearances and scoring five goals.
Cardiff City manager Malky Mackay, who coached Mutch at Vicarage Road, brought the midfielder to his new side in 2012 on a permanent deal from the Blues. Playing alongside Helguson in their promotion season, Mutch scored an unforgettable strike in the Premier League against Fulham in 2013.
Neal Ardley
Midfielder Neal Ardley played for Watford between 2002 and 2005, at which point the Golden Boys were in the second-tier under Ray Lewington and assistant Terry Burton, who managed him at former club Wimbledon.
Ardley, capable of also playing at right-back, provided Lewington with consistency during his three seasons at the club, and played 128 times for the club before joining Cardiff soon after his manager’s departure. Spending a season-and-a-half with the Bluebirds, Ardley’s only goal for the club came against Leicester City a month after his arrival.
Don Cowie
Now assistant manager at Ross County alongside Malky Mackay, Don Cowie called time on his playing career in 2020 while at the Staggies, six years after leaving Cardiff City. Cowie joined Watford from Inverness Caledonian Thistle in 2009, gaining his first taste of English football in an FA Cup third-round tie against Chelsea. Cowie assisted Lloyd Doyley’s famous solitary Watford goal against Queens Park Rangers, and scored nine goals in 94 games, before a move to Cardiff in 2011.
Cowie, one of several ex-Hornets to be snapped up by Mackay, spent three years in South Wales, playing a key role in their promotion to the top-flight, and making 10 appearances in their subsequent relegation campaign.
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Watford FC have been celebrating the holy month of Ramadan, which is a time of spiritual reflection, heightened devotion, self-improvement and worship for the Muslim faith.
For the second year running, a group of staff members from across the club and Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust supported our friends in the local Muslim community and beyond, as well as our players and staff who observe Ramadan, by taking part in a three-day period of fasting.
The Hornets have also become the first club to host two different Iftar events, both of which were held at Vicarage Road during Ramadan and were attended by over 200 people across the two evenings.
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Iftar is the name of the meal eaten by Muslims at sunset to break their fast during Ramadan and is the main meal of the day for those who are fasting. The events were also attended by local dignitaries and people from different faiths and backgrounds.
The first was arranged by Nujum Sports, who have worked closely with the club to support our Muslim players and provide education and awareness training for staff since 2021.
The second was organised by the Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust, who have been incredibly supportive with our work to make Vicarage Road a fully inclusive stadium and encouraged local Muslim community members to attend more matches.
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Ebadur Rahman, CEO of Nujum Sports, said: “Over the last year, Nujum have been working tirelessly with Watford FC with a primary mission of enabling their Muslim athletes to flourish and fulfil their potential.
“Watford were the first club to sign the Muslim Athlete Charter and have taken this very seriously every step of the way. We were honoured to hold our athlete Iftar at Vicarage Road and hope our relationship goes from strength-to-strength next season.”
Imran Khan, Secretary Trustee for Watford Muslim Youth Centre, said: “We are grateful to Watford Football Club, who facilitated a wonderful Iftari event (breaking of fast) with the Muslim community and with people of all backgrounds and faiths. There was a uniquely festive and educational vibe and feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive.”
Zahid Zarin, the Chairman for Watford Muslim Youth Centre, said: “Watford are doing a wonderful job of involving people from different communities, including the Muslim community. The sense of our shared humanity is apparent at Watford Football Club and we applaud the non-Muslim staff members who fasted for three days in this month of Ramadan.”
More on Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust
The Watford Muslim Youth Centre Trust was set up in May 2012 with the aim of establishing a multi-purpose community centre in Tolpits Lane, Watford. The Centre will be an interactive space offering a wide range of educational and recreational activities to people of all ages and backgrounds. WMYCT are already designing services and activities to be implemented and hope their endeavours will promote togetherness within Watford and help build bridges between various ethnic groups.
The Trust has raised approximately £2m and requires a further £500k to complete their construction project. Donations are welcome to help them achieve this goal: Lloyds Bank; Account Name: WMYC; Account Number: 01467260; Sort Code: 77-95-51. More details can be found HERE.
More on Nujum Sports
Nujum Sports aims to promote a culture of educational excellence for Muslim athletes, from within a caring and secure Islamic environment enriched with the values of discipline, mutual care and respect which extends beyond and into the wider community.
The Muslim Athlete Charter created by Nujum Sports provides a framework to challenge organisations to make progress on recognising and providing support for Muslim athletes. Watford are proud to have been the first club to sign the charter. More details can be found HERE.
Contact Us
For full details on the equality, diversity and inclusion work we are doing across Watford Football Club and the Community Trust, please click HERE.
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Academy product Ryan Andrews earned a standing ovation after his home league debut against Bristol City on Saturday
Completing a seventh consecutive win thanks to goals from Bianca Baptiste and Poppy Wilson against London Bees, Golden Girls Head Coach Damon Lathrope believes Watford were good value for their 2-0 victory at Grosvenor Vale.
With the FAWNL Cup final in their sights on Sunday (April 23, 3.30pm, Pirelli Stadium) against Nottingham Forest, the Hornets go into the fixture having built plenty of momentum in the league, seeing out a tough test at the weekend against local opposition.
Lathrope felt his side did enough to deserve three points in Ruislip, but had to be at their best to ensure the continuation of their winning run.
“I’m really pleased with the win and a clean sheet,” Lathrope began. “London Bees made it really difficult for us. They worked really hard, they're not a bad team by any stretch of the imagination so they made us work hard for it, but in the end we deserved what we got.
“It was a little bit cagey. They played a system that we didn't anticipate so it took us a little bit of time to get to grips with it. We were a little bit loose in possession and not as clinical as we have been in recent weeks, but we're not going to score fives and sixes every single week.
“We want to raise the standards and demand the most out of the players but sometimes you have to just find a way to win and today we did and in the end it was convincing.”
Baptiste’s left-footed strike was a return to goalscoring form, last finding the target in March’s win over Gillingham. Lathrope felt it was no less than the former Crystal Palace forward deserved.
“Bee doesn't normally use her left foot so fair to play to her, she had a swing at it and it ended up in the top corner!” the Head Coach smiled. “We know what she offers us, a lot of assists, and maybe not the goal return that she's deserved. Today she scored a cracker and could have had another one that was very similar; I'll take that all day.”
Excited for the cup final and a trip to the Pirelli Stadium to face northern section opponents Forest, Lathrope believes momentum will play an important role in the game.
“Cup finals are always a great occasion for everyone,” added Lathrope. “As a kid growing up, they're the days that you remember and they're the days you play football for.
“We'll prepare as normal and we'll do our work. It’s something a bit different because Forest, being in the northern side of league, we don't know too much about them, but we'll do enough work and make sure we're prepared and see if we can carry the momentum we've built in the last couple of months into that game and bring the cup home with us.”
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There are very few players who can boast having as long a first-team career at Watford as Gary Porter.
There are very few players who can boast having as long a first-team career at Watford as Gary Porter.
Hi everyone. Our next series (Series 20) is a four-episode serial. Each episode is 30-45 minutes long. Do you have a preference for how we should release the episodes – to suit the way you like to listen? If so, please let us know which option you prefer via the poll below. (Hope the technology […]
CCTV footage has been released after ex-Watford striker Danny Graham crashed a Land Rover into a shop.
Chris Wilder has talked about his players drifting from the script when faced with a challenge or problem, but he's not wanting to limit their flair
Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Wednesday evening’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Cardiff City (April 19, 7.45pm KO), with the Hornets looking to build on the victory against Bristol City last time out (Saturday April 15).
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Cardiff City, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Head Coach Chris Wilder believes the Hornets need to continue their positive work from Saturday’s Bristol City victory, as Watford prepare to face Cardiff City on Wednesday (April 19, 7.45pm KO).
The win against the Robins last time out has given Wilder’s side a boost as they head into the final four matches of the season, however the 55-year-old is adamant that the task hasn’t changed and he has a straightforward message for his squad.
“Nothing changes, we have to go and win the next game – that’s the message to the players,” Wilder began.
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“Of course, when you get a good solid home win, in the manner and the fashion that we did on Saturday afternoon, it makes you feel a lot better about yourself. Whether you’re a manager or a player, and most importantly from a supporter’s point of view.
“We know that we need to go again, use what we did well on Saturday and look at the stuff in the game that we need to do better, and other bits and pieces which we will always recognise upon reflection of the game.”
One of the positives from the previous fixture was the performance of 18-year-old Ryan Andrews, with Wilder full of praise for the full-back.
“He was the highlight of the day for me, if I’m being honest,” Wilder continued. “I thought that the attitude of the supporters towards him was brilliant and he gave a really positive performance. He was assured, he was confident and he defended very well.
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“Of course, upon reflection, there is some stuff we can work on with Ryan, but he can be really pleased with his contribution. Now, as it always is with young players, he needs to go again and find that consistency.
“If he is going to be a player, he has to rattle out some performances now because there are some decent players alongside him who are fighting to get back into the team. He has do what he has to do to keep that shirt and if he plays like he did over the last two games, then he will be difficult to move.”
Ahead of the match against the Bluebirds, the Hornets’ boss gave an update on his squad’s fitness.
Wilder said: “We have a couple of players coming back. A couple of the boys played in the Under-21s last night [during a 3-1 victory over Birmingham City]. Francisco Sierralta played 60 minutes in the Under-21s and James Morris got a little bit of bang so we will assess him.
“Apart from that, Leandro [Bacuna] came off at half-time [against Bristol City], but we are hopeful he will be available. From a health point of view, we are in a decent shape.”
Focusing on tomorrow evening’s opponents, Wilder is expecting a tough battle against a side battling for their lives near the bottom of the Championship table.
“Sabri Lamouchi is an experienced manager and he knows the division well,” he said. “It will be the same again because I can imagine, on the whole, it’s been a disappointing season.
“They are fighting for their lives. I know they have a group of players who have all played in the Championship and they will be desperate to stay in the Championship as individuals. They are a club that three or four years ago were in the Premier League and now they are fighting for survival.
“Everything that will bring to the game we have to be aware of and respectful of. We need to make sure we impose ourselves and make sure that we deal with their threats, and the positive stuff that they have in their team.”
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Matheus Martins has been called up to Brazil’s Under-20 squad to take part in a series of friendlies in preparation for the Under-20 FIFA World Cup.
The 19-year-old is in-line to play three exhibition matches against the Dominican Republic (Wednesday April 19, 6pm KO UK time), Uzbekistan (Saturday April 22, 6pm KO UK time) and Iraq (Tuesday April 25, 6pm KO UK time), with all the fixtures set to take place in Spain.
Martins, who has made six appearances for the Hornets this campaign having joined in January, will be hoping to play a key role for his national side ahead of this summer’s Under-20 World Cup.
Recently, the Brazilian forward featured for Watford’s Under-21 side in a 7-0 victory over Peterborough United, scoring a hat-trick.
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Watford FC have been nominated for the Diversity Award at this year’s EFL Awards.
The nomination recognises the Hornets’ work within the local community focusing on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI).
This has included hosting Hanukkah events for our Jewish supporters’ group, a second-consecutive Iftar for our local Muslim community and a birthday party for Watford’s LGBTQ+ supporters’ group, the Proud Hornets.
Speaking on the nomination, EDI Lead Dave Messenger explained that Equality, Diversity and Inclusion remain a top priority at the club and all involved are pleased to have been acknowledged by the EFL.
Messenger said: “We’re absolutely delighted to have been nominated and recognised by the EFL for the work we have done this year. I think it speaks volumes about the club, and the heartbeat of the club, which still beats strongly for the Equality, Diversity and Inclusion work that we do.
“It’s very much in keeping with the Original Family Club ethos that was created by Sir Elton John and Graham Taylor. What we do now is very much a continuation of that. We try to make the stadium more inclusive and as welcoming as we can, tackling discrimination and reaching out to our local community partners and working with them to make them feel that Watford is a more inclusive club.
“We want to be a partner within the community and we want to be a part of what they do as well. It’s a fantastic achievement and we’re really pleased.”
On the events that have taken place within Watford’s community during the 2022/23 campaign, Messenger added that the club remains open to everyone.
“It makes me really proud to see what we’re doing in the community at the moment,” he continued. “Just this past week we hosted our second-consecutive Iftar event for our local Muslim community at the stadium and we have had other events that all revolve around the work that we do with the community.
“It just shares the message that Watford is for everybody. It’s about all of our supporters. We want everyone to feel a part of this club, whoever they are and whatever their background. Watford is for everyone.”
On the local partners and colleagues that have made the nomination possible, Messenger continued: “I would like to say a massive thank you to all our local community partners, our supporters’ groups and other supporters who have been involved in the events this season, and all of the things that we have done across the various campaigns.
“We couldn’t do this, and we wouldn’t be nominated, without everyone supporting us all the way. We’re incredibly grateful to them.
“If there’s anyone else amongst our supporter base that wants to get involved in our work across Equality, Diversity and Inclusion then we would love to hear from them because the more supporters we have, the more inclusive and welcoming we become.”
Also nominated for the Diversity Award are Bolton Wanderers and Middlesbrough, with the winners set to be announced on Sunday (April 23) at the star-studded EFL Awards.
Other prizes to be given out during the event include the Manager of the Season and Player of the Season gongs, alongside the Team of the Season ceremony.
To read more about Watford’s EDI work, and to get involved, click HERE.
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Adrian Blake scored twice as Watford Under-21s came away from St Andrews with a 3-1 win over Birmingham
All UK-based and overseas Watford fans will be able to tune in to live video coverage of the Hornets’ home clash against Cardiff City on Wednesday evening (April 19, 7.45pm KO).
With Chris Wilder’s charges looking to build on the 2-0 victory over Bristol City, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 7.35pm BST.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 7.35pm BST.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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In-form Watford Women made it seven successive victories with a 2-0 win over London Bees to keep up the pressure at the top of the table.
Fans, former players and the Mayor of Watford gathered on Saturday lunchtime, 47 years to the day that Luther Blissett made his full home league debut
Watford’s Under-21 side are set to welcome Sheffield Wednesday to The Vic on Monday April 24 (1pm KO) in the PL Professional Development League.
Tickets are now available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Seating is in the Sir Elton John Stand only, and is unreserved. Ambulant seating is available in block SEJ1, while wheelchair bays on the platform in block RS8 of the Rookery Stand will be open. Please see below for more information regarding wheelchair & ambulant disabled tickets.
Season Ticket holders can gain complimentary access to the match by scanning their regular Season Ticket at the ticket readers adjacent to the turnstiles of the Sir Elton John Stand.
Ticket Prices
Season Ticket Holder: Free
Adult: £5
65 & Over: £3
18 & Under: £1Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
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1- This season’s been rubbish. I can almost see my co-editor nodding sagely over his mug of tea. His argument is that post-relegation seasons are always thoroughly miserable, the more so than relegation seasons (my Addendum to his Theorem) because they’re somehow not supposed to be. During most relegation seasons, particularly our relegation seasons which, […]
Chris Wilder wants far more from Watford than two decent performances in consecutive games.
Ryan Andrews was delighted to contribute to a positive team performance, as the full-back aided the Hornets on their way to a 2-0 victory over Bristol City on his home debut.
At a sunny Vicarage Road, the 18-year-old retained his place in defence for the clash against the Robins, following his first league start last time out against Coventry City (Monday April 10).
Being substituted in the final stages of the contest, Andrews experienced a standing ovation from the Watford faithful – a moment he won’t forget – as the stadium sang ‘he’s one of our own’.
“It was a surreal moment,” he began. “Growing up, I’ve been here as an Under-9 so coming all the way and playing for the first-team and hearing that, it’s things that you dream of. I did really like it.
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“When the whole place is filled, it’s a great experience and for my development going forward it is what I dreamt of as a kid. Obviously, I just want to keep that up.”
Andrews explained that he had been speaking to Head Coach Chris Wilder and Assistant Head Coach Alan Knill during the week, and had prepared himself for a potential appearance at The Vic.
He continued: “After the Coventry game, I had conversations with Chris and Alan, and they just told me that I had a good game against Coventry, but the hard work doesn’t stop there.
“Leading up to this game during training I have been working alongside the same starting line-up, which was a clear indication that I could be starting today.”
Focusing on the encounter, Andrews was thrilled to have played a crucial role in earning three valuable points.
“Coming off the back of the Coventry City match, we knew that it would be important to start well to get the victory, as we did,” Andrews added.
“The clean sheet is what we wanted. Coming in at half-time, we knew against Coventry that we had a slow start and then ended up conceding those two goals, so getting the clean sheet this time was a big positive.
“Against Coventry City I played in the same back four and it was a pleasure playing alongside them, especially when they help you out and they talk to you a lot. Overall, it was a solid performance from the team.”
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Head Coach Chris Wilder described Watford’s 2-0 win over Bristol City as a step in the right direction, with an own goal and a second-half João Pedro strike powering the Hornets to a first win in five.
The home side got off to a fast start at Vicarage Road when City forward Harry Cornick diverted a João Pedro cross into his own net to make it 1-0 in just the sixth minute, and the Boy from Brazil did eventually get his name on the scoresheet to seal the three points soon after the interval.
Following an encouraging draw at Coventry City last time out (Monday April 10), Wilder was keen to deliver the fans a performance and a result to be proud of, and he was pleased with the nature of his team’s first victory since mid-March.
“I’ve talked about us getting things right, and although I don’t think it was as easy as the scoreline suggests, ultimately we got what we were after today,” Wilder said. “Hopefully we’ve given the supporters something to smile about for the rest of the weekend.
“It was a tight game - as I always thought it was going to be - but I thought when the confidence flowed, we looked a good side. We went a bit negative after we went ahead, which was a bit disappointing, but that’s probably a sign of where we’re at confidence-wise.
“They’ve got some good young players, and Dan [Bachmann] has come up with a big save at a key moment in the game. We’ve seen us concede in those instances in recent weeks, and that can be a bit like a pin in a balloon, where you lose energy and confidence, but we got through it and earned the clean sheet.
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“In the end we did what we had to do to get the win, and I’m delighted with the clean sheet, the goals we scored, and ultimately the result.”
While there were two changes to the XI that started in Coventry - with Bachmann and Keinan Davis returning - Academy graduate Ryan Andrews retained his place in defence, and Wilder hailed the influence of the 18-year-old on his home debut.
He said: “João Pedro will get a lot of the credit today for his flashes of skill and his role in the goals, but I think Ryan can be really proud of his display today. The crowd were with him throughout, and it was great to see him get that support.
“He’s impressed me - as have a few of the Academy boys - and today he gave us energy and commitment, he made tackles, and he was good with the ball. We’re all delighted for him, and it’s great that his day was made even more special with the win.”
Carrying new-found winning momentum, the Golden Boys don’t have to wait long for a return to match action, with a home clash against Cardiff City next up on Wednesday evening (April 19, 7.45pm KO).
With four games of the campaign remaining Watford sit just three points off the play-off places, but Wilder insists he and his staff are focusing solely on finding a good level of consistency and trying to gain maximum points from each game as it comes.
He added: “We’re not thinking about the play-offs, not at all. The table obviously gets talked about a lot, but honestly we’re not even looking at it.
“I just wanted to win today, and I wanted a performance. I’m looking for us to get another performance under our belts on Wednesday, but we know it won’t be easy. Cardiff have a lot to play for, so it’s a good test for us to try and back up today.”
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It wasn’t particularly convincing but Watford have a first win in five matches on the board after they beat Bristol City 2-0 at Vicarage Road.
Watford face former boss Nigel Pearson at Vicarage Road in the last Saturday home game of the season
The Golden Girls are looking to make a triumphant return to Grosvenor Vale after a month away when they take on London Bees this Sunday (April 16, 2pm KO).
Last weekend saw 1,127 supporters come to Vicarage Road to witness another finishing masterclass from skipper Helen Ward, who scored four for a second home match in a row as part of a 5-1 win over Bridgwater United.
London Bees make the short trip to Grosvenor Vale for a local derby, hoping to fare better than when the sides last met back in October. An early Flo Fyfe goal set the Golden Girls on their way that day, as they eventually ran out 4-0 winners at The Hive.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting The Vale for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please Note – Parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas - we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £5
- Concessions (U16, 65+, Disability) - £3
- Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
On-the-day sales for adults & concessions will see the prices increase by £2, so we highly recommend booking in advance if possible.
The £1 price will remain unchanged on matchday, with you just having to show proof of your Season Card to gain entry.
The Match
The visitors currently sit ninth in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division heading into Sunday’s match-up. They will be looking to secure a vital three points in their season, points that would almost certainly secure their spot in the Southern Premier for another season.
Their recent form sees them with just one win in their last five outings, a 1-0 triumph away at Cheltenham Town. The Bees have found it difficult to score at times, with Kayla Potter, Danielle Puddefoot and Nikita Whinnett leading the way with three goals each. While they’ve not had a single prolific scorer, they have been sharing them out, with 13 different players finding their way onto the scoresheet so far. At the other end, the Bees have conceded 39 goals in the league, including four in the sides’ last meeting.
New signing Araya Dennis has also had a recent experience of Sunday’s opposition, travelling to The Hive with Arsenal Academy at the end of March and playing 60 minutes in a 5-0 win for the Gunners, helping them to reach the final of the Capital Women’s Cup Senior competition.
Currently occupying second spot in the league table, the Golden Girls head into Sunday knowing a win could take them above leaders Oxford United.
Make sure you join the side at Grosvenor Vale this Sunday and continue to show the fantastic support that has helped propel the team to this position.
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There are many things Watford need to work on during the summer, and getting confidence and backbone into the squad is among them
Chris Wilder insists he will not allow any of his players to just ‘go through the motions’ as Watford’s season heads into its final five games
A goal in each half from Ipswich condemned a young Watford Under-21s team to a 2-0 defeat at Kings Langley this afternoon.
Chris Wilder is hopeful his side can earn a positive result against a competitive Bristol City outfit at Vicarage Road this Saturday (April 15, 3pm KO), with the Watford boss looking to build upon a point against Coventry City last time out.
Reflecting on the trip to the CBS Arena on Easter Monday (April 10), Wilder felt he saw an improved performance during the 2-2 draw compared to previous displays.
The 55-year-old acknowledged that elements exhibited during the match, alongside consistency, will be important to rising to the challenge of concluding the campaign in the best way possible.
“It was mixed emotions because the fundamental aspects that we needed to compete at that level – running around a little bit more and winning a few more duels – that allowed us to play in the way which we did against Coventry City,” Wilder began.
“To get into those positions at the end of the season, you need consistency and we haven’t found that in our performances or results. Getting that is key, and we need to take it a game at a time because mathematically we are still in with a chance [of the play-offs], but I’ve told the players to forget about looking at the table.
“We have to meet the next challenge head-on. We produced a performance for long periods of the game against Coventry City, which is always a difficult place to go, but we didn’t get the result.
“We were in a great position, and unfortunately we couldn’t see it out. There are some things to work on, and we’re positive heading into the game on Saturday.
“If we can stick together against the talented side that Nigel Pearson has got in Bristol City, then hopefully we can stick a decent performance together and match that with a result.”
Wilder provided an update on the squad’s fitness, with the boss speaking on forward duo Keinan Davis and Britt Assombalonga, the latter of whom was forced off in the early stages against Coventry after a bright start.
“The disappointing one for us is Britt Assombalonga,” he continued. “Britt deserved his place in the starting line-up and he started the game on the front foot.
“He was involved in the first goal and it was really disappointing for him because he put himself physically in the position to start the game. Unfortunately, he has picked up an injury. It’s not as bad as we first thought, so hopefully we can get him back as quickly as possible.
“Keinan Davis will be back. It’s been disappointing to have missed Keinan for the last couple of games. He was scoring and giving us something at the top of pitch; strength and pace down the sides as well, and he has scored a couple of great goals at The Vic. He was coming into form so to lose him was disappointing, but to have him back is good for us.”
Stocksbridge native Wilder will also reunite with a familiar face in Bristol City manager Nigel Pearson this weekend, someone who he knows very well.
“Nigel is my neighbour actually,” Wilder explained. “He lives about 500 yards away from my house in Sheffield, so I know a lot about Nigel.
“Our paths have crossed many a time and I like him. He is a good guy and a good football guy. He has had a successful career as a manager. He wants to come back and get a result. I know he enjoyed his time here [at Watford], and I’m sure we will have a beer afterwards.
“Bristol City are a young side and another team who have found that consistency hard to get. They have had some really good results and you know what you will get with Nigel and I like it that way.
“We have come off the back of a disappointing result [against Huddersfield Town], so we have to reset and try to win back the faith and belief of the supporters by showing what we showed on Monday [against Coventry City]. We have to show a front foot, positive performance and hopefully we will see that.”
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Watford will be looking to build on Easter Monday’s 2-2 draw at Coventry City (April 10), when they welcome Bristol City to Vicarage Road this Saturday (April 15, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the Sky Bet Championship clash - that sees 12th take on 13th - we take a look at five Hornets who have also had a career for the Robins…
David James
An FA Cup winner and England World Cup international, David James began his career at Watford as a schoolboy in 1984, before making his senior debut in 1990 aged just 20, under manager Colin Lee.
A winner of the FA Youth Cup in 1988/89, James spent two professional seasons at the Hornets and made 89 appearances in the Second Division. Spending his whole career in English football, James would play for a number of Premier League sides, including Aston Villa, Manchester City and Portsmouth. He would leave the Hornets to join Liverpool in 1992.
After riding the highs of success, and then subsequent lows with Portsmouth, James left for Bristol City in 2010 on a free transfer. Spending two seasons in Bristol, both in the Championship, the goalkeeper played his part in keeping the club in the league, featuring 84 times. Ironically, he scored an own goal for the Robins in a 2-0 defeat to Watford in March 2012. His final season saw Bristol City finish 20th, staying up by nine points with James having the third most appearances for the Robins in the campaign.
He was also the first-choice goalkeeper for England during the 2010 World Cup, featuring in the infamous 4-1 game against Germany.
Andreas Weimann
Still one of the first names on the Bristol City teamsheet, versatile forward Andreas Weimann scored more goals last season than he had in his previous three at the club. Now the Robins’ captain, the 31-year-old has scored five times in 38 Championship games so far in 2022/23, also contributing four assists.
Weimann joined Bristol City in 2018 from Derby County and is in his fifth season with the club, playing all five in the Championship. The Austrian scored the Robins’ first away hat-trick in the Championship since 1978 when netting three against Sheffield United in 2019.
Weimann’s time at Watford came early into his English football career, joining for the first of two loan spells from Aston Villa in January 2011 and making his debut under Malky Mackay against Brighton in the FA Cup.
Playing 19 games during his first spell and scoring four goals, his second stint at the start of the 2011/12 season was cut short after just three games due to injuries at his parent club. However, after his Watford loan spell Weimann started to become a regular in the Premier League for Aston Villa.
Adrian Mariappa
A product of the Watford Academy, Adrian Mariappa was granted his chance in the first-team by Aidy Boothroyd during Watford’s Championship promotion campaign of 2005/06. In the following seasons, the defender would find his feet as one of the main men at the back, playing in 247 games across seven campaigns. He would leave, for the first time, in 2012, joining then Premier League Reading, and would continue to play in the top division for the Royals and Crystal Palace before re-joining Watford in 2016.
After a slow start, he eventually held down a consistent, first-team spot during his second spell with the Hornets as the squad toughed it out in the Premier League. Staying until the club’s relegation from the league in 2019/20, Mariappa would leave to join our opponents Bristol City on a free transfer, making his final Hornets appearance in the Premier League in a 3-2 loss to Arsenal.
His single season in Bristol would end up in a relegation battle, which saw former Watford boss Nigel Pearson come in to keep the squad up at the end. Mariappa featured heavily during the campaign, playing 27 games, including a substitute appearance in a 6-0 loss to the Hornets. Having since spent time in Australia, the 36-year-old is currently turning out for Salford City in League Two.
Billy Lane
One of the more prolific forwards in Watford’s history, Billy Lane averaged more than a goal every two games during his four seasons for the Hornets. Playing pre-war, Lane joined Watford in 1932 from Brentford, with the Hornets in the Third Division South, scoring 22 goals in 36 games during his debut season for the club.
An incredible 27 goals in 38 games in his third season, which helped him reach a fifth-place finish, would be his second-highest tally ever in a single campaign. He would also break the record at the time for the fastest hat-trick in the Football League during his second year at the club, scoring three in under three minutes against Clapton Orient, the club he would eventually conclude his career with.
Catching the eye of Bristol City, Lane joined for a £200 fee in 1936 and spent two seasons at the club, although towards the end of his prime. Lane scored nine in 20 games during his first season, still in the Third Division South, as the Robins finished 13th. Aged 33, Lane scored only two goals in just 10 games in his penultimate season as a player, retiring in 1938.
During the Second World War, Lane had two spells as a guest player, first joining Brighton and Hove Albion, and then re-joining Watford.
Keith Millen
Spending more than 10 years at Brentford, including a Third Division win in 1992, Keith Millen was brought to Vicarage Road alongside Colin Foster towards the end of the 1993/94 campaign to form a defensive partnership that would help the team avoid relegation - which they did. The five-and-a-half years that followed at Watford would see a relegation from the second-tier as well as two more promotions, concluding with the club in the Premier League. However, Millen would leave the club for Bristol City in 1999 before he could make an appearance in the top-flight.
During his time at Watford, Millen made 191 appearances, most impressively playing 44 times in the Third Division promotion season in 1997/98, including scoring a goal against former club Brentford.
Following Watford’s promotion to the Premier League, Millen left to join our opponents, who sat in the Third Division at the time. Before going on to eventually manage Bristol City, he featured in three seasons, finishing ninth in the first two and missing out on promotion in his final term in the play-offs, although he would win the Football League Trophy that year. Retiring in 2003, Millen would then have brief spells as caretaker manager before becoming the permanent boss in 2010.
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Watford host Bristol City this Saturday (April 15, 3pm KO), with Chris Wilder’s charges hoping to build on a 2-2 draw with Coventry City last time out (Monday April 10).
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the Sky Bet Championship encounter.
Previous Meetings
Watford are unbeaten in their last three home league matches against Bristol City, with this their first home game against the Robins since a 6-0 win in February 2021.
Bristol City haven’t scored in any of their last three league games against Watford, since a 2-0 win in January 2013.
The Hornets have kept a clean sheet in each of their previous three league games against Bristol City. It’s the Hornets’ longest ongoing run in the Football League.
Recent Form
The Golden Boys are winless in their last four league games, conceding at least two goals in their last three. They haven’t done so in four successive games outside the top-flight since May 2014.
Bristol City beat Stoke City 2-1 on Good Friday (April 7), with the Robins last winning successive away league games in April 2022 against the Potters and Derby County.
Watford have dropped 10 points from winning positions at Vicarage Road this season, their most in a season since the 2017/18 Premier League season.
Opposition Stat Attack
Forward Nahki Wells has been involved in more away league goals for Bristol City this season than any other player (8 – 5 goals, 3 assists), with the Bermudian involved in three of their last four such goals.
Defender Zak Vyner is top for passes attempted within the Robins’ ranks with 2,101, and the most in his own half (1,241) and the opposition’s half (843). The centre-half is also top for clearances (131), blocks (30) and interceptions (62).
Midfielder Alex Scott is first for dribbles completed (85) and tackles attempted (77) within the Bristol City squad.
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Match Info
- Watford v Bristol City
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Saturday April 15, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: Dean Whitestone
- Assistant Referees: Daniel Leach and Rob Smith
- Fourth Official: Carl Brook
Opposition
Unbeaten in April with a win over Stoke City in-between points against Reading and high-flying Middlesbrough, Nigel Pearson’s side come into the match against the Hornets in decent form.
Currently ranked 13th in the Sky Bet Championship, one place below Watford, the Robins will be hoping to maintain their impressive run as they look to end the season on a high.
Stats Buzz
Watford are unbeaten in their last three home league matches against Bristol City, with this their first home game against the Robins since a 6-0 win in February 2021.
Bristol City haven’t scored in any of their last three league games against Watford, since a 2-0 win in January 2013.
The Golden Boys are winless in their last four league games, conceding at least two goals in their last three. They haven’t done so in four successive games outside the top-flight since May 2014.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Bristol City In Numbers.
Team News
For the Hornets, Keinan Davis is expected to be back, while Britt Assombalonga won’t be involved after sustaining an injury during the Coventry City contest last time out (Monday April 10).
For Bristol City, Alex Scott returns to contention after a short spell on the sidelines following a minor knee ligament injury. Kal Naismith returned to the pitch against Middlesbrough and came through unscathed, meaning he’ll be available for more minutes.
What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“Bristol City are a young side and another team who have found that consistency hard to get. They have had some really good results and you know what you will get with Nigel Pearson and I like it that way.
“If we can stick together on Saturday against the talented side that Nigel’s got then hopefully we can stick a decent performance together and match that with a result.”
Nigel Pearson, Bristol City Manager:
“Having worked there, I know what it’s like to manage the club and it’s a really good club in lots of ways. I made some really good friendships there.
“Our best chance of success is to have a very strong team effort, because we can’t compete with sides who come down from the Premier League. We have to have a different way of achieving success, and ours is to develop a team identity with a few very good players in there, but that’s the essence to how we will achieve our success.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 30
Drawn: 31
Lost: 37Last Six:
November 2022: Bristol City 0-0 Watford (Championship)
February 2021: Watford 6-0 Bristol City (Championship)
November 2020: Bristol City 0-0 Watford (Championship)
January 2018: Watford 3-0 Bristol City (FA Cup)
August 2017: Watford 2-3 Bristol City (League Cup)
January 2014: Watford 2-0 Bristol City (FA Cup)Golden Flashback
Watford put six past Bristol City in their last meeting at Vicarage Road, back in February 2021. The scorers on that day were Ken Sema (2), Ismaïla Sarr (2), Will Hughes and Philip Zinckernagel.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Bristol City, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Bristol City (April 15, 3pm KO), with the Hornets looking to build on Easter Monday’s 2-2 draw at Coventry City last time out.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Bristol City, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Watford will be looking to build on Easter Monday’s 2-2 draw at Coventry City (April 10), when they welcome Bristol City to Vicarage Road this Saturday (April 15, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the hotly-anticipated Sky Bet Championship clash - that sees 12th take on 13th - we take a look at five Hornets who have also had a career for the Robins…
David James
An FA Cup winner and England World Cup international, David James began his career at Watford as a schoolboy in 1984, before making his senior debut in 1990 aged just 20, under manager Colin Lee.
A winner of the FA Youth Cup in 1988/89, James spent two professional seasons at the Hornets and made 89 appearances in the Second Division. Spending his whole career in English football, James would play for a number of Premier League sides, including Aston Villa, Manchester City and Portsmouth. He would leave the Hornets to join Liverpool in 1992.
After riding the highs of success, and then subsequent lows with Portsmouth, James left for Bristol City in 2010 on a free transfer. Spending two seasons in Bristol, both in the Championship, the goalkeeper played his part in keeping the club in the league, featuring 84 times. Ironically, he scored an own goal for the Robins in a 2-0 defeat to Watford in March 2012. His final season saw Bristol City finish 20th, staying up by nine points with James having the third most appearances for the Robins in the campaign.
He was also the first-choice goalkeeper for England during the 2010 World Cup, featuring in the infamous 4-1 game against Germany.
Andreas Weimann
Still one of the first names on the Bristol City teamsheet, versatile forward Andreas Weimann scored more goals last season than he had in his previous three at the club. Now the Robins’ captain, the 31-year-old has scored five times in 38 Championship games so far in 2022/23, also contributing four assists.
Weimann joined Bristol City in 2018 from Derby County and is in his fifth season with the club, playing all five in the Championship. The Austrian scored the Robins’ first away hat-trick in the Championship since 1978 when netting three against Sheffield United in 2019.
Weimann’s time at Watford came early into his English football career, joining for the first of two loan spells from Aston Villa in January 2011 and making his debut under Malky Mackay against Brighton in the FA Cup.
Playing 19 games during his first spell and scoring four goals, his second stint at the start of the 2011/12 season was cut short after just three games due to injuries at his parent club. However, after his Watford loan spell Weimann started to become a regular in the Premier League for Aston Villa.
Adrian Mariappa
A product of the Watford Academy, Adrian Mariappa was granted his chance in the first-team by Aidy Boothroyd during Watford’s Championship promotion campaign of 2005/06. In the following seasons, the defender would find his feet as one of the main men at the back, playing in 247 games across seven campaigns. He would leave, for the first time, in 2012, joining then Premier League Reading, and would continue to play in the top division for the Royals and Crystal Palace before re-joining Watford in 2016.
After a slow start, he eventually held down a consistent, first-team spot during his second spell with the Hornets as the squad toughed it out in the Premier League. Staying until the club’s relegation from the league in 2019/20, Mariappa would leave to join our opponents Bristol City on a free transfer, making his final Hornets appearance in the Premier League in a 3-2 loss to Arsenal.
His single season in Bristol would end up in a relegation battle, which saw former Watford boss Nigel Pearson come in to keep the squad up at the end. Mariappa featured heavily during the campaign, playing 27 games, including a substitute appearance in a 6-0 loss to the Hornets. Having since spent time in Australia, the 36-year-old is currently turning out for Salford City in League Two.
Billy Lane
One of the more prolific forwards in Watford’s history, Billy Lane averaged more than a goal every two games during his four seasons for the Hornets. Playing pre-war, Lane joined Watford in 1932 from Brentford, with the Hornets in the Third Division South, scoring 22 goals in 36 games during his debut season for the club.
An incredible 27 goals in 38 games in his third season, which helped him reach a fifth-place finish, would be his second-highest tally ever in a single campaign. He would also break the record at the time for the fastest hat-trick in the Football League during his second year at the club, scoring three in under three minutes against Clapton Orient, the club he would eventually conclude his career with.
Catching the eye of Bristol City, Lane joined for a £200 fee in 1936 and spent two seasons at the club, although towards the end of his prime. Lane scored nine in 20 games during his first season, still in the Third Division South, as the Robins finished 13th. Aged 33, Lane scored only two goals in just 10 games in his penultimate season as a player, retiring in 1938.
During the Second World War, Lane had two spells as a guest player, first joining Brighton and Hove Albion, and then re-joining Watford.
Keith Millen
Spending more than 10 years at Brentford, including a Third Division win in 1992, Keith Millen was brought to Vicarage Road alongside Colin Foster towards the end of the 1993/94 campaign to form a defensive partnership that would help the team avoid relegation - which they did. The five-and-a-half years that followed at Watford would see a relegation from the second-tier as well as two more promotions, concluding with the club in the Premier League. However, Millen would leave the club for Bristol City in 1999 before he could make an appearance in the top-flight.
During his time at Watford, Millen made 191 appearances, most impressively playing 44 times in the Third Division promotion season in 1997/98, including scoring a goal against former club Brentford.
Following Watford’s promotion to the Premier League, Millen left to join our opponents, who sat in the Third Division at the time. Before going on to eventually manage Bristol City, he featured in three seasons, finishing ninth in the first two and missing out on promotion in his final term in the play-offs, although he would win the Football League Trophy that year. Retiring in 2003, Millen would then have brief spells as caretaker manager before becoming the permanent boss in 2010.
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Following Easter Monday’s entertaining draw at Coventry City (April 10), Watford will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways when they welcome Bristol City to Hertfordshire this Saturday (April 15, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash at Vicarage Road, find out below how you can follow all the action on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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The removal of a banner and ejection from the ground of a fan on Good Friday did not occur because the club deemed the banner's message offensive
Tickets for Watford’s home fixture against Stoke City (Monday May 8, 3pm KO) will go on sale from 12noon on Monday April 17.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday April 17- Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday April 18- Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday April 19- Home Group D*
12noon, Thursday April 20- General Sale
12noon, Friday April 21*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices (Category B)
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £15
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £15
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £33
- 65 & Over: £21
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £23
- Full-Time Student: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Following alterations to our online ticketing process, tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
NFC Mobile Tickets
All tickets during the 2022/23 campaign are being issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
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Watford host Bristol City this Saturday (April 15, 3pm KO), with Chris Wilder’s charges hoping to build on a 2-2 draw with Coventry City last time out (Monday April 10).
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the enticing Sky Bet Championship encounter.
Previous Meetings
Watford are unbeaten in their last three home league matches against Bristol City, with this their first home game against the Robins since a 6-0 win in February 2021.
Bristol City haven’t scored in any of their last three league games against Watford, since a 2-0 win in January 2013.
The Hornets have kept a clean sheet in each of their previous three league games against Bristol City. It’s the Hornets’ longest ongoing run in the Football League.
Recent Form
The Golden Boys are winless in their last four league games, conceding at least two goals in their last three. They haven’t done so in four successive games outside the top-flight since May 2014.
Bristol City beat Stoke City 2-1 on Good Friday (April 7), with the Robins last winning successive away league games in April 2022 against the Potters and Derby County.
Watford have dropped 10 points from winning positions at Vicarage Road this season, their most in a season since the 2017/18 Premier League season.
Opposition Stat Attack
Forward Nahki Wells has been involved in more away league goals for Bristol City this season than any other player (8 – 5 goals, 3 assists), with the Bermudian involved in three of their last four such goals.
Defender Zak Vyner is top for passes attempted within the Robins’ ranks with 2,101, and the most in his own half (1,241) and the opposition’s half (843). The centre-half is also top for clearances (131), blocks (30) and interceptions (62).
Midfielder Alex Scott is first for dribbles completed (85) and tackles attempted (77) within the Bristol City squad.
SEO ImageWatford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
Next to take on the questions is forward Bianca Baptiste, who signed for the Hornets in July 2022.
Baptiste, 31, has featured 20 times in yellow so far, notching five goals and 12 assists.
Best mate: Dré Georgiou and Megan Chandler
I’ve known Dré for a long time and over the years we have become close; I’m grateful to have a friend like her. I’ve known of Meg for a while, but this season I’ve got to know her as a person and she is absolutely quality.Last to buy dinner: Adekite Fatuga-Dada
I don’t know why but I’d say Ade! She was the first person that came to my mind; I’ll have to find out whether she would be.Worst dressed: Adekite Fatuga-Dada
Ade again! I don’t think she dresses badly, just every time I look at her dress sense it reminds me of my dad!Most likely to disgrace themselves at the Christmas party: Bianca Baptiste and Melis Mehmet
All I’m saying is ask Gemma Davison what happened on a night out. I fell down the stairs at a train station! Melis deserves a shoutout too, she had to be picked up by her mum!
Dressing room DJ: Anne Meiwald
Would be Gemma Davison if she could get to the speaker quickly enough!Teacher’s pet: Alli Palisch
Always the first one out and always doing extra shooting. Doesn’t help her score though!Always late for training: Bianca Baptiste and Dré Georgiou
Probably me and Dré! We travel together and I’d say we just about get in on time.
First on the dance floor: Alli Palisch
She’s always dancing in the changing room.Best at FIFA: Alli Palisch
Alli won a tournament on an away day so only fair that I give her credit.Best future manager: Gemma Davison
She definitely knows her stuff. If she doesn’t feel like pressing, she’ll make other people do it by pointing and shouting!SEO Image
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Luigi Gaspar.
The 19-year-old joined the Golden Boys in July 2022, having previously featured for Arsenal. Prior to spending three years with the North London side, Gaspar played for Corinthians in Brazil from Under-7 level.
How would you describe your playing style?
I like to understand the game. In my position, I won’t score loads of goals, but it’s really important to help my teammates. It’s about getting the ball and playing it to my teammates who are in scoring positions. I look at players like Thomas Partey, Casemiro and Sergio Busquets, who are all very similar to my playing style.Your footballing idol?
I would say my dad, Edu, of course, but then I also look up to Neymar, Ronaldo Nazário and Ronaldinho because I’m Brazilian. They were so quick on the ball and in that Brazilian style it’s amazing to watch. They scored some amazing goals and made me really enjoy the game.Biggest influence?
My dad was a footballer growing up and so I grew up with the ball at my feet. I grew up watching and enjoying football because my life revolved around the sport through my dad. Everyone was from around the football world.
Most talented teammate?
I would say João Pedro from my time at Watford. I’m very close to him outside of football. When he arrived, we both came to the UK at the same time, so it was just him and me. He was the first guy that I had a friendship with in the UK. In the Academy I would say Jack Grieves, Adrian Blake and Ryan Andrews – these guys have all been involved with the first-team and they always help me.Favourite football memory?
When I came to the UK, the first game I had was when I went on trial with Arsenal. Nothing was secure and I could’ve got released, but then in my first game I scored my first goal, and they gave me the scholarship. It was a great time to score and everything went in the right direction afterwards.Your aims for the future?
I just want to achieve as much as possible with Watford.
Best advice you’ve received?
Be yourself on and off the pitch. Being yourself will always help you to improve in everything you do.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
Football was always my Plan A, but if not I might’ve been a model!How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace 78 – I’m not really quick, but I can run.
Shooting 83 – Not a huge part of my game, but I can get involved.
Passing 86 – It’s the most important part as a midfielder.
Dribbling 75 – It’s not my strength.
Defending 80 – It’s good.
Physicality 75 – I’m not that strong.
OVERALL – 83Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Churrasco
Favourite song: Amizade é Tudo by Exaltasamba
Favourite boots: Nike Hypervenoms
Favourite TV show: Prison Break
Favourite kit: The Corinthians home kit from 2012SEO Image
The Hornets confirm Chris Wilder will remain the club’s Head Coach until at least the end of the 2022/23 season, as per the terms he and Watford FC agreed upon his appointment in March.
“The speculation is totally disrespectful to Chris and his staff,” said Watford’s Technical Director Ben Manga.
“As Chris has said after recent games, we are all fully focused on ending the season strongly and pushing as hard as we can while there’s still a chance of making the play-offs.”
The club will offer no further comment on the position of Head Coach until beyond the end of the current campaign.
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Watford Women’s top-of-the-table clash with Oxford United tonight has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch.
Following a 3.30pm pitch inspection, Wednesday night’s FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division meeting with Oxford United (April 12) has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Grosvenor Vale.
The referee has deemed the pitch unplayable and unsafe, with standing water due to heavy downpour and weather set to worsen before kick-off.
Information on the new date will be available in due course, with tickets bought for the original game remaining valid for the rescheduled fixture.
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Goalkeeper Myles Roberts has enjoyed a rapid rise to prominence at Watford since joining in January 2020. Successful loan spells at clubs like Concord Rangers and - most recently - Welling United have given the 21-year-old a platform to pursue his next challenge with the Hornets – pushing for a first-team position.
However, the shot-stopper began his footballing journey as a clinical striker before making the move backwards. That would also coincide with a move to Reading which Roberts believes taught him important, fundamental skills.
“My first footballing memory was around the age of six or seven,” he began. “I wasn’t a goalkeeper at the time and sometimes I used to start up top. I really enjoyed playing in goal though, and I started there for a few years and then bounced around a few Sunday league teams and got picked up by Reading at the age of 10.
“It was a big moment for me [signing for Reading] because I hadn’t had any previous academy experience. I know that a lot of boys have played from Under-5 or Under-6 in different youth set-ups, but for me, I just played Sunday league.
“Signing at the age of 10 was a big moment for me and my family. I went in at Reading and stayed for eight years. I learnt a lot there and those are the years where you improve technically the most.
“You learn your foundations as a goalkeeper because now when you play in the Under-18s or Under-21s you have to have those foundations built already. From the age of 10 up until I left Reading, I learnt those foundations and basic techniques. I was watching the first-team goalkeepers, seeing what they did.”
Reminiscing on the moment he moved to Watford, Roberts recalls signing his first deal and the role Graham Stack - the former Academy Head of Goalkeeping - played in his relocation to Vicarage Road.
“Signing for Watford was a special moment for me,” he continued. “During that period before I signed, I was on loan playing at Tonbridge Angels in the Conference South and Graham Stack saw me play.
“I think he saw me in a training session as well and he saw something in me. For six months of that season, he was watching and my agent told me there was interest there. Graham showed belief in me and the club have had some great goalkeepers over the years. I wanted to come and be a part of that, and work in the same building that they have worked in.
“I came in and it was an amazing feeling. I can remember signing with my mum, my sister and my dad, and it was an amazing feeling. It was similar to signing at Reading, but this time it was my first professional contract.”
Focusing on his loan spells, the goalkeeper believes they have been instrumental to his development and would encourage other Academy players to take on that challenge.
Roberts said: “I’ve been to Wingate and Finchley for a short period and the following season I made the step up to the National League South and played for Concord Rangers, and this campaign I have played for Welling United.
“The loans have been the most enjoyable time for me because you are under pressure and you have to make saves. I think the hardest thing is adapting to those new dressing rooms when you are trying to assert yourself with guys who have played in the Football League. It’s about getting that place in the team and trying to keep it.
“I think it’s crucial and being a goalkeeper, the only way you improve is through experience. For me, it was about going and getting that valuable experience and then taking it back in the building at Watford, either with the first-team or Under-21s.”
Now back with Watford and training with the first-team, Roberts believes this is an opportunity to showcase his ability. He was named in the matchday squad for the first time against Coventry City (April 10), and he is excited for what the future holds.
“It’s a new challenge for me,” he added. “I want to come in and assert myself and show what I can do, but also, I want to learn from the boys who are doing it like Daniel Bachmann, Ben Hamer and Maduka Okoye.
“These guys have all played and are playing at a high level, and I just want to learn as much as I can while showing what I can do as well.
“My biggest aspiration is to one day play for the first-team, and it’s a dream that I have had since signing for the club. Whenever that will be I don’t know, but I’m working hard towards that and hopefully I will make that dream a reality.”
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Watford have moved swiftly to snuff out rumours regarding the immediate future of head coach Chris Wilder.
The Hornets confirm Chris Wilder will remain the club’s Head Coach until at least the end of the 2022/23 season, as per the terms he and Watford FC agreed upon his appointment in March.
“The speculation is totally disrespectful to Chris and his staff,” said Watford’s Technical Director Ben Manga.
“As Chris has said after recent games, we are all fully focused on ending the season strongly and pushing as hard as we can while there’s still a chance of making the play-offs.”
The club will offer no further comment on the position of Head Coach until beyond the end of the current campaign.
SEO ImageChanges to the starting line-up, and a different formation – Chris Wilder tried to breathe life back into Watford’s faint play-off hopes at Coventry
In light of the Vicarage Road centenary celebrations earlier this season, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Nick Catley writes about the player whose magical few weeks made such a difference to the 1998/99 season.
At 4.15pm on April 3, 1999, Tommy Mooney’s Vicarage Road career seemed to be gradually coasting to a halt, as he sat on the bench - not an unfamiliar spot for him that season - watching the Hornets trail Tranmere. Watford’s promotion hopes appeared similarly moribund.
If it had all ended there, he would still have been extremely fondly remembered. Signed as part of a deadline-day quartet five years earlier which inspired a run to safety, he played a significant role in the subsequent years, including being named Player of the Season in the 1995/96 relegation campaign. He had occupied all the positions in an L-shape between left-winger and centre-back - a kind of knight’s move utility player - rivalling even Steve Palmer for versatility.
As we know, though, it didn’t end there. Part of a triple substitution that day, Mooney crossed for Peter Kennedy’s equaliser in a 2-1 win that would echo through the ages as kick-starting the run to the play-offs. In yet another example of Graham Taylor finding a way to get the best from his players, Mooney was galvanised by a switch to an out-and-out striking role. He contributed a goal and an assist at Birmingham two days later, and suddenly it was all on.
The game that sticks in my mind, though, was the next one, at home to Bolton. The improvement in the team - the sheer confidence coursing through it - became immediately apparent, to the point that, when Allan Smart won a penalty around three minutes in, a goal already felt overdue. Mooney missed, but it didn’t matter - Micah Hyde put us ahead, before Mooney met a deep cross from Darren Bazeley with the sweetest of headers, unstoppably low to the keeper’s left. I can still see him standing there, arms outstretched, taking the adulation of the crowd almost before the ball had crossed the line. It was probably only a split second before he was engulfed by yellow shirts, but it seemed much longer, and a huge moment. It felt like he knew. He knew he’d found the role that suited him, he knew he was in the form of his life, and he knew something special was happening. In that moment, we all sensed it too. He seemed to be telling us to trust him. He had this. Further wins followed, at Crewe and against Crystal Palace, both complete with the now-obligatory Mooney strikes.
Mooney’s image was always as the ultimate no-nonsense player, a kind of anti-maverick who prevailed through sheer force of will - essentially the epitome of the player who can do it on a Tuesday night in Stoke. Handily, that’s exactly where the next game took place - well, Burslem anyway - and he lived up to the reputation. Having put us ahead of Port Vale with a smart finish, he reached a rebound first to restore the lead after we’d been pegged back, with the kind of fist-pumping, teeth-gritted determination for which we’ll always remember him. He did something similar at Barnsley the following Saturday, hurling himself at a loose ball and ultimately putting it in the net with his back, for his seventh goal in under a month. Not getting there just wasn’t an option. Indeed, while pace isn’t high on the list of things you remember about Mooney, he didn’t get beaten to very much.
However, that image isn’t quite fair. It’s difficult to shift, because, simply, he wanted it more than any other footballer I’ve ever seen, but he also produced stunning moments of skill - a half-volley in front of the Rookery building site against West Brom springs to mind, as does a long-distance effort against Stoke almost a year later. Most crucially, though, during that spring of 1999, he showed he had the most sought-after skill of all - the ability to score goals. He contributed plenty to the rest of the play-off run, including a penalty in the shoot-out at St Andrew’s, but didn’t add to those seven goals. However, apart from the man on the bench, he’d done more than anyone to inspire that miraculous run.
The story didn’t end there, with Mooney famously scoring to secure what remains our only win at Anfield the following August. However, he missed much of that year, and it’s difficult not to speculate what might have happened without his and other injuries. His next season turned out to be his last at Watford, but may actually have been his best, as he confirmed he’d found his best role by scoring 21 goals and winning Player of the Season again. But I’ll always remember him with his arms outstretched, soaking in the crowd, as that promotion dream started to become a reality. Tommy knew.
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The EFL have annoiunced the officials due to be in charge of Watford’s two home Championship games against Bristol City and Cardiff City.
The Golden Girls are back at Grosvenor Vale following a big win at Vicarage Road over Bridgwater United on Sunday (April 9), now facing a season-defining clash with league leaders Oxford United on Wednesday night (April 12, 7.45pm KO).
The 5-1 victory last time out, with a goal for Annie Rossiter and four for Helen Ward, provides momentum for Damon Lathrope’s side going into the meeting in Ruislip, and another three points would lift the Hornets above their opponents and into top spot in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting The Vale for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please Note – Parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas - we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £7
- Concessions (U16, 65+, Disability) - £5
- Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
The £1 price will remain unchanged on matchday, with you just having to show proof of your season card to gain entry.
The Match
Oxford United arrive at Grosvenor Vale sitting atop the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division table, with six wins from six since a shock 2-1 defeat away at the hands of Cheltenham Town in early February.
While prolific in front of goal, it is perhaps the side’s defensive record that shows why they come into the game as league leaders, conceding only 10 league goals this season.
They are second only to Watford for goals scored with 45 this term, and in their County Cup they’ve proved to be a class above the rest, scoring 36 unanswered goals in their three games.
When the sides last met in October an early Megan Chandler goal was cancelled out by a late Leah Burridge equaliser for The U’s, denying the Hornets an impressive three points on the road.
The fixture was originally scheduled for Sunday March 17, but Grosvenor Vale was deemed unplayable following a pitch inspection.
Be sure to get down to The Vale as come rain or shine a match to be remembered awaits. Be loud and get behind the Golden Girls as the race for the top heats up.
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Boss Damon Lathrope insists there’s still more to come from his Watford side after an impressive 5-1 victory over Bridgwater United at Vicarage Road on Sunday (April 9).
Helen Ward - in her final match at the stadium before her retirement at the end of the season - scored four in front of 1,127 supporters at The Vic, and Annie Rossiter also found the target in a convincing display, while Bridgwater struck through Beth Everson in second-half added time.
An exciting occasion for all involved, Lathrope hailed the Golden Girls’ hard work throughout the campaign, and was pleased to see their efforts rewarded with an unforgettable afternoon in front of the biggest crowd so far this term.
“It’s really pleasing to get the win, mainly for the fans,” reflected Lathrope. “It’s really good to see them turn out in such good numbers. The girls fully deserved that opportunity to play in front of the fans at the ground because they’ve been excellent all year. Overall, we can go home and be pleased with the day.
“I’m sure that I echo the players’ thoughts that there’s more in us. We were disappointed to concede the goal because we’ve been looking really assured at the back and we haven’t looked like conceding a lot lately, but we’re not going to complain about a 5-1 win.”
Ward’s four strikes take her tally to 18 for the season, netting one from the spot with a further three from open play in the second 45. Her Head Coach brimmed with pride at seeing her take home the match ball for the third time this season, explaining the impact she has on and off the pitch.
“First and foremost Hels is a top person and great to have around the younger players and in the changing room,” continued Lathrope. “She’s served the club so well over the years, she deserved it today.
“It was almost like it was written in the stars. Her last game at The Vic, she leads the team out and scores four goals, you can’t ask for any more. She wants to go out with a bang, and I think that was the perfect scenario for her today and I’m really pleased for her.”
As Ward was making her 172nd Watford appearance, new signing Araya Dennis impressed on her first, notching an assist for the skipper minutes after her introduction from the bench. Lathrope is excited to have the defender among his ranks, seeing a bright career in the offing.
“She’s a top player, with a really exciting future ahead of her,” Lathrope explained. “If we can play a small part in her progress and her development, it’s only going to benefit us as well as Araya. She showed today in a short spell what she brings to the team; a really powerful player with lots of ability.
“We’re lucky to have her for the remainder of the season, and hopefully she can have that kind of impact in the last few games.”
A first-versus-second clash awaits in midweek (Wednesday April 12, 7.45pm KO) as league leaders Oxford United visit Grosvenor Vale, and the Hornets understand the importance of their preparation going into the fixture.
“We try not to look ahead of the next game,” added Lathrope, 33. “Today gave us an opportunity to rest a few players and get some players off the pitch to make sure we have as much in the tank for Wednesday as possible.
“We’ve got four games left including the cup final, and we’re going to attack every single one of them. We’re taking really good momentum into the last part of the season. That’s six on the bounce now and three goals [conceded] in seven games, so we couldn’t be in a better place to finish the season as strongly as possible.”
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Boss Damon Lathrope insists there’s still more to come from his Watford side after an impressive 5-1 victory over Bridgwater United at Vicarage Road on Sunday (April 9).
Helen Ward - in her final match at the stadium before her retirement at the end of the season - scored four in front of 1,127 supporters at The Vic, and Annie Rossiter also found the target in a convincing display, while Bridgwater struck through Beth Everson in second-half added time.
An exciting occasion for all involved, Lathrope hailed the Golden Girls’ hard work throughout the campaign, and was pleased to see their efforts rewarded with an unforgettable afternoon in front of the biggest crowd so far this term.
“It’s really pleasing to get the win, mainly for the fans,” reflected Lathrope. “It’s really good to see them turn out in such good numbers. The girls fully deserved that opportunity to play in front of the fans at the ground because they’ve been excellent all year. Overall, we can go home and be pleased with the day.
“I’m sure that I echo the players’ thoughts that there’s more in us. We were disappointed to concede the goal because we’ve been looking really assured at the back and we haven’t looked like conceding a lot lately, but we’re not going to complain about a 5-1 win.”
Ward’s four strikes take her tally to 18 for the season, netting one from the spot with a further three from open play in the second 45. Her Head Coach brimmed with pride at seeing her take home the match ball for the third time this season, explaining the impact she has on and off the pitch.
“First and foremost Hels is a top person and great to have around the younger players and in the changing room,” continued Lathrope. “She’s served the club so well over the years, she deserved it today.
“It was almost like it was written in the stars. Her last game at The Vic, she leads the team out and scores four goals, you can’t ask for any more. She wants to go out with a bang, and I think that was the perfect scenario for her today and I’m really pleased for her.”
As Ward was making her 172nd Watford appearance, new signing Araya Dennis impressed on her first, notching an assist for the skipper minutes after her introduction from the bench. Lathrope is excited to have the defender among his ranks, seeing a bright career in the offing.
“She’s a top player, with a really exciting future ahead of her,” Lathrope explained. “If we can play a small part in her progress and her development, it’s only going to benefit us as well as Araya. She showed today in a short spell what she brings to the team; a really powerful player with lots of ability.
“We’re lucky to have her for the remainder of the season, and hopefully she can have that kind of impact in the last few games.”
A first-versus-second clash awaits in midweek (Wednesday April 12, 7.45pm KO) as league leaders Oxford United visit Grosvenor Vale, and the Hornets understand the importance of their preparation going into the fixture.
“We try not to look ahead of the next game,” added Lathrope, 33. “Today gave us an opportunity to rest a few players and get some players off the pitch to make sure we have as much in the tank for Wednesday as possible.
“We’ve got four games left including the cup final, and we’re going to attack every single one of them. We’re taking really good momentum into the last part of the season. That’s six on the bounce now and three goals [conceded] in seven games, so we couldn’t be in a better place to finish the season as strongly as possible.”
SEO ImageOn Season 2, Episode 46 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on two dropped opportunities in four days: Watford blowing a 1-0 lead at home to Huddersfield and losing 3-2 in an ill-tempered Good Friday match and throwing away a 2-0 lead at Coventry and settling for a 2-2 draw on Easter Monday. Also: Helen Ward closes her footballing career at Vicarage Road with four of the best in a 5-1 win for Watford as they push for promotion. Plus: How Watford FC fans can affect change at the Club. (Companion writing/YOU ORNS! Observation: https://bit.ly/3KNmOkj)
Episode published: April 11, 2023
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfc
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Watford 2, Huddersfield 3: https://bit.ly/3Uhcu7b AND Coventry 2, Watford 2: https://bit.ly/3nDHJx2
Follow You Orns! on Fanbase @youorns: https://fanbase.app/youorns
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
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NEW SOCIAL MEDIA ADDITIONS FOR YOU ORNS! - Follow on Mastodon: https://mstdn.social/@YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC.This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
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It was another busy week of action for Watford’s loanees, with the Easter weekend offering plenty of match involvement for the Hornets’ stars at home and abroad.
Vakoun Bayo etched his name onto the scoresheet once again for his temporary side RSC Charleroi, scoring the equaliser to bring his side back into the match having gone a goal down.
The contest would end in a 3-2 victory to Bayo’s side against Zulte Waregem (April 8), with Damien Marcq scoring a dramatic late winner to move Charleroi into a European play-off spot, leapfrogging Belgian giants Anderlecht.
With only two matchdays to go before the league splits, Bayo will be hoping his side can maintain their momentum heading into a crucial part of the domestic season.
Meanwhile, Mattie Pollock made it three clean sheets on the bounce for Aberdeen as he helped his side secure a 2-0 victory over Kilmarnock (April 8).
The defender, who has been enjoying a fantastic spell at the Scottish top-flight outfit, played another full 90 minutes as the Dons moved up to third in the standings having won five consecutive league matches.
Joseph Hungbo made his first start for Huddersfield Town in five matches as the Terriers drew 2-2 with play-off hopefuls Blackburn Rovers in the Sky Bet Championship (April 10).
Having missed Good Friday’s encounter with the Hornets due to ineligibility, Hungbo assisted Jack Rudoni’s goal which gave Huddersfield a two-goal lead before Rovers fired back in the second half.
Elsewhere in the second-tier, striker Ashley Fletcher featured in Wigan Athletic’s 1-0 defeat to Sheffield United (April 7) and the Latics’ 2-0 loss to Swansea City (April 10).
Shaq Forde was involved in National League side York City’s 3-1 victory over promotion-chasing Chesterfield on Friday (April 7), and then the forward played in the Minstermen’s 3-0 defeat against Halifax Town on Monday (April 10).
Centre-half William Troost-Ekong made his fourth appearance for Serie A side Salernitana, coming on as a second-half substitute in a 1-1 draw against Inter Milan (April 7).
The Nigerian’s temporary side secured a late point against I Nerazzurri through former Inter player Antonio Candreva’s 90th-minute equaliser.
Back in the National League, JJ McKiernan was a mainstay in Eastleigh’s starting XI across the Easter weekend as he played in a 2-0 defeat to Torquay (April 7) and a 3-3 draw with Aldershot Town (April 10).
Ezio Touray made a cameo appearance during Maidstone’s 2-0 defeat to Southend United (April 7) in the fifth-tier of English football, with the Kent-based side already confirmed as relegated. The striker was also an unused substitute during their goalless draw with Barnet (April 10).
Bogdan Marian made another appearance for AFC Rushden & Diamonds during a 4-0 victory over Bedford Town in the Southern League Premier Central (April 10), while Ethan Goulding played in Oxhey Jets’ 3-1 victory over Windsor (April 8) and a goalless stalemate with North Greenford United (April 10) in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North.
Duo Domingos Quina (Rotherham United) and Kwadwo Baah (Fortuna Düsseldorf) missed their respective sides’ matches over the weekend.
SEO Image<Watford Women are preparing to face Oxford United in their big top-of-the-table clash tomorrow night after Helen Ward fired them to a 5-1 over Bridgwater United.
Head Coach Chris Wilder felt there were positives to take from Watford’s 2-2 draw with Coventry City at the Coventry Building Society Arena.
João Pedro and Imrân Louza got Wilder’s side off to the perfect start as the Hornets went into the break with a two-goal lead, but at the full-time whistle the Sky Blues had fought back to earn themselves a point through Matt Godden and Ben Sheaf.
The boss explained that the match was full of ups and downs throughout a blustery afternoon, but he acknowledged that it was a marked improvement from defeat to Huddersfield Town last time out (Friday April 7).
“It was a rollercoaster,” Wilder began. “Being in the position we were in after our first-half performance and getting the goals we did, and then really we were one or two passes off [in the second half].
“There was a totally different feel to the team today and I thought the shape worked well for us, but only because we did the fundamentals of the game well for at least the first hour before they scored. I’m absolutely certain that the distance we covered will be as high as we have covered in our last three games.
“We won our headers, the first goal came from a Ryan Porteous tackle and we were positive. We held the ball at the top of the pitch, and got it out to our 10s – it was a different feel to the team and we did the fundamental aspects and non-negotiables better than we have done. We all wanted to step into the game and be a part of it.
“I’ll be really respectful to Mark Robins’ side because they have Viktor Gyökeres who is the best player in the division in my opinion. He is such a handful and they are a really good attacking side. Mark has done a great job here, so for us to get into that position [was good] and then we went looking for a third and we should’ve found it.
“That’s my little criticism, that we should’ve found a third. I believe that the third goal is the most important in the game and then they get it through a couple of mistakes and all of a sudden the picture changes. We are a little bit fragile from a confidence point of view, but it gave them a huge lift and then we were on the back foot.”
Speaking on what he demanded from his side in the West Midlands, Wilder mentioned that in the build-up to the game against the Sky Blues his message was clear.
He said: “The players are obviously disappointed, but the message to them this week was that the league table will look after itself – we needed to put a proper performance in and get ourselves going.
“We just lost that little bit of shape and Coventry got themselves going which we always knew they would, but I’d rather see that then them walking off the pitch as we did against Luton Town and Huddersfield Town, and feeling the way I did personally.
“We rolled the dice at the death putting Ken Sema and Yáser Asprilla on, and we tried to change the shape. We just lost our shape and went a little bit individual.
“We just emptied the middle of the park a little bit too easily and it allowed them to jump in and dominate that period. Coventry will be disappointed they didn’t win it, and we are disappointed we didn’t take it to three after the second half.”
On 18-year-old Ryan Andrews, who made his league debut for the Hornets, Wilder was impressed with the Academy product’s performance.
Wilder continued: “I thought he was great. I can remember making my debut all those years ago, emotionally and physically it takes it out of you and he just ran out of puff a little bit. He can be really pleased because he played a part in the really good things we did, he just ran out of steam a little bit.
“We just went and tried to slot Craig Cathcart in there with his experience, so Ryan can be pleased with his performance which is another good thing that has happened today.”
Britt Assombalonga, who played a key part in the opener, was forced to come off during the first half after picking up a knock, and Wilder felt it was a shame to lose his presence up top.
“It’s a disappointment for Britt because he has been great in training and knocking on the door,” he added. “Keinan Davis didn’t make it, so it was disappointing to lose Britt early on. He has been great with his attitude.
“[It is a] hamstring [injury] – I should imagine that’s it for the season for him. He has been knocking on my door and he wants to play. He has deserved a start. He makes forward runs and it was difficult because he is a physical presence and he is a target for us. We started off the game great and Assombalonga was the focal point of it.”
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The first hour was encouraging, the last half an hour was spent in reverse - Watford had three points within their reach but let them slip away.
Watford are now 12th in the Championship and still searching for their second win under head coach Chris Wilder
Match Info
- Coventry City v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Coventry Building Society Arena
- Monday April 10, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: Keith Stroud
- Assistant Referees: Lee Venamore and Carl Fitch-Jackson
- Fourth Official: Andy Haines
Matchday Parking
Supporters can pre-book parking for Monday’s match at the following links, subject to availability:
https://coventryparking.co.uk/football/events/apr-23/ccfc-v-watford-11
https://www.glideparking.com/cbsarena/Opposition
Coventry come into the clash in ninth - three places ahead of the Hornets in the Sky Bet Championship table - still harbouring ambitions of bridging the three-point gap that separates them and sixth-placed Blackburn, and securing a play-off spot.
The Sky Blues put together a nine-game unbeaten run before they were beaten heavily by Stoke at the start of April, while they earned a decent 0-0 draw away at Swansea last time out on Good Friday (April 7).
Sweden international forward Viktor Gyökeres is among their key players, with the 24-year-old having so-far notched 18 goals in the league this season.
Stats Buzz
Watford haven’t scored in any of their last three league visits to Coventry (D2 L1), since a 4-0 win in May 2010.
Coventry have won only one of their last 17 league games played on Easter Monday (D5 L11) - a 3-1 home win over Bristol City in April 2021.
The Hornets are looking to avoid going four away league games in the second-tier without scoring for the first time since December 1993, when Glenn Roeder was in charge.
Team News
Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann will be suspended for the Hornets, following his late red card against Huddersfield last time out (Friday April 7).
Liam Kelly, Kasey Palmer, Fabio Tavares and Callum O’Hare are likely to be missing for Coventry.
What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“I take responsibility for the performance against Huddersfield. We’ve got an obligation to do our best in every game, and that starts again with Coventry on Monday. Over 2,000 fans are going up, so we need to put together something they can be proud of.”
Mark Robins, Coventry City Manager:
“It was a really good performance [on Friday afternoon] and we ended up with a 0-0 draw away at Swansea. You have to take the point and move on with it, and now we have to try and back it up on Monday with a win. This is a big game for us.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 42
Drawn: 17
Lost: 37Last Six:
November 2022: Watford 0-1 Coventry City (Championship)
February 2021: Coventry City 0-0 Watford (Championship)
November 2020: Watford 3-2 Coventry City (Championship)
August 2019: Watford 3-0 Coventry City (League Cup)
March 2012: Watford 0-0 Coventry City (Championship)
August 2011: Coventry City 0-0 Watford (Championship)Golden Flashback
Two goals from Danny Graham, as well as Henri Lansbury and Marvin Sordell strikes, powered Watford to an emphatic 4-0 final-day thumping at Coventry in May 2010.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Coventry City v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Watford FC Women are delighted to announce the signing of Arsenal youngsters Araya Dennis and Ruby Doe on dual-sign agreements until the end of the season.
The duo, who have both represented England at youth level, are immediately available for selection in Sunday’s game against Bridgwater United at Vicarage Road (April 9, 2pm KO).
Dennis, 17, has trained with the Arsenal first-team on several occasions and typically operates as a full-back, offering impressive passing range and the ability to join the attack.
Seventeen-year-old Doe, a central midfielder, is a technical operator who brings creativity and energy to the side.
Dennis and Doe join fellow Arsenal prospect Ellie Head at the Golden Girls, as well as former Gunners Georgie Ferguson and Melis Mehmet.
Welcome to Watford, girls!
*Photo Credit: Arsenal FC
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Chris Wilder was still clearly hurting when he spoke to the media after yesterday's defeat against Huddersfield.
Head Coach Chris Wilder took responsibility for a disappointing performance and result at Vicarage Road as Huddersfield Town came from a goal down to beat Watford 3-2.
Despite Yáser Asprilla’s opener - the Colombian's first for the club - Watford conceded three to the Terriers before Britt Assombalonga’s injury-time goal reduced the arrears in the Sky Bet Championship clash.
Speaking after the match, Wilder explained that he knew what to expect from his opponents and had no complaints about the result at full-time.
“I take responsibility for that performance,” Wilder began. “We enjoy it when we win and like to take the plaudits, so I’ll take the responsibility for that and I’ll own the performance and the result.
“We set the team up to play a certain way, which I thought they did. We knew what was coming and we understood the challenge of playing a team on a good run and fighting for their lives.
“I’ve played and managed so many formations and styles so we knew it would be a low block and they would be dangerous on the counter attack, defending for their lives, while having the energy to counter.
“We knew they would be good at set-plays, which they were, so the warning was there before. For the first 20 or 25 minutes we controlled possession, but it means nothing if you don’t defend right.
“We score our goal to get ourselves in the lead and Yáser Asprilla should possibly make it two, but he didn’t. It was a really poor goal [we conceded]. A really poor three goals on our behalf - the timing of them as well.
“A counter attack that should’ve been stopped, a set-play we didn’t deal with and another counter attack that wasn’t defended well enough. Regardless of formation, we didn’t defend our goal well enough. And they saw the game out pretty comfortably.”
Speaking on his team specifically, Wilder believes his side gave it their all but felt they were powerless to affect the result in front of a disappointed home crowd.
He continued: “Did I see a team that gave up? No, they went to the end. I believe they tried to get a result out of the game. Being 3-1 down and with the mood around the place being negative, which isn’t a criticism of the supporters whatsoever because they had every right to be negative with the way the game went.
“I will take that responsibility for the way the game went. I set the team up, I formulate the shape and the tactics. I own that performance.
“We would love it to be an incredibly positive environment, but I don’t have any criticism of the supporters whatsoever. I said my piece last week and it’s my job to manage the football team and try to do our best, or organise and put in a structure to get a result against a team that is going well. We tried to do that, but we didn’t do enough of it and conceded three poor goals.”
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Watford’s Easter fixtures conclude on Monday at Coventry City (April 10, 3pm KO), with the Hornets looking to bounce back to winning ways.
Ahead of the match-up against the Sky Blues at the CBS Arena, in front of the Sky Sports cameras, find out below how you can follow the action on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This match will be televised live on Sky Sports, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- As this match has been selected by international broadcasters for live coverage, we are unable to show video footage of the match in countries in which the game is being televised. Supporters in these countries who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
EFL Broadcast Exempt
- Supporters in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories (see list below, which changes from match to match) will be able to stream the match on Hive Live. This match will be included in monthly and seasonal subscriptions, or individual match passes, all of which can be purchased HERE.
- The exempt territories for this fixture are: Afghanistan, American Samoa, Andorra, Angola, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Brunei, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, China, Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Comoros, Congo (Republic of), Cook Islands, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, East Timor, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Faroe Islands, Federated States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Guam, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Italy, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macau, Malawi, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Monaco, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, New Caledonia, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Island, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Socotra, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Korea, South Tyrol, St Helena & Ascension, St Pierre & Miquelon, Swaziland, Switzerland, Tahiti, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tokelau, Tonga , Tuvalu, Uganda, US Virgin Islands, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna, Western Samoa, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford's shambolic season has plummeted to even darker depths after they were beaten by Huddersfield Town, prompting angry scenes at Vicarage Road.
Hello everyone. Happy Easter. We’ve created a new short (and topical) episode about last week’s game in Bedfordshire. For the first time, we need to issue a content warning. It includes an instance of language (the kind you hear at football grounds, especially when losing to your local rivals) that you may consider unsuitable for […]
Chris Wilder suggested there will be team changes tomorrow, and then again when Watford travel to face Coventry on Monday.
After such a massively deflating defeat as last week at Luton, there has been much talk among fans about giving other players a chance.
Match Info
- Watford v Huddersfield Town
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Friday April 7, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: David Webb
- Assistant Referees: Jonathan Hunt and James Wilson
- Fourth Official: Ollie Yates
Opposition
Despite their lowly league position, last season’s play-off finalists Huddersfield arrive at The Vic in fine form, having secured seven points from their last three games and given themselves a good chance of avoiding the drop to League One.
Results have picked up since veteran boss Neil Warnock became the Terriers’ third manager of the campaign in February, and since securing a home draw against Norwich in mid-March they have beaten promotion hopefuls Millwall and Middlesbrough in their last two games.
Still in the bottom three as it stands - but level on points with 21st-placed Cardiff - the Yorkshiremen will be looking to extend their unbeaten run and power their way to safety in the remaining seven games of the season.
Stats Buzz
Watford have won four of their last five league games against Huddersfield Town - including the reverse fixture at the end of 2022 - losing the other game 2-0 in December 2020.
Huddersfield have failed to score in their previous two league meetings with the Golden Boys (L2); they’ve never gone three games or more without scoring against them in the Football League.
Since a 2-0 defeat to Millwall on Boxing Day, Watford are unbeaten in their last seven league games at Vicarage Road (W3 D4); the Hornets haven’t started a calendar year with a longer unbeaten home run since 1978 (13 games).
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Huddersfield Town In Numbers.
Team News
Watford Head Coach Chris Wilder said during his pre-match press conference: “We know the injury history over the course of the season hasn’t been good, but we have had players come back in.
“There were a couple of bumps and bruises from the weekend, but we will still have a decent bench, and we might have to leave some players out of the matchday squad.”
For Huddersfield Town, Duane Holmes is out for the rest of the season after picking up an ankle injury, while the game might come too soon for Martyn Waghorn.
What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“Huddersfield Town will be dangerous opponents for us. It will be a difficult Championship game with two teams fighting for different reasons. Their form recently has been good, with an away win at Millwall – you can’t get away from that – and a win against Middlesbrough who are a form team.
“They will come as players who are buoyed from what happened last Saturday and they will want to continue that because their fight is a big one to stay in the division.”
Neil Warnock, Huddersfield Town Manager:
“It's two tough games against Watford and Blackburn. You enjoy the victories then move on. It's so quick, the next few weeks, and we've got four of the next five away from home.
“We've got to try and hang in there now points wise with the other clubs. Two games in four days is difficult with the travelling as well, but we've just got to do it.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 13
Drawn: 5
Lost: 15Last Six:
December 2022: Huddersfield Town 0-2 Watford (Championship)
January 2021: Watford 2-0 Huddersfield Town (Championship)
December 2020: Huddersfield Town 2-0 Watford (Championship)
April 2019: Huddersfield Town 1-2 Watford (Premier League)
October 2018: Watford 3-0 Huddersfield Town (Premier League)
April 2018: Huddersfield Town 1-0 Watford (Premier League)Golden Flashback
Two goals from Almen Abdi, as well as Troy Deeney and Keith Andrews strikes, guided 10-man Watford to an entertaining 4-2 win over Huddersfield in August 2014, maintaining the Hornets’ strong start to a season that would eventually result in promotion to the Premier League.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Huddersfield Town, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Head Coach Chris Wilder is expecting a response from his players as they head into another important game during the Sky Bet Championship run-in against Huddersfield Town tomorrow afternoon (Friday April 7, 3pm KO).
Following a disappointing defeat to Luton Town last time out, Wilder has made it clear what he wants from his squad in the final seven matches, as the Hornets prepare for a double-header over the Easter weekend facing off against the Terriers and Coventry City.
The boss believes that his side have trained well this week as they look to secure a positive result in their next fixture at Vicarage Road.
“It's about getting the balance because you have to own [the result against Luton Town],” Wilder began.
“The players and I have to own the performance and it stings. It stung me on Saturday and right the way through. I don’t like losing games as a manager. To lose the derby in that manner, you can’t get away from it and you have to own it.
“For me, there is only one thing you can do – come in to work and put it to bed by working hard to make yourself available by doing the best you can. I have to say that training standards have been really good this week and I believe they understood where I came from afterwards.
“It’s not about words, it’s about actions and hopefully we will see the action on Friday. And it’s not just about Friday, it’s about Saturday and Wednesday until the end of the season. From a personal point of view, it’s about your career. You have to be at it day-in and day-out to be a top player.
“These players all come with potential, but to make the grade and be in the big time, they have to produce it on a consistent basis and level. I’m sure we’ll see a reaction Friday and then hopefully that will carry on until the end of the season.”
Ahead of the contest, Wilder explained that he will have a strong squad to pick from with the additional inclusion of players from the Academy to bolster the ranks.
“We know the injury history over the course of the season hasn’t been good, but we have had players come back in,” he added.
“There were a couple of bumps and bruises from the weekend, but we will still have a decent bench, and we might have to leave some players out of the matchday squad. I’m all in for difficult decisions – I want it to be as difficult as possible, whether it’s in games or training. I want everyone to be fit and available, and I don’t want to make an easy decision.
“Plus the fact that we have added Ryan Andrews, James Morris has been with the squad for a long time and Adrian Blake has been with us this week. I want the youngsters to have a feel of first-team training as well. We have decent numbers and if we turn up and say yes, then I think we give ourselves a good opportunity of winning the game.”
Heading to Hertfordshire off the back of a vital victory over promotion-chasing Middlesbrough, Wilder acknowledges that the Terriers will prove to be a tough test.
He continued: “Huddersfield Town will be dangerous opponents for us. It will be a difficult Championship game with two teams fighting for different reasons. Their form recently has been good, with an away win at Millwall – you can’t get away from that – and a win against Middlesbrough who are a form team.
“They will come as players who are buoyed from what happened last Saturday and they will want to continue that because their fight is a big one to stay in the division.”
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Chris Wilder said there have been harsh words at the training ground this week , but the players have a chance to win back the faith of the fans
Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Good Friday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Huddersfield Town (April 7, 3pm KO), with the Hornets looking to bounce back to winning ways and kickstart a late push for a play-off place.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
Due to engineering works there will be no rail services south of Milton Keynes and between Watford Junction and St Albans Abbey over the Easter weekend.
During this time there will be rail replacement buses running between Milton Keynes and Bedford, and Milton Keynes and Potters Bar (via Watford) - for customers to make onward connections - and rail replacement buses between Watford Junction and St Albans Abbey.
Click HERE for more information.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Huddersfield Town, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Young Watford striker Tobi Adeyemo has signed his first professional contract with the Hornets.
The 18-year-old, who scored four minutes after coming on for his league debut against Blackpool in January, has agreed a three-year deal with an option for a further 12 months.
It adds to an already successful season for Adeyemo, who made his professional debut in the FA Cup against Reading and has gone on to make five substitute appearances for the first team, four of which in the Sky Bet Championship.
The centre-forward has also been a regular fixture for the Under-21s and Under-18s during 2022/23, scoring against Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup at Vicarage Road.
Born in Hackney, Adeyemo joined the Watford FC Academy in October 2018 and spent time on loan with Hitchin Town in November 2022.
Speaking after finalising the paperwork on his contract, Adeyemo said: “I’m over the moon to sign my first professional contract at such a special club like Watford.
“Coming through here from Under-14s all the way until now; I’ve been here since 2018 and to finally pen my first professional deal means a lot.
“This season has been absolutely terrific for me. To come on for my league debut in front of the amazing home fans and score my first professional goal at the age of 17, becoming Watford’s eighth youngest goalscorer, it’s something I’ll cherish for the rest of my life.
“This is just the beginning. I’m ready to push on now and I’m hungry for more.”
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Next up for Watford is Huddersfield Town, as the Terriers travel down from West Yorkshire to Vicarage Road this Friday (April 7, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the Sky Bet Championship fixture, we take a look back at five of the best encounters between the Golden Boys and Huddersfield over the years, as Chris Wilder’s side hope to replicate some of the memorable victories below.
Watford 2-0 Huddersfield Town – April 16, 1977
Before the reign of Watford’s most successful boss Graham Taylor, player-manager Mike Keen was in charge of the Hornets between the years of 1973 and 1977.
The High Wycombe-born midfielder oversaw an action-packed match against the Terriers in April 1977, in what would turn out to be his final game at The Vic.
The lively encounter saw two first-half red cards, when Tony Geidmintis and Alan Mayes were dismissed, before Keith Mercer’s double secured all three points for the Golden Boys in the mid-table clash.
Huddersfield Town 2-3 Watford – September 29, 2012
The 2012/13 season contained two classic Watford v Huddersfield fixtures, the first of which saw three goals after the 83rd minute. To begin, it would be the home side that would take the early lead, as Oliver Norwood converted an impressive free-kick.
After a relatively quiet first half, the game shot into life as Fernando Forestieri levelled the match at the John Smith’s Stadium, with the Italian running over to celebrate with his compatriot and manager Gianfranco Zola.
Into the final 10 minutes of the match, Fitz Hall thought he had scored the all-important winner as he turned home Mark Yeates’ cross, but the Terriers responded almost instantly through Alan Lee’s header.
The Hornets fought back and goalscorer Forestieri won a spot-kick that was typically powered home by Troy Deeney, earning a memorable victory against high-flying Huddersfield.
Watford 4-0 Huddersfield Town – January 19, 2013
Not long after the New Year celebrations had finished, Watford and Huddersfield clashed once again in the second-tier. Despite the four goals from the Hornets, it would take until just before the interval for the home side to break the deadlock as Deeney converted from the spot.
A dazzling second-half display soon followed surrounded by snow, as at full-stretch Matěj Vydra poked home the second of the afternoon. Strike partner Deeney played a vital role in the next one, allowing the Czech forward to run into space before slotting the ball under the on-rushing goalkeeper.
The final goal would come from Cristian Battocchio, his first in a Watford shirt, to leave Huddersfield reeling and Vicarage Road bouncing.
Watford 4-2 Huddersfield Town – August 30, 2014
On paper, a six-goal thriller certainly looks to be an extraordinary clash between the Hornets and the Terriers, but it is made all the more impressive when you learn Watford were down to 10 men for a significant portion of this Championship encounter.
Deeney’s composed finish gave the Golden Boys an early lead, before Huddersfield responded through Harry Bunn after the interval. Almen Abdi would restore Watford’s advantage, before the game turned on its head following Murray Wallace’s equaliser and Gabriel Tamaș’ dismissal.
At two goals apiece and with a man down, the Hornets refused to rest on their laurels as Keith Andrews made it 3-2 with 20 minutes left to play. As the Terriers desperately searched for a leveller, Abdi curled an effort into the far corner to earn a victory against the odds.
Watford 3-0 Huddersfield Town – October 27, 2018
Having lost home and away to the Terriers in the previous campaign, the Hornets were adamant that the 2018/19 top-flight season would bring different results. Two sensational individual strikes inside the opening 20 minutes put Watford on course for the comfortable victory they were searching for.
The first came from Roberto Pereyra, who produced a jinking and jiving run to fashion an opening which allowed his shot to nestle into the net. With Watford in good spirits, Gerard Deulofeu doubled the lead moments later with an equally impressive move, as the Spaniard’s dribbling prowess allowed the winger to fire past the goalkeeper and into the far corner.
Isaac Success concluded the victory 10 minutes from time with a well-placed tap-in, securing Watford’s best-ever start to a Premier League season.
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Owner Gino Pozzo was not repaid any of the money he has loaned to Watford, despite initial reading of the club's accounts suggesting otherwise.
Watford picked up a crucial victory over the Championship leaders in April 2015 in their pursuit of promotion to the Premier League, with Troy Deeney reaching 20 Championship goals for the third consecutive season.
Middlesbrough visited Vicarage Road knowing that a victory would put them five points clear of the Hornets with five games to go, with Watford in need of a win to close the gap on the top two.
Off the back of a hard-earned point against Derby County three days earlier, Slaviša Jokanović’s side battled with Boro for control of the game early on, with the Golden Boys’ superiority in attack beginning to show after 20 minutes.
Ikechi Anya and Deeney went close to finding an opener, and Gabriele Angella’s headed attempt was just wide of Dimi Konstantopoulos’ post.
As the visitors started to grow into the game, Watford got the crucial goal to allay the nerves, with Deeney the inevitable goalscorer. The captain didn’t contest with the Middlesbrough backline for Adlène Guedioura’s lofted cross, patiently waiting at the other end of the 18-yard box to control the delivery, take a composed touch and direct his shot home.
The first Watford player to score 20 in three successive campaigns and rising to eighth in the list of the club’s all-time top goalscorers, Deeney had reached another one of countless milestones during his career in yellow.
Watford’s ruthless front line continued to thrive as it had done all season in the second tier, and it didn’t slow in the second period. Even midfielders Dániel Tőzsér and Ben Watson were in shooting moods, both firing efforts at Konstantopoulos.
It would be Ighalo, Watford’s second-most potent forward that season, who grabbed the second.
Receiving the ball outside the box from Watson, Ighalo looked to shoot before fooling Jonathan Woodgate with his trademark scoop, lashing home a rocket into the top corner.
The narrow points gap gave little room for error in the Championship, and Middlesbrough fell from first to fourth with defeat. Watford leapfrogged their opponents into third, level with second-placed Norwich on points and just one behind AFC Bournemouth.
The Hornets wouldn’t lose another game that season, starting a five-game winning run that peaked on April 25, when promotion was secured hours after a thrilling 2-0 victory at Brighton & Hove Albion.
The fine margins of the Championship were as apparent as ever when Middlesbrough, despite winning three of their final five games, went on to finish four points behind Watford in fourth.
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Tickets for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Cup final against Nottingham Forest (Sunday April 23, 3.30pm KO) at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium are on general sale to supporters now.
The Golden Girls reached the final of the competition - featuring teams from the third tier and below - with a win over Forest’s northern division rivals Wolverhampton Wanderers last month.
Taking place at the neutral venue in Staffordshire, the ground is located on Princess Way, Burton upon Trent, DE13 0BH.
Tickets are available to purchase from Burton Albion’s website HERE.
Ticket Prices
Adult: £5
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+): £2.50
Under-10: FREEFor more information on Burton Albion’s ticketing policy and means of contacting the ticket office via email and over the phone, click HERE.
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Matheus Martins is set to join up with the Brazil Under-20 squad later this month which would mean he misses three league games.
Preparations for the Hornets’ next clash against Huddersfield Town (Friday April 7, 3pm KO) are well underway.
With Chris Wilder’s men looking to bounce back to winning ways at Vicarage Road, and ultimately kickstart a late push for a top-six finish, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm BST.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture has been selected by international broadcasters for live coverage, meaning we are unable to show video footage of the match in countries in which the game is being televised. Supporters in these countries who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
EFL Broadcast Exempt
- Supporters in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories (see list below) will be able to video stream the match on Hive Live. This match will be included in monthly and seasonal subscriptions, or individual match passes, all of which can be purchased HERE.
- The exempt territories for this fixture are: Afghanistan, American Samoa, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua, Aruba, Austria, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Barbuda, Belgium, Benin, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bonaire, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Cayman Islands, Central African Republic, China, Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Comoros, Congo (Republic of), Cook Islands, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Curacao, Democratic Republic of Congo, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Fed States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guam, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Hungary, Indonesia, Italy, Jamaica, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macau, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Monaco, Mongolia, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Islands, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Rwanda, Saba, Samoa, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Socotra, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Korea, South Tyrol, Spain, Sri Lanka, St Eustatius, St Helena & Ascension, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Pierre & Miquelon, St Vincent & The Grenadines, Suriname, Swaziland, Switzerland, Tahiti, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tokelau, Tonga, Tortola, Trinidad & Tobago, Turks & Caicos, Tuvalu, Uganda, US Virgin Islands, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna, Western Samoa, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Following a disappointing defeat at Luton Town last time out (Saturday April 1), Watford will be hoping to kickstart a late push for a top-six finish by bouncing back to winning ways at home to Huddersfield Town on Good Friday (April 7, 3pm KO).
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the enticing Sky Bet Championship encounter.
Previous Meetings
Watford have won four of their last five league games against Huddersfield Town - including the reverse fixture at the end of 2022 - losing the other game 2-0 in December 2020.
Three of Watford’s last four goals against the Terriers have been scored by João Pedro. It’s the most goals he’s scored against a side in the league for the Hornets.
The last six league meetings between Watford and Huddersfield at Vicarage Road (between 2013 and 2021) have produced 25 goals (15 Watford goals, 10 Huddersfield goals), averaging 4.2 per game.
The visitors have failed to score in their previous two league meetings with the Golden Boys (L2); they’ve never gone three games or more without scoring against them in the Football League.
Recent Form
Since a 2-0 defeat to Millwall on Boxing Day, Watford are unbeaten in their last seven league games at Vicarage Road (W3 D4); the Hornets haven’t started a calendar year with a longer unbeaten home run since 1978 (13 games).
The Hornets are winless in their last nine league games when conceding the game’s opening goal (D2 L7), since beating Cardiff 2-1 in November.
Huddersfield have won each of their last two league games - one more than in their previous 13 (D5 L7) - and they could win three in a row for the first time since May 2022 (run of four).
Only Middlesbrough (21) and Burnley (18) have earned more points from losing positions in the Championship this season than the Yorkshiremen (15), three of which came last time out against Boro.
Opposition Stat Attack
Forward Jordan Rhodes is Huddersfield’s top scorer this season with five goals in 32 Championship games, while he also tops the squad rankings for shots on target (18).
Exciting young midfielder Jack Rudoni has featured in each of Town’s 39 league clashes so far this campaign, and the 21-year-old leads the way for shots off target (21), passes in the opposition’s half (664), dribbles attempted (83) and tackles attempted (58).
Experienced backliner Tom Lees boasts the most passes attempted (1,548) and passes in Huddersfield’s half (956), while his defensive partner Michał Helik is top of the charts for clearances (182), blocks (34) and interceptions (52).
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Signing players from overseas clubs has become very much the norm for Watford in the Pozzo era but for much of the club’s history it was unheard of.
From hospital radio to Capital FM breakfast show , via BBC Radio 1 - Watford fan Chris Stark has had a few transfers of his own in his career
It was another packed week of action as many of Watford’s loan players turned out for their temporary sides domestically and further afield.
To begin, Shaq Forde made the difference as York City beat Barnet 1-0 in a competitive game under the lights yesterday evening (Monday April 3). The youngster’s composed left-footed finish in the first half secured three points in the National League fixture.
The result leaves the Minstermen in 16th in the fifth-tier of English football, while Forde has impressively scored eight times in 15 games.
Vakoun Bayo, on loan at RSC Charleroi, notched a goal and an assist as his temporary side secured an important 3-2 victory over KVC Westerlo in the Belgian Pro League (Saturday April 1).
After Westerlo had grabbed the opener, Bayo responded with the equaliser on the half-hour mark. However, with both sides having scored an extra goal each, the fixture seemed destined to be heading for a 2-2 draw before the forward assisted Youssouph Badji’s last-minute winner.
The significant three points mean that Charleroi maintain their pressure on the European play-off places in Belgium, sitting just a point outside the positions.
Mattie Pollock featured in the Aberdeen backline as they came out 1-0 victors against St. Johnstone in the Scottish top-flight (April 1).
After his previous heroics, which saw the centre-half score and earn an assist last time out against Hearts, the result means that Pollock has now helped the Dons to consecutive clean sheets, moving them up to fourth in the table.
Elsewhere, in the Sky Bet Championship, Ashley Fletcher played 90 minutes as his Wigan Athletic side secured a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers (April 1).
The striker played an important role in the match, despite not contributing to the scoreline, but the result means that the Latics are three points closer to clearing the relegation places.
Also in the second-tier, Joseph Hungbo was an unused substitute as Huddersfield Town convincingly beat Middlesbrough 4-2 to help their cause at the foot of the table (April 1).
Meanwhile, Bogdan Marian cameoed for AFC Rushden & Diamonds during a 2-2 draw with Tamworth in the Southern League Premier Central (April 1).
Maidstone United’s Ezio Touray was an unused substitute in a 4-0 defeat to Boreham Wood in the National League (April 1). Finally, William Troost-Ekong was also named among the substitutes in Salernitana’s 1-1 draw against Spezio Calcio in Serie A (April 2).
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A painting of the exterior of Vicarage Road Stadium is now on sale by an artist who has overcome serious illness to specialise in stadia artwork.
The officials have been appointed for Watford’s two must-win games over Easter if they are to keep alive their slim chances of making the play-offs.
Watford Football Club was proud to celebrate World Autism Awareness Day on Sunday April 2. World Autism Awareness Day is all about increasing understanding and acceptance of people with autism, the impact it has on the individual and to consider how we are able to adapt to best support the differences.
Autism is a spectrum condition and affects people in different ways. It is a hidden disability, and often affects how people interact with the world. Autistic people may require support with things like communication, interaction with others, using their imagination and being flexible, and they may feel overwhelmed by activity in the world around them. No two autistic people are affected the same way.
It is estimated that around one in 100 people are autistic, but this figure may be higher. This would mean there are over 700,000 autistic people in the UK. Many autistic people are passionate about sport but do not attend live sports events due to a number of different barriers, including sensory overloads from busy concourses and noisy stands, and the attitudes of other fans.
Watford opened a purpose-built Sensory Room in 2016 which was designed for autistic children with sensory differences who may otherwise find the noisy environment of a football stadium challenging. The Sensory Room provides a calming area and offers an excellent view of the match from a comfortable and accessible viewing location. It features lower levels of natural daylight, sensory facilities for children to enjoy while watching the football, and a greater amount of open spaces so children do not feel crowded or uncomfortable. It is staffed by trained special needs professionals who are on hand to welcome and support families attending the game, and Harry the Hornet also visits the children at half-time to further brighten their afternoon.
The main aim of the Sensory Room is to ensure autistic children feel comfortable attending football matches with their families in the Sensory Room environment, before transitioning into seating in the main stadium if they feel confident enough. There are also ear defenders available for use on matchdays if needed.
Over 100 families have used the room on a matchday since it opened, and one of the Sensory Room success stories is 11-year-old Kai Purvis, who started attending games at Vicarage Road in the Sensory Room and is now a Season Ticket holder in the Sir Elton John Stand. Kai has been able to develop a familiar matchday routine for himself, thanks to attending matches in the Sensory Room and then deciding to trial seating in the Sir Elton John Stand with ear defenders. He now enjoys watching the players warm up before kick-off and joining in with the Watford songs and chants, and has even recently appeared on talkSPORT to share his journey with others. You can find out more about Kai’s story HERE.
The Sensory Room is often used during the week by local community groups and Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust programmes, including the Golden Memories project for those with dementia.
In March, The Hornets Shop at The Vic introduced an inclusive shopping morning every Tuesday with screens and music turned off to provide a comfortable and accessible shopping experience for those with sensory needs.
To take a virtual tour of the Sensory Room, please click HERE and HERE.
If you are interested in your child using the Sensory Room, please email Simona Rakovic-Irish, the club’s EDI and Disability Access Officer, at simona.rakovic-irish@watfordfc.com to find out more. Places are subject to availability, and a letter from a doctor/consultant or other healthcare professional may be required when booking. Parents will also have the option to visit the room before matchday if they wish to check its suitability. Autistic adults should contact disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if they have any access requirements at Vicarage Road.
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Ben Aiton is joined by Tom Wicks from The Golden Pages Fanzine and Watford FC supporter, Joe Thomas to discuss Watford's defeat away to L*ton TownLearn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
An exciting opportunity has become available at Watford Football Club on a casual basis, within our Sensory Room on matchdays.
The Sensory Room has been designed for autistic children to enjoy a football game, in a quiet safe space, with a view to being able to transition into the main stadium once they feel confident to do so. The Sensory Room Host will work on a home matchday, supporting families with children who require a sensory environment.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic and hardworking, and flexible to the requirements of the role and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar position.
Essential:
- Be flexible and available for evening and weekend games
- Excellent verbal communication
- Patience and the ability to remain calm
- Understanding of autism spectrum disorder and the needs of the families in attendance
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
Desirable:
- Previous knowledge of working in a sensory environment, or with adults and children with additional needs
- Interest in football
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Casual Worker - Sensory Room Host
Rate of Pay: £11.00 an hour
Location: Watford Football Club - Vicarage Road Stadium
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: Successful candidates meeting essential requirements will be offered an interview as they applyApplication process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CVvia email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference requests may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
Chris Wilder has called for unity as preparations begin for Watford's two games in four days over the Easter weekend.
As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we’re taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
In this edition, James Garrett looks back at Michel Ngonge’s unlikely winner against Tranmere Rovers in April 1999, in a piece first included in last season’s matchday programme…
Sometimes in sport it takes a moment of adversity to get everything back on track, and sometimes in football unlikely victories are snatched in improbable situations…
This match was about more than just three points. Ultimately, it managed to kick-start an unlikely push for the play-offs, which culminated in a sun-drenched day at Wembley as Watford were promoted back to the top tier of English football. Somehow it all happened, but it really shouldn’t have.
The Hornets had been fantastic in their first season back in Division One (now the Championship), but sadly had hit a bad patch with just one win in eight games before the visit of mid-table Tranmere.
A dismal spell of form had seen the Golden Boys slip out of the play-off picture, sitting eight points adrift in eighth place. The previous two games had produced disappointing 0-0 draws against Oxford United and Bury, and I remember walking out of the Manor Ground thinking that the dream was over, but that we should still be proud of a really strong season following promotion the previous year.
Graham Taylor, though, had other ideas. In an attempt to improve his team’s fortunes GT brought in Irish sports psychologist Ciaran Cosgrave, whose input proved invaluable during the final two months of the season. Known affectionately to us then as “the man in the pink shirt”, many of the ’99 side have since attributed his arrival to a large part of their success; another example of how GT was always quietly ahead of the times.
For the first half of this match not much changed, and the Hornets looked like they might complete another 90 minutes without scoring. In fact, it took an uncharacteristic mistake from left-back Paul Robinson to allow the away team to score first; his wayward header was pounced on by striker David Kelly, who slotted past Alec Chamberlain to make it 1-0. GT reacted with a triple substitution with just under half-an-hour left, and within three minutes Watford were level; Peter Kennedy meeting a Tommy Mooney cross from the left on the volley from 10 yards out with perfect timing.
But we needed to win this match, and the final few minutes would go down in club history. With just under 10 minutes left to play Richard Johnson was sent off for a very soft second yellow card, signalling the start of an unforgettable conclusion to the afternoon. It started with Johnno berating the linesman who had seen the ‘foul’, and continued with Tranmere manager John Aldridge arguing with home fans behind the dugouts and even entering the field of play to complain to the referee.
However, the temperature reached boiling point in the 87th minute when a Kennedy corner was swung over from the left, and the referee awarded a controversial penalty for a dubious foul on striker Michel Ngonge. Chaos followed as Rovers players complained, and Kennedy’s spot-kick was saved by the goalkeeper only for the ball to fall kindly to Ngonge who scuffed it into the net for an unlikely winning goal.
The referee then turned his back and ran to the halfway line, missing an all-out brawl in the penalty area. When things calmed down the same linesman had seen an incident between Allan Smart and a now shirtless Kelly, which resulted in the former being sent off. For those who did see the incident it was clear it was more than just a few pushes between the pair, and punches had been thrown.
So, for the final two minutes plus injury-time the Hornets were down to nine men, but they managed to hold firm and win the match. Sometimes they say you need to win ugly, and this was about as ugly as you can get. Despite more protests from the Tranmere camp at the final whistle all that mattered were the three points. The Hornets moved up one place to seventh, now seven points away from a play-off spot with seven games to play. Remarkably, the team picked up 19 points from the last 21 available and comfortably ended up in the top-six with Mooney hitting the form of his life and scoring in six games in a row.
The man in the pink shirt was there on the pitch as the team warmed up before every match; something special was happening and GT was unbelievably doing it all over again.
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Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust has a number of vacancies for Trustees to join its Board, which is responsible for the direction of the Trust, the delivery of its purposes, and ensuring the Trust achieves its strategic objectives and community impact.
The Trust is now looking to recruit talented, committed and inclusive Trustees who can help to guide and support the Senior Leadership Team to deliver its new strategic objectives and ambitions.
About The Trust
Watford Football Club’s Community Sports & Education Trust is a registered charity that has been proudly supporting people and communities for over 30 years, as originally established by Graham Taylor OBE and Sir Elton John. The Trust continues this legacy today by engaging people of all ages and backgrounds through high-quality community-based initiatives and services.
The Trust provides community support across Hertfordshire and Harrow and delivers more than 30 projects across all age groups, engaging with over 15,000 beneficiaries every year. It has invested over £6m in its facilities, including Community Hubs in Watford and Harrow, and it has a hugely successful track record of delivering positive change for over 30 years.
How the Trust will continue to explore new ventures, expand partnerships and reach to the benefit of its communities, while also maintaining and developing its people and culture in line with its strategies, are among the key challenges it faces.
The Right People & The Right Blend
To reflect the breadth of work the Trust does, and its reach across all its communities, it needs a diverse Board of Trustees with an extensive set of skills and experience.
The Trust’s Board will reflect and represent the communities in which it works. It will embody a high degree of expertise and knowledge to protect the Trust’s best interests, and drive a creative and challenging approach to support the Trust’s ambitions by driving growth and continuous improvement across all its work.
The Trust particularly welcomes applications from people from ethnically diverse communities, women, people with disabilities, those from the LGBTQ+ community, and from all other groups with protected characteristics.
The Importance Of Trustees
Registered with the Charity Commission, the Trust is governed in accordance with charitable law and complies to the Charity Code of Governance. It will always look to develop and maintain the highest standards of governance. The Trust’s Board of Trustees carry out a range of duties to ensure it is always compliant and dynamic.
Trustees have:
- A duty of compliance with the Trust’s objectives, its governing documents and all relevant legislation and regulation
- A duty of care, to ensure the Trust is well run and efficient and that professional advice is sought to manage risk
- A duty of prudence in respect of managing the charity’s assets
A Healthy Balance Of Skills & Experience
The Trust would like to hear from prospective Trustees who have a sound knowledge and experience of work in the following areas:
- Community inclusion and leadership with a focus on equality, diversity and inclusion
- Safeguarding
- Health and wellbeing
- Business development and fundraising
- Learning and skills development
Candidates may also have a background of:
- Board or public sector equivalent level business management and decision making
- A strategic focus and strategy development and delivery
- An understanding of the charity sector
Your Commitment
Trustees are expected to attend all Board meetings. These are held up to six times a year and last for between two to three hours. Papers are distributed ahead of the meetings.
Trustees will be asked to join one of the Board sub-committees, which meet up to four times a year, and to attend Trust events on a couple of occasions each year to see our projects in action.
Expenses can be paid to cover travel and other incidental costs. The role is a voluntary one and is unpaid, but is hugely rewarding in many other ways.
Interested?
If you’d like to join the Trust’s Board and help to shape its future growth, please send your CV and a covering letter to trustrecruitment@watfordfc.com. If you would like to know more about being a Trustee, then please get in touch at the same email address.
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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After his warts-and-all post-match reflections on Saturday at Kenilworth Road following derby day defeat, Chris Wilder continues to empathise with how Watford fans will be feeling on this Monday afternoon – but is keen that all thoughts now turn to unified action ahead of the Easter weekend’s fixture double-bill.
The Golden Boys first host Huddersfield Town on Good Friday (April 7, 3pm KO) before a trip to face Coventry City on Easter Monday (April 10, 3pm KO) – now knowing that results elsewhere have conspired to offer a play-offs lifeline.
Aware of the broadly positive response among supporters to what he said, Hornets’ boss Wilder is determined to harness those sentiments in a bid to force Watford into the play-offs picture; knowing that, initially, only two Easter weekend wins will give his side any realistic hope of making the top six come season’s end.
Wilder declares: “I’ve had my say about the weekend and I’m sure fans have had their say too. It’s done now – and it’s in no one’s interest to keep raking over it so let’s get on with this week and set about making sure we’re firing on all cylinders come three o’clock this Friday.
“I thought long and hard about everything I said on Saturday. I wanted the supporters to understand we knew we’d let them down and I wanted the players to understand that they now have the responsibility to produce a big reaction that lasts not just for 30 minutes or so but for the seven lots of 90 minutes ahead of us.
“I’ve always been a very positive guy in my outlook on everything to do with being a football manager and that sure as hell isn’t going to change now.”
So to the challenges as he sees them…
“First off, it’s OUR challenge – not his challenge, her challenge, their challenge. It’s our challenge – a challenge we can all share in, for everyone with a piece of themselves connected to Watford Football Club in any way.
“For myself and my coaching staff: what can we do better to ensure we give the squad the information and inspiration to be successful?
“For the players: what can they find from within themselves to give the supporters a 90-minute performance to be proud of, not just the odd moments of hope that fade away?
“For the supporters: what can they do to ensure the team has the fullest possible backing for the whole 90 minutes of every game between now and May the 8th?
“All of those challenges apply to more than just matchday; more than just that 90 minutes. They start as we kick off a new week. Today. Right now, really.
“Believe it or not, it’s still there for us. We’ve got an opportunity – and while that’s the case, we’ve got to keep working to keep that chance alive.”
And a final reflection before a week’s training ahead of Good Friday at The Vic:
“I said it Saturday and I’ll say it again now on Monday: there’s a lot of great things here at this football club. It’s not going to take moving heaven & earth to get it back on track moving in the right direction. But whatever those changes are, everyone will need to share in that responsibility. Why? So then it’s something everyone can be proud of.”
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Sophie McLean and Keinan Davis have been crowned winners of March’s Player of the Month and Stake Goal of the Month awards respectively.
Following an online vote on the official Watford FC app, McLean saw off competition from fellow Hornets Dré Georgiou, Anne Meiwald and Davis to secure the player award having previously been nominated for the gong in February.
The 27-year-old midfielder enjoyed a stellar month as she helped the Golden Girls to four straight wins, rounding it off with a headed goal against MK Dons during a 5-0 victory. McLean gained 45 per cent of the final vote, with Davis finishing as runner-up with 30.7 per cent.
Elsewhere, Davis secured top spot in March’s Stake Goal of the Month competition for his impressive strike against Birmingham City.
In a hugely competitive category, the striker secured the gong for the Hornets’ second against the Blues during a 3-0 victory at Vicarage Road.
The move started with Imrân Louza releasing Davis against Birmingham’s defence. He cut inside and out to fashion an opening as he reached the 18-yard box, before unleashing a powerful effort into the roof of the net.
The 25-year-old’s Birmingham effort earned 30.6 per cent of the vote, finishing ahead of his goal against Wigan Athletic later in the month (21.1%) and Georgiou’s quick-fire strike against MK Dons (17.8%).
Louza’s goal against Birmingham and Helen Ward’s opening header and fourth goal against Crawley Wasps were the other Stake Goal of the Month nominees.
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Watford Women won 5-2 victory at Plymouth Argyle to move within three points of the top of the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.
Tickets for Watford’s trip to Hull City (Saturday April 22, 3pm KO) in the Sky Bet Championship will go on sale to supporters in Away Group A at 12noon on Monday April 3.
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices, the club’s Under-18s policy, and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Monday April 3- Away Group B
12noon, Tuesday April 4- Away Group C
10am, Wednesday April 5- Away Group D
3pm, Wednesday April 5- Away Group E*
10am, Thursday April 6- General Sale
3pm, Thursday April 6*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Hull City will finish at 4pm on Friday April 21. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Any enquiries after 4pm on Friday April 21 relating to tickets purchased for this fixture should be taken up in-person at the East Stand Ticket Office at the MKM Stadium.
Ticket Prices
North Stand:
- Adult: £20
- 65 & Over: £13.50
- 16-22 Year Olds: £10
- 11-15 Year Olds: £7
- 2-10 Year Olds: £3
East Stand:
- Adult: £24
- 65 & Over: £16
- 16-22 Year Olds: £12
- 11-15 Year Olds: £7
- 2-10 Year Olds: £3
Babies/toddlers under the age of two will not be admitted to the MKM Stadium, as they are not deemed able to occupy a seat which compromises the stadium’s safety certificate.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Coach Travel
Coaches for our trip to Hull City will depart from Occupation Road at 8am. All coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination.
As this journey is using the M1 northbound there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 8.45am.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings that are made together between coaches.
Matchday Parking
Parking is available at the MKM Stadium and is charged at the following rates:
- Cars: £5
- Minibuses: £10
- Coaches: £20
Supporters will need to pay cash on arrival.
Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Friday April 21, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking before 4pm on Friday April 21.
We will arrange for replacement tickets for collection from the East Stand Ticket Office at the MKM Stadium.
Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocation specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area will be available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for this match.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Luton boss Rob Edwards was delighted with every aspect of the win over Watford but there was no gloating or barbed comments aimed at his former club.
Overcoming an early setback to win convincingly against Plymouth Argyle in the FA Women’s National League Premier Division South, Hornets Head Coach Damon Lathrope focused his praise on his side’s character and spirit in the second half of their 5-2 victory.
Amber Pollock’s opener came in the first 50 seconds at the Manadon Sports Hub but the Golden Girls replied through Gemma Davison 11 minutes in, before Sophie McLean completed the turnaround just before the break. An own goal made it 3-1 until the hosts pulled one back, but Watford hit their stride and struck twice more via Annie Rossiter and Faye Brough - with Helen Ward’s penalty saved late on - completing a fifth straight win.
Admitting that being behind so soon was somewhat uncharted territory for his charges, Lathrope was pleased with how they broke down a resolute Plymouth side on the road.
“It’s a test of character, and a situation we haven’t been in,��� said the Head Coach. “As much as I was confident that we’d get a reaction, you never know, so it’s good that the girls got together and responded in the correct way, showing good energy to make it comfortable in the end.
“I’m really pleased to get three points because it’s not easy to go to Plymouth. If I’m being critical, in the first half we looked a little tired, but got a really good reaction at half-time and we got what we deserved in the end.”
The game looked its most competitive with the Golden Girls 3-2 ahead on the hour mark, but the visitors upped the tempo to see out an important victory in their promotion push, with Lathrope satisfied by the confidence on show from his team.
“At 3-2 it’s a cagey spell in the game,” continued Lathrope. “They’re building pressure after a goal against the run of play, which gives them a chance. We managed that spell really well, I felt we were in full control.
“The last 20 minutes were excellent, getting the fourth, fifth and a penalty. I'm really pleased with how we played.”
Rossiter returned to the apex of attack and came close on several occasions before getting her goal, earning credit from her Head Coach after the match.
Lathrope said: “Annie’s been doing really well. She’s very versatile and we’ve asked her to play in a lot of different positions because she’s a very good player and capable of doing that.
“We look at each game as we go and see what we need as a team in different areas of the pitch. She’s played as a nine in the last few because we needed her mobility in particular, and she’s played really well.
“She’s looking really confident and assists a lot of goals, so it’s pleasing to see her add goals to her tally also. She really deserves it, she’s working hard.”
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Chris Wilder looked and sounded like a man full of a combination of anger, bitter disappointment and disbelief after the 2-0 defeat at Luton.
On Season 2, Episode 45 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on the derby day debacle at Luton. Also: Watford let the man who beat them slip out of their hands, and the Club has no one to blame but itself. Is the Club, specifically the owner, capable of being introspective?
Episode published: April 1, 2023
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The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Luton 2, Watford 0: https://bit.ly/3nDHJx2
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Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann admitted the manner of Watford’s 2-0 defeat at Luton Town marked an all-too common theme seen during the 2022/23 season, but insisted the team haven’t given up hope of a top-six finish with seven games remaining.
Goals from Gabriel Osho and Allan Campbell in either half condemned the Hornets to the disappointing result at the home of the club’s bitter rivals, in the teams’ first meeting in front of fans at Kenilworth Road for 17 years.
Despite enjoying more of the game’s possession (55 per cent), Watford conjured up just one shot on target throughout the 90 minutes, and Bachmann was called upon to make a string of good stops to prevent a heavier scoreline.
“We’ve been in this situation many times this season, and first and foremost I want to apologise to the fans,” he said. “Losing a football match always hurts, but to lose in the manner we did - regardless of the opposition, which makes it worse - was just unacceptable.
“I don’t really know what it’s down to, to be honest. I can’t really put my finger on it, but it’s not a one-off. It’s utterly frustrating, and it hurts a lot.
“A few words were said in the dressing room at full-time, but we all know it wasn’t good enough. It’s been a tough season, and we know it’s the fans that feel it the most, especially after relegation last year and the positivity we had going into this campaign.”
At the end of the day’s play Watford sit in 11th place in the second-tier standings, six points adrift of Blackburn Rovers in the final play-off place and with a home clash against Huddersfield Town up next (Friday April 7, 3pm KO).
Bachmann is clear that regardless of issues with form the team will give their all to achieve maximum points between now and the final-day game against Stoke City (Monday May 8, 3pm KO), and he retains belief that promotion isn’t quite off the cards just yet.
He added: “Simply, we’ve just got to try and win all of the seven games that we’ve got left now. The objective hasn’t changed - we want to try and sneak into the play-offs, and we won’t give up until that’s impossible.
“We’ll go back to the drawing board and try to iron things out. We need to stay positive and do the best that we can, and if we play like we can you never know what could happen.”
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Chris Wilder shared in supporters’ frustrations after witnessing a disappointing 2-0 defeat in the local derby with Luton Town.
Gabriel Osho and Allan Campbell goals condemned Watford to defeat at Kenilworth Road and the Hornets’ Head Coach had no complaints with the result.
“It’s incredibly disappointing for myself and most importantly the supporters,” said Wilder. “They’ve travelled here for the first time in 17 years and their reaction at the end showed what they thought of it.
“I thought Luton completely deserved the result. I’m quite an experienced manger in terms of playing in local derbies and you have to show so many more qualities than we did today.
“I thought the team that was a team won the game, and maybe for us there might be bigger issues to get the team playing as a team.
“When I came to the club I looked at the players we had at our disposal and I was really excited, but they have to play as a team. There are fundamental aspects of the game that you need to show, and we haven’t.
“The biggest thing is quality in possession and good players kept turning the ball over so easily to a team that wanted to go and hurt us, and they got the result they wanted.”
Despite having 55 per cent possession, Watford managed just one shot on target compared with Luton’s six, and Wilder conceded his team were second best in all areas of the pitch.
“The game was definitely what I thought it was going to be; front-foot and a high press from Luton, a quick game and we had to be smart,” he said. “Our start was okay but we kept turning the ball over and allowing them to come back at us.
“We didn’t secure it at the top of the pitch, we didn’t pass it well enough in the middle three. They won more duels and races than us, they passed it better, they were more progressive and they had something at the end of it, which we didn’t.
“There are no excuses and I have empathy for the supporters because you really look forward to the highlight of a derby and we’ve not done enough as a group.”
With seven games remaining, Wilder is demanding real improvements from his players between now and the end of the 2022/23 campaign.
“My message to the players was a very strong one,” said the 55-year-old. “I’m an extremely honest manager to the media and the supporters, there’s no spin, and that was the same to the players.
“It wasn’t good enough. It’s not about tactics or shape when you keep passing the ball out of play or you don’t win a race or you get outmuscled.
“There’s a lot of so-called good players here but they have to show so much more if they want to be top players. I hope they reflect on their performance because it wasn’t good enough to get any sort of result in a local derby.”
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The Golden Girls head west to face Plymouth Argyle this Sunday (April 2, 12.30pm KO), looking to build on last week’s emphatic victory away at MK Dons.
Damon Lathrope’s side raced into a 3-0 lead inside 10 first-half minutes and never looked back as they ran out 5-0 victors at Stadium MK.
The Hornets go into their next match looking to maintain momentum and chase down the spot at the top of the table with just five games left to play, as they visit an Argyle side struggling for form in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.
The Ground
Sunday’s game will take place at the Manadon Sports Hub (PL5 3FD), a sports centre operated by the Argyle Community Trust. The artificial pitch has standing areas all around, however there is no seating or cover.
For supporters travelling via car there is a large car park on site for 100 cars, with parking free of charge. If you are travelling on public transport, the nearest station is Plymouth for trains. The station is approximately 15 minutes away by car. You can then also get the 60 bus from the station to Transit Way, followed by a half-mile walk to the ground.
Tickets
Tickets are available on the day, with both cash and card being accepted. These are priced using a flat fee of £5, with the exception of those under the age of three being admitted free of charge.
The Match
When the two sides met earlier in the season the Golden Girls ran out comfortable victors, as they put five past the Argyle defence. On that Sunday in October, the goals came from Megan Chandler, Gemma Davison, Ellie Head and Flo Fyfe, who grabbed a brace at Grosvenor Vale.
The hosts, who currently sit 10th in the table, come into the game off the back of a tough run of fixtures that has seen them fall to four successive defeats, so they will be looking to put that right come Sunday lunchtime.
Conversely the Hornets come into the match in fine form, having scored 15 goals in their last four outings, conceding none along the way. Full of confidence at both ends of the pitch, they will be hoping to put on a repeat showing of last Sunday’s trip to Buckinghamshire, where they flew into an early lead and never looked back.
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Voting is now open for the March Player of the Month and Stake Goal of the Month awards, with plenty of impressive performances and special strikes from the men’s and women’s sides for supporters to chew on!
This season voting for the awards is taking place via the official Watford FC app, available to download on iOS and Android.
Polling closes at 6pm on Friday (March 31), after which the winners of both prizes will be announced across the Hornets’ social channels, website and app in due course.
Four Stars Nominated For POTM Prize
Keinan Davis is the first to be nominated for March’s Player of the Month prize. The striker enjoyed a return to goalscoring form as he notched twice, against Birmingham City and Wigan Athletic. Davis was an important part of Watford’s build-up play as well throughout the month, continuing to lead the line under Chris Wilder.
Meanwhile, Dré Georgiou also makes the list after a prolific month in front of goal from midfield, scoring three times against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Crawley Wasps and MK Dons. The Golden Girl helped her side to a perfect month, as Damon Lathrope’s charges scored 15 goals during March.
Picking up her second consecutive nomination in this category, midfielder Sophie McLean has had a notable effect on proceedings despite only having joined the Golden Girls in early February. McLean wrapped up a spectacular month with her first goal against MK Dons last Sunday (March 26).
Finally, centre-half Anne Meiwald was a mainstay in the Watford backline that didn’t concede a single goal throughout the month of March. Tough in the tackle and an extremely reliable presence, Meiwald deservedly takes her place alongside her fellow teammates at Watford.
You can vote for your favourite below:
Six Supreme Strikes Up For Stake GOTM Gong
First on the Stake Goal of the Month shortlist is Imrân Louza’s opening strike against Birmingham City, coming during a memorable 3-0 victory over the Blues. POTM nominee Davis started the attacking move on the edge of the opponents’ box, before laying the ball off to Ken Sema on the left flank. The winger drilled it towards the penalty spot and Louza was able to divert the ball with his weaker right foot into the corner.
Also nominated from that fixture against the Blues is Davis’ powerful finish, and this time Louza played provider. As Davis approached the 18-yard box he turned inside and out to create space for an effort before unleashing a formidable shot, finding the roof of the net.
Elsewhere, Helen Ward enjoyed an impressive display against Crawley Wasps, scoring four and notching her second hat-trick of the season in the process. Two of the forward’s goals from that game have been nominated for the GOTM prize. Her first, coming just six minutes after being substituted into the action, saw the Welsh striker finish Nicola Gibson’s cross with a powerful header past the Crawley Wasps shot-stopper to make it 2-0 to Watford.
Also nominated is Ward’s fourth of the evening, which came from an impressive lofted through-ball from Alli Palisch that picked out Annie Rossiter. The forward exhibited great composure to pull it back for Ward, who passed it into the bottom corner from close range to make it five on the night for the Golden Girls – Ward’s 14th goal of the season and her 157th for Watford.
Davis’ second entry on this list comes from the 1-1 draw against Wigan Athletic. The goal begins with a perfectly-timed run and a smart one-two with João Pedro, before the striker is played through. Bearing down on goal, the 25-year-old cuts inside and curls his shot into the far-left corner to make it 1-0 to the Hornets before half-time.
The final strike on this list comes from Georgiou, inside just 34 seconds against MK Dons. Coming straight from kick-off, Gemma Davison dinked a pass to Rossiter on the left flank, who played it to Georgiou for a first-time finish inside the box. Celebrating in style with Bianca Baptiste, it set the tone for the match to follow as the Golden Girls ran out 5-0 winners.
You can vote for your favourite below:
Tom Cleverley paid a special visit to Peter Walker today (Friday March 31) to wish the former Watford player well on his 90th birthday.
Walker, who was born in Watford in 1933, welcomed club captain Cleverley into his home and was presented with a signed shirt and birthday card.
The Hornets’ third eldest living player, Walker signed professional terms with the club in 1954 and went on to play 190 times, scoring 44 goals.
He was part of the 1959/60 squad that achieved promotion to Division Three under Ron Burgess.
The versatile forward left Vicarage Road in 1962, going on to feature for Kettering Town, Wisbech Town, Stevenage Town and Dunstable Town.
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Match Info
- Luton Town v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Kenilworth Road
- Saturday April 1, 12.30pm KO
- Black and white third kit
A Message From Bedfordshire Police
Please read the following information from Bedfordshire Police ahead of the trip to Kenilworth Road:
Ahead of the Luton Town v Watford fixture at the weekend, we would like to remind supporters that entry to the match will only be permitted with tickets collected from Vicarage Road with travel provided via coaches.
For anyone who is planning on travelling to Luton without a ticket, it is important to know that the match will not be shown in any pub or licensed venue in the town. Bedfordshire Police has also put a section 34 dispersal order in place across the town which gives officers the power to direct people away from the area if they are believed to be likely to contribute to anti-social behaviour or crime or disorder.
This is to ensure that the focus remains on the fixture and a safe matchday experience for all spectators. Please refrain from travelling to Luton without a ticket.
Use Of The ‘G-Word’
At recent away matches we’ve been aware of an increase in the use of the ‘g-word’, which is used at the end of a popular chant about our local rivals. We are fully aware that our supporters have used this chant for several years, and that the reminder issued ahead of the home match in October represented the first time we have been specific about it. We’re also aware that many supporters consider the word to be ‘football banter’ and ‘part of the game’ rather than a racist word.
Our position on racism and all other forms of discrimination inside stadiums and in reply to our social media posts has been made very clear through the promotion of the We Campaign, which was created to help us tackle these incidents when they happen. The word in question is racist, its use can be classed as a hate crime and we will no longer ignore its use at our matches.
Having been at the forefront of football’s campaign to be fully inclusive since Graham Taylor and Sir Elton John joined forces to put Watford on the map, we don’t believe for one moment that our supporters would use other more commonly-known racist or discriminatory words in chants. We remain proud of our record in this regard and ask everyone to play their part in tackling discrimination by no longer using the g-word in chants.
Officials
- Referee: Josh Smith
- Assistant Referees: Matthew Jones and Akil Howson
- Fourth Official: Lee Swabey
Opposition
Having only lost twice since the New Year, the Hatters have been in good form heading into the derby. They currently occupy fourth in the second-tier standings and will be hoping to produce a good performance at Kenilworth Road to maintain their place in the play-offs - and perhaps even push for the second automatic spot - under former Hornets boss Rob Edwards.
Stats Buzz
Watford are looking to complete their first league double over Luton since the 1986/87 top-flight campaign.
The Hatters have won just one of their last 12 league games against Watford (D7 L4).
Watford have only failed to score in one of their last seven Football League games against Luton, while they’ve scored 13 goals in the other six games in that run.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Luton Town In Numbers.
Team News
Head Coach Chris Wilder reported there were no fresh injury concerns within the Watford camp following the two-week international break. Hamza Choudhury is available after completing his suspension, while Ismaïla Sarr is in contention following injury.
Pelly Ruddock Mpanzu is sidelined through injury for Luton, but boss Edwards is expected to stick with much of the XI which started the 1-1 draw at Sunderland last time out (Saturday March 18).
What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“I think we’re all looking forward to it. It’s a big game, and we can’t play it down. We know it’s going to be a tough afternoon, but it’s one we’re excited about because it’s important for where we are with the stage of the season, because it’s a local derby, and because of our need for the three points.
“We have to be together as a group on Saturday - as players, staff and fans. I’m sure the fans will act in the right way, and then it’s all about the football. Hopefully everything can go smoothly, and we can have a great day together.
“With where we are in the table we understand we haven’t done enough so far. There’s not really any leeway for failure now on in, but what I know from experience is what a big performance and result can do for a team at this stage of the season. We’re playing catch-up but we can still make the play-offs, but as always my focus is solely on each game as it comes. If we can kickstart a successful run, things will take care of themselves.”
Rob Edwards, Luton Town Manager:
“I can’t sit here in front of you and say that it is just another game, I recognise it’s not. I know what it means and I know what it means to the supporters.
“We’re in a fantastic position in the league, it’s our biggest game, it’s the one that all our supporters look for first and it’s the first time we’re going to be playing in front of our supporters in this game in 17 years.
“It’s an amazing opportunity to have a great day, but it’s down to us to work extremely hard, respect them because they’ve got very good players, Chris Wilder’s a really good coach, a very experienced manager, so we know how difficult it’s going to be. But we hope it’s going to be a really good day for us.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 30
Drawn: 23
Lost: 37Last Six:
October 2022: Watford 4-0 Luton Town (Championship)
April 2021: Luton Town 1-0 Watford (Championship)
September 2020: Watford 1-0 Luton Town (Championship)
April 2006: Watford 1-1 Luton Town (Championship)
January 2006: Luton Town 1-2 Watford (Championship)
September 2002: Watford 1-2 Luton Town (League Cup)Golden Flashback
Last time out, in October 2022, Watford put four past the Hatters as they secured a memorable victory at Vicarage Road.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Luton Town v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Matheus Martins grabbed a hat-trick as Watford Under-21s romped to a 7-0 thrashing of Peterborough at Vicarage Road.
Head Coach Chris Wilder explained that he and his Watford players are under no illusions about the importance attached to tomorrow’s Sky Bet Championship trip to Luton Town (Saturday April 1, 12.30pm KO), for a variety of reasons.
While relatively new to his role with the Hornets, the 55-year-old is familiar with the task of competing against a local rival - having experienced similar situations on numerous occasions throughout his playing and coaching career - and he insisted his side will do everything to earn the desired result for the supporters at Kenilworth Road.
With eight games of the season left Wilder acknowledged the need to spearhead a winning run and ultimately bridge the five-point gap up to the play-off places, and with a two-week international break now complete he is ready to kick on.
“I think we’re all looking forward to it,” he said. “It’s a big game, and we can’t play it down. We know it’s going to be a tough afternoon, but it’s one we’re excited about because it’s important for where we are with the stage of the season, because it’s a local derby, and because of our need for the three points.
“I know about derbies - I’ve played in plenty and I’ve been involved in lots as a manager as well. I can’t play it down at all because I understand how much it means to the fans and to the club. It’s only good for the winning team on the day, and we’ll be doing everything we can to make sure that’s us on Saturday.
“We have to be together as a group on Saturday - as players, staff and fans. I’m sure the fans will act in the right way, and then it’s all about the football. Hopefully everything can go smoothly, and we can have a great day together.
“It was a good result for Watford in the reverse fixture, but I don’t think you get any advantage from that now, either way you look at it. It’s a fresh game with two different managers - when the ball rolls it’s game on, and it’s about who handles the occasion the best on the day.
“We’ve put a lot of work into the players who have been with us during the break and we’re happy with where we’re at. We’ve kept the boys at a good level, and hopefully that will allow them all to produce their best performances and get the right result.”
With those who were away on international duty having returned to the London Colney training ground, Wilder was pleased to report that no new injury concerns have emerged ahead of the short journey up the M1.
He said: “Everybody’s come back fit and healthy, which is great. Injuries are always the fear for a manager, particularly when so many players are away with their countries. A couple of them have had long journeys, but we feel we’re in good nick in terms of health and fitness, and we’ve got a good group to choose from.
“Ismaïla Sarr has been training with us over the last few days as well, so he’ll be in contention to be part of the group.
“In some areas of the pitch we’re going to have to make decisions on who plays, but I want to have to make those decisions because we’ve got to have that competitive aspect. I want everyone to be knocking on the door, and I want everyone to want to be playing in games like this.”
Besides the furore surrounding the match, Wilder made it clear that he is fully aware of Luton’s footballing ability, with the Hatters currently sitting in fourth place - just six points behind Sheffield United in the second of two automatic promotion spots.
And though he admitted the Golden Boys can barely afford any slip-ups between now and the end of the 2022/23 campaign if they are to achieve their aim of a top-six finish, the former Blades boss stressed that he is simply taking each game as it comes.
He added: “They’ve done fantastically well to get to where they are, and I understand their journey because it’s somewhat similar to mine. I’ve played at Kenilworth Road, I’ve managed there and I know people involved there, so I know what it’s going to take tomorrow.
“We all know we have to win the individual battles, duels, headers, tackles and races, and they’ll be looking at doing the same. Our players know what’s coming, and it’s up to us to handle everything that comes better than they do.
“With where we are in the table we understand we haven’t done enough so far. There’s not really any leeway for failure now on in, but what I know from experience is what a big performance and result can do for a team at this stage of the season. We’re playing catch-up but we can still make the play-offs, but as always my focus is solely on each game as it comes. If we can kickstart a successful run, things will take care of themselves.”
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He has some big choices to make in terms of who plays at Luton tomorrow, and that is something Watford head coach Chris Wilder relishes.
Watford are set to make the short trip to Kenilworth Road to take on local rivals Luton Town in the Sky Bet Championship this Saturday (April 1, 12.30pm KO), with Chris Wilder’s charges hoping to replicate the success of the reverse fixture, when the Hornets ran out 4-0 winners at Vicarage Road in October.
While only a handful of players have crossed the divide between the sides, many of those that did achieved considerable success, including future club legends and memorable goalscorers. Here are five who have donned the yellow and orange of both sides in their careers…
Matthew Spring
Making 53 Watford appearances in-between two spells at Kenilworth Road, midfielder Matthew Spring made a positive impact in his two seasons with the Hornets having condemned them to defeat a few years earlier.
Spring’s long-range strike put Luton ahead in a clash with Watford in 2002 that ended with the Hatters advancing in the Worthington Cup, but he won back yellow hearts with a series of committed displays in their promotion to the Premier League under Aidy Boothroyd in the 2005/06 campaign, netting the third in a 3-0 play-off semi-final victory over Crystal Palace.
Staying at Vicarage Road for one more season, Spring returned to Bedfordshire to add to the 250 league appearances he made in his first Luton spell, scoring 12 goals in two seasons despite his club’s relegation to League Two.
Andre Gray
Former Watford striker Andre Gray broke onto the scene with Luton Town in 2012, having impressed in the Conference North at Hinckley United, playing part-time football.
Moving up to the National League, Gray hit the ground running with the Hatters, scoring 20 goals in his first season and spearheading their promotion to League Two in the following campaign with 30 goals, finishing as league top goalscorer.
From Golden Boot to Golden Boy, Gray thrived at then Championship side Brentford and later Burnley before a move to Watford was sealed in 2017.
Gray scored 21 times in a Watford shirt, with key winners in the 2018/19 season standing out in the memory, including decisive strikes against Everton, Leicester City and in the FA Cup quarter-final against Crystal Palace. The Jamaica international left the club last summer after five years as a Hornet, with one spent on loan at Championship side Queens Park Rangers.
Henri Lansbury
The only player in this list to still be representing either side, midfielder Henri Lansbury joined the Hatters in the summer of 2021.
Ascending through Arsenal’s youth ranks, an 18-year-old Lansbury’s first taste of Championship football came in 2009 when Malky Mackay was at the helm of Watford.
Lansbury’s four months at Vicarage Road saw him impress the home faithful, notably scoring twice against Sheffield Wednesday and impressing Gunners boss Arsène Wenger in the process. He returned to North London in December and remained at the Emirates Stadium until 2012, going on to ply his trade with Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa and Bristol City prior to his Luton move.
Alec Chamberlain
Goalkeeping legend Alec Chamberlain joined Luton in 1988 after a frustrating spell at Everton garnered no appearances, with Neville Southall the established number one. Chamberlain had made a name for himself at Colchester United between 1982 and 1987 and took his qualities to Kenilworth Road, where he played over 100 times.
Ending his career with the Hornets, Chamberlain signed on in 1996 as a 32-year-old and remained active for another decade; etching his name into the history books among the likes of Tony Coton and Steve Sherwood and winning two Player of the Season awards.
Perhaps his most iconic moment between the sticks for Watford, the club ambassador heroically kept his side in a play-off semi-final away at Birmingham City, taking the game to a penalty shoot-out and making two spot-kick saves, before keeping a clean sheet in the Wembley final to secure a first-ever Premier League promotion in 1999.
Clarke Carlisle
Of the players to have represented Watford and Luton, even fewer have made direct moves between the clubs, but Clarke Carlisle was once a Hatter and a Hornet at the same time when he moved on loan from Vicarage Road up the M1 in 2007 in a mutually beneficial emergency move which saw the defender build fitness after a long-term injury.
Carlisle had suffered the injury in the penultimate match of the 2005/06 Championship season against Queens Park Rangers, having been an established name in the first-team beforehand. Signing from Leeds United to reunite with former boss Aidy Boothroyd, Carlisle played 40 games for Watford, scoring five goals.
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Fourteen years ago, just as now, Watford returned from an international break adrift of the play-off places with eight games to go...
Chris Wilder said that with eight games still to go he’s not going to take any risks with players recovering from injuries.
Chris Wilder says you have to give big performances that deliver big results in the biggest games and they don't come bigger for Watford than Luton
Luton boss Rob Edwards is trying to make sure he and his players prepare as they do for all games though he accepts a derby with Watford is different
We are looking to recruit several football coaches for our Academy, that can demonstrate the ability to design, deliver and review coaching sessions in line with our curriculum for Academy players.
You may be required to coach evenings and weekends, as well as be expected to attend and contribute to regular Continuous Professional Development (CPD) events that take place throughout the season.
The successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, and flexible to the requirements of the role and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford, London Colney or the surrounding areas, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- Minimum Level 3 UEFA B Coaching Licence
- FA Youth Award
- Knowledge of the PMA System
- Valid FA Safeguarding Certificate
- Valid FA Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAiF)
- Previous experience coaching in an Elite Sports Environment
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
You would ideally have, but not vital:
• Level 4 UEFA A Coaching Licence
• FA Advanced Youth AwardFor the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Casual Worker - Academy Foundation Phase Coach (U9-U14s)
Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Sunday April 16 2023Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents, and your CV to adam.balletta@watfordfc.com or by post to Adam Balletta at Watford Football Club Training Ground, Bell Lane, London Colney, Hertfordshire, AL2 1BZ. Please also detail which age group you would prefer to work with.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
If you’re not travelling to Kenilworth Road on Saturday then there are a number of ways you can follow the Luton v Watford game.
Diane came very close to taking her life after experiencing menopause symptoms with unanswered questions. It's time men and women got talking about this natural part of life, she says
Following the conclusion of a two-week international break, football returns as Watford travel to Kenilworth Road to face Luton Town this Saturday lunchtime (April 1, 12.30pm KO).
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the hotly-anticipated Sky Bet Championship fixture.
Previous Meetings
Watford are looking to complete their first league double over Luton since the 1986/87 top-flight campaign.
The Hatters have won just one of their last 12 league games against Watford (D7 L4).
Watford have only failed to score in one of their last seven Football League games against Luton, while they’ve scored 13 goals in the other six games in that run.
Three of the last five Football League fixtures between Luton and Watford have seen a player sent off - Gabriel Osho for the Hatters in the reverse fixture this season, and Kiko Femenía and Ashley Young for the Hornets in April 2021 and January 2006.
Recent Form
Luton are aiming to win three successive home league games without conceding for the first time since December 2018 as a League One side, previously doing so in the second-tier in April 1982.
Watford have lost only two of their last nine league games, five of which have been drawn. No side has more draws in the Championship this season than the Hornets (13, which is level with Luton, Rotherham United and Wigan Athletic).
Two of Watford’s four goals under Chris Wilder in the Championship have been scored by Keinan Davis, who could score in three successive English league games for the first time against Luton.
Opposition Stat Attack
Carlton Morris leads the way for goals within the Luton ranks, with 16 in the Championship this campaign. The striker has also had the most shots on target (33) and efforts off target (29), joint with Elijah Adebayo, and the most assists (5).
Centre-half Tom Lockyer has attempted the most passes this season (1,285), also making the most passes in his own half (723), while Adebayo has attempted the most dribbles (111).
Defensively, Lockyer has made the most clearances (161), blocks (28) and interceptions (50) in the Hatters’ squad.
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Watford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
Next to take on the questions is Alli Palisch, who signed for the Hornets in August 2022. Born in Texas, USA, the versatile operator is a full Republic of Ireland international, qualifying through her grandparents.
Palisch, 28, has made over 20 appereances for the Golden Girls so far in 2022/23, and scored her first goal of the season against Crawley Wasps in October.
Best mate: Poppy Wilson and Annie Rossiter
I’m going to have to pick two! I’m really close with Poppy Wilson and Annie Rossiter is like my little sister.Last to buy dinner: Annie Rossiter
One hundred per cent. I’m the older one, so it’s always me who has to pay when we’re out!Worst dressed: Helen Ward
I know I’m not the first person who isn’t a fan of tie-dye socks!
Dressing room DJ: Megan Chandler
She’s pretty good actually!Teacher’s pet: Annie Rossiter
Look at her, of course she’s the teacher’s pet!Always late for training: Poppy Wilson
If I didn’t go to training with her I reckon she’d be late all the time.
First on the dance floor: Flo Fyfe
Flo’s got good moves, I’ll say her.Best at FIFA: Alli Palisch
Annie believes it’s her but I’m not so sure. I think I’m better! It’d be between the two of us and Gee [Georgie Ferguson].Best future manager: Alli Palisch and Helen Ward
I would like to do it, it’s my dream, and I think Helen would be great too.SEO Image
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Jordan Fankwe.
The 20-year-old joined the Young Hornets in January 2023 after a successful trial - having previously enjoyed a five-year spell at Nottingham Forest - and he has since featured regularly for Omer Riza’s Under-21s.
How would you describe your playing style?
I would say I’m someone who destroys and breaks up play. I like to make tackles and win the ball. I see myself playing in centre-midfield as a holding player, certainly focusing more on the defence. I look up to Wilfred Ndidi from Leicester City and try to take elements out of his game.Your footballing idol?
When I was younger, I watched Claude Makélélé. He was a really strong player, really good on the ball and he was a soldier for the team. That was something that I really liked because I try to be solid for the team and replicate his attributes.Biggest influence?
I would say that when I first came to England, I met someone called Patrick from Nottingham Forest. He was the first person that I met when I came to England, and everywhere I have been he has been so important in my life and career. He has always helped me and given me great advice.
Most talented teammate?
Ryan Andrews is extremely talented. His pace is unbelievable. He is really fast and can play with the ball as well. He has everything as a full-back.Favourite football memory?
When I first signed my contract with Nottingham Forest, my first club, I couldn’t believe that I could play football and get to that level. To say that I’m a footballer was really surreal. I used to watch some of those Nottingham Forest players playing on TV and then it was unbelievable to actually be in training with them.Your aims for the future?
I would hope to achieve my goal of playing in the Premier League and playing for my national team, Cameroon.
Best advice you’ve received?
Always believe in yourself, whatever anyone says. Football can be up and down, but just believe in yourself.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I would be a strength and conditioning coach. I think that’s the closest I can get to actually being involved on the pitch.How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace 76 - I’m not too fast, but I can be quick when needed.
Shooting 73 - My shooting isn’t great, but I have scored one or two decent goals.
Passing 82 - My passing is good, but I’m working on it.
Dribbling 71 - I’m not really a dribbler!
Defending 87 - Defending is an art and it’s a big part of my game.
Physicality 87- I pride myself on my physical preparation.
OVERALL – 78Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Jollof rice with chicken and plantain
Favourite song: I will listen to anything!
Favourite boots: Nike Phantoms
Favourite TV show: Prison Break
Favourite kit: Paris-Saint Germain’s kits this year are really nice, especially their home oneSEO Image
Voting is now open for the March Player of the Month and Stake Goal of the Month awards, with plenty of impressive performances and special strikes from the men’s and women’s sides for supporters to chew on!
This season voting for the awards is taking place via the official Watford FC app, available to download on iOS and Android.
Polling closes at 6pm on Friday (March 31), when the winners of both prizes will be announced across the Hornets’ social channels, website and app.
Four Stars Nominated For POTM Prize
Keinan Davis is the first to be nominated for March’s Player of the Month prize. The striker enjoyed a return to goalscoring form as he notched twice, against Birmingham City and Wigan Athletic. Davis was an important part of Watford’s build-up play as well throughout the month, continuing to lead the line under Chris Wilder.
Meanwhile, Dré Georgiou also makes the list after a prolific month in front of goal from midfield, scoring three times against Wolverhampton Wanderers, Crawley Wasps and MK Dons. The Golden Girl helped her side to a perfect month, as Damon Lathrope’s charges scored 15 goals during March.
Picking up her second consecutive nomination in this category, midfielder Sophie McLean has had a notable effect on proceedings despite only having joined the Golden Girls in early February. McLean wrapped up a spectacular month with her first goal against MK Dons last Sunday (March 26).
Finally, centre-half Anne Meiwald was a mainstay in the Watford backline that didn’t concede a single goal throughout the month of March. Tough in the tackle and an extremely reliable presence, Meiwald deservedly takes her place alongside her fellow teammates at Watford.
You can vote for your favourite below:
Six Supreme Strikes Up For Stake GOTM Gong
First on the Stake Goal of the Month shortlist is Imrân Louza’s opening strike against Birmingham City, coming during a memorable 3-0 victory over the Blues. POTM nominee Davis started the attacking move on the edge of the opponents’ box, before laying the ball off to Ken Sema on the left flank. The winger drilled it towards the penalty spot and Louza was able to divert the ball with his weaker right foot into the corner.
Also nominated from that fixture against the Blues is Davis’ powerful finish, and this time Louza played provider. As Davis approached the 18-yard box he turned inside and out to create space for an effort before unleashing a formidable shot, finding the roof of the net.
Elsewhere, Helen Ward enjoyed an impressive display against Crawley Wasps, scoring four and notching her second hat-trick of the season in the process. Two of the forward’s goals from that game have been nominated for the GOTM prize. Her first, coming just six minutes after being substituted into the action, saw the Welsh striker finish Nicola Gibson’s cross with a powerful header past the Crawley Wasps shot-stopper to make it 2-0 to Watford.
Also nominated is Ward’s fourth of the evening, which came from an impressive lofted through-ball from Alli Palisch that picked out Annie Rossiter. The forward exhibited great composure to pull it back for Ward, who passed it into the bottom corner from close range to make it five on the night for the Golden Girls – Ward’s 14th goal of the season and her 157th for Watford.
Davis’ second entry on this list comes from the 1-1 draw against Wigan Athletic. The goal begins with a perfectly-timed run and a smart one-two with João Pedro, before the striker is played through. Bearing down on goal, the 25-year-old cuts inside and curls his shot into the far-left corner to make it 1-0 to the Hornets before half-time.
The final strike on this list comes from Georgiou, inside just 34 seconds against MK Dons. Coming straight from kick-off, Gemma Davison dinked a pass to Rossiter on the left flank, who played it to Georgiou for a first-time finish inside the box. Celebrating in style with Bianca Baptiste, it set the tone for the match to follow as the Golden Girls ran out 5-0 winners.
You can vote for your favourite below:
All UK-based and overseas Watford fans will be able to tune in to live video coverage of the Hornets’ away clash against Luton Town on Saturday (April 1, 12.30pm KO).
With Chris Wilder’s side looking to kickstart their play-off push following the international break, find out below how you can follow the local derby on the Hive Live streaming service - available on both the official club website and app.
Domestic Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 12.20pm BST.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 12.20pm BST.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
As a player, Malky Mackay won promotion to the Premier League in three consecutive seasons with different clubs - Norwich, West Ham and Watford.
As a manager, he held the fort at Vicarage Road in difficult times from 2009-11, and history will smile benevolently on his two seasons in charge.
When the club was dicing with administration under a previous regime, Mackay maintained a late-night vigil with office staff who feared for their jobs until the Grim Reaper had been thwarted.
And on the pitch, his team played enviable football - especially in the first half of both seasons, before groundsharing with Saracens’ hefty prop forwards took its toll on the playing surface and pragmatism held sway over artistic merit.
Were you there when Lloyd Doyley scored against QPR? Mackay later admitted he had no idea what the great man was doing in the inside left channel when Don Cowie’s volleyed cross arrived at the far post.
That night, back in December 2009, victory was secured by on-loan teenager Tom Cleverley’s late solo breakaway after Mackay had struck a deal with Sir Alex Ferguson - who had played with his father at Queen’s Park in the 1960s - over the financial terms.
Manchester United wanted a £300,000 loan fee, and when Mackay admitted to Ferguson the Hornets couldn’t afford it, Fergie replied: “Give us what you can now, and we’ll worry about the rest later.” Cleverley’s 11 goals and five assists that season kept Watford safe from the relegation trapdoor.
As a return favour, when Ferguson asked if United could ‘borrow’ the Hornets’ training ground on their way to an assignment in London, Mackay made sure there was a slice of his favourite Genoa cake waiting for him.
He said: “The United players’ professionalism was incredible. When they got off the bus, not a single one of them was plugged into headphones and they were all immaculate in blazer and tie. None of them looked as if he had just rolled out of bed.
“And when they left, the dressing room was spotless. You could have eaten your dinner off the floor. It all stemmed from the manager - respect comes from the top.”
Briefly threatening the play-offs with a seven-match winning streak either side of Christmas in 2010, Mackay’s team was also a mirror image of their manager: Sweat on the jersey, as he called it, was the mandatory dress code. Maximum effort was the minimum requirement.
If you were there, or you can remember, Watford dismantling unbeaten leaders QPR at Loftus Road, Danny Graham’s 27 goals in a season, the opening-night win at Norwich or the 4-1 demolition of Cardiff in the fog, you were entertained by Mackay’s Watford.
If you were there, over the border in Bedfordshire, when Mackay scored against the noisy neighbours - it definitely crossed the line, by at least two inches - you rang in the New Year in high spirits 17 years ago.
And if you were there in the Welsh capital in May 2006, when Jay DeMerit’s flying header, James Chambers’ beautifully-crafted finish (sic) and Darius Henderson’s penalty sent the Hornets into the Premier League in the Championship play-off final, you will also remember Mackay’s value as a rock in the back four.
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Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Southern Premier Division fixture against Oxford United at Grosvenor Vale has been rescheduled for Wednesday April 12, 7.45pm KO.
The original fixture - set for Sunday March 19 - was postponed due to a waterlogged pitch. Tickets for the new date are now on general sale to supporters, while tickets purchased for the original game remain valid.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
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Watford FC has been ranked as the third most sustainable side in the Sky Bet Championship - and fourth in the EFL - in the first EFL Sustainability Table produced by Sport Positive.
The United Nations-backed Sport Positive systematically collates key environmental and sustainable information from all 92 teams in England’s top four divisions to measure how sustainable each club is.
All clubs are ranked on 11 key areas including policy and commitment, clean energy, energy efficiency, sustainable transport, single-use plastic reduction or removal, waste management, water efficiency, plant-based/low carbon food, biodiversity, education, and communication and engagement.
This research is then used to determine a club’s overall rank, with the EFL being included for the first time this year. Sport Positive has been producing the Premier League Sustainability Table since 2019.
With the Hornets using renewable energy across all sites, including the installation of solar panels at the London Colney training ground among plenty of other developments, the club is determined to keep pressing forward with its sustainable plans.
On the achievement, Head of Sustainability and Procurement at Watford FC, Tarang Panchal, said: “I am delighted to see our positioning in Sport Positive’s Sustainability Table.
“Our ranking reflects a commitment by the club to deliver on multiple sustainability projects, initiatives and policies that will increasingly change the way the club grows in the future.
“There has been a big push over the last 12 months, fully supported by the board and our hard-working staff at the club, to have a good standing among our peers on this ever-increasingly important subject of sustainability.
“On this journey so far we have done a lot behind the scenes, but we still have lots to do. This includes further reducing our consumption, becoming a Net Zero football club and really engaging and inspiring our fans and followers to get involved and make changes in their own lives to reduce their carbon footprint.
“We have a long and proud reputation as the Original Family Club, so to push ourselves to be a greener club for future generations is a natural path for us.”
For more information on the club’s sustainability progress, click HERE.
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A host of Watford stars were back shining in the global limelight in the early part of this week, as they wrapped up their international duties ahead of a return to the London Colney training ground for the conclusion of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season.
After playing a prominent role in Scotland’s impressive start to their European Championship qualifying campaign against Cyprus over the weekend, defender Ryan Porteous again helped keep a clean sheet as Steve Clarke’s charges powered to a 2-0 win over Spain at Hampden Park on Tuesday night (March 28) - their first competitive victory over La Roja for 39 years.
Goals from Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay in the early parts of either half steered Scotland to back-to-back wins and to the top of Group A, marking Porteous’ third cap in memorable fashion.
After impressing throughout the 90 minutes in Glasgow, Porteous said: “It’s the kind of game I like to be in, the ones when you’re defending all the time.
“You need to stay concentrated, you can’t be asleep on the pitch and me, Granty [Hanley] and Kieran [Tierney] did that.
“It’s a special night against a really top team. The crowd played a massive part and we’re grateful to them as well.
“It’s enjoyable to be around the place, there’s not one bad egg in that changing room. And that shows on the park and in the strength off the bench.”
Elsewhere in Euro 2024 qualifying, Ken Sema was an unused substitute for Sweden as Janne Andersson’s men saw off Azerbaijan 5-0 on Monday evening (March 27), leaving them third in Group F.
Over at Toronto FC’s BMO Field, Ismaël Koné completed 90 minutes as Canada cruised past Honduras 4-1 to secure their spot in the CONCACAF Nations League semi-finals as Group C winners in League A.
Goals from Cyle Larin (2), Jonathan David and Jonathan Osorio guided Les Rouges – who had already qualified for this summer’s CONCACAF Gold Cup – to victory in the early hours of Wednesday morning (March 29).
Koné’s Hornets midfield partners Imrân Louza and Leandro Bacuna also gained further minutes for their nations in friendly action in recent days, with the former coming on as an 81st-minute substitute in Morocco’s 0-0 draw against Peru in Madrid (March 28), and the latter featuring for 84 minutes of Curaçao’s 7-0 defeat at the hands of world champions Argentina in Santiago del Estero (March 29).
Teenager Yáser Asprilla wrapped up a productive spell away with Colombia’s Under-20s by scoring twice in a comprehensive 18-0 win over a Real Murcia youth side, while Henrique Araújo played 90 minutes to help Portugal’s Under-21s to a 3-0 win over Norway (both March 28).
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Watford Football Club Community Sports and Education Trust celebrated its 30h anniversary with a Gala Dinner at Vicarage Road Stadium on Thursday (March 23).
A host of current and former Watford players were present, alongside Trust partners, local businesses, supporters and Trust staff (courtesy of a sponsored table paid for by The Bugler Group). The evening also featured the charity’s first ever Trust Champion Awards.
Michael Kurn hosted the event with stars including Luther Blissett OBE DL, Kenny Jackett, Nigel Gibbs, Steve Palmer, Alec Chamberlain and Richard Johnson watching on.
Adding to the Golden Boys buzz were current players Daniel Bachmann, Christian Kabasele and club captain Tom Cleverley. Other guests included Dean Russell MP, Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor and the town’s Deputy Mayor Aga Dychton.
The Gala Dinner began with canapes and drinks in the Horizons hospitality lounge before moving into The View, with Community Director Rob Smith beginning the proceedings with a word of thanks to the supporters of the Trust and a nod to the legacy of Graham Taylor OBE which continues to drive this charity forward.
With welcomes complete, the night continued with live music provided by Bernice Clark, a three-course meal from catering company Levy, and the awards themselves.
The Trust Champion Awards - which recognised amazing local people who have been involved in the Trust and its various projects, activities and events - had been nominated and selected by those who engage with them directly; Trust members of staff.
All winners, categories and sponsors are listed below:
Sarah Priestley
Overall Trust Champion, sponsored by Mercer Hole
Alan Lau
Equality Champion, sponsored by PACAIR
James Lindsay
Mental Health Champion, sponsored by One Vision
Bernardo Lopes Santorum
Education Champion (11+), sponsored by Metro Commercial Printing Ltd
Antony Nolan
Physical Health Champion, sponsored by Herts Sports Partnership
Ella Fox
Community Champion (Youth), sponsored by Warner Bros. Studio Tour Leavesden
Colin Monet
Community Champion (Adult), sponsored by Watford Chamber
Frances Lynn
Fundraising Champion, sponsored by Rocket Graphics Ltd
Liam Fortune
Volunteer Champion, sponsored by Wenzels
Mason L
Education Champion (U11), sponsored by Atria Watford
Alfie Marriott
Football Champion, sponsored by Watford FC
Mercer & Hole, MK Ginder & Sons, and The Bugler Group
Business Recognition Award, sponsored by Watford Chamber of Commerce
With plenty to celebrate, once the formal part of the evening was done, there was time for guests to enjoy the DJ in the Horizons hospitality lounge.
During the evening, there was a silent auction that featured a host of Watford FC memorabilia, as well as unique experiences. This alongside the sponsorship meant a fantastic amount of money (£8,561.75) was raised for the Trust to continue its positive work in the community.
On the Gala Dinner, Community Director Rob Smith said: “It was a great celebration of our community and the important part we play in it – a fitting way to complete our 30th anniversary. I’d like to thank all our sponsors, those who attended on the night, and of course those behind the scenes who brought it all together.
“Thank you and congratulations must also go to all of our award winners. In truth, we see so many who inspire us every day but these people, in particular, have shown great commitment to the community and tackling any barriers they or others face with their everyday lives.”
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Watford FC’s ongoing work on equality, diversity and inclusion is some of their proudest.
The 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship run-in is upon us, with Watford looking to secure a play-off place - and ultimately a Premier League return - under Head Coach Chris Wilder.
The club’s Hive Live video and audio streaming service remains the best place for fans to keep on top of all the Golden Boys’ goings on, with seven mouth-watering second-tier clashes on the way in a jam-packed April. Find out below how you can follow the games, whether you’re located in domestic territories or overseas.
Which Games Can I Watch Domestically?
- All scheduled midweek & Bank Holiday league matches, unless selected for live broadcast on Sky Sports.
- All league matches moved from Saturday 3pm for non-TV purposes. We are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for Saturday 3pm matches due to the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
Which Games Can I Watch Overseas?
- All league matches, provided they haven’t been selected for international TV broadcast in the territory you reside.
What Does That Mean For April?
- Luton Town (A), Saturday April 1, 12.30pm KO: video stream available to domestic & overseas supporters.
- Huddersfield Town (H), Friday April 7, 3pm KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories, due to international TV broadcast.
- Coventry City (A), Monday April 10, 3pm KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories, due to Sky Sports broadcast.
- Bristol City (H), Saturday April 15, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only.
- Cardiff City (H), Wednesday April 19, 7.45pm KO: video stream available to domestic & overseas supporters.
- Hull City (A), Saturday April 22, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only.
- Sunderland (A), Saturday April 29, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only.
What Video Passes Are Available?
Live video streaming passes cost £10 per match for domestic and overseas supporters (fixed fee applicable across the EFL).
Subscription packages are available to overseas supporters, costing £25 monthly, or £85 for the remainder of the season with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass.
Individual passes and subscriptions can be purchased by clicking HERE.
What About Audio Commentary?
The EFL does not permit the free online broadcast of audio commentary, however an audio-only Hive Live subscription is available for all Championship games, costing £45 (seasonal) and £4.50 (monthly). Click HERE to purchase.
More Information?
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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While several Hornets were out strutting their stuff on the international scene over the weekend, a handful of Watford stars were busy in action out on loan in the English lower leagues.
Forward Ezio Touray wasted no time in gaining his first minutes for National League outfit Maidstone United following his temporary move at the end of last week, coming on as a 74th-minute substitute in a narrow 2-1 defeat at home to high-flyers Woking on Saturday (March 25).
Touray and the Stones - who are fighting for survival in the fifth tier - will be looking to bounce back to winning ways at home to Bromley this evening (Tuesday March 28, 7.45pm KO).
Also in the National League, JJ McKiernan completed 90 minutes as play-off chasers Eastleigh earned a 0-0 draw at Boreham Wood on Saturday, while Shaq Forde played the last 17 minutes of York City’s 3-0 defeat at leaders Wrexham on the same day. York are back in action at home to Scunthorpe United tonight (7.45pm KO).
Elsewhere, Under-18 midfielder Ethan Goulding scored the opener as Oxhey Jets saw off Hilltop 2-0 in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North, and Bogdan Marian came on as a sub to help AFC Rushden & Diamonds to a 0-0 draw against Leiston in the Southern League Premier Central (both Saturday).
Both teams are back in action tonight, with the Jets away at Edgware & Kingsbury, and the Diamonds at home to Basford United (both 7.45pm KOs).
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Watford have frozen season ticket prices for the 2023/24 campaign, meaning a family of four renewing could watch games from £26.60
Thriving in the Watford side and enjoying her football, Annie Rossiter was delighted with the Hornets’ consistency in front of goal in their 5-0 win over MK Dons on Sunday [March 26].
The forward assisted Dré Georgiou’s goal just 34 seconds into the match, as Gemma Davison, Poppy Wilson and Sophie McLean found the target in a first-half salvo in Buckinghamshire.
The Golden Girls have been quick off the mark on several occasions this season, with Rossiter pleased to continue a rich vein of form that sees them maintain a push for top spot in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.
“It was a really good performance, with three quick goals; that’s how we want to start a game!” smiled Rossiter, 21.
“I don’t remember [the first goal] too well! I cut inside and slotted it to Dré [Georgiou] and it was a great finish. She’s racking up the goals now.”
Five goals up at the break, Head Coach Damon Lathrope was positive in his half-time team talk and the Hornets kept up their work rate in the second 45, keeping a fourth consecutive clean sheet.
Rossiter started the game at the apex of attack but drifted wide and even ended up in holding midfield for the final knockings of the game, and is happy to play anywhere on the pitch if called upon to do so.
“[Lathrope] applauded the first half but we didn’t want to take our foot off the gas,” Rossiter continued. “We didn’t score in the second half but it was still a very good performance. We controlled the game so hopefully he’s pleased overall.
“I’ll play wherever he tells me to play! I’m happy when I’m playing well, and you couldn’t fault anybody today.”
Focused on top spot and the prospect of promotion, Rossiter is eager to keep up the free-flowing attacking form, as well as the defensive solidity that has seen them go a month without conceding in all competitions. An overnight stay before their next game away at Plymouth Argyle [Sunday April 2] awaits next.
“We know where we want to be at the end of the season, and we know we’ve got to perform like that for the rest of the season now,” asserted Rossiter. “We’ll take that, watch the analysis on Tuesday and take it into Plymouth and the rest of the season.
“We always want to bring the intensity in training and it’s been really good, so we’ll train with intensity, do our analysis and have a little sleepover!”
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A referee both sides are familiar with this season is set to take charge of Watford's lunchtime derby showdown at Luton Town on Saturday.
EA Sports, the publisher of the successful FIFA video game series, are looking for Watford supporters to get involved in the Ratings Collective for the FIFA series.
The Ratings Collective is a group of Data Reviewers that provides feedback on players and teams. Your suggestions will be taken into account to help determine player attributes, appearance and other player data, as well as team data.
This is a purely voluntary role so there is no obligation on your part, but it is an opportunity for you to channel your inner passion for football and have an influence on the EA SPORTS FIFA database.
For more information, click HERE.
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Watford Football Club Community Sports and Education Trust celebrated its 30h anniversary with a Gala Dinner at Vicarage Road Stadium on Thursday (March 23).
A host of current and former Watford players were present, alongside Trust partners, local businesses, supporters and Trust staff (courtesy of a sponsored table paid for by The Bugler Group). The evening also featured the charity’s first ever Trust Champion Awards.
Michael Kurn hosted the event with stars including Luther Blissett OBE DL, Kenny Jackett, Nigel Gibbs, Steve Palmer, Alec Chamberlain and Richard Johnson watching on.
Adding to the Golden Boys buzz were current players Daniel Bachmann, Christian Kabasele and club captain Tom Cleverley. Other guests included Dean Russell MP, Elected Mayor of Watford Peter Taylor and the town’s Deputy Mayor Aga Dychton.
The Gala Dinner began with canapes and drinks in the Horizons hospitality lounge before moving into The View, with Community Director Rob Smith beginning the proceedings with a word of thanks to the supporters of the Trust and a nod to the legacy of Graham Taylor OBE which continues to drive this charity forward.
With welcomes complete, the night continued with live music provided by Bernice Clark, a three-course meal from catering company Levy, and the awards themselves.
The Trust Champion Awards - which recognised amazing local people who have been involved in the Trust and its various projects, activities and events - had been nominated and selected by those who engage with them directly; Trust members of staff.
All winners, categories and sponsors are listed below:
Sarah Priestley
Overall Trust Champion, sponsored by Mercer Hole
Alan Lau
Equality Champion, sponsored by PACAIR
James Lindsay
Mental Health Champion, sponsored by One Vision
Bernardo Lopes Santorum
Education Champion (11+), sponsored by Metro Commercial Printing Ltd
Antony Nolan
Physical Health Champion, sponsored by Herts Sports Partnership
Ella Fox
Community Champion (Youth), sponsored by Warner Bros. Studio Tour Leavesden
Colin Monet
Community Champion (Adult), sponsored by Watford Chamber
Frances Lynn
Fundraising Champion, sponsored by Rocket Graphics Ltd
Liam Fortune
Volunteer Champion, sponsored by Wenzels
Mason L
Education Champion (U11), sponsored by Atria Watford
Alfie Marriott
Football Champion, sponsored by Watford FC
Mercer & Hole, MK Ginder & Sons, and The Bugler Group
Business Recognition Award, sponsored by Watford Chamber of CommerceWith plenty to celebrate, once the formal part of the evening was done, there was time for guests to enjoy the DJ in the Horizons hospitality lounge.
During the evening, there was a silent auction that featured a host of Watford FC memorabilia, as well as unique experiences. This alongside the sponsorship meant a fantastic amount of money (£8,561.75) was raised for the Trust to continue its positive work in the community.
On the Gala Dinner, Community Director Rob Smith said: “It was a great celebration of our community and the important part we play in it – a fitting way to complete our 30th anniversary. I’d like to thank all our sponsors, those who attended on the night, and of course those behind the scenes who brought it all together.
“Thank you and congratulations must also go to all of our award winners. In truth, we see so many who inspire us every day but these people, in particular, have shown great commitment to the community and tackling any barriers they or others face with their everyday lives.”
SEO ImageA blistering first-half display saw Watford Women sweep aside MK Dons 5-0 to maintain their promotion push.
Following the completion of their third win over MK Dons this season, Damon Lathrope effused about his team’s cohesion and work ethic, having put five past the Dons in a thrilling encounter at Stadium MK.
The Golden Girls scored all their goals in the first half, with Dré Georgiou’s immediate opener followed by a Gemma Davison penalty, Poppy Wilson brace and Sophie McLean header before the break, dominating possession in a quiet second 45 which saw the hosts sit back and defend resolutely.
Pleased with the fast start, Lathrope praised some clinical finishing and hard work to take an early lead.
“We started really quick and that's what you want to do; we want to make a habit of that,” said Lathrope. “We did enough in the first 15 to 20 minutes to be able to enjoy the rest of the game, so we’re really pleased.
“We were very clinical with our chances in the first half and their keeper had a good day as well. We were really pleased overall with the 90 minutes and the message was to just keep doing what they were doing.
“We've created an identity to the way we want to play and it takes bravery, takes courage and with the surroundings today - at a nice pitch and a nice stadium - I think it played into our hands. We were convincing winners doing it on our terms, the players are buying in, their understanding of how we want to play is growing week in week out, and we're in a good place.”
McLean, who signed from Billericay Town in February 2023, headed home her first goal in Watford colours to cap off an excellent attacking display, and earned compliments from Lathrope for her seamless transition into the Hornets side.
“Soph's been superb since she came in,” the Head Coach continued. “We knew she was a very good player when we were looking to get her into the club and she has really shown that she's a top player.
“She's made a great impact. She's very athletic and very comfortable with taking the ball. Soph has been brilliant and was very good again today.”
A long trip south to Plymouth awaits on Sunday April 2 [12.30pm KO], with former midfielder Lathrope excited for another tough test in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.
The Head Coach believes the journey, coupled with an overnight stay, can add to the camaraderie already embedded within the group, as they search for three vital points in their promotion push.
“We'll do the normal preparation that we do for every game,” clarified Lathrope, 33. “We know it's going to be a tough place to go because it's the other end of the country, but that comes with its positives as well.
“We're going on Saturday, we get a lot more time with the team and they're in a great space at the moment. We’ll do our preparations, we'll be ready to go, and hopefully pick up another three points.”
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It’s been a busy period for Watford’s international stars, with many securing impressive victories across the globe.
We begin with Ryan Porteous, who played a significant role in Scotland’s 3-0 victory over Cyprus (Saturday March 25). The Tartan Army got their European qualifiers underway in style, with goals from John McGinn and Scott McTominay (2) securing Scotland’s first winning start to a Euro qualification campaign since 2006.
Dressed in Scotland’s 150th-anniversary strip, the centre-half helped maintain an important clean sheet, sitting in a back three alongside Norwich City’s Grant Hanley and Arsenal’s Kieran Tierney.
Porteous could be in line for another appearance as his national side face off against Spain at Hampden Park in Group A tomorrow (Tuesday March 28, 7.45pm KO UK time).
Elsewhere, Imrân Louza featured for Morocco during a memorable 2-1 victory over Brazil (Saturday March 25) in an international friendly. The midfielder was substituted into the action 64 minutes into proceedings, with the Atlas Lions a goal up.
After Casemiro equalised for Brazil, Abdelhamid Sabiri notched a late winner to secure an impressive win for Louza’s national side. And they could make it two victories on the bounce as they face Peru in Madrid tomorrow evening (Tuesday March 28, 8.30pm KO UK time).
Watford had two representatives in the CONCACAF Nations League as Ismaël Koné and Leandro Bacuna went head-to-head for Canada and Curaçao respectively. Koné’s Canada came out on top with a 2-0 victory, securing their place in the 2023 Gold Cup Finals, as the midfielder featured for 70 minutes before being substituted.
On the other side of the pitch, Bacuna was substituted at half-time after starting the fixture. Canada could progress to the Gold Cup as group winners with at least a draw against Honduras (Wednesday March 29, 1am KO UK time).
Bacuna’s Curaçao will face World Cup winners Argentina in a friendly early Wednesday morning (March 29, 12.30am UK time) to conclude their international matches.
After captaining his side to victory over San Marino last time out, Craig Cathcart was unable to lead Northern Ireland to their second win in as many games as they were narrowly defeated 1-0 by Finland (Sunday March 26).
Also, Yáser Asprilla featured for Colombia’s Under-20 side during a 0-0 draw with Sweden (Sunday March 26), with the 19-year-old expected to play in their concluding match against Murcia (Tuesday March 28).
Henrique Araújo played the full 90 minutes as Portugal’s Under-21s ran out 2-0 victors over Romania in an exhibition match. The 21-year-old could feature in the youth team’s final match against Norway’s Under-21 side tomorrow evening (Tuesday March 28, 7pm KO UK time).
Finally, George Abbott captained Wales’ Under-19 side during a 2-2 draw with Scotland (Sunday March 26). Watford’s Under-21 skipper featured for the whole contest, having made an appearance last time out against Scotland for Cymru’s youth side.
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Watford FC are delighted to update supporters on our continued efforts in reducing the club’s carbon footprint and tackling climate change.
We are extremely ambitious in our goals to help achieve a sustainable operation across Vicarage Road, the London Colney training ground and our Trust centres, and we believe it’s hugely important to remain collaborative with other organisations.
Focusing on key areas such as renewable energy, waste management and biodiversity, the club’s sustainable efforts within each section are outlined below, with further information available on our brand-new sustainability web page HERE.
We are pleased to let our fans and followers know that a lot of work has already been undertaken to ensure we are continually moving forward in this crucial area for the club and for our planet.
Policies & Commitment
The club announced a long-term partnership with leading global energy management and net-zero consultancy company ClearVUE.
Recently set up a web page dedicated to sustainability. The page will include updates on the club’s sustainable efforts with policies available to view now on water, energy, environmental, biodiversity, waste management and single-use plastics.
Currently applying to be a signatory for the UN Sports for Climate Action Framework.
Renewable Energy
The club continue to use renewable electricity at all sites, with solar panel installation now complete at the London Colney training ground.
A drone survey on the roofs of the stands at Vicarage Road has been completed to investigate the potential to install solar panels.
Commissioned CHP+ (combined heat and power) to utilise the waste heat at the training ground with an additional 1,500 litre water tank and heat exchanger unit for dome heating. This is due for completion in March 2023.
Energy Efficiency
The club’s energy efficiency policy can be viewed HERE.
ClearVUE’s energy management system has now been integrated into all sites. The analysis and findings from the systems are shared with departments regularly and discussed at monthly sustainability working group meetings.
Currently, an estimated 70% of all lighting across sites is LED. The club’s policy is to fit LED lights for all new installations, and old and failed lighting.
Sustainable Transport
The club are working with Hertfordshire Council’s Environment and Transport department to form a strategy and management plan to encourage and enable fans to choose lower carbon emitting modes of transport to Vicarage Road.
The club continues to advocate trains, London Underground and Overground, over driving.
There is no parking available for supporters at the ground and street parking is restricted to local residents with matchday permits as we look to reduce reliance on cars.
Reduction & Removal Of Single-Use Plastic
The club’s single-use plastic policy can be viewed HERE. The policy aims to reduce, and ultimately eliminate, the use of single-use plastic products at all sites.
The club switched to reusable cups in November 2019.
We have eliminated single-use plastic cutlery by switching to wooden alternatives and paper straws.
Trial of recycling stations for plastic bottles in April before a stadium-wide roll out.
Waste Management
The club’s waste management policy can be viewed HERE.
100% of the club’s waste is diverted from landfill, with general non-recyclable waste sent to incineration for power production.
The club is continuing its collaboration with catering partners and waste companies to split and reduce waste, and continue recycling all waste streams.
All recyclable waste is separated into cardboard, mixed recycling and food and glass, with recycling stations available in the club’s offices.
The club are currently trialling new recycling stations for plastic bottles and mixed recycling in the Rookery Stand’s concourse, before a rollout stadium-wide.
Water Efficiency
The club’s water policy can be viewed HERE. The policy aims to drive reduction and conservation.
Water-logging devices have been fitted to meters and can now be analysed through ClearVUE’s systems for insights on usage patterns, as well as opportunities for reduction.
Monitored and balanced use of the water borehole at the training ground, while the club are continuing to investigate rainwater harvesting systems.
Plant-Based & Low-Carbon Food
All food sold at the stadium is sustainably sourced, with vegan options available at kiosks and hospitality. Dishes now include broccoli, cauliflower and cheese pie (ve) and the mushroom-based burger (ve).
Cheeseburgers are now 50% mushroom.
Training ground food options are mostly sustainably sourced, with vegan options available.
Biodiversity
The club’s biodiversity policy can be viewed HERE.
Partnership with Herts and Middlesex Wildlife Trust to implement a management plan for all sites to make them nature reserves.
Spring and Summer 2023 will see surveys undertaken to investigate the wildlife, vegetation, species and numbers of animals and insects, before implementation of strategies to refrain, reduce, restore and renew.
Multiple projects have been delivered via the club’s Trust such as creating a garden space in Adeyfield Academy, local litter picks around community areas and upcycling damaged footballs into hanging baskets.
A three-metre border has been implemented around the perimeter of the training ground which will not be cut and will be allowed to grow wild.
Hedges at the training ground are to be cut on top, which will allow for growth and fruit-bearing at the side for local wildlife.
Through our energy contract, Watford FC contributed via Open Energy Market and Cool Earth’s partnership to protecting 6.40 acres of rainforest in Northern Peru during June 2020.
Education
Sessions on global warming, sustainability, recycling and more have been delivered to primary and secondary schools in the local area via the Trust.
Alongside the Trust, schools involved have achieved the following:
- Four pupils have signed up for community social action projects at their local community centre.
- All pupils have been asked to lead school council termly meetings around climate change, presenting to governors in March.
- All pupils achieved their school council award (school target of time spent independently learning about the subject).
Educational delivery programmes to the club’s employees will also help drive Watford FC’s medium and long-term push to keep developing great habits, which support an increased sustainability profile across the club.
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With Saturday's visit to Kenilworth Road edging nearer, Peter Kennedy looks back to the most famous trip to Luton of all time.
In part two of her in-depth interview, Helen Ward talks about having children, picking Wales over England, returning to Watford and retiring
Watford FC Women can confirm the departure of defender Ylenia Priest following the mutual termination of her contract.
Priest joined Watford in June 2021 and made 10 appearances for the Golden Girls in the 2021/22 campaign, with her season cut short due to a knee injury suffered in December.
Scoring a memorable goal in the Hornets’ 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace at Vicarage Road in October 2021, Priest put in a series of committed displays in the Championship and departs with the club’s best wishes.
“Lenny is a true professional and a great person,” said General Manager Laura Dyer. “She has been a pleasure to coach and we would like to wish her all the very best in her next journey.”
Head Coach Damon Lathrope added: “I’d like to wish Lenny all the best moving forward. She is a true professional and has shown a great attitude and mentality to overcome her injury.”
Best of luck, Ylenia!
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This will be the last season for Watford's Helen Ward - a footballing career that began at the age of nine and will end as a record holder
Tickets for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Southern Premier Division fixture against London Bees (Sunday April 16, 2pm KO) at Grosvenor Vale will go on general sale to supporters at 10am on Monday March 27.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
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Hello everyone. Our “Deceased Watford Player Of The Month” for March 2023 is Charles Harrison. Up in Hornet Heaven, we love a good nickname, and Charles Harrison had one of the best. You can learn about him here: https://hornetheaven.com/charles-harrison-2/ Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin.
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated forward Ezio Touray.
The 20-year-old joined the Young Hornets in January 2023 and has featured regularly for the Under-21s since arriving at Vicarage Road, alongside taking part in first-team training.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’ve played as both a striker and a number 10. As a striker, I like to hold up the ball and run in-behind because I can be both strong and quick. Big parts of my game are shooting, passing, heading and running.Your footballing idol?
Thierry Henry has always been someone who I have looked up to. He was really quick and strong, knew what he was doing and knew where the goal was. His finishing was just really natural. I also really like Paul Pogba because when he is on top form, his vision and passing is just unreal.Biggest influence?
I would say my parents. They have pushed me to get into a better place and a better environment. They have always helped me to take the right path.-dynamic\_image.jpg)
Most talented teammate?
It’s close, but I would probably say Adrian Blake. Once he gets on the ball, he will do the rest. He will score or he will assist. It’s great to play alongside him and I’ve had a couple of assists for him this season!Favourite football memory?
I would say when I scored two goals against Middlesbrough back in December in the Premier League Cup. That was a really big moment for me at the time and it was great to help the team out.Your aims for the future?
My aim is to definitely get to the highest level possible and for me, I believe that is the Premier League, so that is where I want to get to.-dynamic\_image.jpg)
Best advice you’ve received?
Always work hard, be confident and believe in your abilities.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I used to work in a hotel in Reading, but if I weren’t a footballer, I would like to work for a business company.How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace 86 – I know if a ball is played in-behind, I can get to it first.
Shooting 88 – I have a good left foot.
Passing 86 – I have decent vision, which helps.
Dribbling 79 – I’m not a dribbler!
Defending 68 – I’m not too bad, but I’m an attacker.
Physicality 90 – Always working on this and it’s a big part of my game.
OVERALL – 85Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Spaghetti Carbonara
Favourite song: WUNNA by Gunna
Favourite boots: Nike Mercurials
Favourite TV show: Snowfall
Favourite kit: Arsenal’s black away kit this seasonSEO Image
Watford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
Next to take on the questions is Annie Rossiter, who signed for the Hornets in August 2022. Rossiter, developed in Millwall’s youth side before joining London City Lionesses in 2019, has featured for England Under-18s.
The bright young forward is a skilful dribbler and composed in front of goal, with four seasons of experience in the Championship under her belt already.
Last to buy dinner: Annie Rossiter
I would split it but I’m not paying for it all!
Worst dressed: Emily Wallace
I don’t see people’s clothing much! I’ll say Em.Dressing room DJ: Flo Fyfe
She’s alright! I like when she puts Justin Bieber on.Teacher’s pet: Dré Georgiou
I’m only picking her because it’s going to annoy her!Always late for training: Gemma Davison
I’ve been late once or twice; Fran Ali used to be the worst but Gem comes late after work!
First on the dance floor: Flo Fyfe
She loves a boogie!Best at FIFA: Annie Rossiter
Me. 100 per cent. It’s not up for debate!Best future manager: Alli Palisch
She’d form good relationships but not be afraid to present harsh truths when she needs to!SEO Image
Watford Under-21 striker Ezio Touray has joined Vanarama National League outfit Maidstone United on loan until April 30.
Touray, who joined the Young Hornets from Basingstoke Town in January following a successful trial period, and has enjoyed a prolific start to life with the Golden Boys, scoring against the likes of Middlesbrough and Crewe Alexandra.
The Italy-born forward, 20, will now hope to continue his goalscoring exploits with George Elokobi’s Stones, who are looking to escape relegation from the fifth tier in the final eight games of the season.
Best of luck, Ezio!
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Northern Ireland international Craig Cathcart played 90 minutes as they secured a 2-0 victory over San Marino on the opening matchday of the European qualifiers (Thursday March 23).
Before the fixture, the 34-year-old was made captain of his national side by Northern Ireland manager Michael O’Neill, with the boss describing Cathcart as vital to his squad.
Speaking to Northern Ireland’s website, O’Neill said: “Craig has been a big part of my teams over the years. He has good leadership qualities and a calm head.”
During Cathcart’s 70th cap for his national team, Dion Charles bagged a brace against San Marino as the centre-half helped maintain an important clean sheet.
The Watford defender will face Finland this weekend (Sunday March 26, 7.45pm KO) as they look to continue their perfect start to Group H in the Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
Elsewhere, Colombia Under-20 international Yáser Asprilla featured in a 2-0 defeat to Wales’ Under-20 side (Thursday March 23). The 19-year-old started as number 10 but couldn’t help his team overcome a two-goal deficit.
Asprilla will hope for better results in his final two matches as Colombia face off against Sweden (Sunday March 26) and Murcia (Tuesday March 28).
Watford Under-21 defender George Abbott (second in from the left) came on as a second-half substitute as Wales Under-18s won 2-1 over Scotland (Thursday March 23) in an exhibition contest at Colliers Park.
The centre-half could also feature in the remaining fixture for Cymru’s youth side, as they face Scotland once again this Sunday (March 26).
Featuring later today (Friday March 24), Henrique Araújo is in line to play Romania (5pm KO UK time) as Portugal’s Under-21 side travel to the central European country for a friendly.
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There are no Championship games this weekend, so consider going to support a local non-league team or following Watford Women's trip to MK Dons
While Watford can still make the play-offs, we must put aside our concerns, doubt and anger to support the team
In light of the Vicarage Road centenary celebrations earlier this season, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Neil Dunham writes about the local boy who grew up to start more games than anyone else in Watford’s history.
‘Living the dream’ is a term often overused in life – few of us can claim to have the job we dreamed of as children. One who legitimately can is Watford legend Nigel Gibbs. ‘Making it’ as a top professional footballer has been the fantasy of many a youngster ever since the association game emerged. To play for your hometown club, a special privilege almost indescribable. To be idolised, respected and regarded as a role model by generations of kids would be amazing. Nigel Gibbs achieved all these things and more.
So this is ‘Home Ground Heroes’, highlighting a past player by describing a famous game in which they excelled. There’s a problem here though: picking a single game to represent the career of this Hornet hero is a quandary.
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The very nature of his style was to keep the opposition quiet, something he did successfully far more often than not. Which to choose? The choice of internet blog BSaD is hard to argue with: a now obscure 1998 FA Cup game against Premier League Sheffield Wednesday. If the opposition now sounds run-of-the-mill, Gibbs’ assigned player that day was anything but; Paolo Di Canio was a media darling – a technical genius and an archetypal maverick.
With their precocious Latin star in scintillating form, Wednesday were tipped to win comfortably. Gibbs, having not read the script, super cool and unaffected by reputation, kept the fiery Italian star in his pocket for the entire game. Di Canio tried everything, even switching positions to avoid his tormentor, but to no avail.
It was a defensive masterclass, Gibbs so on top that he even turned the tables on his famous foe, showing Di Canio his heels with some tremendous footwork and almost winning the tie for Watford with a late firecracker of a shot. The game ended in a draw, and when hostilities resumed at Hillsborough 11 days later the rivalry continued in a similar vein.
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Di Canio, having moved to centre-forward, became so frustrated with his shackles that his temper boiled over, a tantrum ensued and a red card was shown for his ‘colourful’ ranting at the officials. In truth, any number of Gibbs’ performances could have been described in the same way. The bottling up of Di Canio came an impressive 14 years into Nigel’s professional career at Watford.
He’d come up through the ranks, under the tutelage of his father Dennis, who himself had worked with the juniors since the late 1970s. Nigel had followed the Hornets home and away as a fan before joining the youth team, and impressed enough to earn a professional contract in November 1983. His debut came just two days later, thrown straight in at the deep end against Sparta Prague in the UEFA Cup.
Ever reliable, Gibbs became the cornerstone of the Watford defence, his workmanlike, deceptively fast gait and exceptional eye for the game nullifying football’s top wingers week after week. Although never perceived as a potent attacking option, Gibbs would make marauding breaks down the wing, putting in superb crosses and the occasional spectacular strike on goal.
In his long career Nigel scored just seven goals, but quality was worth waiting for as every one of them was a scorcher from outside of the box. Gibbs went on to represent Watford in the old First Division (from 1983 to 88) and the Premiership (1999/2000), the only player to have done so.
Although missing the first rise through the divisions under Graham Taylor, he won a Division Two (League One) championship medal in 1997/98 and played his part in the play-off winning campaign that saw Watford promoted to the top division in 1999. He was Player of the Season in 1991/92 and appointed club captain for 1992/93. His achievements were topped off more recently when he was voted into the All-Time Watford XI.
By the time ‘Sir Nigel’ ended his playing career he could look back on 491 first-team appearances (second only to Luther Blissett’s 503) and more starts than anyone else in the club’s history. A (now rare) one-club man, his appearance tally would surely have been much higher but for two major injuries that cost him the equivalent of three seasons’ worth of games. Having retired from playing in 2002, Gibbs continued as a coach for three further years, successfully leading Watford’s second XI to the Reserve League (South) title before serving as assistant manager under Ray Lewington.
When all is said and done, most football legends are rated for being prominent, possibly showy and mostly conspicuous. Our Nigel came in almost under the radar, a man who worked hard, focused on the job and always led by example. A true gentleman, a leader and an all-round good guy, he’s a more than worthy member of the ‘Home Ground Hero’ club.
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Following the postponement of their clash with Oxford United, Watford FC Women turn their attention to an MK Dons trip this Sunday [March 26, 2pm KO].
The Golden Girls were heading into that postponed game full of confidence and with momentum on their side and they’ll be looking to pick up right where they left off.
The earlier meetings between the two sides saw the Hornets run out winners twice in three weeks. The league clash saw MK Dons push the Golden Girls all the way with a late Faye Brough strike securing a vital three points.
The Ground
Sunday’s game is being played at Stadium MK, a fully-seated venue. MK Dons have started with three blocks of seats open, situated behind both dugouts, and above the tunnel along the side of the pitch.
If you’re driving to the game, there are plenty of options for parking around the stadium, but be sure to check for any restrictions across the car parks.
The nearest train station is Bletchley, with a short bus journey to the stadium to follow. Once you arrive at Bletchley Station, a short walk to Bletchley Bus Station will allow you to get the number 6 bus to Stadium MK, a journey that will take around 15 minutes from train station to stadium.
Tickets
Tickets for Sunday’s match can be purchased in advance; general sale entry is priced at £5 for adults and £3 for under-18s.
To book tickets click HERE, visit the Box Office or call 01908 622933. Tickets will be available to buy right up until kick-off.
The Match
The hosts head into the game full of confidence, lifting the Berks & Bucks FA Women’s Cup last week with a 3-0 win over Abingdon United.
Since the sides last met the Dons have played six times, winning four, drawing and losing once to round out a strong run of form. Milton Keynes have kept three clean sheets in those six matches, showing their best defensive run of the season.
The Hornets go into the game buoyed by positive results against Gillingham and Crawley Wasps in recent weeks, promising a competitive tie in Buckinghamshire on Sunday.
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Seven first-team players have been selected for international duty during the forthcoming break.
Imrân Louza’s Morocco will face a home game with Brazil (Saturday March 25, 10pm KO UK time) before travelling to Spain to play Peru (Tuesday March 28, 10.30pm KO UK time).
Midfield partners Leandro Bacuna and Ismaël Koné will be on opposite sides as Curaçao host Canada (Sunday March 26, 2am KO UK time). Bacuna’s Curaçao will then visit Argentina (Tuesday March 28, TBC KO) while Koné’s Canada play Honduras (Wednesday March 29, 1am KO UK time).
Ryan Porteous will hope to add to his one Scotland cap in fixtures against Cyprus (Saturday March 25, 2pm KO) and Spain (Tuesday March 28, 7.45pm KO), while fellow defender Craig Cathcart’s Northern Ireland are set to meet San Marino (Thursday March 23, 7.45pm KO) and Finland (Sunday March 26, 7.45pm KO).
Henrique Araújo has been selected by Portugal Under-21s, who travel to Romania (Friday March 24, 5pm KO UK time) and then play a home game against Norway (Tuesday March 28, 7pm KO UK time).
Yáser Asprilla has been called up for Colombia Under-20 matches against Wales (Thursday March 23), Sweden (Sunday March 26) and Murcia (Tuesday March 28).
Ismaïla Sarr will not be travelling with Senegal due to injury.
In the Academy, there is a Wales Under-18 call-up for defender George Abbott, who will hope to feature in a double-header against Scotland (Thursday March 23 and Sunday March 26).
Young goalkeeper Jonathan Macaulay is on standby for England Under-18s, who play Croatia (Wednesday March 22), Belgium (Friday March 24) and Switzerland (Monday March 27).
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The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Andres Aguilar.
The 17-year-old joined the Young Hornets in November 2020 and has featured regularly for the Under-18s in the FA Youth Cup this campaign, while occasionally stepping up to Omer Riza’s Under-21 side.
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How would you describe your playing style?
I’m a technical player that likes to get on the ball on the half-turn. I’d say I’m a possession-based footballer. As you can see from the FA Youth Cup, I like to get involved in set-pieces and I have a range of passing. That’s a big part of my game, linking up with others.Your footballing idol?
I grew up in Spain, so I used to watch Barcelona during their tika-taka era. Andrés Iniesta, Xavi - that type of player. They had elegance in how they retained possession. When I used to watch them play, I would always look at their intricate passes and how they would run the midfield. I would also say Lionel Messi, but no one is Messi!Biggest influence?
My parents have helped me massively, getting me from place to place all the time, especially when I didn’t have a club. As coaches go, Charlie Daniels has probably been the best I have ever had in my life. He has given me so much trust and confidence in myself to play my game. That’s exactly what I needed.-dynamic\_image.jpg)
Most talented teammate?
There are so many talented players so this is tough to choose. Charlie Davis is so composed and keeps the ball very well. As midfielders, we understand each other. He plays a slightly deeper role, so he helps to break up the play and most of the time he gives it to me.Favourite football memory?
I would say playing with freedom as a youngster with no stress or pressure in the sun in Spain. That’s where my love for football grew.Your aims for the future?
Short-term I want to earn a professional contract of course, and then longer term I want to make it like anyone else in the game.
Best advice you’ve received?
Always train and play like it is your last game. My mum would always mention it, and it’s really good advice.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I’d like to do what David Attenborough does! I think narrating over wildlife documentaries is really cool, and I’d love to do it.How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 72 - I’m not the quickest, but I’m sharp.
Shooting: 82 - Most of my shots go on target, so that has to be a good thing.
Passing: 87 - I’ve had a few assists this season and it’s my main attribute.
Dribbling: 87 - I keep the ball under control.
Defending: 45 - I don’t really get involved in the slide tackles, but I’m always part of the press.
Physicality: 70 - I’m always working on this in the gym.
OVERALL: 85Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: My mother’s Spanish food - tapas, that sort of thing
Favourite song: What Happened To Virgil by Lil Durk
Favourite boots: Adidas Xs in green
Favourite TV show: Shooter
Favourite kit: Barcelona’s 2011/12 away kit in blackSEO Image
As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we’re taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
In this edition, James Garrett looks back at Craig Ramage’s header against West Bromwich Albion, in a piece first included in last season’s matchday programme…
The achievements of Graham Taylor are well documented, while such feats are also ingrained in the memories of those of us lucky enough to have watched his Watford teams play.
A small period of GT’s Watford that is perhaps a little forgotten about is his return as Manager in February 1996, when he arrived for his second spell supported by Kenny Jackett and Luther Blissett as coaches. From what I remember, it was a huge surprise.
It had been a terrible season up until then as the Hornets languished at the bottom of the table. Though he would go on to assume the role of General Manager in the summer, Taylor revealed that he was ready to roll his sleeves up in the dugout for the remainder of the 1995/96 campaign. Suddenly, everything felt good.
There wasn’t an immediate turnaround - it took until his fifth game back in charge to oversee a win, against Oldham - but there were encouraging signs. A re-arranged match away at West Bromwich Albion on a cold night in early March gave us a hint of a possible great escape. The Hornets were 3-0 down after 20 minutes, and then 4-2 down with 10 minutes to go, before we salvaged a draw with Colin Foster and Craig Ramage both scoring braces.
Just 11 days later the Hornets faced the Baggies at home. There wasn’t as much goal-mouth action to write home about as there had been in the away match, but it was still a last-minute strike that salvaged a vital point, with Ramage heading in from inches out following Keith Millen’s far-post header.
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There was a renewed fighting spirit about this team now, and they demonstrated on several occasions that they would never give up. The next home game saw Watford 3-1 down at half-time to Sunderland, before another second-half rally saw them rescue a 3-3 draw. Then in April, the Hornets went goal crazy at home, scoring five against Port Vale, four against Reading, and six against Grimsby. All of this gave the Golden Boys an outside chance of staying up, but they had two incredibly difficult games left in front of them.
A remarkable and emotionally charged away day at Norwich in the spring sunshine saw one of the most fraught and tight games of football many of us had ever seen. It took something special to win the match 2-1, and I can still see Gary Porter controlling the ball 30 yards out and pinging it sweetly into the top corner for a famous goal. Somehow it had all come down to the final day, albeit with Watford needing other results to go their way, while also having to beat Leicester City at The Vic.
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The Foxes needed a win themselves to cement a play-off place, so it was like a cup final atmosphere on that Sunday afternoon. However, I think the final few weeks of drama and effort the team had put in caught up with them a little. While Watford never gave up, a Muzzy Izzet header earned Leicester the spoils, and succumbed the Hornets to the third tier of English football for the first time in 17 years.
It had nearly been the great escape, and so much of that had been down to GT and his staff, leaving us wondering what might have happened if the change had occurred a couple of weeks earlier. Sometimes though, you need to take a step back before taking two forward, and it was shortly all about to happen again to this great club thanks to Graham Taylor.
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Ryan Porteous hopes to get the chance to replicate the biggest high of his career by earning his second Scotland cap against Cyprus on Saturday.
Former Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster has come out of retirement to join Wrexham on a short-term deal.
Thirty-two years ago today, on March 23, 1991, with seconds left of a Division Two match at Middlesbrough and the scores locked at 1-1, David Byrne scored an incredible goal to kickstart what was arguably the most remarkable Great Escape in the club's history. Here, the former Golden Boy reflects on the game in an interview first published in matchday programme The Hornet...
When Watford visited Middlesbrough on March 1991, with 11 games left of the Division Two season, relegation to the third tier looked inevitable. The Hornets were eight points adrift of safety and had picked up only five wins from 35 games.
The campaign had begun with Colin Lee in charge, but he was replaced in November and Tottenham Hostpur legend Steve Perryman took over. This was not good news for winger David Byrne, who had been signed by Lee from Plymouth Argyle earlier that month.
“When I came in, in a lot of the games we played we really didn’t get what we deserved,” explained Byrne, looking back on that season. “We had a fairly strong side, but it was just one of them things.
“Obviously, it then cost Colin his job, which was a bit of a downer, for me especially. Steve Perryman came in and he just sort of made it clear he wanted to bring one or two of his players in. That’s football, there’s not a lot you can do about it.
“At the end of the day, I just thought I’ll keep plugging away, and it was [assistant manager] Peter Taylor that really kept my head above water. I wasn’t frightened to air my opinion, but Peter said to just keep my head down and keep going.”
Byrne was right to plug away because, despite being reduced to a bit-part player by Perryman, the Hammersmith-born wide man had a pivotal role to play in what would become one of the greatest escape’s in the club’s history. This all came about on a Saturday afternoon at Middlesbrough’s Ayresome Park.
“We got to the nitty gritty part of the season,” said Byrne. “When you get into one of those ruts, it’s not easy to get out, but we knew our luck had to turn at some stage, because we couldn’t keep playing as well as we were and keep dropping points.
“Against Middlesbrough I thought I was going to start but he decided to leave me on the bench. I remember watching on from the bench. We put a corner in and should have scored from it, and they went up the other end and I think it was Ian Baird who missed an absolute sitter.”
It was end-to-end stuff in the North East but, with 15 minutes to play, the game somehow remained goalless and Byrne remained sat on the bench.
“Peter Taylor told me to go and warm up, then I got the shout. Peter just told me to see if I could get us in their box. His exact words were ‘Go and win us the game’. We’d just gone 1-0 down but we won a free-kick and Gary Porter scored it to make it 1-1. Then I was thinking to myself, ‘We could go on and win this’, because you could just see that we’d taken the wind out of their sails. And then the rest is history.”
Indeed it is. What followed was one of the finest individual efforts from a Watford player in recent history. It trumped the excellent Porter free-kick that preceded it and every other strike that year, winning the 1990/91 Goal of the Season award. And, just like so many of the best goals in this club’s past, it took place in the final minute of the match.
“I remember there was a cross in, and David James came out and took it,” recalls Byrne. “I ran inside and then back outside, and he threw it under shoulder height and it nearly reached the halfway line! There was a bit of sidespin on it, because as it bounced it sort of shot over right into my path. I was just able to take a touch and take it on.
“I just wanted to get up the park. I was a good crosser of the ball, so I was just trying to get into those areas. But I remember Trevor Putney came out and showed me inside and I thought, if he’s going to show me inside, I’m going to take it. I just did a little stepover and cut inside on my left, and just thought to myself, ‘Listen, there isn’t long to go, have a pop’. It was with the leg that I only stand on.”
That ‘pop’ was a beautifully curled left-footed effort which flew into the top corner, leaving Boro goalkeeper Andy Dibble no chance.
“Every time I see Andy Dibble now, I give him the nod, and he knows what the nod is,” he joked.
Almost as impressive as the goal itself was Byrne’s acrobatic celebration.
“I remember running and doing a somersault to celebrate. I used to love doing a bit of gymnastics and trampolining and things like that. I did the somersault, and after the game Steve Perryman came on and instead of saying, ‘What a great goal’, he said, ‘I never knew you could do a somersault!’ I just turned around and said, ‘That’s what you’ve been leaving on the bench!’”
That match-winning kick turned out to be Byrne’s last for Watford, as he was not selected for the remaining matches of the season and subsequently left the club, but the strike kickstarted an incredible run of seven wins and two draws from 11 games and incredibly the team escaped relegation.
“It’s nice to go down in that history book,” admitted Byrne. “That goal really set us on the road to recovery, if you like. After that our points total was excellent. On the coach, we were having a beer and I said, ‘That’s the turning point’. I said to Keith Dublin, ‘Dubbers, that’s us, that’s the game that will make our season’. He said, ‘We’ll see, because we’ve played better than that and got beat’. I said, ‘Yeah, but maybe there’s the little bit of luck we’ve been looking for’.”
More In This Series
- Smith v Preston North End (2008)
- Anya v Barnsley (2013)
- Cleverley v Nottingham Forest (2009)
- Graham v Norwich City (2010)
- Shittu v Reading (2007)
- Byrne v Middlesbrough (1991)
- Miller v Wycombe Wanderers (1997)
- Kennedy v Luton Town (1997)
- Palmer v Bournemouth (1998)
- Guedioura v Cardiff City (2014)
- Deeney v Stoke City (2015)
- Doyley v QPR (2009)
- Slater v Rotherham United (1997)
- Ighalo v Brentford (2015)
- Johnson v Bristol City (1998)
- Webber v Coventry City (2002)
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Watford's community director reflects on the evolution and growth of the club's Community Sports and Education Trust as it celebrates 30 years.
Watford midfielder Ismaël Koné has enjoyed settling into his new surroundings and is relishing the challenge of adapting to the English game.
The Canadian international, who is currently away with his national team, joined from CF Montréal during the January transfer window and has gone on to make 11 appearances in yellow so far.
Since making his professional debut in February 2022, the 20-year-old has experienced a rapid rise to Vicarage Road fame having featured for Canada during the 2022 World Cup. Speaking on Watford FC’s Twitter Spaces, Koné explained what the journey has been like for him.
“It’s gone pretty fast, but this is the life I wanted,” he began. “In this sport, it can either go very fast or slow, so you have to be ready for it. [Qualifying for the 2022 World Cup] was a huge moment for my country and for me to be a part of it was a blessing.
“After those hard-working nights where I didn’t think it would come so fast, I almost didn’t get time to process it when it happened. I think after the World Cup, I sat down with my close ones and had the chance to process this year and how blessed I have been.
“It’s crazy to think that I had only played a couple of domestic games and then I was called up to the national team and I got a chance to play for my country. I was extremely proud to be a part of it and I’m thankful to God for putting me in this position.
“I’ve been settling into this new life and getting into my habits. The place is really nice, and I’ve seen a little bit with my mum which was pretty fun. I’m liking my new life at Watford.”
Koné believes the move to England was the logical next stage, giving him a chance to broaden his horizons whilst emulating some of the heroes he used to watch growing up.
“I think I was ready, and this was the next step for me,” Koné continued. “Obviously, I came here to challenge myself and it’s a very physical league. I think I was getting that in the MLS but there is even more of that physicality in this league.
“It’s a challenge for me, but I’ve got to work hard to show my quality and I’m enjoying it. It’s a process and I’m taking it day by day. I have watched a lot of players in my position to become a better player myself. I look at Patrick Vieira a lot because he was that midfielder who could go forward and go back.
“N'Golo Kante is another player who is very good defensively, but he has that edge where he can go forward as well. Those types of players are the kind that I look up to and try to take elements of their game and put it into mine to become a better player.”
On his teammates, Koné has been impressed by the entire squad but believes that two players, in particular, stand out for him.
He said: “I would say Hamza Choudhury because he has this way of going about winning and he always wanted to win. That, for me, is the biggest quality in a player. Of course, technical ability is important, but we are a team and we need players who come in with this energy.
“Also, Hassane Kamara has been helpful for me. He took me in right away and helped me with everything. When I came here, we were going into the New Year and I was alone. He saw that I was alone, and he told me to come with him and we spent the night out together. He has been acting like a big brother to me and has been very nice.
“I think Hassane is the joker of the group and not in a bad way, but he is a great personality. He has that smile on his face every time you see him. He makes you want to laugh and have a good time.”
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Watford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
Next to take on the questions is goalkeeper Georgie Ferguson, who signed for the Hornets in August 2021. Establishing herself as first-choice between the sticks, Ferguson took the number one shirt ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Best Mate: Melis Mehmet
I’ve known her for years; she won’t leave me alone!Last to buy dinner: Dré Georgiou
She’s cheeky like that! I think she’d find a way out of it.
Worst dressed: Helen Ward
I’m going to have to pull Helen out for that one. I don’t mind her crocs, it’s the tie dye socks that go with it.Dressing room DJ: Anne Meiwald
Anne recently; she’s kept the job so must be alright! It’s a bit of everything but mainly House before a game.Always late for training: Gemma Davison
Fran Ali used to hold that crown! Now we’ll go with Gem.First on the dance floor: Megan Chandler
Questionable moves!
Most likely to disgrace themselves at the Christmas party: Anne Meiwald
She loves a night out, put it that way!Best at FIFA: Georgie Ferguson
I can’t say myself, can I? I play a bit of Pro Clubs so I’ll take it.Teacher’s pet: Annie Rossiter
That’s a hard one. Annie’s always out first for training.Best future manager: Helen Ward
Got to be Hels. She’s already the mum of the group!SEO Image
Watford Football Club Community Sports and Education Trust will welcome partners and businesses, as well as some special guests from Watford FC’s past and present, to their 30th anniversary Gala Dinner at Vicarage Road Stadium this Thursday (March 23).
As part of the Gala Dinner celebrations, the Trust are offering some great prizes, unique experiences, Watford FC memorabilia, and more in a silent auction. This silent auction is open to all; however, it will be featured and close during the Gala Dinner night itself (closes Thursday March 23 at 11.30pm).
Prizes include a unique Watford FC training ground experience, hospitality table at the last game of the 2022/23 season, bespoke artwork such as a portrait of Luther Blissett OBE DL, as well as plenty of non-football related items, including much sought-after Peter Kay tour tickets, private dining, and holiday breaks.
By supporting the silent auction, you will be directly helping the Trust to continue to make a positive difference for all through sport, physical activity, and learning. The auction is now live and you can bid HERE. Or if you would like to support the cause but not bid on any items, you can donate HERE.
During the night the Hornets’ charity will also be announcing their Trust Champions as part of the first-ever Trust Champion Awards; these are amazing local people who have benefitted and supported the Trust and their programmes. Winners have been nominated and selected by those who have seen first-hand the difference they have made - members of Trust staff.
See below for details:
Overall Trust Champion, sponsored by Mercer Hole
This Champion has spearheaded, driven forward, or made a significant contribution to the Trust.
Equality Champion, sponsored by PACAIR
This Champion shares our inclusivity value, helping to build a better community for all, irrespective of age, race, religion, gender, or background.
Mental Health Champion, sponsored by One Vision
This Champion is a great advocate for positive mental well-being and tackling barriers to achieve it.
Education Champion (11+), sponsored by Metro Commercial Printing Ltd
This Champion proactively engages with learning opportunities, improving future life chances for themselves and/or others.
Physical Health Champion, sponsored by Herts Sports Partnership
This Champion knows the health benefits of physical activity and a balanced diet and puts it into action.
Community Champion (Youth), sponsored by Warner Bros. Studio Tour Leavesden
This Champion is a young person who brings people together to make a positive impact in society.
Community Champion (Adult), sponsored by Watford Chamber
This Champion tackles challenges with a smile on their face, inspiring those around them.
Fundraising Champion, sponsored by Rocket Graphics Ltd
This Champion has excelled in their support for the Trust, showing how one person can make a big difference in the success of a charity.
Volunteer Champion, sponsored by Wenzels
This Champion is a volunteer that goes above and beyond in their contribution to The Trust, sharing our values and improving the lives of local people.
Education Champion (U11), sponsored by Atria Watford
This Champion has an appetite for learning, developing themselves and/or others.
Football Champion, sponsored by Watford FC
This Champion has developed as an all-around football player and supported those around them.
The Winners of the Trust Champion Awards will be announced throughout the evening.
You can find out more about the work of the Trust by visiting their website HERE or following @WFCTrust on social media.
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Watford head coach has been in the same situation as Wigan Athletic in terms of non payment
As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we’re taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
In this edition, James Garrett looks back at a memorable header from Luther Blissett, in a piece first included in last season’s matchday programme…
With 11 games to go the dream was still on; the Hornets, in their first ever season in the top flight of English football, were still on course for European qualification and second spot in Division One. The team were three points clear of Manchester United when they welcomed Birmingham City, who were second from bottom, to The Vic for a Tuesday night fixture under the lights.
Unusually, considering the successes during the season, there was a hint of disappointment in the air as Watford had lost only their second home game of the campaign a few days before against Spurs, and they were keen to bounce back as quickly as possible. It was to be a difficult first half for the Hornets as their slump of form continued.
Graham Taylor experimented with Richard Jobson on the right and Nigel Callaghan on the left, meaning John Barnes joined Luther Blissett as the second striker. GT, never a man who would just let things drift, acted decisively at half-time and replaced Jobson with Northern Ireland striker Gerry Armstrong, allowing Barnes and Callaghan to switch to their more familiar roles on their preferred wings.
Within seven minutes the bold move (remember only the one sub in those days) paid off as Armstrong flicked on a Callaghan corner from the left and Blissett scored a lovely header at the far post, dinking the ball over the on-rushing goalkeeper into the net. The goal is even more impressive when you consider the keeper was future Watford legend, Tony Coton.
Going in front did not really spur the team on though, and as they continued to struggle to find their form Birmingham were able to level when a flick-on from Mick Harford allowed Michael Ferguson to race clear and slot the ball past Steve Sherwood in the Watford goal.
In those days, GT made it no secret that the key to success was to try and score goals and by getting the ball into the penalty area with two good strikers around, there would always be chances. With 25 goals to his name already that season, including a hat-trick for England on his full debut, there was always another chance for Blissett in most matches.
His opportunity came in the 89th minute with the help of a lovely piece of skill from young midfielder Kenny Jackett. Following up a long cross from Callaghan from the right wing, Jackett was able to control the ball on the left by-line and volley back into the box where once again that man Blissett was at the far post to head the ball past a stranded Coton.
The relief was palpable on the terraces as the Hornets clinched the three points. Earlier on in the season City had scored a late equaliser at St Andrew’s against the Hornets, so the win was perhaps extra special. Even though the side hadn’t played well it was another win and now there were only 10 matches left as the busy Easter period approached.
GT had known his players had been keen to bounce back from the previous Saturday but commented after the match that he had to slow them down at half-time, as they had been too eager to impress. He had done just that, and Watford had the perfect man to lead the team over the final part of the season to that runners-up spot, and a place in the UEFA Cup.
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It is approaching 40 years since what is widely regarded as the pinnacle of Watford’s golden era – and this striker was a big reason why the Hornets reached the 1984 FA Cup Final.
Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixtures against Bristol City (Saturday April 15, 3pm KO) and Cardiff City (Wednesday April 19, 7.45pm KO) will go on sale from 12noon on Wednesday March 22.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Wednesday March 22- Home Group B
12noon, Thursday March 23- Home Group C
12noon, Friday March 24- Home Group D*
12noon, Monday March 27- General Sale
12noon, Tuesday March 28*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices - Bristol City (Category B)
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £15
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £15
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £33
- 65 & Over: £21
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £23
- Full-Time Student: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Ticket Prices - Cardiff City (Category D)
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £20
- 65 & Over: £12
- Full-Time Student: £8
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £20
- 65 & Over: £12
- Full-Time Student: £8
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £24
- 65 & Over: £15
- Full-Time Student: £10
- 18 & Under: £5
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £26
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £14
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Following alterations to our online ticketing process, tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign are being issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
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Watford’s Under-21 side are set to welcome Peterborough United to The Vic on Friday March 31 (1pm KO) in the PL Professional Development League.
Tickets are now available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Seating is in the Sir Elton John Stand only, and is unreserved. Ambulant seating is available in block SEJ1, while wheelchair bays on the platform in block RS8 of the Rookery Stand will be open. Please see below for more information regarding wheelchair & ambulant disabled tickets.
Season Ticket holders can gain complimentary access to the match by scanning their regular Season Ticket at the ticket readers adjacent to the turnstiles of the Sir Elton John Stand.
Ticket Prices
Season Ticket Holder: Free
Adult: £5
65 & Over: £3
18 & Under: £1Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Ambulant seating can be booked online as usual at tickets.watfordfc.com, however supporters requiring a wheelchair space should call the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office on 01923 223023 to arrange their booking. Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
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To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
Every manager’s reign has its sliding-door moments, and you have to wonder how different Watford’s history might have looked today if providence had been kinder to Mike Keen.
In his four years running the show at Vicarage Road (cue all the lazy jokes from outsiders about how many managers or head coaches the Hornets have had in the last four years), Keen won more games than he lost.
His time in charge at Watford, initially as player-manager, included the fateful night they were relegated to the Fourth Division in 1975 after a traumatic 3-2 home defeat by Walsall, which your correspondent witnessed as an 11-year- old fan from the old Main Stand enclosure.
Keen also presided over the early-season defeat at Darlington four months later, which left the Hornets 92nd in the Football League for the only time in their history. Remarkably, they would be 91 places higher up the ladder after a resounding home win against West Bromich Albion just seven years later.
But in the 1976/77 season, despite their dismal away form, Watford approached Easter with an outside chance of promotion, and hope sprang eternal – only for those slim prospects to disappear, like grains of sand slipping through Keen’s fingers, in 72 hours.
First, on the Saturday of Easter weekend, a paperboy’s pride in his brand-new bike purchased that morning (from Neale’s cycles on the Vicarage Road precinct) was undermined by a traumatic first home defeat of the season against Brentford.
Dennis Bond, in the first half, and Alan Mayes, denied an equaliser, both had penalties saved by Bees keeper Len Bond. By the time Watford had been held 2-2 at Stockport on Easter Monday and then slipped to a 2-1 defeat at Aldershot 24 hours later, with goalkeeper Steve Sherwood making his debut, all hope of promotion – and Keen’s job – had gone with seven games of the campaign left.
Chairman Elton John had been reluctant to jettison a loyal servant, but Keen was informed of his fate before an incredible 2-0 win against Huddersfield.
Referee Trevor Spencer had sent off Tony Geidmintis, for a useful right hook, and Mayes – for reasons far less obvious – and Sherwood was in inspired form before Keith Mercer’s two late goals brought the Hornets’ nine men a miraculous win.
Instead of the chorus “Keen Out” - which had surfaced among Watford’s long-suffering away contingent - the chant was turned on its head, and “Keen In” reverberated around the dog track, but it came too late to save his job.
As an appreciation of his performance, referee Spencer - from the officious, traffic warden end of the spectrum - was donated a free cup of tea by one of the patrons of the Main Stand enclosure by the tunnel, not necessarily still attached to the cup.
Keen’s dismissal led to a chain of events where his successor would take us all on an unforgettable magic carpet ride – up the league, through the divisions, to Wembley and Europe.
But I have often wondered what would have happened if Bond and Mayes had converted those two spot-kicks against Brentford, and Keen had found the key to winning away from home as readily as his successor...
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Tickets for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Southern Premier Division fixture against Bridgwater United (Easter Sunday April 9, 2pm KO) at Vicarage Road are now on general sale to supporters.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved in the lower Graham Taylor Stand, and as for matches at Grosvenor Vale, Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below.
Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
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Former Watford manager Roy Hodgson has come back out of retirement to take over at Crystal Palace.
Watford FC Women are delighted to announce that their penultimate home game of the 2022/23 campaign against Bridgwater United will now take place at Vicarage Road (Sunday April 9, 2pm KO).
Top goalscorers in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division and six points behind top spot with two games in hand, the Golden Girls go into the run-in as clear contenders for promotion to the Barclays Women’s Championship, with an FA WNL Cup final against Nottingham Forest to look forward to also.
Welcoming Bridgwater - who currently sit 11th - on Easter Sunday, the Hornets will be hoping to better the record attendance of 1,451 for a Watford Women home fixture, with that standard having been set against Coventry United on the final day of last season.
Ticket information will be available in due course.
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Chris Wilder was booked on Saturday after a very visible disagreement with his Wigan opposite number Shaun Maloney.
Watford Football Club is proud to mark the International Day for the Elimination of Racial Discrimination, today (Tuesday March 21).
Here at Watford, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as Graham Taylor and Elton John showed football could be. Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our football club.
To quote from the statement made by the players: “We, the players, stand together with the singular objective of eradicating racial prejudice wherever it exists, to bring about a global society of inclusion, respect and equal opportunities for all, regardless of their colour or creed.”
Players from both the men’s and women’s teams, supporters and staff got together to record the video above, taking a stand against all forms of discrimination in football while highlighting the We Campaign and the discrimination reporting line. This video will be played out on the big screen before home matches, to encourage our football community to report all incidents of discriminatory language and antisocial behaviour to us.
So far in the 2022/23 season, 26 incidents of discriminatory language - including homophobia, racism, sexism, islamophobia and antisemitism - have been reported to us, at both home and away matches. Every report is treated confidentially and is fully investigated by the Stadium Operations and EDI teams. Appropriate action is quickly taken to achieve meaningful results.
Of the 26 reports, eight have resulted in educational meetings with supporters, three have been shared with away clubs where their supporters have been involved, and three are still under investigation. We have been unable to progress 12 reports as we were unable to identify individuals from the information provided.
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To report an incident please text ‘WE’ followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. We will treat your message in the strictest confidence and take the necessary action against offending parties.
We continue to find ways to help the players, staff and people associated with the club in vocalising and representing their views and beliefs, and we are united against hate crime and discriminatory behaviour of any kind.
We have also further extended the reach of the We Campaign to boost confidence in the process by launching ‘We Allies’. The club is looking for more supporters to become advocates for and help us promote the We Campaign, and to show their support of our Equality, Diversity and Inclusion work among their fellow Hornets.
If you would like to be involved, or have any questions or thoughts regarding We Allies, please email Chris Hall, the club’s Supporter Liaison Officer, at chris.hall@watfordfc.com with ‘We Allies’ in the subject line, giving a brief overview of why you would like to take part.
You can find out more about the We Campaign HERE.
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Watford Under-21 duo Ryan Andrews and Scott Holding were pleased to secure an important 1-0 victory over Queens Park Rangers at Vicarage Road.
Britt Assombalonga’s first-half goal, combined with a solid defensive display, set the foundation for three significant points in the Professional Development League.
The defensive pair felt that their efforts deserved the win, with Andrews happy to have played his part.
Andrews said: “It is a good feeling, especially because lately results haven’t gone our way. Today I feel like we played well, we were comfortable on the ball and we got our chances. Overall, it was a good game.
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“I always feel like once you get a goal early on you get a boost, and it was good for us to get that goal because we haven’t had many chances recently.
“Omer [Riza, Under-21 Lead Coach] said [at half-time] to carry on. We had a lot of spells going forward and we knew that if we carried it on then we would get the win like we did.
“I felt like we handled the pressure quite well. In the first half we had the senior players and then in the second half most of them came off. Once we went back to our young side, I felt like we handled the pressure quite well.
“Chris Wilder [Watford Head Coach] said at full-time that he was impressed with both the seniors and the youngsters. He felt that we ran for each other and we played well. It was good.”
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Meanwhile, Holding was delighted to keep a clean sheet and learn from his senior-squad counterparts such as Christian Kabasele and João Ferreira.
“It was a great win,” Holding added. “I think the boys deserved it, and we’ve had a few dodgy results recently so we’ve been out on the training pitch, worked hard and we deserved that result today.
“It was a learning experience for me as a younger player, and I think Kabasele really helped me through the game. With his experience, it definitely helped. I want to bring their qualities into my game, so it was great to have them on the pitch and they helped us out today.
“At the start of the season we didn’t have the greatest start, and it’s been good to build from there and we have come together as a team. A clean sheet is always good as a defender!”
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Britt Assombalonga scored the only goal as Watford beat QPR to claim just their third Professional Development League win of the season.
Young defender Mattie Pollock enjoyed a stellar weekend for temporary club Aberdeen, as several Hornets continue to impress out on loan during the business end of the 2022/23 season.
The 21-year-old was the star of the show at Pittodrie on Saturday (March 18) as the Dons moved to within four points of third place in the Scottish Premiership with a 3-0 triumph over Hearts, following up his assist for Luís ‘Duk’ Lopes’ second goal with the winner in the 28th minute.
That headed strike marked Pollock’s first in six appearances since his January move north of the border, and at full-time he dedicated it to his late Auntie Sue.
He said: “I’ve had a really tough week. My Auntie passed away and I want to dedicate that goal to her. I missed the funeral on Friday so I could play in the game.
“To get a goal for her was great, and also to have my family in the crowd. Just to see my mum and dad and my sister, with her boyfriend, I had everyone there. It’s funny how football works - I got the goal ruled out against Motherwell but it has made this one sweeter.
“I’m really proud of the lads. We have been working really hard, and it’s another step in the right direction. We have shown what we are all about, and hopefully it can push us up the table. We are just taking it game by game.”
Over in Belgium, Vakoun Bayo played 90 minutes of RSC Charleroi’s 1-0 win at Royal Antwerp in the Jupiler Pro League (Sunday March 19), as the Zebras responded strongly to defeat last time out. Charleroi currently sit ninth in the standings, with five games to go.
In the English National League, promising talent Shaq Forde followed up a goal in last Tuesday’s home defeat to Altrincham (March 14) by completing 90 minutes of York City’s 2-1 win over Dorking Wanderers (March 18).
While that win boosted the survival hopes of the 18th-placed Minstermen, further up the table JJ McKiernan and Eastleigh strengthened their play-off chances with a 3-2 win over Altrincham on Saturday (March 18), four days on from a 3-1 defeat at high-flyers Notts County (March 14).
Both William Troost-Ekong and Joseph Hungbo were unused substitutes for their temporary sides over the weekend, with Salernitana holding Bologna to a 2-2 draw in the Italian Serie A, and Huddersfield Town claiming a crucial 1-0 win at Millwall in the English Sky Bet Championship (both March 18).
Elsewhere, Damani Hunter limped off after just eight minutes of Grays Athletic’s 2-1 win over Lowestoft Town in the Isthmian League North Division, and Bogdan Marian featured for 70 minutes as AFC Rushden & Diamonds fell to a late 1-0 defeat at Redditch United in the Southern League Premier Central (both March 18).
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Chris Wilder went to offer sympathy to the match officials after Saturday's game was another wrecked by constant stoppages for 'injuries'
Ismaila Sarr was not called up for international duty for Senegal because Watford made it clear he was injured.
Despite chasing what would have been a vital victory for the final half an hour yesterday, Watford looked a bit heavy-legged at times.
Following a 9am pitch inspection, Sunday afternoon’s FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division meeting with Oxford United (March 19) has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Grosvenor Vale.
Information on the new date will be available in due course, with tickets bought for the original game remaining valid for the rescheduled fixture.
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On Season 2, Episode 44 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on another Watford wobble, this time against second-from-bottom (and now bottom again) Wigan Athletic at The Vic. Also: The season in a nutshell. Plus: Watford fly high in the FA Women's National League Southern Division and look to continue an excellent season as they host top of the table Oxford United on Sunday. And: Change may be uncomfortable for some but change must happen at Watford FC in numerous areas of the Club--or be prepared for more misery ahead at The Vic.
Episode published: March 18, 2023
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfc
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Watford 1, Wigan 1: https://bit.ly/3JPpsFu
Follow You Orns! on Fanbase @youorns: https://fanbase.app/youorns
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NEW SOCIAL MEDIA ADDITIONS FOR YOU ORNS! - Follow on Mastodon: https://mstdn.social/@YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC.
This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
--- Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Head Coach Chris Wilder lamented a lack of cutting edge following Watford’s frustrating 1-1 draw at home to Sky Bet Championship strugglers Wigan Athletic.
Keinan Davis broke the deadlock on the stroke of half-time to put the Hornets on the path towards successive wins in the space of four days, but after James McClean equalised against the run of play six minutes into the restart the Latics held out for a share of the spoils.
The hosts dominated possession for large periods and conjured up 17 shots compared to their opponents’ six, but with only three of those being on target Wilder accepted that quality was lacking in the final third.
“It’s a missed opportunity and it is frustrating,” the 55-year-old said. “I think they started brightly and then we got a foothold in the game. We got into some good positions, but we just didn’t show the ability that we know we’ve got.
“That final pass, cross or finish just wasn’t there, and some of our decision-making was poor. When we got deep into their territory we just tried to be too intricate and thread balls through their three centre-halves, but when they line up like that you’ve got to go around the back.
“They were fighting for their lives, and we were looking for a winner but didn’t get it. In the end we come away disappointed that we haven’t done enough to get the victory.”
Wilder explained how he changed the shape of the team in the latter stages as they went all out for the three points, though he admitted that some of his players were lacking in energy as a result of having had three games in the space of a week.
He said: “I made the tactical decision to go and chase the game. I felt the game was there to be won, and that we needed to go and win it, so we did that and made positive substitutions that made it 4-2-4 at the end.
“We went for it, but we just ran out of legs and made some bad decisions at the end. I was disappointed at the fact our energy levels did drop - it’s always difficult when you have three games in a short space of time, but that’s the way the Championship is.
“We want to be a high-energy team in and out of possession, but there isn’t going to be a magic pill where I can just inject energy into the players for these last eight games. It’s something difficult to work with, with not much of the season left now.”
As well as harbouring disappointment with his own team’s display, Wilder was quick to acknowledge the determined performance put on by Wigan, who remain deep in the relegation mire amid significant off-field issues.
He continued: “There’s no doubt they’ve got fight in them - they’ve had some decent results before today, and they’ve not really been rolled over by anybody.
“You have to give an enormous amount of credit to Shaun [Maloney, Wigan manager] and his players because with what they’re going through you can either put the white flag up or have a go, and they were right at it today.
“I know what they’re going through because I’ve had to deal with similar on a few occasions during my career, and they’ve come here today and given it everything they’ve got and got a result at the end of it.”
With the international break now upon us, Watford sit in 10th place with just eight games of the season remaining, and a trip to fierce rivals Luton Town lying in store next up on Saturday April 1 (12.30pm KO).
After a couple of days off the players not departing to represent their countries will regroup with Wilder and his staff at the London Colney training ground later in the week, while a small selection of the squad are set to feature in the Under-21s’ Vicarage Road clash against QPR on Monday (March 20, 1pm KO).
Wilder added: “It’s easy to think that the international break is a golden opportunity to spend a prolonged period working with your players, but we’ve got a lot of guys leaving us so it is a bit difficult. Hopefully they come back fit and healthy, ready for eight huge games.
“The players have a couple of days off, but a few will play for the Under-21s and we’ll be down at the stadium for that. Then we’ll be hard at work on the training pitch, ready to get going again for the run-in in a couple of weeks.”
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Six first-team players have been selected for international duty during the forthcoming break.
Imrân Louza’s Morocco will face a home game with Brazil (Saturday March 25, 10pm KO UK time) before travelling to Spain to play Peru (Tuesday March 28, 10.30pm KO UK time).
Midfield partners Leandro Bacuna and Ismaël Koné will be on opposite sides as Curaçao host Canada (Sunday March 26, 2am KO UK time). Bacuna’s Curaçao will then visit Argentina (Tuesday March 28, TBC KO) while Koné’s Canada play Honduras (Wednesday March 29, 1am KO UK time).
Ryan Porteous will hope to add to his one Scotland cap in fixtures against Cyprus (Saturday March 25, 2pm KO) and Spain (Tuesday March 28, 7.45pm KO), while fellow defender Craig Cathcart’s Northern Ireland are set to meet San Marino (Thursday March 23, 7.45pm KO) and Finland (Sunday March 26, 7.45pm KO).
Henrique Araújo has been selected by Portugal Under-21s, who travel to Romania (Friday March 24, 5pm KO UK time) and then play a home game against Norway (Tuesday March 28, 7pm KO UK time).
Ismaïla Sarr will not be travelling with Senegal due to injury.
In the Academy, there is a Wales Under-18 call-up for defender George Abbott, who will hope to feature in a double-header against Scotland (Thursday March 23 and Sunday March 26).
Young goalkeeper Jonathan Macaulay is on standby for England Under-18s, who play Croatia (Wednesday March 22), Belgium (Friday March 24) and Switzerland (Monday March 27).
SEO ImageThe Golden Girls are back at Grosvenor Vale for the second time in five days as they round off the week with a season-defining clash with league leaders Oxford United on Sunday (March 19, 2pm KO).
Wins against Gillingham and Crawley Wasps provide momentum for Damon Lathrope’s side going into the meeting in Ruislip, and another three points would lift the Hornets to within a point of their opponents in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting The Vale for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please Note – Parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas - we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £5
- Concessions (U16, 65+, Disability) - £3
- Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
On the day sales for Adults & Concessions will see the prices increase by £2, so we highly recommend booking in advance if possible.
The £1 price will remain unchanged on matchday, with you just having to show proof of your season card to gain entry.
The Match
Oxford United arrive at Grosvenor Vale sitting atop the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division table, with five wins from five since a shock 2-1 defeat away at the hands of Cheltenham Town in early February.
While prolific in front of goal, it is perhaps the side’s defensive record that shows why they come into the game as league leaders, conceding only 15 goals across 26 games in all competitions this season, with just nine of those in the league.
They are only second to Watford for goals scored with 40 this term, and in their County Cup they’ve proved to be a class above the rest, scoring 36 unanswered goals in their three games.
When the sides last met in October an early Megan Chandler goal was cancelled out by a late Leah Burridge equaliser for The U’s, denying the Hornets an impressive three points on the road.
Be sure to get down to The Vale as come rain or shine a match to be remembered awaits. Be loud and get behind the Golden Girls as the race for the top heats up.
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With St Patrick’s Day celebrations taking place across Ireland and the world, we look back at five Irish Hornets who have donned the yellow of Watford.
John McClelland
Northern Ireland captain while at Watford, uncompromising defender John McClelland was a solid addition to Graham Taylor’s arsenal when the centre-half signed from Rangers in 1984.
McClelland’s experience stopped a leaky Watford defence from shipping goals in the top-flight and he spent six years at Vicarage Road, winning Player of the Season in his debut campaign in England.
McClelland played 53 times for his country, including against Luther Blissett’s England. The defender has the unique distinction of being the first player to play professionally in all four British home nations.
Alli Palisch
A current Hornet, versatile operator Alli Palisch is a full Republic of Ireland international having made her debut in a narrow defeat against Belgium in April 2021.
Born in Texas, USA, but eligible for Ireland through her grandparents, the 28-year-old joined Watford in August 2022 boasting experience in the Netherlands with PEC Zwolle, Icelandic side Selfoss and in the United States.
She has made over 20 appereances for the Golden Girls so far in 2022/23, and scored her first goal of the season against Crawley Wasps in October.
Peter Kennedy
Left-sided dangerman Peter Kennedy was crucial to Watford’s rise from the third tier to the Premier League in the 1990s. Kennedy topped the scoring charts for the Hornets in his first season as the Golden Boys secured the league title, and played 49 times in the following campaign, where Watford reached the top-flight under Graham Taylor.
Kennedy won 20 caps for Northern Ireland between 1998 and 2004, during which time he spent three years with Watford and another three at Wigan Athletic.
Terry Mancini
Former defender Terry Mancini began his career at Vicarage Road, featuring 76 times in yellow between 1961 and 1965 before enjoying successful spells at the likes of Arsenal, Queens Park Rangers and Leyton Orient.
The Camden native became a Republic of Ireland international in somewhat strange circumstances, qualifying through his father who had died when he was young. He went on to earn five full caps, making his debut against Poland in 1973 and scoring against Brazil at the Maracanã Stadium.
Craig Cathcart
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The only Northern Ireland international in the current men’s first-team squad, central defender Craig Cathcart is the longest-serving Watford player at the club, having signed permanently in 2014.
Initially joining on loan in 2009, Cathcart made his 250th appearance in a Watford shirt in December, and he is still a regular for his country, for whom he made his debut in 2010.
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Watford owner Gino Pozzo will attend a meeting with supporters for the first time since he bought the club more than a decade ago.
Match Info
- Watford v Wigan Athletic
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Saturday March 18, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: Graham Scott
- Assistant Referees: Derek Eaton and Steven Meredith
- Fourth Official: David Rock
Opposition
Wigan come into the clash at The Vic with everything to play for, sitting at the bottom of the table, six points adrift from safety and without a victory since a 1-0 triumph over fellow strugglers Huddersfield on February 11.
Ex-Latic Shaun Maloney was appointed as the club’s third manager of the 2022/23 campaign in late January - following the dismissals of Leam Richardson and Kolo Toure - and though they have ground out five draws since, they have found wins hard to come by and face an uphill battle to retain their second-tier status.
Stats Buzz
Watford have won their last three league matches against Wigan Athletic, claiming all three points in both games in 2014/15 and in the reverse fixture this season.
Wigan have never won an away league game against Watford in six previous visits to Vicarage Road (D3 L3).
The Hornets are unbeaten in each of their last 11 Championship games against sides starting the day in the relegation zone (W9 D2), winning each of their last five by an aggregate score of 10-1.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Wigan Athletic In Numbers.
Team News
Head Coach Chris Wilder reported no fresh injury concerns following Tuesday night’s win over Birmingham City, with a late call to be made on Ismaïla Sarr’s involvement in the game. Midfielder Hamza Choudhury is set to serve the final match of his two-game suspension.
Wigan centre-back Omar Rekik could return to the side after serving a one-game ban. Jason Kerr and Martin Kelly are both sidelined for the remainder of the campaign.
What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“There’s been a great mood around the camp over the last few days, which is always the case when you win a game of football.
“We’re in a good place, and we’re all looking forward to Saturday, but this is as big as it gets now because we know we can’t afford many slip-ups. We’re back at home in front of our supporters, and it would be great to get a result to end a week that started poorly on a good note.
“It’s been a difficult period for them [Wigan], but they’ve stayed competitive and they are dangerous. They’ve never really been thumped by anyone, and they’ve picked up a lot of draws so we know it’s going to be tricky.”
Shaun Maloney, Wigan Athletic Manager:
“We know we have to win games in this situation. Draws aren’t going to be enough for us - we’re trying desperately to win games, and we’ll continue to do that.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 7
Drawn: 5
Lost: 5Last Six:
October 2022: Wigan Athletic 0-1 Watford (Championship)
March 2015: Wigan Athletic 0-2 Watford (Championship)
December 2014: Watford 2-1 Wigan Athletic (Championship)
March 2014: Wigan Athletic 2-1 Watford (Championship)
September 2013: Watford 1-0 Wigan Athletic (Championship)
February 2007: Watford 1-1 Wigan Athletic (Premier League)Golden Flashback
João Pedro’s late header earned Watford a deserved 1-0 win over Wigan on their first visit to the DW Stadium in over seven years, earlier this season in October 2022.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Wigan Athletic, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Watford FC Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury shares his thoughts ahead of tomorrow’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Wigan Athletic...
Good afternoon to all our supporters and welcome back to The Vic for a second time this week; our last game before March’s international break.
I mentioned some time back, in a previous set of my programme notes, that we had been reflecting on last year’s Supporters Committee meeting, the reaction it drove among other supporters, the positives and negatives that emerged and the fact we have since been taking counsel from different supporter groups and organisations in order to find a supporter engagement they were happy with – not one created by the club.
It is essential for me that it has to be the supporters themselves that decide the structure of how they are represented across the very broad church that is the Watford fanbase and in what format the meetings take place.
This work is well underway now, and soon there will be an announcement of the supporter-agreed format for future regular meetings.
Gino Pozzo and I will attend in person at the first meeting, which will follow from the publication by supporters themselves as to how they expect the channels of two-way engagement to be fulfilled. There will also be involvement from other members of my senior management team.
In our 11th year as custodians of this club, the fire still burns just as brightly to make Watford FC the best it possibly can be.
I am often asked to speak about our vision and long-term plan for the club. There is nothing complicated or secretive about our plan. It’s a plan management and supporters can share: to achieve success on the field of play, to grow the club off the field, and to be identified as a real force for good within our local community.
Like all good intentions and plans, there will be footballing moments that are not as we would want them, but against this, there will also be memorable times for everyone to enjoy and we intend to deliver many more.
Right now, though, we have a fight on and we want to focus on that fight. We’re ready for it; we accept the challenge and we believe we have the best possible chance of achieving a play-off place with Chris Wilder leading the squad as Head Coach.
Let’s focus in on trying to achieve three points today before the final part of the season begins in a fortnight’s time with our April fixtures.
A welcome, before I close, to the Board of Directors from Wigan Athletic Football Club.
My continued best wishes to you and your families.
Best regards,
Scott Duxbury
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Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Wigan Athletic (March 18, 3pm KO), with the Hornets looking to build on Tuesday evening’s triumph over Birmingham City and sign off for the international break with consecutive wins.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Wigan Athletic, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Head Coach Chris Wilder is under no illusions about the importance of every game in the race to seal a top-six spot in the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship table, and he is hopeful his team can build on Tuesday night’s win over Birmingham when Wigan Athletic visit Vicarage Road on Saturday (March 18, 3pm KO).
Following a disappointing start to his tenure - with defeat at Queens Park Rangers last weekend (March 11) - 55-year-old Wilder oversaw a great response by his team second time out, marking his first home game in charge with three much-needed points.
Though he believes there is still room for improvement Wilder has been buoyed by the squad’s efforts in training this week, and with just nine games of the campaign remaining he knows another strong performance against the Latics is vital if they are to bridge the six-point gap up to the play-off positions.
“There’s been a great mood around the camp over the last few days, which is always the case when you win a game of football,” said Wilder.
“We know that we weren’t at it against QPR, and Tuesday night was a lot better. There was a period in the game where we can look back and say we could’ve done things better in terms of our decision-making and organisation, but we’ve gone through those things since then.
“We’re in a good place, and we’re all looking forward to Saturday, but this is as big as it gets now because we know we can’t afford many slip-ups. We’re back at home in front of our supporters, and it would be great to get a result to end a week that started poorly on a good note.”
The visit of Shaun Maloney’s Wigan marks the last clash ahead of March’s international break, with the Hornets’ next second-tier outing away at local rivals Luton Town scheduled for Saturday April 1 (12.30pm KO).
Having yielded good momentum from the victory in midweek Wilder knows how important it could be to build on that going into the break, when he will be able to spend a prolonged period with several members of the team at the London Colney training ground.
He said: “There’s no downside to winning football matches - everyone’s smiling and happy at the moment, and we want to continue that and sign off for the international break in the right way.
“It’s going to be a difficult break in some ways because we’re going to have a lot of players leaving us, but we’ll try to be smart in terms of the work we do with the players who will be here, while keeping our fingers crossed that those who do go come back fit and healthy, looking forward to helping us with the league run-in.”
Wigan come into the game with everything to play for, sitting at the bottom of the table, six points adrift of safety and without a victory since a 1-0 triumph over fellow strugglers Huddersfield on February 11.
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Facing a relegation-threatened team presents its own challenges according to Wilder, and he insisted Watford won’t underestimate a side fighting for their lives, that boasts a wealth of experience and know-how at this level.
Wilder added: “They’ll have understood from the off that this was going to be a difficult season, having been promoted last year, and there’s been quite a bit of turnaround with managers and players.
“It’s been a difficult period for them, but they’ve stayed competitive and they are dangerous. They’ve never really been thumped by anyone, and they’ve picked up a lot of draws so we know it’s going to be tricky.
“I have a huge amount of respect for every team in this division, so my message to the players is that this is as tough as it gets. We have to earn the right from the first whistle, and if we play like we can do then we’ll have a good chance of getting a result.”
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'We can’t carry players, that’s the biggest thing' says Wilder as he prepares for last game before international break
Head Coach Chris Wilder reported no fresh injury concerns ahead of Saturday afternoon’s Sky Bet Championship encounter against Wigan Athletic (March 18, 3pm KO), with a late call to be made on Ismaïla Sarr’s involvement in the game.
The Hornets’ record signing missed Tuesday night’s win over Birmingham City having felt tightness in his hamstring during last Saturday’s defeat to Queens Park Rangers, and Wilder stated in his pre-match press conference that returning players will have to earn their place in the squad with hard work on the training pitch.
“There are the usual bumps and bruises you’d expect from a competitive game, but nothing serious that rules anybody out,” Wilder confirmed.
“We’re keeping an eye on Sarr and we’ll see if we can get him back involved. More generally, the situation with every player is when they’re out of the team it’s their fight to get back in.
“The group is the most important thing, but there has to be a fight to get back into that team whoever you are or whatever club you’ve come from. There has to be genuine competition all around the football club that makes you better and stronger. I want to have difficult decisions to make.”
Wilder hopes to have other short-term absentees back in training over the international break, with a view to a return in April’s fixtures.
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Watford FC legends, former colleagues and fans have contributed to a podcast tribute to the former Watford Observer sports editor Oliver Phillips
With St Patrick’s Day celebrations taking place across Ireland and the world, we look back at five Irish Hornets who have donned the yellow of Watford.
John McClelland
Northern Ireland captain while at Watford, uncompromising defender John McClelland was a solid addition to Graham Taylor’s arsenal when the centre-half signed from Rangers in 1984.
McClelland’s experience stopped a leaky Watford defence from shipping goals in the top-flight and he spent six years at Vicarage Road, winning Player of the Season in his debut campaign in England.
McClelland played 53 times for his country, including against Luther Blissett’s England. The defender has the unique distinction of being the first player to play professionally in all four British home nations.
Alli Palisch
A current Hornet, versatile operator Alli Palisch is a full Republic of Ireland international having made her debut in a narrow defeat against Belgium in April 2021.
Born in Texas, USA, but eligible for Ireland through her grandparents, the 28-year-old joined Watford in August 2022 boasting experience in the Netherlands with PEC Zwolle, Icelandic side Selfoss and in the United States.
She has made over 20 appereances for the Golden Girls so far in 2022/23, and scored her first goal of the season against Crawley Wasps in October.
Peter Kennedy
Left-sided dangerman Peter Kennedy was crucial to Watford’s rise from the third tier to the Premier League in the 1990s. Kennedy topped the scoring charts for the Hornets in his first season as the Golden Boys secured the league title, and played 49 times in the following campaign, where Watford reached the top-flight under Graham Taylor.
Kennedy won 20 caps for Northern Ireland between 1998 and 2004, during which time he spent three years with Watford and another three at Wigan Athletic.
Terry Mancini
Former defender Terry Mancini began his career at Vicarage Road, featuring 76 times in yellow between 1961 and 1965 before enjoying successful spells at the likes of Arsenal, Queens Park Rangers and Leyton Orient.
The Camden native became a Republic of Ireland international in somewhat strange circumstances, qualifying through his father who had died when he was young. He went on to earn five full caps, making his debut against Poland in 1973 and scoring against Brazil at the Maracanã Stadium.
Craig Cathcart
The only Northern Ireland international in the current men’s first-team squad, central defender Craig Cathcart is the longest-serving Watford player at the club, having signed permanently in 2014.
Initially joining on loan in 2009, Cathcart made his 250th appearance in a Watford shirt in December, and he is still a regular for his country, for whom he made his debut in 2010.
SEO ImageThe main question ahead of the game with Wigan at Vicarage Road tomorrow is if Ismaila Sarr comes back into the team.
Watford will be looking to build on their momentum following Tuesday night’s convincing 3-0 win over Birmingham City (March 14), as they prepare to host Wigan Athletic this Saturday (March 18, 3pm KO).
Before the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship encounter, we take a look at five Hornets who have also featured for the Latics…
Ben Watson
A Wigan Athletic hero, Ben Watson joined the Latics in January 2009, helping his side to an 11th-placed finish in the Premier League while contributing with a handful of goals in 10 matches. Despite the positive start to his career at the DW Stadium, Watson made the loan move to Queens Park Rangers and West Bromwich Albion during the 2009/10 season, earning promotion with the Baggies from the second-tier.
Upon his return, the midfield general become an important part of the Latics’ foundations, with his time at the club peaking when he scored the winning goal in the FA Cup final against Manchester City in 2013.
After his time at Wigan had concluded, Watson made another winter move, but this time to the Hornets in January 2015. He came in and had a significant influence from the base of midfield, making 19 appearances as he helped Watford to promotion to the top-flight. He would remain at The Vic until 2018, becoming an important member of the squad during his time in yellow.
David Connolly
The striker began his career with the same pace he showed on the pitch – David Connolly’s rise to prominence was exceptional. A serial goalscorer for Watford’s youth team, Connolly was eventually handed his debut by Glenn Roeder in the FA Cup, becoming the Hornets’ youngest player to have featured in the competition at the time.
In just 34 appearances for the club, the forward scored 15 times and he also made a mark on the international stage with a hat-trick during World Cup qualification for the Republic of Ireland. As a result, Connolly made the move to Feyenoord in 1997.
With his exemplary goalscoring record failing to wane, the sprightly striker moved to top-flight side Wigan Athletic in 2005. Although he scored on his debut against West Brom and looked to be a promising asset as the Latics hoped to avoid relegation, Connolly’s season was struck by injuries and he eventually left after just one campaign at the DW Stadium.
Nathan Ellington
Striker Nathan Ellington enjoyed a prolific goalscoring record at Wigan, joining the Latics in 2002 for a then-club-record fee. After an impressive few seasons at the DW Stadium, Ellington saved his best to last. The forward scored 24 times on his way to taking the top goalscorer award in the Championship, helping secure Premier League promotion for Wigan.
Following a spell at West Brom, Ellington made the move to Watford and was a constant fixture in the side during the 2007/08 season under Aidy Boothroyd as the Hornets lost to Hull City in the play-off semi-finals. The following campaigns would see the striker spend most of his time on loan at Derby County, Preston North End and Greek side Xanthi FC, before he left permanently for Ipswich Town in 2011.
Gavin Massey
A Watford Academy product who was born and raised less than a few miles away from Vicarage Road, Gavin Massey’s association with the club began when he was just nine years old. Years later he made his debut in a 4-0 victory over Coventry City in 2010, and was taken on loan by Wealdstone, Yeovil Town and Colchester United over the next few seasons.
After departing his hometown club due to limited minutes, in 2017 Massey would move to then League One side Wigan. During his first season, he enjoyed an FA Cup run with the Latics, which included a famous victory over Manchester City on the way to the quarter-finals.
After over 150 club appearances and two league titles, Massey’s most important moment for the club arguably came in the form of a brace against Leeds United in 2019 to all-but confirm safety from potential relegation in the second-tier.
Peter Kennedy
Former left-sided midfielder Peter Kennedy is a proud owner of an impressive record, having been promoted with both sides during his spells with the Hornets and the Latics.
The Northern Ireland international began his career in his home country before he moved to Notts County. After a successful spell at Meadow Lane, Kennedy made the jump to Vicarage Road where, in Hertfordshire, the winger played a pivotal role in Watford’s consecutive promotions in the late 1990s and was the top scorer in his first season in yellow.
After over 100 appearances under manager Graham Taylor, Kennedy left in 2001, making his way to Wigan where he featured over 70 times. After a season with the Latics, Kennedy contributed to promotion from the third-tier as Wigan began their ascendancy to the top-flight.
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Club captain Helen Ward came off the bench to score four times as Watford Women thumped Crawley Wasps 6-0.
Exciting Academy prospect Harry Amass is flying the Watford flag on the international stage for England’s Under-16s, adding silverware to a landmark campaign which has seen the left-back rub shoulders with the Hornets’ first-team squad and excel in the prestigious FA Youth Cup.
Beating hosts Cyprus, rivals Scotland and highly-rated Denmark to lift their latest trophy in late February, the Young Lions picked 15-year-old Amass to represent his nation for a third time at Under-16 level, with the defender previously shining at younger age groups.
With more opportunities to impress at upcoming youth tournaments, Amass was delighted to lift the trophy, concluding with a hard-fought 1-0 win over the Danes in the final fixture.
“It was a great experience, playing with the best players in the country and it improves my game. It’s a great challenge,” Amass began.
“In the first game we played against Cyprus, which was in their home country and we won 3-0.
���The next game felt like a derby because England v Scotland has a lot of history to it. It was a really good game that we won 3-0 again, and there was a big crowd.
“We played Denmark in the final game, and a win for either team would be enough to win the trophy so it felt like a final, and we won 1-0!”
The decisive clash was ultimately won by an own goal, and Amass played the full 90 minutes at the Geroskipou Municipality Stadium as the Three Lions triumphed.
“Denmark are a very good team, technical like most Danish sides and well organised,” said Amass. “They’re probably one of the hardest countries I’ve faced but it was a really good game and a great feeling to lift the trophy at the end.”
First called up at Under-15 level in December 2021 aged just 14, Amass went on to make his international debut in the Torneo Delli Nazioni, facing hosts Italy, Chile, Slovenia and Romania before appearing for the Under-16s in August 2022.
The youngster is thrilled to hear the national anthem before games and have his family watching on with pride, appreciating every moment in an England shirt.
“I feel really proud to represent my country,” smiled Amass. “It’s what I’ve wanted to do since I was a kid. It’s amazing going out there; playing for your country and making your family proud is a good feeling.”
Amass’ international success has coincided with impressive progression at club level, becoming one of the youngest regulars in Charlie Daniels’ Under-18 side and excelling in the FA Youth Cup games against Everton and Arsenal.
That good form caught the eye of first-team staff during January’s injury crisis, leading to Amass - along with a handful of Academy teammates - joining the senior group for training and making the matchday squad for the FA Cup third-round tie at Reading.
Although the starlet didn’t come on in the game, the experience of travelling with established professional footballers was an unforgettable one.
“The first-team experience was surreal,” Amass reflected. “You’re playing with footballers you see on TV! I had a couple of training sessions with them and got used to it, and being on the bench and seeing the fans was really good.”
For England and Amass a prestigious tournament awaits in France later this year, with the Young Hornet eager to be selected to face the world’s best in his age group.
“There are some great teams in there,” explained Amass. “France, Germany, Belgium and Brazil; players like Thierry Henry and Cristiano Ronaldo have played in the tournament.
“It’s like the World Cup for our age. You try to play your best football for your club and hope to be selected for the squad and then train out there before the games.”
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Watford FC Women’s schedule for the remainder of the 2022/23 campaign is now complete, following the announcement of dates and timings for the trips to MK Dons and Plymouth Argyle.
After 5-1 and 2-1 wins in the cup and league respectively, the Golden Girls will meet the Dons for a third time this season on Sunday March 26, with the game set to kick off at 2pm at Stadium MK.
Watford’s trip to Plymouth - the longest of the season - will be on Sunday April 2, kicking off at the earlier time of 12.30pm at the Manadon Sports Hub.
Damon Lathrope’s side will be hoping to replicate October’s reverse fixture, which ended 5-1 at Grosvenor Vale.
Click HERE for a full list of the Hornets’ remaining 2022/23 fixtures.
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Following Tuesday night’s convincing triumph over Birmingham City (March 14), Watford will be hoping to sign off for the international break with consecutive victories when they welcome Wigan Athletic to Vicarage Road on Saturday (March 18, 3pm KO).
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the enticing Sky Bet Championship encounter.
Previous Meetings
Watford have won their last three league matches against Wigan Athletic, claiming all three points in both games in 2014/15 and in the reverse fixture this season.
The Golden Boys have kept a clean sheet in each of their last two league games against the Latics (W2), as many as in their first 11 such meetings.
Wigan have never won an away league game against Watford in six previous visits to Vicarage Road (D3 L3).
The visitors have conceded in the final 10 minutes in four of their last five league games against Watford, including in the reverse fixture in October, with João Pedro netting the only goal of the game in the 87th minute.
Recent Form
Watford are unbeaten in their last six league games at Vicarage Road (W3 D3), and could win successive fixtures there for the first time since October.
The Hornets are also unbeaten in each of their last 11 Championship games against sides starting the day in the relegation zone (W9 D2), winning each of their last five by an aggregate score of 10-1.
Wigan have won only one of their last 16 league games (D7 L8), while their seven-game winless run is the longest ongoing streak among current Championship sides (D4 L3).
No side has benefited from more own goals in the Championship this season than Shaun Maloney’s men (3), with two of their last three goals in the competition being scored by opposing players – Preston’s Greg Cunningham and Coventry’s Kyle McFadzean.
Opposition Stat Attack
Forward Will Keane is Wigan’s top scorer this season with 10 goals in 36 Championship games, while he also tops the squad rankings for shots on target (21) and shots off target (26).
Experienced midfield duo James McClean and Max Power have played in each of the club’s 37 league outings so far in 2022/23, with the former boasting the most assists (7), attempted crosses (239), attempted tackles (99) and interceptions (39), and the latter leading the way for passes attempted (1,926) and passes in the opposition’s half (1,169).
Stalwart defender Jack Whatmough has made the most passes in Wigan’s own half (949), while he has shielded the backline with the team’s top number of clearances (111) and blocks (23).
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Following on from the success of the ‘Ask for Watford’ menopause awareness event held at Vicarage Road last November, the Hornets are delighted to support Watford Borough Council, in conjunction with PWC and Watford Chamber of Commerce, who are hosting a Virtual Reality Menopause Experience in Watford to help women get access to the support they need from their workplace.
The workshop - being held in hour-long sessions between 9.30am - 3.30pm on Monday March 27 at PWC Watford (40 Clarendon Road, WD17 1JJ) - is available free of charge to all small businesses (under 20 employees) and charities or voluntary organisations in the area. Participants will watch an immersive film from Menopause Reality, on a VR headset, where one woman will share her own personal experience of the menopause.
Menopause expert and campaigner Diane Danzebrink, who was on the panel at the Vicarage Road Stadium event, will then lead an open discussion to reflect on the experiences shared in the film and to help consider the wider impacts of the menopause.
After the workshop there will be a chance to have a coffee and chat with other organisations. Watford Borough Council will be on hand to offer practical advice and guidance about starting to implement policies and procedures to support people impacted by the menopause in the workplace.
“We’re pleased to be able to support this event, which will continue the important conversations about the menopause across the town,” said Dave Messenger, Watford FC’s EDI (Equality, Diversity & Inclusion) Lead.
“Both the club and Trust are fully committed to making the town, and our own workplace, menopause friendly, and we’ve recently launched our own internal policy. It’s great to see Watford Council playing a key role in this and we look forward to attending the event.”
For more information about the event, and to book your slot, click HERE.
The Golden Girls ran riot in the second half of a wet and windy night at Grosvenor Vale against Crawley Wasps, completing a 6-0 victory capped by a four-goal performance from captain Helen Ward.
While the final score reflected a strong display after the break, it took the Hornets some time to get going, with chances few and far between in the first period despite Damon Lathrope’s side dominating possession.
The Head Coach felt his players were slow off the mark, and praised the opposition for their defensive solidity.
“We were a little bit slow to get going,” Lathrope began. “They were very spirited while it was goalless. It gives them something to really cling on to, and they worked hard, so fair play to Crawley because it was a tough night for them.
“We knew we had a little bit more quality in us than I think we showed in the first half, but the second half was very good. We upped the intensity, upped the quality levels, and it was a fair scoreline in the end.”
Club captain and record goalscorer Ward had to settle for joining the action at the interval, but she wasted little time in finding the target, completing her hat-trick after just 30 minutes before adding a fourth shortly before full-time.
Full of praise for the Wales international, Lathrope was also quick to acknowledge the tireless work of the team to wear the opposition down in the first place.
The Head Coach continued: “We anticipated it would be the way it was in the second half and we anticipated that we’d create lots of opportunities, which we did.
“We needed the right person in the right place at the right time, and we know that’s what Hels offers us. She’s taken her chances really well, and she’s going away with a match ball that she deserves.”
The fixtures are coming thick and fast for the Hornets and now all eyes turn to Sunday’s game against Oxford United (March 19, 2pm KO), with the current league leaders due to visit Grosvenor Vale.
Lathrope is pleased to see his side coming on strong ahead of an important meeting, taking momentum into the fixture.
“We’re in a good place at the moment,” added Lathrope, 33. “I think the performances in the last five or six weeks have been exceptional. They’re training really well and we’re really confident going into the weekend, but we know it’s going to be tough - they’re at the top for a reason.”
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Three players who have not featured much of late came in for particular praise from head coach Chris Wilder.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are back to discuss the talking points from The Hornets 3-0 victory over Birmingham City. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When Keinan Davis scored Watford's second goal in the 16th minute last night it ended 22 hours of football since he had last hit the net
Following Tuesday night’s victory over Birmingham City (March 14), play-off chasing Watford will be hoping to sign off for the international break with consecutive wins as they prepare to host Wigan Athletic this Saturday (March 18, 3pm KO).
Ahead of the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash at Vicarage Road, find out below how you can follow all the action on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm GMT with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford FC were delighted to welcome representatives from the Royal Dutch Football Association (KNVB) and the Eredivisie to discuss the club’s approach to sustainability.
Aware of our role within our local community and on a global stage, Watford have taken vital steps to affirm our commitment to becoming a sustainable business.
We feel it is essential to be collaborative to help lead the change in making football a more environmentally conscious platform and setting plans to reduce our carbon footprint.
Attended by representatives from top-flight clubs such as AFC Ajax, PSV and Feyenoord, the presentation focused on inspiring clubs to operate differently to reduce our impact on the environment, and was held at Vicarage Road before the Hornets played against Birmingham City (Tuesday March 14).
The event also concentrated on how important the right partnerships are and some of the challenges in delivering a great supporter experience, while reducing our carbon footprint and working alongside competing business priorities.
On the event, Head of Sustainability and Procurement at Watford FC, Tarang Panchal, said: “Through their loyal and vast following, football clubs have a unique opportunity to create a ripple effect in their communities, countries and even globally by sharing their sustainability journeys and inspiring our fans and followers.
“Watford FC are embracing this opportunity and we were delighted to welcome to Vicarage Road a delegate of representatives across Dutch football as they go on a tour of British football clubs to talk about and share the great work we have done so far around environmental sustainability.”
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An official who has yet to referee a Watford game this season is set to be in charge when the Hornets aim to pick up another three points on Saturday.
Scoring his first Watford goal a record 10 years, 11 months and 25 days on from his Hornets debut, Britt Assombalonga was delighted to open his account in front of the Rookery faithful in a 3-0 win over Birmingham City.
Firing in the third in unorthodox fashion, the DR Congo international felt relieved to hit the back of the net and cap off an unforgettable evening at Vicarage Road.
“It was a great moment!” smiled Assombalonga. “For me those kinds of goals are a typical striker’s goal and the same for me as scoring a 40-yarder. A goal’s a goal! To score 10 years later is a special moment!
“It was the perfect moment to get it here; it’s been a long time coming but finally here and all I have to do is push on.”
Responding instantly to Saturday’s narrow defeat against Queens Park Rangers, the striker admitted there were frank conversations within the squad going into the midweek clash, and momentum has to be built moving forward.
“Coming back from defeat on Saturday everyone was gutted, but we said we’ve got to turn things around and this is the first step. We’ve got to take each step as it comes and keep winning.
“We come with the same application as we did in this game. Everyone was on it from the starting XI to the subs, we’re a team and everyone’s giving their all.”
Assombalonga reserved special praise for the supporters, who backed the team throughout.
The forward added: “Results in the past have not gone our way but to still have the support of everyone behind us is great and we’ll build on that.”
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Keinan Davis is keen to see the Hornets build on tonight’s 3-0 victory over Birmingham City by taking a run of form into the international break.
The 25-year-old, who scored the second of the night, felt Watford owed a positive performance to the supporters after a disappointing showing against Queens Park Rangers at the weekend.
“We got the victory that we set out for,” said Davis. “We didn’t play our best football, but we got the win so that’s all that matters.
“We knew the performance on Saturday was nowhere near good enough, especially for the fans that came and supported us, and we knew we had to give them three points today.
“We knew we had to put in a shift and keep pressing relentlessly for the whole 90 minutes and that’s what we managed to do.”
Having not scored since October, Davis was relieved to finally net his fifth of the season, but quickly turned his attention to following up tonight’s win with another positive result against Wigan on Saturday (March 18, 3pm KO).
“I was trying to get it on my left foot, waiting for the right time and then hit the target, and that’s what I managed to do,” he said.
“Playing at home we feel comfortable with the fans and we want to carry this on into the international break and come out the other side with two wins.”
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The Golden Girls are looking towards another midweek fixture at Grosvenor Vale as they entertain Crawley Wasps on Wednesday night (March 15, 7.45pm KO).
It is a second three-game week in less than a month, and another chance for Head Coach Damon Lathrope to utilise the strength of his squad.
Crawley Wasps will be making their second visit of the season to Grosvenor Vale when they arrive in Ruislip, looking to throw a spanner in the works as the Golden Girls aim to capture another three points in their chase for promotion.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting The Vale for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please Note – Parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas - we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £7
- Concessions (U16, 65+, Disability) - £5
- Women’s/Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders - £1
Watford Men’s and Wealdstone FC Season Ticket Holders will need to show proof of their season card to gain entry for £1.
The Match
The visitors arrive at Grosvenor Vale on Wednesday night cast adrift at the bottom of the FA WNL Southern Premier Division standings, currently sitting seven points from safety. They will be looking to avenge the four-goal defeat inflicted on them by the Hornets in the reverse fixture earlier in the season; if they succeed in doing so it would mark just their second win in the league in 2022/23.
Crawley come into the game on a five-match losing streak, with three defeats in the league along with losses in the Sussex FA Cup final and against Stourbridge in the semi-finals of the FA WNL Plate competition.
On the other hand, the Golden Girls are pushing to reignite their own league campaign. Having tasted defeat away at Ipswich Town just over a fortnight ago, they bounced back with a convincing victory against Wolverhampton Wanderers last time out at The Vale, a performance that secured the side a place in the League Cup final.
This was then followed up with a commanding victory away at Gillingham, a side that had only lost by more than a one-goal margin twice this season before the Golden Girls came to town.
The Golden Girls come into the game looking for a repeat of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup tie, where they ran out 6-0 victors on a cold December afternoon.
Wrap up warm, and join us for what promises to be an important night as we move into the final stages of an exciting season for Watford.
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It took almost 11 years, it won't win goal of the season - but Britt Assombalonga didn't care.
On Season 2, Episode 43 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford’s crucial 3-0 win over Birmingham at The Vic in Chris Wilder's Watford home head coaching debut.
Episode published: March 14, 2023
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfc
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Watford 3, Birmingham 0: https://bit.ly/3mJV9XI
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This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/appSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Chris Wilder wanted to make sure that while Saturday's performance was reflected upon, his players predominantly focussed on beating Birmingham.
Watford Head Coach Chris Wilder was delighted to taste his first victory at the helm of the club as the Hornets ran out 3-0 winners over Birmingham City.
Goals from Imrân Louza, Keinan Davis and Britt Assombalonga secured three important points during the Sky Bet Championship contest against the Blues, with the boss pleased with the reaction following disappointment in his first match in charge.
Focusing on the performance, Wilder felt that his side reflected what he was looking for, securing the victory with a solid performance and a fast start as Louza opened the scoring inside six minutes.
He began: “Generally, on the whole, that was what we were after; a front-foot performance and players being able to dictate and dominate in possession, whilst having a good shape out of it.
“There was a 10-minute spell just after half-time where I imagine words were said in the opposition changing room that galvanised the away team, but in the first half, we should’ve been out of sight.
“The game should have been done and dusted. It felt like a 3-0 at half-time and it wasn’t. We have to be humble about that period [at the start of the second half], but we got through that and the third goal was key, and we saw the game out with ease.
“Filling the box was key and getting the ball into the areas we wanted to was key, which we did. It looks more like what we wanted it to be. The credit has to go to the players in terms of them adhering to how we want to play.”
Wilder also reserved a special mention for goalscorer Davis, who he felt was key to the victory and all-round performance, alongside others like Leandro Bacuna and Jeremy Ngakia.
“[Davis] would have enjoyed that goal, especially against the team he scored against with his background,” he continued.
“He is a young boy as well, and he doesn’t have a lot of experience. He had a fabulous period last year with Nottingham Forest and I knew him when he was at Aston Villa – trying to get into a Premier League side is never easy. He had a great effect on their promotion run and their play-off success and he has been, I imagine like a lot of players here, a little bit inconsistent.
“He has to be brave, and we talk about being brave in physical challenges, but there is another bravery in terms of taking on the chances. It was a fabulous finish and it was good to see him do what he did and hopefully, there is more to come from him.
“Of course, it’s good for Keinan, but also Leandro Bacuna hasn’t played a lot of football, Jeremy Ngakia hasn’t played a lot of football, Britt Assombalonga came on and he hasn’t featured a lot.
“It wasn’t just Keinan Davis and Imrân Louza scoring their goals, there were other bits and pieces. It was good for Koné as well in terms of him coming onto the pitch. There were a lot of plus points from tonight that we can take forward. Most importantly we are here to win and play well, and all those things that we needed to tick off, we ticked off.”
The boss acknowledges it will be imperative that his side reflect tonight’s performance this Saturday when the Hornets host Wigan Athletic (March 18, 3pm KO).
“I’m delighted for everybody, I’m delighted for the supporters because it has been quite difficult for them, but I sense they were enjoying what they were seeing tonight,” Wilder said.
“That little period after half-time – they were with us. We got that foothold back in the game and Britt scored, which was brilliant for him. My feet are on the ground and every win feels like New Year’s Eve and that has to be the case because you have to do lots of things right and work extremely hard to win a game of football.
“Certainly we have to show exactly the same, if not more on Saturday [against Wigan Athletic]. If we can replicate tonight in a lot of ways and get a big three points then it has been a decent start, but we need another big performance ahead of us against another big team who are fighting for their lives.”
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Keinan Davis is keen to see the Hornets build on tonight’s 3-0 victory over Birmingham City by taking a run of form into the international break.
The 25-year-old, who scored the second of the night, felt Watford owed a positive performance to the supporters after a disappointing showing against Queens Park Rangers at the weekend.
“We got the victory that we set out for,” said Davis. “We didn’t play our best football, but we got the win so that’s all that matters.
“We knew the performance on Saturday was nowhere near good enough, especially for the fans that came and supported us, and we knew we had to give them three points today.
“We knew we had to put in a shift and keep pressing relentlessly for the whole 90 minutes and that’s what we managed to do.”
Having not scored since October, Davis was relieved to finally net his sixth of the season, but quickly turned his attention to following up tonight’s win with another positive result against Wigan on Saturday (March 18, 3pm KO).
“I was trying to get it on my left foot, waiting for the right time and then hit the target, and that’s what I managed to do,” he said.
“Playing at home we feel comfortable with the fans and we want to carry this on into the international break and come out the other side with two wins.”
SEO ImageChris Wilder's first home game in charge of Watford sent the locals home happy as they ran out deserved 3-0 winners.
Two early goals put Watford on their way to victory in Chris Wilder's first home game as head coach.
Other teammates may have played more games but Steve Terry was a constant in the Watford squad throughout the club’s first stay in the top tier of the English game.
Head coach Chris Wilder has made it clear discussions with his players about Saturday have been “I talk, you listen” occasions
Mike Duffy is joined by Jamie Lawlor from The Blues Focus podcast to preview our upcoming game with Birmingham City at Vicarage Road.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Head Coach Chris Wilder has urged his players to provide an emphatic response to the defeat at Queens Park Rangers last time out, with the visit of Birmingham City just three days on providing the perfect chance for the Hornets to make amends.
Following that 1-0 loss at Loftus Road (Saturday March 11) in his opening game in charge of the club, Wilder is demanding more from his squad and he believes that with two home games coming up in quick succession there is all to play for.
Starting with Birmingham City tomorrow night (Tuesday March 14, 7.45pm KO), the boss trusts that analysis of the frustrating result in west London will be key in driving a move forward.
“Reflection is always key and you have to quickly reflect, and as I said after [QPR] we have to turn our attention to Tuesday night’s game,” Wilder began.
“I trust my eyes and what I saw on Saturday, so nothing really changes. We had a chat yesterday with the players and we have to move on quickly. It’s at that stage in the season where we can’t dwell. It was disappointing on the whole after an encouraging first three days, but we have to get ourselves going.
“There are certain pieces that we have analysed over the weekend and we are looking forward to tomorrow. We have to move on quickly.
“We have an opportunity to put it right and it’s a big week for us. Everyone talks about reactions. Can we play better than we did on Saturday? Most certainly, and hopefully that will give us an opportunity to get that result we are after.
“I’m one of those guys who has to lead from the front. This my football club for the remaining games we have got, and I’ll do my best to help those players. It was bright in training today, and we are looking forward to hopefully getting ourselves going for a big game. I look at these next two home games as two big opportunities, respecting the opposition.”
Ahead of the fixture against the Blues, Wilder acknowledged that Hamza Choudhury will miss the match - having now picked up 10 yellow cards this season - but Ismaïla Sarr is expected to be involved despite being substituted as a precaution at QPR.
He continued: “There are a couple of knocks that we are assessing, and of course we have lost Hamza Choudhury due to suspension which is a blow.
“That will open it up for someone else to come in and stake a claim. I know a little bit about the boys, but every opportunity is a chance to impress. It’s up to one of the players to take that and hopefully they will do.
“He [Sarr] felt something so we have assessed it over the last few days and fingers crossed he will be involved. It was more of a precaution, and I won’t risk keeping someone out on the pitch to lose them for four or five games. We looked at that and he felt some tightness in his hamstring, but hopefully he will be ready for Tuesday night.”
Focusing on opponents Birmingham, Wilder is certain that John Eustace’s side will provide a tough challenge following their 2-0 victory over Rotherham United on Saturday.
He added: “They will be looking for the same again. They will be looking for that consistency in their performances and results. They have had some wins and defeats, and it’s natural for where they are in the division.
“Even though we aren’t where we want to be, we are still a target and it’s a big game for everyone who comes to Vicarage Road. They are looking at a team steeped in Premier League history, that has some big-name players, and they will look to do what QPR did to us. We have to be ready for that challenge.”
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Watford head coach Chris Wilder would like to see referees clamp down on 'game management' by handing out yellow cards much earlier.
Watford Women ensured they remain within striking distance of the league leaders following a 2-0 victory at Gillingham yesterday.
Delighted with his side’s 2-0 win over Gillingham on Sunday (March 12), Watford Head Coach Damon Lathrope hailed the Golden Girls’ strength in depth as they look ahead to two more league games within a week.
Bianca Baptiste and Poppy Wilson fired in second-half goals to bring three points back to Hertfordshire at the expense of a rigid Gills unit who sat deep and looked to frustrate the Hornets’ fluid attacking line, with Lathrope praising a professional performance in Chatham.
With the scores level at half-time Lathrope noted that his players remained confident and composed after the break, with quality shining through thanks to a rebounded penalty and a stoppage-time tap-in.
“We dominated the whole game,” Lathrope began. “Coming into half-time at 0-0 I was pleased with the performance but we knew we could have scored four or five, and needed to do more of the same.
“The girls weren’t frustrated because they knew they were doing things very well, so it was more about trusting the process and knowing that if we create that amount of chances again, we would convert in the end.
“We didn’t want to get desperate and wanted to manage things well, and we got what we deserved in the end.”
Wilson influenced the game from the bench alongside fellow substitutes Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Helen Ward and Jade Bradley. The Watford boss highlighted the importance of his wider squad in a busy period, and praised Wilson’s courage to step up after her penalty was saved.
“Poppy’s a top player, everyone knows that and the only thing you can affect is the next thing you do,” the Head Coach continued. “It was nice for Bee [Baptiste] to stick it away, that takes the spotlight off the penalty but she got her goal, she gets into very dangerous situations and that’s why she’s got a lot of goals and assists this season.
“We’ve got three games in a week and training sessions which are going to be taxing on their bodies, so it was always going to be about trying to manage the group. The changes weren’t to lift us, but instead to maintain the standard we had set. We have a strong squad and the subs had the impact we hoped for.”
Crawley Wasps visit Grosvenor Vale on Wednesday (March 15, 7.45pm KO), looking to bridge the six-point gap between themselves and second-bottom side Bridgwater United at the foot of the table.
Aware of the Wasps’ capabilities having faced them in league and cup action already this term, Lathrope doesn’t take the challenge lightly.
He added: “They’ve got nothing to lose; they’re at the wrong end of the table at the moment and we won’t take them lightly by any means.
“This league has shown that anyone can compete with anyone and we know it’s a tough spell for us with a lot of games to come, but we’re really excited to go into the next game.”
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All UK-based and overseas Watford fans will be able to tune in to live video coverage of the Hornets’ home clash against Birmingham City on Tuesday (March 14, 7.45pm KO).
With Head Coach Chris Wilder looking to mark his first home game in charge with three points, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 7.35pm GMT.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 7.35pm GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford and Birmingham City are set to face off under the Vicarage Road lights this Tuesday (March 14, 7.45pm KO), with Head Coach Chris Wilder looking to mark his first home game in charge with three points following defeat at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday (March 11).
Ahead of the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship encounter, we take a look back at five of the best matches between the Hornets and the Blues over the years...
Birmingham City 1-3 Watford – March 10, 1984
We begin in the FA Cup, the competition where the Blues and the yellows would first meet back in 1931. The Hornets were enjoying an extended run in the 1984 contest, and were looking to take one step closer to Wembley immortalisation.
The irrepressible John Barnes opened proceedings at St Andrew’s, unleashing a powerful effort past future Watford goalkeeper Tony Coton. After the break, Birmingham equalised but the visitors would soon restore their lead through Les Taylor. Barnes would notch the final goal at the far post to confirm Watford’s place in the final four of the cup.
Following the victory in the Midlands, the Hornets would win the semi-final against Plymouth Argyle to set up a first FA Cup final against Everton.
Watford 5-2 Birmingham City – January 15, 1994
In the only Vicarage Road encounter featured on this list, a relegation-threatened Birmingham City were beaten 5-2 in a seven-goal thriller.
Watford’s Paul Furlong struck three impressive goals, and with the match all but decided, Andy Hessenthaler and Liam Daish’s own goal made it five, ensuring the two Birmingham goals were nothing more then consolation efforts.
It would be Watford’s seventh consecutive victory over Birmingham at The Vic, a record stretching back to 1979.
Birmingham City 1-0 Watford (agg 1-1 AET, 6-7 pens) – May 20, 1999
Despite what the full-time scoreline would suggest, this would be a hugely important night in the history of Watford Football Club. After a frantic end to the 1998/99 First Division season, the Hornets only just confirmed a play-off semi-final against the Blues.
Following a 1-0 victory in the opening leg, all Watford had to do was travel to St Andrew’s and not lose, to secure a place at Wembley Stadium for a chance to ascend to the Premier League. A ferocious atmosphere buoyed the Blues and after just 120 seconds they had levelled the match on aggregate through Dele Adebola.
After an epic game, both teams were unable to be separated after 90 minutes and extra-time, and therefore a penalty shootout was the only outcome. Goalkeeper and Hornets Ambassador Alec Chamberlain would go on to become a hero, denying Chris Holland and setting up a tie against Bolton Wanderers for top-flight prestige.
For more on that famous evening at St Andrew’s, click HERE.
Birmingham City 0-4 Watford – February 16, 2013
Heading into the business end of the 2012/13 season, the Hornets were flying high in the Championship under Gianfranco Zola, on the edge of breaking into the automatic promotion places.
Their form certainly didn’t falter when they met the Blues at St Andrew’s as Troy Deeney notched a brace, while Ikechi Anya and Almen Abdi completed the rout in the Midlands.
The result put Watford on course for at least a play-off position as the league’s top-scoring team marched on.
Birmingham City 0-1 Watford – December 12, 2020
One of the teams’ more recent meetings came in the second-tier back in 2020. With the stadium empty, Watford came into the game in good form under Championship Manager of the Month for November, Vladimir Ivić.
With the game featuring very little in the way of clearcut chances, Birmingham-born Deeney scored from the spot to make the difference amid the eerie surroundings.
It would be Ivić’s final victory before the arrival of Xisco Muñoz, who would take the Hornets back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
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Watford’s Under-21 side take on Queens Park Rangers at The Vic next Monday, March 20 (1pm KO) in the PL Professional Development League.
Tickets are now available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Seating is in the Sir Elton John Stand only, and is unreserved. Ambulant seating is available in block SEJ1, while wheelchair bays on the platform in block RS8 of the Rookery Stand will be open. Please see below for more information regarding wheelchair & ambulant disabled tickets.
Season Ticket holders can gain complimentary access to the match by scanning their regular Season Ticket at the ticket readers adjacent to the turnstiles of the Sir Elton John Stand.
Ticket Prices
Season Ticket Holder: Free
Adult: £5
65 & Over: £3
18 & Under: £1Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Ambulant seating can be booked online as usual at tickets.watfordfc.com, however supporters requiring a wheelchair space should call the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office on 01923 223023 to arrange their booking. Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
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Poppy Wilson felt Watford got what they deserved in their 2-0 win over Gillingham in Chatham, making a vital half-hour cameo off the bench to ensure victory for the Golden Girls.
Winning a penalty, having her spot-kick saved and followed up by Bianca Baptiste before scoring a goal of her own in added time, Wilson was key to the Hornets’ dominance in the second 45 and provided a spark in midfield against a stubborn Gills outfit.
Wilson felt her teammates’ frustration from the bench in a positive first half that ended goalless, and was satisfied with the game’s conclusion.
“We showed our quality and moved the ball really well,” reflected the 23-year-old. “It was just about getting the ball in the back of the net and it was frustrating but we stayed patient, and it showed right up until the last two minutes at the end.
“We kept playing our football and it finally came to something. I think we walk away feeling pleased with the performance.”
Brought on alongside Adekite Fatuga-Dada with Watford looking to break the deadlock and maintain a high intensity in attack, Wilson explained that Head Coach Damon Lathrope asked for the duo to “change the game”.
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“I think we know as players where we need to come on and impact the game, but he just told us to bring energy, be direct at players and change the game,” Wilson continued. “All of the subs did that, but the overall team performance shows how together we are as a team. I’m just pleased that we got the goal, and then the second.”
Baptiste reacted quickly to convert Wilson’s rebounded penalty after Cara Davies made a save to her left. Relieved to have the former Crystal Palace forward slot home before popping up with a game-sealer in the 96th minute, it was no less than the Golden Girls deserved in the eyes of the midfielder.
“Good job Bianca was there!” laughed Wilson. “It’s a good save, I’m just pleased it went in regardless of who put it in the back of the net. That was a moment where it changed for us, we were being more direct. It was only a matter of time before the next goal went in.
“It was just nice to take that pressure off at the end because when it’s 1-0 it can still go either way and they’re still fighting. Whereas, if you put that second one in, then you have more of a cushion. It’s a shame we couldn’t get it earlier, but it was nice to finish the game on that high.”
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A Premier League referee is set to be in the middle at Vicarage Road tomorrow when Watford will be aiming to end their run of disappointing form.
Watford had 60% possession at Loftus Road on Saturday but barely registered a goal attempt.
On Season 2, Episode 42 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford’s no-show against QPR. And: A brief history of turning points at Watford. Also: A telling statement by Chris Wilder. Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfcThe YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - The Decline Of Watford Football Club And Its Relationship With Watford Fans: https://bit.ly/3JlzsGe Follow You Orns! on Fanbase @youorns: https://fanbase.app/youornsFollow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFCFollow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC #WatfordFCNEW SOCIAL MEDIA ADDITIONS FOR YOU ORNS! - Follow on Mastodon: https://mstdn.social/@YouOrnsWFCFollow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms. --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/appSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
QPR showed more desire than Watford, and that was probably the decisive factor said head coach Chris Wilder.
1- So. Been in Spain all week. Did I miss anything? 2- There’s got to come a point, surely, where the tutting and the handwringing stops and Something Happens. When a straw is recognised as the final one, when all of this bullshit being served up in front of us is deemed enough already. Are […]
Head Coach Chris Wilder admitted his Watford side were beaten by the better team on the day, as his first match in charge ended in a disappointing 1-0 defeat at Queens Park Rangers in the Sky Bet Championship.
Tim Iroegbunam’s first-half strike ultimately proved to be the winner for the hosts in west London, as the Golden Boys found chances to be at a premium despite dominating possession for much of the fixture.
Having been in the Hornets’ hotseat for less than a week, Wilder cut a frustrated figure at full-time, and he explained that reoccurring issues on the pitch will need to be fixed if they are to force themselves back into the play-off mix in the season’s remaining 10 games.
“It wasn’t the start I wanted, or the one the players or the travelling supporters wanted,” he said. “The game panned out how I expected it to, and I think the first goal was really important because it played into their hands.
“It was always going to be a direct and physical battle, and they were better than us at winning the first and second balls. When we managed to break it up and get into decent positions we didn’t do enough with the ball, and we were lacking in terms of our quality and decision-making.
“We were a bit better in the second half, and we had a decent period for 15 or 20 minutes, but we couldn’t make the most of it and then it became really scrappy. We tried to change the set-up of the team a few times but we couldn’t get it to work, and in the end I thought QPR were deserved winners.”
João Pedro was among Watford’s liveliest assets throughout the match and the Brazilian star saw his second-half penalty shouts waved away by stand-in referee Craig Hicks, but Wilder played down the importance of the incident.
He said: “I haven’t seen it back, but there was a lot of talk about it. I think we’re clutching at straws really if we’re hoping for a penalty shout to get us back in the game.
“I’m more concerned with the fact that we need to have more quality in the final third, and the confidence to convert the chances or the final pass. We need to be more brave in terms of our decision-making, and make better use of the possession when we’ve got the ball.”
Wilder doesn’t have to wait long before Watford are back in league action, with Birmingham City next up back at Vicarage Road on Tuesday evening (March 14, 7.45pm KO).
With six points now separating the Hornets and sixth place, and two consecutive home games to come, the ex-Sheffield United boss stressed the importance of quickly bouncing back to winning ways.
He added: “We’ve got to work quickly and smartly over the next 24 to 48 hours to make sure we get the right messages to the players ahead of the Birmingham game now. We’ve not had very long to work with the players - which is no excuse at all because I knew the situation - but we’ve got a chance to put things right now on Tuesday.
“The season isn’t done because we got beat here today. There’s plenty still to play for, but we know things have got to happen sooner rather than later. We’ve got two games in a row at home, and if we manage to come out of them with results we’ll still be in a decent position.”
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Chris Wilder's first game in charge of Watford ended in a grim 1-0 defeat to a QPR side that hadn't won since December.
It's a short journey for Chris Wilder's first game as head coach with Watford in west London to face QPR
A week on from securing their place in the FA Women’s National League Cup final, Watford are back in action away at Gillingham in league competition this Sunday (March 12, 2.30pm KO).
Damon Lathrope’s side will be looking to get their FA WNL Southern Premier Division campaign back on track after defeat on their last road trip at the hands of Ipswich Town. This time out they face a rejuvenated Gillingham side who have overcome off-pitch woes to climb out of trouble and into a comfortable mid-table spot.
When Watford last met Gillingham, it was a hot August day as both sides took their first steps in the 2022/23 campaign. The Hornets ran out 3-2 winners on that day thanks to goals from Helen Ward, Bianca Baptiste and Dré Georgiou, getting the Golden Girls off to a flying start.
The Ground
Sunday’s game will be held at Bauvill Stadium (ME4 6LR), the home of Chatham Town.
There is covered standing behind the goal at the clubhouse end of the ground, while there are covered seats along both sides of the pitch.
If you are travelling to the match by car there is a car park onsite. If the car park is full, please be respectful of residents when parking in any local roads.
If you are travelling to the game by train, turn right out of Chatham station, and then turn right again - you are now on Maidstone Road. Continue up Maidstone Road until you pass the cemetery on your left - the Sports Ground is next on your left. It is a one-mile walk, and should take around 20 minutes to reach the ground.
Tickets
Tickets for Sunday’s match can be purchased on the gate, costing £5 for Adults and £3 for Concessions. Under-16s receive free entry with a paying adult.
The Match
Since their last meeting both sides have faced differing fortunes, with nine points separating them heading into Sunday’s game. The Hornets sit in fourth and the Gills in seventh.
Gillingham have won four of their last six, with 15 of their 23 games played so far being decided by just a goal, with three ending in a draw.
Last week a late change saw Kalani Peart drop out of the Watford squad due to injury, being replaced by Nicola Gibson. While Lathrope will be hoping Peart is fit for the match, he’ll be comfortable knowing he has the experience of Gibson in the squad.
With a final to look forward to in April, the Golden Girls will be fighting for the league and also for their spot in the XI for that showpiece event, so the travelling fans should be treated to a side firing on all cylinders.
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Tickets for Watford’s trip to Coventry City (Easter Monday April 10, 3pm KO) in the Sky Bet Championship will go on sale to supporters in Away Group A at 12noon on Monday March 13.
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices, the club’s Under-18s policy, and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Monday March 13- Away Group B
12noon, Tuesday March 14- Away Group C
12noon, Wednesday March 15- Away Group D
12noon, Thursday March 16- Away Group E*
10am, Friday March 17- General Sale
3pm, Friday March 17*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Coventry City will finish at 12noon on Friday April 7. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £33
- 60 & Over: £28
- 18-21 Year Olds: £28
- Armed Forces: £28
- Full-Time Student: £28
- Under 18: £20
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Coach Travel
Coaches for our trip to Coventry City will depart from Occupation Road at 11am. All coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination.
As this journey is using the M1 northbound there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 11.45am.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Matchday Parking
Parking spaces can be purchased at www.glideparking.com/cbsarena, subject to availability.
Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Saturday April 8, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking. We will arrange for replacement tickets for collection at the Coventry Building Society Arena.
Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocation specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area will be available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for this match.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixture against Huddersfield Town (Good Friday April 7, 3pm KO) will go on sale from 12noon on Monday March 13.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday March 13- Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday March 14- Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday March 15- Home Group D*
12noon, Thursday March 16- General Sale
12noon, Friday March 17*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices (Category C)
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £28
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £16
- 18 & Under: £5
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £22
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Following alterations to our online ticketing process, tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign are being issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Academy Sport Science and Medical Department at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit an FDP/YDP Athletic Development Coach to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing physical preparation and development to our foundation and youth development phases.
You will play a key role in developing the long-term athletic development programme, to ensure we are developing robust and resilient players to meet the physical requirements of the modern game. This will be achieved by creating an age-specific physical pathway which is monitored and consistently evolving to meet the individual specific needs of the players within our programme.
The successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic and hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
Essential:
- Hold a degree in sport and exercise science or a related discipline
- Hold a Basic First Aid for Sport qualification
- Have extensive experience of working in a sport science setting with elite young athletes
- Be able to work effectively in a team environment and operate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary support team
- Valid full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post
Desirable:
- MSc in sport and exercise science or a related discipline
- UKSCA Accreditation (or working towards)
- BASES Accreditation (or working towards)
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: FDP/YDP Academy Athletic Development Coach
Salary/Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Friday March 24 2023Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
Watford taking a large squad to QPR as Wilder tells his players if they show their talent consistently, they can change the course of the season.
He didn't know it, but when Chris Wilder's Middlesbrough lost in August it wasn’t to be his final involvement in the club’s 100th season at The Vic
New Head Coach Chris Wilder is itching to get his Watford tenure underway away at Queens Park Rangers on Saturday (March 11, 3pm KO), as he and his coaching staff look to guide the Hornets to a top-six finish in the remainder of the Sky Bet Championship season.
The 55-year-old was revealed as the new man at the helm earlier this week (Tuesday March 7), and after five months out of the game - following his departure from fellow second-tier side Middlesbrough in October 2022 - he can’t wait to be reunited with the matchday buzz that will undoubtedly surround the clash at Loftus Road.
Though time with his new players has been limited, Wilder is delighted with the way the squad has responded to his methods out on the training pitch so far, and he is looking forward to seeing how they translate that to matchday.
“It’s great to be back, because I have missed it,” he said. “I haven’t been out of the game for long periods in the 20 years or so I’ve been a manager, so to be back in this position at such a historical football club is a wonderful feeling. I can’t wait to get going.
“I’ve come in with the point of view that there’s no point looking back, and that I’ve got to focus on what I can control. There are 11 games left, and we’ve got to take things game by game to try and get the results we need to be where we want to be.
“There’s been a lot of talk about formations and structures, but I’ve played with several different systems at my former clubs, and I think at the top level - both in management and as players - you have to be able to adapt depending on what’s in front of you.
“There are certain non-negotiables, and first early messages that are important to deliver. Attitude and desire play a big part, and if we’re going to be successful and get the wins we need, we’re going to need that. I have to say that in the few days I’ve been here, I’ve been really impressed.
“I’ve told the players that they don’t want to be sat on a beach in May when the play-offs are going on, thinking about what might have been. They have the ability to affect what’s in front of them, and that starts on Saturday.”
The trip to west London marks a clash against an Rs side who are without a win since December 17, just seven points above the drop zone and in desperate search of a result under a new Head Coach of their own, Gareth Ainsworth.
While eager to avenge Watford’s narrow defeat against QPR in the reverse fixture back in August, Wilder is also looking forward to locking horns with Ainsworth - someone he has crossed paths with on a number of occasions throughout his managerial journey.
He said: “It’s a huge game on Saturday. It’s a tough start - we understand that - but I’m sure they’ll be saying that as well. It’s all there for us to play for, and we’ll be looking to come away with something to really kick us into gear.
“If we can do that then I’m sure the fans will get behind us. I’ve kept my eye on what’s been going on in the Championship and the attendances at Vicarage Road have been great all season. We’ll be looking forward to our first game at home, but there are a lot heading to QPR and we really want to make them proud.
“It will be nice to see Gareth. I’ve come up against him a number of times, including when I was at Northampton and he was at Wycombe, and we were both battling to stay in League Two. I was delighted he got the QPR job and it was thoroughly deserved. He’s well known for getting the maximum out of his players, and that’s what we’ll be looking to do here for sure.”
Graham Taylor was similarly famed for working his way up the leagues with Watford, and Wilder expressed how privileged he feels to have taken up the position once held by the Hornets’ greatest ever manager.
He added: “Graham Taylor built the club on values such as hard work and togetherness, and that’s what we’ll be looking to do. I only came across him when I was playing against his teams - most memorably against Aston Villa in the late 1980s - but everybody knew how loved and well respected he was.
“I’ve been to lots of football dinners and the inner circle - the likes of Sir Alex Ferguson, Walter Smith and Lawrie McMenemy - all respected and admired him hugely. I’ve not really had much to do with Watford before now, but I’m a historian of the game so I’m well aware of his impact here and how much he’s loved.
“There are many different pathways into management, but I guess comparisons could be made between me and Graham, in that respect. If I achieve anything like what he achieved in the game, I’ll be a very happy man.”
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Match Info
- Queens Park Rangers v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Loftus Road
- Saturday March 11, 3pm KO
- Yellow home kit
Officials
- Referee: James Linington
- Assistants: Matthew Jones and Andrew Aylott
- Fourth Official: Craig Hicks
Designated Away Pubs
With nearly 3,000 Watford supporters set to attend this weekend’s match, two local pubs have been designated for Hornets fans:
- Belushis, 13-15 Shepherds Bush Green, London, W12 8PH (Opens at 11am on a Saturday).
- Sindercombe Social, 2 Goldhawk Road, London, W12 8QD (Opens at 12noon on a Saturday).
Opposition
Parting ways with Head Coach Neil Critchley last month and appointing long-standing Wycombe Wanderers boss and former Rs midfielder Gareth Ainsworth, Queens Park Rangers have suffered a turn in fortunes since their August victory over the Hornets, and have lost their last five games.
Looking to end a winless run of nine at Loftus Road, Ainsworth’s side currently sit 20th, seven points clear of the relegation zone.
Key Stats
Queens Park Rangers are looking to complete a league double over Watford for the first time since the 1986/87 top-flight campaign, following a 3-2 win in the reverse fixture.
Both Watford and QPR have scored in each of their last four league meetings - only in February 1929 (seven games), May 1963 (five games) and December 2007 (five games) have there been longer such runs in this fixture in the Football League.
The Rs are winless in their last nine league games at Loftus Road, losing each of their last three and conceding 19 goals during that run (2.1 per game).
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Queens Park Rangers In Numbers.
Team News
João Ferreira and Jeremy Ngakia will travel with the Watford squad but left-back Hassane Kamara, who continues to progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury, will miss out. Click HERE for more.
Forward Sinclair Armstrong may be in line for a return to action for the hosts, but the injury list contains Chris Willock, Ethan Laird, Ilias Chair, Jake Clarke-Salter, Tyler Roberts and Leon Balogun.
What Are They Saying?
Chris Wilder, Watford Head Coach:
“If we can get out of the traps quickly on Saturday that’ll be great. I believe we’re taking about 3,000 supporters, and they’ll be expecting a performance just as much as I will.”
Gareth Ainsworth, Queens Park Rangers Head Coach:
“Watford is always a tough test. Chris Wilder is in charge now, and we have to be adaptable.
“I’ve had many battles with Chris over the years. He’s a fantastic manager who has proved it in the Premier League.
“I’m sure it will be another battle on Saturday.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 33
Drawn: 31
Lost: 52Last Six:
August 2022: Watford 2-3 QPR (Championship)
February 2021: Watford 1-2 QPR (Championship)
November 2020: QPR 1-1 Watford (Championship)
February 2019: QPR 0-1 Watford (FA Cup)
April 2014: QPR 2-1 Watford (Championship)
December 2013: Watford 0-0 QPR (Championship)Golden Flashback
The Hornets advanced to the quarter-finals of the FA Cup in 2018/19, as Étienne Capoue fired home the winner in first-half stoppage time.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Queens Park Rangers v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing clash.
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Chris Wilder wants his Watford players to kick-start their season in order to get the fans aboard the bandwagon.
Chris Wilder took the chance to pay tribute to Watford’s greatest ever manager, Graham Taylor, this afternoon.
Chris Wilder has set out his ambitions for the remainder of a campaign that the Hornets’ new Head Coach hopes will end in promotion to the Premier League.
The 55-year-old, who was appointed earlier this week on a contract until the end of the 2022/23 season, discussed his coaching style, playing methods and more in an interview with the Watford Observer.
Read on for some of the key quotes.
ON HIS TARGETS
“I’ve signed to the end of the season, and I’d like our season to be ending by me walking up the steps at Wembley to get a trophy.
“I’ve got to isolate what I can affect and have an influence over in this 11-game period. I have to control the controllables.
“One thing to remember is that 11 games is very nearly a quarter of a season. People will look at the top two and think it’s done and dusted. I think top spot is, but not second place.”
ON THE OPPORTUNITY
“This is a great opportunity for me. I’m not naïve, I’m a bright guy and I know the history of the football club. Every club has its own model, and I know the model at Watford.
“When this chance came up I made the choice to come in for the final 11 games and hopefully galvanise a group of players who – putting our cards on the table – have under-performed.
“Watford should not be sat 10th in this division, but we have an opportunity all of us – supporters, players, staff, stakeholders and me – to kick-start things.
“What I’ve recognised is from a technical point of view we have one of the most talented groups of players in the division. From a physical perspective they’ve nearly all played in the Premier League, which is the most physical league in the world.
“Now I have to try and put a structure and mentality into the place to get us going.”
ON THE SUPPORTERS
“The support at Watford has always been good, but I have always believed it’s up to the players to light the fire in the bellies of the supporters.
“Hopefully that is what we do with the way we go about things, starting Saturday.”
ON MENTALITY
“We’re here to win games of football, and hopefully good players have that mentality.
“Being a good player isn’t just about being good technically. You have to have steel, a bit of fight and they have to run around and work hard within the structure. They need to rely on their teammates as much as their teammates rely on them.
“You have to be a group that shares the mentality, and if you are then you’ve got half a chance.”
ON PLAYING STYLE
“We’re a forward-thinking staff in terms of trying to dominate possession and trying to attack teams.
“The metrics at Middlesbrough will show that. From the xG [expected goals] point of view we were second in the division, even when the results weren’t there.
“Those stats do give you a bit of comfort, but the bottom line is I’m here to win games, and I’ve won games for the majority of my career wherever that has been. I want to win here.
“The people that have brought me here for these 11 games have been brilliant and supportive, and hopefully we can pay back in terms of helping the group of players.”
ON FORMATIONS
“There are many different ways of playing but you have to put your best players in their best positions. You put round pegs in round holes.
“I’ve got to get players who can win games of football at the top of the pitch. Am I going to leave four or five players at the top end, and defend with six? Well no, because all players have a part to play out of possession as much as they do when we have the ball.
“Similarly the boys behind those who play at the top of the pitch have got a part to play to build and dominate possession that hopefully results in chances being created.
“I’ve coached all different formations. I think people can be lazy sometimes and think ‘he’s 3-5-2’. I won promotion at Oxford United playing 4-3-3. We got 99 points at Northampton playing 4-2-3-1. At Sheffield United we played 3-4-1-2 and we got 100 points, then we tactically changed it when we got to the Premier League.
“I’ve coached every different shape and we’ll put the team in a shape we feel allows the boys to express themselves, put themselves in the best positions but while keeping a nice balance as we have to recognise there are two parts to the game.”
ON THE NEXT THREE GAMES
“If we can get out of the traps quickly on Saturday [against QPR] that’ll be great. I believe we’re taking about 3,000 supporters and they’ll be expecting a performance just as much as I will.
“Then we have two home games after that [against Birmingham City and Wigan], so three big games before the international break when we can re-set and do a bit more work.
“But if we do get things rolling in the right direction then other clubs will be thinking ‘oh, here they come, we’ve been expecting it’. I think the whole division has been expecting Watford to come through. As an outsider I was thinking ‘when are Watford going to catch fire?’ I kept waiting for Watford to get firing, winning one, then two, then three and going on a run.
“So we have to do that, go and win games and be positive with the right attitude. We need to win games and get points. That’s not impossible as we have the experience and we certainly have the talent.”
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João Ferreira and Jeremy Ngakia will travel with the Watford squad for Saturday's Sky Bet Championship fixture against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road (Saturday March 11, 3pm KO), but left-back Hassane Kamara, who continues to progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury, will miss out.
The right-back duo, who have been in training for two weeks, missed out on a spot in the matchday 18 for last Saturday’s goalless draw with Preston North End but will be at new Head Coach Chris Wilder’s disposal against the Rs on the weekend.
Kamara, who is also out on the grass following confirmation that his injury is not serious, is hoping for a swift return but this weekend will prove too soon for the Ivorian.
Defender Francisco Sierralta is optimistic about the timeframe for his return from the metatarsal injury that has kept him out of action since the end of January, confirming that he hopes to help the Hornets as early as April in an update provided on Friday (March 10).
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Chris Wilder is the new man in the Vicarage Road dugout, after being announced as Watford’s Head Coach on Tuesday (March 7) on a contract running until the end of the 2022/23 season.
Arriving with a plethora of experience from both his playing days and in management, the 55-year-old is well equipped to take on the challenge of boosting the Hornets’ hopes of finishing in the Sky Bet Championship play-off places.
Ahead of his first match in the Watford hotseat, away at Queens Park Rangers this Saturday (March 11, 3pm KO), we take a look back at Wilder’s career, compiling all the essential information surrounding the new man at the helm.
Playing Days
Having started his playing career on the South Coast with Southampton, Wilder - who was born in Stocksbridge, South Yorkshire - moved north in search of more game time having not made a senior appearance for the Saints. His first break came for Sheffield United, who he joined in 1986.
The energetic full-back made over 100 appearances at Bramall Lane during six years at the club, becoming a regular on the teamsheet as the Blades were promoted to the Second Division in 1988/89, and then the First Division the season after.
Although Wilder would be loaned out to the likes of Walsall, Charlton Athletic and Leyton Orient towards the end of his first spell with United, his affection remained for the club and he would later revisit them both as a player again and as manager.
The next permanent step for the Englishman would come in 1992 when he made the short journey to Sheffield United’s local rivals Rotherham United. It would be with the Millers that Wilder would make the biggest impression as a player, amassing his highest total of appearances and goals for a single club.
After departing in 1996, short spells at Notts County and Bradford City followed before Wilder was reunited with the Blades in 1998, adding a further handful of appearances to his collection at Bramall Lane.
A brief stint at Brighton & Hove Albion came and went before the current Watford boss hung his boots up in 2001, after a last hurrah at Halifax Town and more than 50 games for the Shaymen.
First Steps Into Management
Wilder didn’t have to wait long on the sidelines before making the step back into football, joining Alfreton Town at the start of his distinguished managerial career in October 2001.
In just 27 weeks, Wilder brought instant success to the Reds, earning four trophies - the Northern Counties (East) League Premier Division title, the League Cup, the President’s Cup and the Derbyshire Senior Cup.
However, the opportunity to manage his former club Halifax Town, after less than a season at Alfreton, was too good to turn down and he moved back to West Yorkshire in July 2002.
He spent six years with the Shaymen as the former Town defender took charge of more than 300 matches during a tumultuous period at the club, impressively taking them to the Conference play-off final in 2006.
Following Halifax’s liquidation Wilder joined Alan Knill as assistant boss of Bury, before moving back into the managerial hot seat at Oxford United in December 2008. His six-year spell with the U’s included promotion to the Football League after beating York City in the play-offs in 2010, and maintaining their League Two status with consistent top-half finishes.
His impressive spell at Oxford would be followed by an equally remarkable job at Northampton Town, as Wilder kept the Cobblers in the Football League despite significant financial difficulties at the club, going on to win League Two in 2016.
Success At Sheffield United
His latest work hadn’t gone unnoticed and after over 300 games in total at both Oxford United and Northampton Town, Wilder was given the chance to re-join his first-ever club Sheffield United in May 2016, this time as manager.
Back at the Blades, his side earned a century of points in League One as they finished champions during his first campaign in charge, a club record for Sheffield United. The second-tier would take more time to adjust to, but Wilder guided them to a 10th-place finish and safety in their first Championship season since 2011.
It would be the 2018/19 season when he would announce himself to a national audience as Sheffield United were promoted to the Premier League, while Wilder was named LMA Manager of the Year.
Recent Work
In the 2019/20 top-flight campaign, Wilder took the Blades to ninth and their best finish in the league since 1992 with memorable victories over Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, alongside a quarter-final appearance in the Emirates FA Cup.
Having left Sheffield United in March 2021, Wilder found his most recent job at Middlesbrough later that year, winning the Championship Manager of the Month award in December 2021 after leading the Teessiders to four wins out of five.
He guided Boro to a seventh-place finish in the Championship last term, and enjoyed famous FA Cup successes over both Manchester United and Tottenham before departing in October 2022.
Wilder is now ready to bring all his knowledge and experience from his previous successes to The Vic, as he bids to kickstart the Hornets’ promotion push.
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João Ferreira and Jeremy Ngakia will travel with the Watford squad for Saturday's Sky Bet Championship fixture against Queens Park Rangers at Loftus Road [Saturday March 11, 3pm KO], but left-back Hassane Kamara, who continues to progress in his recovery from a hamstring injury, will miss out.
The right-back duo, who have been in training for two weeks, missed out on a spot in the matchday 18 for last Saturday’s goalless draw with Preston North End but will be at new Head Coach Chris Wilder’s disposal against the Rs on the weekend.
Kamara, who is also out on the grass following confirmation that his injury is not serious, is hoping for a swift return but this weekend will prove too soon for the Ivorian.
Defender Francisco Sierralta is optimistic about the timeframe for his return from the metatarsal injury that has kept him out of action since the end of January, confirming that he hopes to help the Hornets as early as April in an update provided on Friday [March 10].
SEO ImageOne of the key things that Chris Wilder took away from his time competing in the Premier League is that skill and ability is no good on its own
Chris Wilder has set out his ambitions for the remainder of a campaign that the Hornets’ new Head Coach hopes will end in promotion to the Premier League.
The 55-year-old, who was appointed earlier this week on a contract until the end of the 2022/23 season, discussed his coaching style, playing methods and more in an interview with the Watford Observer.
Read on for some of the key quotes.
ON HIS TARGETS
“I’ve signed to the end of the season, and I’d like our season to be ending by me walking up the steps at Wembley to get a trophy.
“I’ve got to isolate what I can affect and have an influence over in this 11-game period. I have to control the controllables.
“One thing to remember is that 11 games is very nearly a quarter of a season. People will look at the top two and think it’s done and dusted. I think top spot is, but not second place.”
ON THE OPPORTUNITY
“This is a great opportunity for me. I’m not naïve, I’m a bright guy and I know the history of the football club. Every club has its own model, and I know the model at Watford.
“When this chance came up I made the choice to come in for the final 11 games and hopefully galvanise a group of players who – putting our cards on the table – have under-performed.
“Watford should not be sat 10th in this division, but we have an opportunity all of us – supporters, players, staff, stakeholders and me – to kick-start things.
“What I’ve recognised is from a technical point of view we have one of the most talented groups of players in the division. From a physical perspective they’ve nearly all played in the Premier League, which is the most physical league in the world.
“Now I have to try and put a structure and mentality into the place to get us going.”
ON THE SUPPORTERS
“The support at Watford has always been good, but I have always believed it’s up to the players to light the fire in the bellies of the supporters.
“Hopefully that is what we do with the way we go about things, starting Saturday.”
ON MENTALITY
“We’re here to win games of football, and hopefully good players have that mentality.
“Being a good player isn’t just about being good technically. You have to have steel, a bit of fight and they have to run around and work hard within the structure. They need to rely on their teammates as much as their teammates rely on them.
“You have to be a group that shares the mentality, and if you are then you’ve got half a chance.”
ON PLAYING STYLE
“We’re a forward-thinking staff in terms of trying to dominate possession and trying to attack teams.
“The metrics at Middlesbrough will show that. From the xG [expected goals] point of view we were second in the division, even when the results weren’t there.
“Those stats do give you a bit of comfort, but the bottom line is I’m here to win games, and I’ve won games for the majority of my career wherever that has been. I want to win here.
“The people that have brought me here for these 11 games have been brilliant and supportive, and hopefully we can pay back in terms of helping the group of players.”
ON FORMATIONS
“There are many different ways of playing but you have to put your best players in their best positions. You put round pegs in round holes.
“I’ve got to get players who can win games of football at the top of the pitch. Am I going to leave four or five players at the top end, and defend with six? Well no, because all players have a part to play out of possession as much as they do when we have the ball.
“Similarly the boys behind those who play at the top of the pitch have got a part to play to build and dominate possession that hopefully results in chances being created.
“I’ve coached all different formations. I think people can be lazy sometimes and think ‘he’s 3-5-2’. I won promotion at Oxford United playing 4-3-3. We got 99 points at Northampton playing 4-2-3-1. At Sheffield United we played 3-4-1-2 and we got 100 points, then we tactically changed it when we got to the Premier League.
“I’ve coached every different shape and we’ll put the team in a shape we feel allows the boys to express themselves, put themselves in the best positions but while keeping a nice balance as we have to recognise there are two parts to the game.”
ON THE NEXT THREE GAMES
“If we can get out of the traps quickly on Saturday [against QPR] that’ll be great. I believe we’re taking about 3,000 supporters and they’ll be expecting a performance just as much as I will.
“Then we have two home games after that [against Birmingham City and Wigan], so three big games before the international break when we can re-set and do a bit more work.
“But if we do get things rolling in the right direction then other clubs will be thinking ‘oh, here they come, we’ve been expecting it’. I think the whole division has been expecting Watford to come through. As an outsider I was thinking ‘when are Watford going to catch fire?’ I kept waiting for Watford to get firing, winning one, then two, then three and going on a run.
“So we have to do that, go and win games and be positive with the right attitude. We need to win games and get points. That’s not impossible as we have the experience and we certainly have the talent.”
SEO ImageChris Wilder has been quick to stress that he has played many different formations throughout his managerial career
Chris Wilder believes that if Watford can get a winning run together, it will unsettle the rest of the sides in the hunt for the play-offs.
Watford are back in action away at Queens Park Rangers this Saturday (March 11, 3pm KO), with new Head Coach Chris Wilder looking to kickstart his reign with a win to boost the Hornets’ promotion hopes.
Ahead of the approaching Sky Bet Championship fixture, we take a look back at five of the best matches between Watford and the Hoops over the years.
Watford 4-1 Queens Park Rangers – December 1, 1981
During a break from an impressive second-tier league season, Watford headed into the League Cup with a spring in their step to face QPR. Having beaten Grimsby Town and Lincoln City in the previous rounds, Watford got underway quickly as Les Taylor notched a brace and Luther Blissett got a goal.
Gerry Armstrong came off the bench to make it four and secure an important victory in the fourth round. Unfortunately, Graham Taylor’s Hornets would be knocked out of the competition in the next phase against Ipswich Town in a narrow 2-1 defeat.
League form would more than suffice for the cup disappointment though, as the Golden Boys clinched promotion to the top-flight.
Watford 2-1 Queens Park Rangers – September 12, 1998
The Hornets had suffered for over a decade against the Hoops and had lost six matches in seven against the London-based opposition. It meant that it would come as welcome relief when Keith Millen got the opening goal within the first 10 minutes.
Although a Rangers revival followed at the start of the second half, Allan Smart would recover Watford’s lead late in the day to secure three points and their first victory over QPR in 13 years.
The Hornets would go on to get promotion to the Premier League through the play-offs in dramatic style, after beating Birmingham City and Bolton Wanderers.
Watford 3-0 Queens Park Rangers – August 9, 2004
Into the new century, Watford began the 2004/05 second-tier season beaten by Preston North End, and as attention turned to the Hoops at home, manager Ray Lewington was hoping to impress the attending Hornets faithful.
Striker Danny Webber would get the first and the second, playing a neat one-two with the post for the latter. Bruce Dyer would ensure three points would be heading to the Hornets, diving in at the far post to force the ball past the QPR goalkeeper in the final stages.
Webber would maintain his impressive goalscoring form into the rest of August and September as he notched nine goals in seven matches, but his goals couldn’t keep the Golden Boys on track for long as they finished 18th at the end of the season.
Watford 3-0 Queens Park Rangers – November 22, 2008
After a poor start to the campaign, Watford headed into the match against the Hoops having lost five matches in their last six. Following the dismissal of Aidy Boothroyd, Malky Mackay made a return to Vicarage Road as caretaker manager.
The match against QPR was his first home game in charge, and Mackay enjoyed a dream start. Lee Williamson, Tommy Smith and Darren Ward led the way as the Hornets went three goals up before half-time, effectively wrapping the match up.
The victory would move Watford out of the relegation places and kickstart a revival, as the Hornets never lost more than two fixtures consecutively that season following the encounter.
Watford 3-1 Queens Park Rangers – December 7, 2009
The last time the Hornets beat QPR at The Vic came in 2009 when the world would take note of Lloyd Doyley’s first goal for Watford. Despite Rangers notching the first, Doyley’s equaliser has written its own place in Hornets folklore.
On his 269th Watford appearance Doyley finally scored for Watford, diving in at the back post and finishing like he was an experienced poacher.
Don Cowie and Tom Cleverley would secure the victory, but everyone remembers the match for the mesmeric moment when Doyley scored at The Vic.
For more information on that famous day, click HERE.
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Chris Wilder has 11 games to lift Watford from 10th in the table into the top six, and onto the Championship play-offs.
Tomorrow in the Watford Observer, new Watford head coach Chris Wilder gives his first full and exclusive interview since joining the club.
Watford travel to Queens Park Rangers in Chris Wilder’s first match in charge of the Hornets this weekend (Saturday March 11, 3pm KO), as he bids to kickstart the club’s bid for promotion.
Ahead of the enticing Sky Bet Championship encounter, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the new Head Coach’s debut fixture in the dugout for the Golden Boys.
Previous Meetings
Watford are winless in their last six league matches against QPR, since a 3-1 away triumph in December 2010 which ended Rangers’ 19-game unbeaten start to the 2010/11 season.
Queens Park Rangers are looking to complete a league double over Watford for the first time since the 1986/87 top-flight campaign, following a 3-2 win in the reverse fixture.
Both Watford and QPR have scored in each of their last four league meetings - only in February 1929 (seven games), May 1963 (five games) and December 2007 (five games) have there been longer such runs in this fixture in the Football League.
The home side have lost just one of their last six league meetings with Watford at Loftus Road (W2 D3).
Recent Form
The Hornets have won only one of their last eight league outings (D5 L2), with both those defeats coming to sides currently second (0-1 v Sheffield United) and third (0-2 v Middlesbrough) in the table.
QPR have failed to win any of their previous 12 league games (D5 L7), including defeats on each of the last five occasions, and conceding exactly three goals in four of those losses.
Watford’s last away league win against a London club was in January 2019, beating Crystal Palace 2-1 - since then the Hornets are winless in their last 17 such visits, losing 14 of them.
The Rs are winless in their last nine league games at Loftus Road, losing each of their last three and conceding 19 goals during that run (2.1 per game).
Opposition Stat Attack
Attacking midfielder Ilias Chair tops the rankings for shots on target (26), shots off target (27) and assists (7) within the QPR ranks. The Moroccan has also completed the most passes in the opposition’s half (849), crosses attempted (251) and dribbles completed (98).
Joint top scorers Lyndon Dykes and Joe Willock have notched six goals each, while Jimmy Dunne has attempted the most passes (1,604).
Defensively, centre-half Dunne tops the rankings for clearances (142) and blocks (20), with Sam Field top for tackles attempted (89).
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Many Watford fans have expressed anger and disappointment at some of the restrictions and procedures put in place for selling of Luton tickets.
Watford FC is pleased to announce that Alan Knill, Matt Prestridge and Mike Allen have joined the club as part of new Head Coach Chris Wilder’s backroom team.
The trio link up with Wilder having worked with the 55-year-old throughout his managerial career, most recently at fellow Sky Bet Championship side Middlesbrough, and they will each look to add their expertise to the existing set-up at Vicarage Road.
Former Wales international Knill joins as Assistant Head Coach, having been involved in professional football - as a player then a coach - for more than four decades. The former defender featured for the likes of Halifax Town, Swansea City, Bury and Scunthorpe United on the grass, making more than 500 appearances.
Knill, 58, made his first step into the coaching world as manager of Rotherham United in 2005, where he had called time on his playing days, before going on to take charge of former club Bury three years later where he would appoint Wilder as his assistant.
After Knill’s spells at the helm of Scunthorpe and Torquay United, he would be reunited with Wilder at Northampton Town in 2014, this time with the latter as manager. Together, they would guide the Cobblers to the League Two title in 2015/16.
Wilder and Knill would move on to Sheffield United in May 2016, eventually masterminding two promotions and a ninth-place finish in the Premier League, with Knill staying on to remain under Slaviša Jokanović and then Paul Heckingbottom when Wilder left Bramall Lane.
Three months prior to joining Wilder at Middlesbrough in November 2021, Knill took his place as part of the Wales national team’s backroom staff under former Hornet Robert Page, and he travelled to Qatar for the Dragons’ 2022 FIFA World Cup campaign.
Prestridge, who joins the Golden Boys as a First-Team Coach, has worked with Wilder since his time at Northampton, also linking up with him at the Blades and Boro.
Born in Watford and having previously worked for the Hornets, the 31-year-old is a graduate of Loughborough University and specialises in sports science while also working on the pitch.
Finally, Allen arrives as Head Analyst following spells at Sheffield United and Middlesbrough in similar roles. The 40-year-old spent more than 16 years with the Blades before switching to join Wilder and co. at the Riverside in late 2021.
Welcome Alan, Matt and Mike!
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Watford FC notes the recent coverage of the transfer of Hassane Kamara to Udinese.
“The story says nothing other than repeating the rules relating to transfers involving related parties,” said Hornets’ Technical Director Ben Manga.
“Of course we expect the EFL to examine all transactions. This is normal.”
He added: “Kamara was independently valued in Italy as it’s a related party transaction, so it’s already been assessed.”
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Watford’s sale of Hassane Kamara to Udinese for £16m in January, and his immediate back to the Hornets, is coming under official scrutiny.
Ben & Mike are back to discuss Watford sacking Slaven Bilic & appointing their third manager of the season in Chris Wilder.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Once again the eyes of the football world turned towards Watford yesterday, and once more not for the right reasons
Chris Wilder is the new man in the Vicarage Road dugout, after being announced as Watford’s Head Coach on Tuesday (March 7) on a contract running until the end of the 2022/23 season.
Arriving with a plethora of experience from both his playing days and in management, the 55-year-old is well equipped to take on the challenge of boosting the Hornets’ hopes of finishing in the Sky Bet Championship play-off places.
Ahead of his first match in the Watford hotseat, away at Queens Park Rangers this Saturday (March 11, 3pm KO), we take a look back at Wilder’s career, compiling all the essential information surrounding the new man at the helm.
Playing Days
Having started his playing career on the South Coast with Southampton, Wilder - who was born in Stocksbridge, South Yorkshire - moved north in search of more game time having not made a senior appearance for the Saints. His first break came for Sheffield United, who he joined in 1986.
The energetic full-back made over 100 appearances at Bramall Lane during six years at the club, becoming a regular on the teamsheet as the Blades were promoted to the Second Division in 1988/89, and then the First Division the season after.
Although Wilder would be loaned out to the likes of Walsall, Charlton Atheltic and Leyton Orient towards the end of his first spell with United, his affection remained for the club and he would later revisit them both as a player again and as manager.
The next permanent step for the Englishman would come in 1992 when he made the short journey to Sheffield United’s local rivals Rotherham United. It would be with the Millers that Wilder would make the biggest impression as a player, amassing his highest total of appearances and goals for a single club.
After departing in 1996, short spells at Notts County and Bradford City followed before Wilder was reunited with the Blades in 1998, adding a further handful of appearances to his collection at Bramall Lane.
A brief stint at Brighton & Hove Albion came and went before the current Watford boss hung his boots up in 2001, after a last hurrah at Halifax Town and more than 50 games for the Shaymen.
First Steps Into Management
Wilder didn’t have to wait long on the sidelines before making the step back into football, joining Alfreton Town at the start of his distinguished managerial career in October 2001.
In just 27 weeks, Wilder brought instant success to the Reds, earning four trophies - the Northern Counties (East) League Premier Division title, the League Cup, the President’s Cup and the Derbyshire Senior Cup.
However, the opportunity to manage his former club Halifax Town, after less than a season at Alfreton, was too good to turn down and he moved back to West Yorkshire in July 2002.
He spent six years with the Shaymen as the former Town defender took charge of more than 300 matches during a tumultuous period at the club, impressively taking them to the Conference play-off final in 2006.
Following Halifax’s liquidation Wilder joined Alan Knill as assistant boss of Bury, before moving back into the managerial hot seat at Oxford United in December 2008. His six-year spell with the U’s included promotion to the Football League after beating York City in the play-offs in 2010, and maintaining their League Two status with consistent top-half finishes.
His impressive spell at Oxford would be followed by an equally remarkable job at Northampton Town, as Wilder kept the Cobblers in the Football League despite significant financial difficulties at the club, going on to win League Two in 2016.
Success At Sheffield United
His latest work hadn’t gone unnoticed and after over 300 games in total at both Oxford United and Northampton Town, Wilder was given the chance to re-join his first-ever club Sheffield United in May 2016, this time as manager.
Back at the Blades, his side earned a century of points in League One as they finished champions during his first campaign in charge, a club record for Sheffield United. The second-tier would take more time to adjust to, but Wilder guided them to a 10th-place finish and safety in their first Championship season since 2011.
It would be the 2018/19 season when he would announce himself to a national audience as Sheffield United were promoted to the Premier League, while Wilder was named LMA Manager of the Year.
Recent Work
In the 2019/20 top-flight campaign, Wilder took the Blades to ninth and their best finish in the league since 1992 with memorable victories over Arsenal, Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur, alongside a quarter-final appearance in the Emirates FA Cup.
Having left Sheffield United in March 2021, Wilder found his most recent job at Middlesbrough later that year, winning the Championship Manager of the Month award in December 2021 after leading the Teessiders to four wins out of five.
He guided Boro to a seventh-place finish in the Championship last term, and enjoyed famous FA Cup successes over both Manchester United and Tottenham before departing in October 2022.
Wilder is now ready to bring all his knowledge and experience from his previous successes to The Vic, as he bids to kickstart the Hornets’ promotion push.
SEO ImageDefender Nicola Gibson was satisfied with Watford’s defensive solidity in Sunday’s 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers (March 5), and feels the Hornets are deserving of their place in the FAWNL Cup final.
Gibson was a late addition to the starting XI following Kalani Peart’s withdrawal through injury, and seamlessly adapted to the pace against the FA WNL Northern Premier Division side, playing the full 90 minutes of a professional victory.
With silverware a target upon her arrival from Crawley Wasps in the summer, the 29-year-old is excited for the final and prepared for the test that Nottingham Forest will provide on April 23 (3.30pm KO).
“We’re all buzzing,” smiled Gibson. “The aim at the start of the season was to get to the cup final and we’re there, but we’ve got to finish the job when that comes.
“It was halfway through the warm-up that Kalani hurt her knee and it was a quick adjustment in the changing room and then I was in. I’m quite experienced now so once I’m out there I’m feeling good so I’m happy to get back on to the pitch.
“We controlled it well, we knew what they’d be about but it was a mature performance from us and we deserved the win.”
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Goalkeeper Jacqui Goldsmid was also delighted to have earned the chance to conclude an impressive cup run with the trophy, and thanked her teammates for helping her to feel settled between the sticks.
“It was a hard-fought win against strong opposition, I’m just happy to be out on the pitch playing football with the girls,” said Goldsmid, 22.
“The girls have been very supportive. Them having my back has been really nice and for all of us to put in a strong performance was really good.
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“It’s one of the first times I’ve been able to do it all the way, which is a really nice feeling. I’m just looking forward to getting there with the girls.
“To have fans cheering on the side and coming up with chants is lovely, and it picks us up and helps us get over the finish line.”
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On Season 2, Episode 41 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Gino Pozzo, the Watford FC owner who is embarrassing Watford Football Club and disregarding the Watford FC fanbase. The toxicity worsens by the day -- every day that Gino remains in charge. Slaven Bilic is the second manager to be sacked this season. Chris Wilder is the new gaffer -- doing many of the same things that Rob Edwards (sacked in September 2022) did.
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Watford will be aiming to make it three wins out of three with James Linington in charge of one of their fixtures this season after he was appointed referee for Saturday’s short trip to Queens Park Rangers.
Watford’s João Pedro made it a century of appearances in a yellow shirt with his landmark appearance coming during the goalless draw against Preston North End last weekend (Saturday March 4).
Still only 21 years old, the Brazilian is a mainstay in the Hornets’ ranks and has even been bestowed with the captain’s armband on multiple occasions this season.
During his three-year spell at the club, João Pedro has notched 22 goals in all competitions, nine of which have come during the current campaign.
The skilled forward agreed to join Watford back in October 2018 as a youth player at Fluminense FC, based in Rio de Janeiro. After joining officially in January 2020, João Pedro made his debut against Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup during a 3-3 draw.
He would only have to wait a few months for his Premier League bow when he replaced Roberto Pereyra in the 74th minute of a 3-1 defeat to Southampton, showcasing his talents to the Watford faithful for the very first time.
In his debut top-flight campaign, the Brazilian was restricted to a handful of appearances in the matchday squad, but he would eventually make his name in the second-tier the following season.
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João Pedro started the opening match of the 2020/21 Sky Bet Championship season against Middlesbrough and would go on to make 38 appearances in his first full term at Vicarage Road.
Alongside promotion back to the Premier League, João Pedro made significant contributions including netting the winner against Luton Town on his 19th birthday and his spectacular long-range strike against Derby County. He would total nine goals in that campaign as the Hornets finished second.
Back in the Premier League, and now a regular in the team, João Pedro featured 28 times, notably scoring his first top-flight goal against Manchester United during a memorable 4-1 victory over the Red Devils.
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In all competitions he scored four times during the 2021/22 season, with his other strikes coming against Newcastle United and Leicester City.
The Hornets’ No.10 hit the ground running at the start of the 2022/23 Championship campaign, notching the difference-maker against promotion hopefuls Sheffield United during the curtain-raiser in August.
And despite an injury that ruled him out for the month of January, João Pedro has featured 26 times so far this season with 11 goal contributions. He will be hoping to aid Watford’s push for a play-off position during the final 11 matches of the season.
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International Women’s Day (Wednesday March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. The Hornets are proud to continue our tradition of being at the forefront of football’s campaign to be fully inclusive by supporting International Women’s Day.
Last Friday (March 3) marked the start of five days of awareness, including activations at both the men’s and women’s team matches last weekend, before which our players wore warm-up t-shirts designed by Stephen Dawber-Derks from Geshers School, who won a competition organised by Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust.
The Women of Watford supporters’ group and the club have worked together since the group’s formation in 2021, to deliver on a number of projects and ideas. Among the highlights, Kate Lewers, the founder of WOW, delivered an informative talk about women’s safety, respect, consent and allyship to our Academy players at the London Colney training ground ahead of the match against Blackpool in January.
The club recently announced that Megan Chandler from our women’s team has joined men’s team centre-half Christian Kabasele as a patron of WOW. As part of Watford Football Club’s celebrations for International Women’s Day, Chandler and Kabasele joined Kate and Fran Lynn from WOW for a podcast to discuss the group’s foundation, values and aims, as they work to improve the experiences of women attending football.
The club’s retail team has also engaged with WOW to develop a range of fashionwear for women, which we’re planning to launch soon.
We asked Kate to share a few more details about the work they’ve been doing...
She said: “WOW has been a big part of the club now for over 18 months, and in that time we’ve achieved a lot. We were honoured to receive the Supporter Engagement Award at the FSA Awards back in November in recognition of that. When I tell you we weren’t expecting to win... well that would be an understatement! However it was incredible for our members to receive recognition for all their hard work and dedication - I am so proud of them, and it’s a real privilege to continue to meet, get to know and call these members my friends.
“As ever we’ve got a lot in the pipeline and plans galore for the next 12 months that I could tell you about. But actually what I’d like to do, rather than focus on the ‘big’ things, is show you how WOW has changed the lives of one of our female fans. Because in all honesty this is the biggest thing about WOW - the individual stories of empowerment, of finding their voice and the community of supportive female fans we now have at Watford ready to welcome any guys, gals and non-binary pals who’d like to join. So without further ado, I will hand over to Lisa Beavan...”
Lisa said: “Just a brief introduction to the old me – for over 30 years I have been a mum and wife, supporting Watford FC for even longer. I was content doing everything with my husband and family but over time I lost my individual identity. Less than two years ago my whole world changed. My son went to study in the USA, my daughter went off to university and I then found out that my 20-year marriage was coming to an end. For so long I had been part of a family of four, but now I lived on my own.
“A few months later, I saw a message on social media inviting female supporters to join WOW on their first away day to Brentford. The thought of me, and my mum, going to away games on our own was a little daunting but we decided to go for it. We met other women in a pub just around the corner from the ground. We participated in an interview with Kelly Somers, before walking to the ground as a group.
“We had some interesting comments about being a group of mums, as well as wolf whistles and more. Many people believe the type of behaviour we encountered to be a thing of the past, and although not all females have the same experiences, at times I have felt quite uncomfortable.
“Anyway, the less said about that game the better, but it was the start of positive things to come for the new me, and for WOW. Along with my mum and occasionally my daughter, we attended other away days with WOW, slowly building up a new circle of friends. For me, going through a divorce was difficult at first, but my new friends became a source of support, without them even knowing.
“It hit me most when my parents were away in Spain, which coincided with WOW having their first social event, a get together at the Estcourt Tavern on International Women’s Day. I debated whether to go or not. I am usually confident, and I’ll talk to anyone, but I had never had to walk into a pub on my own. So this was another first for me. WOW has allowed me to attend games on my own, knowing that there will be a friendly face there when I arrive.
“It has given me the confidence to go to new grounds that are unfamiliar to me. Some of us have even discussed travelling to games together using car share, if we’d prefer that to going on the coach with WOW. On occasions, I have shared my appreciation with Kate, who added some of my comments to the report requested by the FSA when WOW were nominated for a supporters’ group award (which we actually won!).
“My children have seen the change in me, and my pride in being part of the Watford FC family has grown, even when results don’t go our way. To be part of WOW, backed by Watford FC, and encouraging other clubs to follow our lead in setting up their own women’s groups, can only be positive.”
To find out more or get involved, you can find Women of Watford FC on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Back to the Hornets’ matches last weekend, and from a partnerships point of view we were pleased that Stake, Corpay, American Airlines and Alan Day all changed their LED logos to IWD purple throughout.
There was also an advert in the men’s official matchday programme (available for £3.50 online HERE) featuring a QR code that provides fans with access to the Clementine app for three months for free. Clementine is an app that helps you shift your mindset, using hypnotherapy to help you get to sleep, improve your confidence and reduce your stress and anxiety. The three-month membership gives access to 80+ mindset shifting sessions, all the deep sleep sessions and courses to help you become more calm and confident.
Fans can also get 15% off at WUKA.co.uk using code WFC15. WUKA is a locally-based, female-led start-up offering the UK’s largest range of reusable, leak-proof period wear for teens and adults. Using this code is also part of a community give back project.
Watford FC CSE Trust’s Feel Good Fitness sessions are also available for anyone who identifies as female and has little to no previous experience of physical activity. The sessions cover a range of activities, with the focus on getting active, looking after your health & wellbeing, and having fun and making friends.
There are currently two sessions taking place every week at the Meriden Community Centre on Tuesday evenings: Introduction to the Gym (5.30pm - 6.30pm) and a Body Sculpt Fitness Session (6.30pm - 7.30pm), with a third weekly session to be added very soon. Please contact healthadmin@watfordfc.com for more information.
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A Watford Centurions supporters’ XI took part in a ‘Match Of The Century’ last Saturday morning (March 4) - a one-off game marking the centenary of the club’s move from Cassio Road to Vicarage Road, as well as 100 years of local sport at West Herts Sports Club.
Ahead of the Hornets’ goalless draw with Preston North End at The Vic, the team of 18 Centurions took on a West Herts FC XI (made up from their regular Sunday League squad) in front of an enthusiastic crowd at the impressively refurbished Park Avenue ground.
Captained by Geoff Broomhead and managed by Watford legend Tommy Mooney, the Centurions gave everything they could but fell short 3-0 at the end of a good-spirited contest, with Paul Shelock, Liam Andrews and Ryan Whitehurst notching the decisive strikes.
Watford goalkeeper Matthew Archer caught the eye with a string of fine stops during the 90 minutes and in a penalty shootout held after full-time, the latter of which ended 4-3 in favour of West Herts.
Both teams wore replica kit similar to what would have been used 100 years ago, with the Watford players lining up in a specially embroidered and personalised version of the club’s commemorative VR100 third kit that they were able to take home as a keepsake after the fixture.
Each spot in the Watford squad was secured by a minimum donation of £100 split between two local charities - Peace Hospice Care and the club’s Community Trust - while together with on-the-day fundraising the total figure raised stands at over £3,500. Thank you to all involved for helping support two great causes.
Head Coach for the day Mooney said: “It was a great event, and all of us involved thoroughly enjoyed it. The most important thing of course is that we’ve raised a good amount of money for two brilliant charities.
“The atmosphere was good, and everyone there - including the West Herts players - were Watford fans which was nice. The game was tough - they were a decent side and we’d only been thrown together a couple of hours before kick-off - but it was played in the right manner and the lads had some big smiles on their faces. We had some good banter in the changing room, and I enjoyed watching some good bits of play.
“From a personal point of view it was nice to be back at West Herts, because besides another charity game I might’ve been involved in, I don’t think I’d been there since before the play-off final in 1999, when we trained there in the lead up to the game. I’ve obviously got some nice memories of that time, but the facilities have certainly changed for the better since then!”
The Watford Centurions matchday 18:
Geoff Broomhead
Cliff Kemp
Ethan Kemp
Peter McManus
Tom Mortimer
Steve Mills
Simon Biddulph
Charlie Vallis
Louis Sheppard
James Glass
Matthew Archer
Chris Stopford
Thomas Tully
Dave Jackson
Jason Martin
Paul Whittenbury
Alastair Grass
James KoskyPhoto credit: Tom Cusden
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New Head Coach Chris Wilder will be hoping to get his reign off to a winning start this weekend, as Watford travel to west London to take on Queens Park Rangers in the Sky Bet Championship (Saturday March 11, 3pm KO).
With the 10th-placed Hornets - who currently sit four points off the top six with 11 games to go - heading to Loftus Road looking to strengthen their promotion hopes, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm GMT with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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A special commemorative fixture to celebrate the centenary of Watford’s move from Cassio Road to Vicarage Road has raised thousands for two good causes.
Watford’s João Pedro made it a century of appearances in a yellow shirt with his landmark appearance coming during the goalless draw against Preston North End last weekend (Saturday March 4).
Still only 21 years old, the Brazilian is a mainstay in the Hornets’ ranks and has even been bestowed with the captain’s armband on multiple occasions this season.
During his three-year spell at the club, João Pedro has notched 22 goals in all competitions, nine of which have come during the current campaign.
The skilled forward agreed to join Watford back in October 2018 as a youth player at Fluminense FC, based in Rio de Janeiro. After joining officially in January 2020, João Pedro made his debut against Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup during a 3-3 draw.
He would only have to wait a few months for his Premier League bow when he replaced Roberto Pereyra in the 74th minute of a 3-1 defeat to Southampton, showcasing his talents to the Watford faithful for the very first time.
In his debut top-flight campaign, the Brazilian was restricted to a handful of appearances in the matchday squad, but he would eventually make his name in the second-tier the following season.
João Pedro started the opening match of the 2020/21 Sky Bet Championship season against Middlesbrough and would go on to make 38 appearances in his first full term at Vicarage Road.
Alongside promotion back to the Premier League, João Pedro made significant contributions including netting the winner against Luton Town on his 19th birthday and his spectacular long-range strike against Derby County. He would total nine goals in that campaign as the Hornets finished second.
Back in the Premier League, and now a regular in the team, João Pedro featured 28 times, notably scoring his first top-flight goal against Manchester United during a memorable 4-1 victory over the Red Devils.
In all competitions he scored four times during the 2021/22 season, with his other strikes coming against Newcastle United and Leicester City.
The Hornets’ No.10 hit the ground running at the start of the 2022/23 Championship campaign, notching the difference-maker against promotion hopefuls Sheffield United during the curtain-raiser in August.
And despite an injury that ruled him out for the month of January, João Pedro has featured 26 times so far this season with 11 goal contributions. He will be hoping to aid Watford’s push for a play-off position during the final 11 matches of the season.
SEO ImageA burst of three goals in 12 minutes was enough for Berkhamsted to beat Watford 3-0 to reach the Herts Senior Cup Final.
The Hornets are pleased to confirm the appointment of Chris Wilder as Head Coach on a contract until the end of this season.
An experienced manager at both Premier League and Championship level, the 55-year-old has overseen successful promotion campaigns at several clubs; notably taking Sheffield United from League One to the top-flight in the space of three seasons.
Wilder then led the Blades to a ninth-placed finish on their return to the Premier League, the club’s highest league position in nearly 30 years.
Having begun his managerial career with Alfreton Town and Halifax Town, Wilder achieved his first promotion with Oxford United, guiding the U’s to Conference Premier Play-Off glory in 2009/10.
He then won the League Two title at Northampton Town in 2013/14, earning his first of two ‘Manager of the Season’ accolades.
Joining Sheffield United in 2016, Wilder took his boyhood club from League One to the Championship with automatic promotion in 2016/17, then delivered promotion to the Premier League in 2018/19, winning his second ‘Manager of the Season’ award in the process.
Most recently manager at Middlesbrough, Wilder joins the Hornets with immediate effect and with 11 games remaining in the quest for promotion from the Sky Bet Championship.
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Watford FC confirms the departure of Head Coach Slaven Bilić and his coaching staff.
The Hornets had won just once in the last eight Sky Bet Championship games under the Croatian Head Coach – part of a run which included just three wins since Christmas.
“We are all ambitious to succeed this season, so something new is needed quickly while the opportunity of promotion is still real,” said Technical Director Ben Manga of the club’s decision.
He added: “With the January transfer window over, to change coach is the only option available to re-energise for the final games ahead.”
The Board of Directors wishes to place on record its thanks to Slaven for his work during his time at the club.
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Watford have parted company with head coach Slaven Bilic after less than six months in charge.
If Watford are to reach the Herts Senior Cup Final, then tonight they have to become the first team to beat Berkhamsted at home this season.
Tickets for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Southern Premier Division fixture against Oxford United (Sunday March 19, 2pm KO) at Grosvenor Vale will go on general sale to supporters at 10am on Wednesday March 8.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
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Tickets for the Sky Bet Championship derby fixture at Luton Town on Saturday April 1 (12.30pm KO) will go on sale to Watford fans from 12noon this Monday (March 6).
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Hornets’ supporters who are 2022/23 Season Ticket holders with 60 or more away match purchases (since summer 2014*) against a Fan ID record will be eligible to purchase first.
The Oak Road Stand allocation is just under 1,000 for visiting fans, sold on an unreserved seating basis.
To assist with the policing operation for this match, the club also confirms that all supporters travelling to Kenilworth Road will be required to do so on official club coach travel.
Match ticket and coach travel purchase will be linked on the club’s ticketing system, with adult tickets priced at £30 and coach travel at £15.
Match tickets for this fixture will not be posted out, they will be available for collection when supporters arrive at Vicarage Road Stadium for coach travel.
Supporters unable to travel to Kenilworth Road will be able to follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service. Purchase arrangements for Hive Live passes for this game will follow shortly.
Watford FC is once again reminding travelling supporters that discriminatory chanting, gestures and behaviour of any kind is totally unacceptable.
*Match Ticket Purchasing Priority
This is the last season during which Away Ticket Groups for purchasing priority will refer back as far as summer 2014, as the number of games is now starting to become too large to seem relevant.
Feedback has always been positive with regards to using the number of matches purchased (rather than convoluted loyalty points or paid-for memberships) so the intention is to continue with this.
The Supporter Services Team will review general purchasing history levels, looking to make the ‘since’ date more recent, while ensuring supporters who most regularly travel to away fixtures continue to have first access.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices, the club’s Under-18s policy, and more.
On-Sale Dates
While seats remain, tickets will be available to supporters in sales groups A+ to D on the following dates. Tickets for this fixture will not be offered for Away Group E sales or general sale. Please note, purchased tickets cannot be distributed to supporters outside of either the sales group to which sales are currently open, or the active sales group when tickets become sold out.
- Away Group A+*
12noon, Monday March 6- Away Group A
12noon, Tuesday March 7- Away Group B
12noon, Wednesday March 8- Away Group C
12noon, Thursday March 9- Away Group D
12noon, Friday March 10*Away Group A+ is a temporary sales group, eligibility for which is based on the available allocation for this fixture. Inclusion in Away Group A+ for previous fixtures does not guarantee eligibility on this occasion.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Luton Town will finish at 4pm on Friday March 31. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Note added 07/03/23 - Please be advised that the availability of tickets is extremely limited ahead of sales being open to supporters in Away Group A at 12noon on Tuesday March 7.
Ticket Prices
General pricing
- Adult: £30
- 75 & Over: £21
- 65-74 Year Olds: £24
- 19-21 Year Olds: £24
- 17-18 Year Olds: £21
- 10-16 Year Olds: £12
- Under 10: £9
Pricing for supporters with a disability
- Adult: £24
- 75 & Over: £12
- 65-74 Year Olds: £21
- 19-21 Year Olds: £21
- 17-18 Year Olds: £12
- 10-16 Year Olds: £12
- Under 10: £9
Match Ticket Collection & Coach Travel
The Supporter Services Office, located beneath the Rookery Stand at Vicarage Road Stadium, will be open from 9am on matchday for match ticket holders to collect their tickets. Photo ID is required to be shown when collecting your ticket. The Supporter Services Office will close for match ticket collection at 10.15am.
Coaches for our trip to Luton Town should be boarded once you’ve collected your match ticket. Seating for this journey is unreserved. Coaches will be ready to depart from Occupation Road at 10.30am.
Supporters who do not regularly use official club coach travel to away fixtures are encouraged to view the club’s coach travel terms and conditions.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Junior Hornets Members Area & Designated Seating Area
As seating for our trip to Luton Town is unreserved, together with the limited number of tickets available, our regular Junior Hornets Members Area and Designated Seating Area will not be in operation for this away fixture.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Wheelchair spaces at Kenilworth Road are in a different area of the ground to the rest of our allocation. These tickets are located with Luton Town supporters in the home section.
A suggested area of seating for ambulant disabled supporters will be set aside within our unreserved allocation. These will only be available to supporters who have notified us of their requirement.
Online ticket sales of wheelchair and ambulant disabled spaces are not available for this fixture. Supporters requiring wheelchair and/or ambulant disabled tickets should call the Supporter Services Office on 01923 223023 to make their purchase.
Any supporters purchasing wheelchair or disabled ambulant tickets will be allocated a space on an accessible coach.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford's Under-21s must overcome the team with the best home record in the top eight tiers of English football to reach the Herts Senior Cup Final
Captain Craig Cathcart said it was difficult to pinpoint what is going wrong for Watford at the moment.
It was another busy week for Hornets far and wide as many played an active role in helping their temporary clubs into the start of March.
We begin with Damani Hunter, who notched Grays Athletic’s second goal in their 2-0 victory over Wroxham (Saturday March 4) in the Isthmian League North Division encounter.
The 18-year-old forward, who recently earned the mascots’ Man of the Match award for his performance in a 2-0 win over Tilbury, continued his fine form for the Grays.
Meanwhile, Joseph Hungbo featured in Huddersfield Town’s 4-0 defeat to Coventry City in the Sky Bet Championship (March 4). The winger played more centrally for Neil Warnock’s Terriers, but was unable to stop the Sky Blues.
The 23-year-old was awarded Huddersfield’s Player of the Month award for February earlier in the week, as voted for by the club’s members. Having only joined in January, Hungbo has made a big impression at the John Smith’s Stadium and he will be hoping he can help the Yorkshiremen fight off relegation.
Also in the second-tier, Ashley Fletcher notched his second goal for Wigan Athletic, coming against Birmingham City in a 1-1 draw at the DW Stadium (March 4). The striker equalised with a left-footed effort on the hour mark after Juninho Bacuna - Leandro Bacuna’s brother - gave the Blues an early lead.
The result means that the Latics move up a place from the foot of the Championship table, but are still six points from safety.
In the National League, 18-year-old forward Shaq Forde gave York City the lead at Dagenham and Redbridge with his sixth goal of the season, before the Minstermen eventually fell to a 2-1 defeat (March 4).
Mattie Pollock played 68 minutes in Aberdeen’s clash against Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership (March 4). The centre-half helped the Dons to a 3-1 victory which enabled them to leapfrog St. Mirren and take fifth place.
Over in Belgium, Vakoun Bayo was involved in a second-consecutive 1-0 win for RSC Charleroi, who beat KV Kortrijk (March 4) as they continue their push to keep within the orbit of the European play-off positions in the top-flight.
Goalkeeper Myles Roberts continued racking up appearances for Welling United with another reliable performance and clean sheet, this time coming against Hungerford Town in a 0-0 draw (March 4) with the Berkshire-based side in the National League South.
Bogdan Marian was another Academy talent etching his name onto the scoresheet, scoring for AFC Rushden & Diamonds during a 4-1 loss to Mickleover (March 4) in the Southern League Premier Central, smashing the ball in from close range.
Elsewhere, midfielder Ethan Goulding played 90 minutes for Oxhey Jets in a 1-0 defeat to Holyport (March 4) in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North.
JJ McKiernan (Eastleigh), William Troost-Ekong (Salernitana), Domingos Quina (Rotherham United) and Kwadwo Baah (Fortuna Düsseldorf) all missed their respective sides’ matches over the weekend.
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Nottingham Forest stand in the way of Watford Women and lifting the FA Women's National League Cup after the Golden Girls beat Wolverhampton Wanderers 2-0 to secure a place in the final.
Watford Women Head Coach Damon Lathrope believes his side are well worth their spot in the FAWNL Cup final following a comfortable 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers at Grosvenor Vale in the final four.
Dré Georgiou’s toe-poke finish and Faye Brough’s header separated the two sides at The Vale, and Lathrope felt the maturity of their defensive performance, coupled with physicality in midfield, was behind the victory.
The final, slated for April 23 against Nottingham Forest at Burton Albion’s Pirelli Stadium, is an opportunity for the Golden Girls to add silverware to a successful season, with Lathrope keen for his players to leave a legacy.
“I’m over the moon for the group,” Lathrope beamed. “I think we got what we deserved on the day, it was a very solid performance. We knew what we were coming up against in Wolves and nullified their threats, and were really good ourselves.
“We were excellent to a player. [Physicality] is not our forté but you can see from today and against Portsmouth that we’re more than able to compete. When the game settled down I think our quality showed.”
The game wound down towards the end of the second half with Wolves unable to make a breakthrough, but Watford continued to fashion chances, making three attacking changes. Lathrope was delighted with their game management.
“We said at half-time, in my opinion we dominated the first half and wanted a third goal,” continued the Head Coach. “We didn’t quite get a third but I never felt uncomfortable or that a goal was coming [for Wolves].”
Forest ran out 5-0 winners in their semi-final against Watford’s league rivals Portsmouth, setting up an enticing tie in the final.
“It’s been a target all year,” added Lathrope, 33. “It’s a nationally-recognised cup and I’ve said to the girls, it’s not been done for a long time at Watford.
“We want to be a team that’s remembered, and we’re only going to be if we bring trophies home. We’ve got one more game and it’ll be tough - Forest are a good team - but we’ll be prepared and ready to go.”
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Head coach Slaven Bilic said his Watford side were simply not good enough in the first 45 minutes against Preston
With goals, and even chances, so hard to come by for Watford, has head coach Slaven Bilic thought of starting with two strikers?
1- During the lockdown, Daughter 2 and I watched the Marvel films. All of them, however many there were at the time, having inadvertently missed the boat up until that point with Daughter 2 now being old enough and so on. They vary in quality – some of them are good, some of them are […]
On Season 2, Episode 40 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on an indifferent and low-key Watford stumbling into goalless frustration against a poor Preston side.
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After the dismal 0-0 draw with Preston, Watford head coach Slaven Bilic fielded questions about his job, and if his players were backing him
Craig Cathcart felt deflated after Watford’s goalless draw with Preston North End at Vicarage Road, admitting the Hornets are struggling to find a cutting edge in the Sky Bet Championship.
Returning after a month out through a groin injury, Cathcart expressed his delight at being back in the fold, and confirmed his second-half departure was a result of cramp rather than anything more sinister.
The Northern Ireland international saw an improvement from the Golden Boys in the second period after a slow start, and was disheartened to have not come away victorious.
“We’re very frustrated,” the defender began. “In the first half we were a bit slow with second balls, we didn’t really get going but in the second half we were much better.
“We created a few chances but to come away without three points again today is very disappointing.
“It’s hard to put a finger on it at the minute because we do get close to the goal and in and around the opposition box, but things just aren’t really going our way. We might need something to deflect in and build some momentum. It’s frustrating, but we’ll take a point and move on, try to do better next game.”
Cathcart was on the bench for last Saturday’s 1-0 defeat at the hands of Sheffield United (February 25), but hadn’t featured since the Reading draw at the start of last month. Pleased to have made his return, the 34-year-old is now keen to return to full fitness over the next week before a trip to Queens Park Rangers (Saturday March 11, 3pm KO).
“I’m getting old, was playing right-back and it was the first game back from my injury so it probably all took its toll a bit, but that’s one of those things,” continued Cathcart.
“I’ve been back in training for maybe a week now, I’m feeling better but just need to build that fitness up.”
With goals missing over the last two games, Cathcart and his teammates will look to take the upsides of the Preston performance into the fixture in west London.
Added Cathcart: “We’ll try to take the positives from today’s game, especially in the second-half performance, try to improve and score goals to get the three points.”
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Watford talisman João Pedro was pleased to make his 100th appearance in yellow despite being disappointed with the goalless draw against Preston North End in the Sky Bet Championship.
The Brazilian made his first appearance for the Hornets back in January 2020 in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup against Tranmere Rovers and, since that moment, he has become a key figure within the Watford squad with 11 goal involvements to his name this season.
At The Vic against Preston most recently, João Pedro once again played a key role in Watford’s attack and positive play, but was unable to break down a resilient away defence.
Upon reaching the special milestone, the 21-year-old spoke about his pride in achieving the landmark and acknowledged how much he has appreciated the support from the Watford faithful since he arrived.
João Pedro said: “This is not the way I wanted to celebrate the milestone, but I’m very happy that today marked my 100th appearance with the club. I’m hoping there are many more to come.
“We knew we needed to win this game. It was a difficult one and we need to find a way to start winning games again and work hard over the week ahead for the next game.
“I think we need to be more focused in the last third of the pitch and more aggressive when we are close to the box.
“It’s very important to have the fans behind you and it’s very important that they are with us, and they are with us in this difficult moment. Having their love is really special for me and I need to thank them as well and show my appreciation to them.”
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić acknowledged that Watford’s goalless draw at home to Preston North End was a chance missed in the race to finish in the Sky Bet Championship play-off places, explaining he was particularly disappointed with his team’s first-half performance at Vicarage Road.
The hotly-contested encounter - that marked João Pedro’s 100th Hornets appearance - produced a smattering of chances for both sides, with the Boy from Brazil and Ismaïla Sarr among those going closest in yellow but ultimately falling short.
The result leaves Bilić’s side ninth in the second-tier standings with 11 games to go, still only four points off the top six but with plenty of room for improvement according to the former Croatia boss ahead of the next test away at Queens Park Rangers (Saturday March 11, 3pm KO).
“We’re disappointed, of course,” said the 54-year-old. “If we were in a more comfortable position higher up the table, or if it was earlier in the season, I might look at things differently, but we were looking to get back on the winning trail here and we didn’t.
“I think if one of the two teams deserved to win the match it was us, but simply we didn’t do enough to do that. We can say we stopped them but that wasn’t our aim, we wanted the three points and we’ve come up short.
“I expected much more in the first half. We couldn’t get on the ball, we were weak when we got in good situations, and we couldn’t get stability or control in the game. In the second half we made a few changes and we were a lot better, but we still couldn’t score a goal.”
Having drawn blanks in successive games - following last weekend’s reverse at Sheffield United (Saturday February 25) - Bilić recognised the team’s recent lack of potency up front, and said he believes several factors are contributing to their lack of cutting edge.
With a week to work his players back at the London Colney training ground in preparation for the trip to Loftus Road, he insisted there is now no time to lose in his battle to kickstart a winning run.
Bilić added: “Since the World Cup break we’ve struggled to score freely. First of all we had many players out injured, and we hoped it would click when they were back but it hasn’t quite happened.
“Today, we knew Preston don’t concede many goals so we were never going to create loads of chances, but I still felt we didn’t do enough. It was always something - maybe if we were in a good situation with people in the box, the cross was bad, or if the cross was good there was a bad touch - it was always something.
“We’ll keep working to try and change things. This wasn’t the last game of the season and it isn’t quite make or break, but we have to be realistic about the fact that we need to start winning games. We’ll go again next week.”
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It was a game that Slaven Bilic had conceded was a ‘must-win’ in Watford’s quest to secure a play-off place. What he oversaw was a performance that got the boos it deserved at full-time as the Hornets were held to a drab 0-0 stalemate by Preston North End.
A miserable and frustrating afternoon as Watford fail to break down Preston, allowing two more points to slip away
The Golden Girls are on the hunt for a place in the FA Women’s National League Cup final as they face Wolverhampton Wanderers in the last four this Sunday (March 5, 2pm KO).
Securing their spot in the semi-finals with a convincing 5-1 win against MK Dons at the end of January, the Hornets will be looking to show a reaction after last weekend’s trip to Suffolk ended in a narrow defeat at the hands of Ipswich Town in the league.
That defeat came at the end of a three-game week, where the side secured six of the nine possible points on offer, which included the standout result against Portsmouth as Damon Lathrope’s side blew the league leaders away.
Sunday’s match-up provides the first taste of the FA WNL Northern Premier Division at Grosvenor Vale this season. A tough match is in store with both sides at the top end of their tables, promising an entertaining game for those in attendance.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting The Vale for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please Note – Parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas - we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £5
- Concessions (U16, 65+, Disability) - £3
- Women’s/Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders - £1
On the day sales for Adults & Concessions will see the prices increase by £2, so we highly recommend booking in advance if possible.
Watford Women Season Ticket holders can pay £1 in advance or on the gate for this cup fixture.
Watford Men’s and Wealdstone FC Season Ticket Holders will need to show proof of their season card to gain entry for £1.
The Match
Wolves come into the game in a rich vein of form and are unbeaten in their last five outings. In that run, the visitors have scored 19 goals, conceding five along the way and dropping just two points.
Top goalscorer Jade Cross will prove to be one of many attacking threats, scoring five goals in as many games.
Sunday looks set to be a tight affair, with the potential of extra-time and penalties being needed to decide who will meet the winner of Portsmouth v Nottingham Forest - who meet in the other semi-final - for the chance to lift the cup.
With Helen Ward having announced she will retire from football at the end of the season in the lead up to the match, be sure to come down to Grosvenor Vale to support Ward and Watford in their quest to bring silverware to the club and sign off a legendary career in the best possible way.
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He may only be 21 but Joao Pedro is the latest Watford captain and head coach Slaven Bilic says the Brazilian has thrived on it.
Watford supporters have been allocated less than 1,000 tickets for the derby game at Luton, and must travel to/from the game on club coaches.
Tickets for the Sky Bet Championship derby fixture at Luton Town on Saturday April 1 (12.30pm KO) will go on sale to Watford fans from 12noon this Monday (March 6).
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Hornets’ supporters who are 2022/23 Season Ticket holders with 60 or more away match purchases (since summer 2014*) against a Fan ID record will be eligible to purchase first.
The Oak Road Stand allocation is just under 1,000 for visiting fans, sold on an unreserved seating basis.
To assist with the policing operation for this match, the club also confirms that all supporters travelling to Kenilworth Road will be required to do so on official club coach travel.
Match ticket and coach travel purchase will be linked on the club’s ticketing system, with adult tickets priced at £30 and coach travel at £15.
Match tickets for this fixture will not be posted out, they will be available for collection when supporters arrive at Vicarage Road Stadium for coach travel.
Supporters unable to travel to Kenilworth Road will be able to follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service. Purchase arrangements for Hive Live passes for this game will follow shortly.
Watford FC is once again reminding travelling supporters that discriminatory chanting, gestures and behaviour of any kind is totally unacceptable.
*Match Ticket Purchasing Priority
This is the last season during which Away Ticket Groups for purchasing priority will refer back as far as summer 2014, as the number of games is now starting to become too large to seem relevant.
Feedback has always been positive with regards to using the number of matches purchased (rather than convoluted loyalty points or paid-for memberships) so the intention is to continue with this.
The Supporter Services Team will review general purchasing history levels, looking to make the ‘since’ date more recent, while ensuring supporters who most regularly travel to away fixtures continue to have first access.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices, the club’s Under-18s policy, and more.
On-Sale Dates
While seats remain, tickets will be available to supporters in sales groups A+ to D on the following dates. Tickets for this fixture will not be offered for Away Group E sales or general sale. Please note, purchased tickets cannot be distributed to supporters outside of either the sales group to which sales are currently open, or the active sales group when tickets become sold out.
- Away Group A+*
12noon, Monday March 6- Away Group A
12noon, Tuesday March 7- Away Group B
12noon, Wednesday March 8- Away Group C
12noon, Thursday March 9- Away Group D
12noon, Friday March 10*Away Group A+ is a temporary sales group, eligibility for which is based on the available allocation for this fixture. Inclusion in Away Group A+ for previous fixtures does not guarantee eligibility on this occasion.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Luton Town will finish at 4pm on Friday March 31. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Ticket Prices
General pricing
- Adult: £30
- 75 & Over: £21
- 65-74 Year Olds: £24
- 19-21 Year Olds: £24
- 17-18 Year Olds: £21
- 10-16 Year Olds: £12
- Under 10: £9
Pricing for supporters with a disability
- Adult: £24
- 75 & Over: £12
- 65-74 Year Olds: £21
- 19-21 Year Olds: £21
- 17-18 Year Olds: £12
- 10-16 Year Olds: £12
- Under 10: £9
Match Ticket Collection & Coach Travel
The Supporter Services Office, located beneath the Rookery Stand at Vicarage Road Stadium, will be open from 9am on matchday for match ticket holders to collect their tickets. Photo ID is required to be shown when collecting your ticket. The Supporter Services Office will close for match ticket collection at 10.15am.
Coaches for our trip to Luton Town should be boarded once you’ve collected your match ticket. Seating for this journey is unreserved. Coaches will be ready to depart from Occupation Road at 10.30am.
Supporters who do not regularly use official club coach travel to away fixtures are encouraged to view the club’s coach travel terms and conditions.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Junior Hornets Members Area & Designated Seating Area
As seating for our trip to Luton Town is unreserved, together with the limited number of tickets available, our regular Junior Hornets Members Area and Designated Seating Area will not be in operation for this away fixture.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Wheelchair spaces at Kenilworth Road are in a different area of the ground to the rest of our allocation. These tickets are located with Luton Town supporters in the home section.
A suggested area of seating for ambulant disabled supporters will be set aside within our unreserved allocation. These will only be available to supporters who have notified us of their requirement.
Online ticket sales of wheelchair and ambulant disabled spaces are not available for this fixture. Supporters requiring wheelchair and/or ambulant disabled tickets should call the Supporter Services Office on 01923 223023 to make their purchase.
Any supporters purchasing wheelchair or disabled ambulant tickets will be allocated a space on an accessible coach.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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- Watford v Preston North End
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Saturday March 4, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: Gavin Ward
- Assistant Referees: Robert Merchant and Robert Hyde
- Fourth Official: Alan Young
Opposition
Since a 3-0 defeat at the hands of Burnley in February, Ryan Lowe’s Preston North End are now unbeaten in four matches, last tasting victory against Wigan Athletic 2-1 last Saturday (February 25).
Lowe will be hoping his side can replicate the defensively-robust performance from August, when they last played the Hornets, during a goalless draw.
Stats Buzz
Watford have lost just one of their last seven league games against Preston North End (W3 D3), losing 3-1 in May 2011.
Preston are winless in their last five league visits to Watford, since a 2-1 triumph on the opening day of the 2005/06 season.
The Hornets have scored 10 goals in their last four league fixtures against Preston at Vicarage Road - including four in the last such game in November 2020 - as many as in the prior nine encounters.
For a full statistical breakdown check out Stats Buzz: Preston North End In Numbers.
Team News
Slaven Bilić’s right-back options are bolstered by the return to fitness of Jeremy Ngakia and João Ferreira, who took part in training this week. The Hornets Head Coach will make a late call on their involvement against Preston.
Click HERE for full Watford team news.
For Preston, both Ben Whiteman and Robbie Brady will be back available for selection after serving their respective suspensions, while Greg Cunningham is also back in training, having recovered from the knock which left him out of Tuesday’s 0-0 draw against Coventry City (February 28).
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“We know we have to kick on, and that now is the time for the results. You can’t calculate how everything is going to go, but make no mistake, we’ll be going for 36 points from these next 12 games. We know where we are, but we are optimistic because this is the point of the season we looked at as being really important, and we knew we had to get to it without dropping too far away in the table.
“We still have a few players out injured, but I’d say now we’ve got 90 per cent of the players we’d use in these last 12 games, and they’re all getting stronger as we go on. We’re not happy with how some of the previous games have gone but we’re still in the running, and we believe that we have the tools to pick up good results, starting tomorrow against Preston.”
Ryan Lowe, Preston North End Manager:
“They’ve [Watford] just come down from the Premier League, they’ve got some fantastic quality and they’ve got a manager who knows what to do and how to do it and has been there before.
“He’s got teams out the division and has managed in the Premier League so we’re under no illusions it’s going to be a tough task, but I think our positive mindset of late and performances of late have been fantastic, and we want to continue that.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 13
Drawn: 14
Lost: 18Last Six:
August 2022: Preston North End 0-0 Watford (Championship)
February 2021: Preston North End 0-1 Watford (Championship)
November 2020: Watford 4-1 Preston North End (Championship)
August 2015: Preston North End 1-0 Watford (League Cup)
May 2011: Preston North End 3-1 Watford (Championship)
February 2011: Watford 2-2 Preston North End (Championship)Golden Flashback
A five-goal thriller saw Watford secure three points back in 2020 at Vicarage Road, winning 4-1 in the second-tier.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Preston North End, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Hamza Choudhury and Wesley Hoedt have been crowned winners of February’s Player of the Month and Stake Goal of the Month awards respectively.
Following an online vote on the official Watford FC app, midfielder Choudhury saw off competition from Dré Georgiou, Sophie McLean, Kalani Peart, Ryan Porteous and Ken Sema to win the player award.
The 25-year-old, who excelled with some typically committed displays during his five Sky Bet Championship outings last month, gained 22.9 per cent of the final vote with Porteous finishing second and Sema third.
Meanwhile, Hoedt marked an impressive first month at Vicarage Road by taking home Goal of the Month for his debut strike against Blackburn Rovers.
The defender, who signed from Anderlecht on transfer deadline day, has been a strong addition to the Hornets’ backline but also showed his quality in advanced areas, drilling home a delightful volley to equalise in a 1-1 draw with Rovers on his first Watford outing.
Hoedt was a clear winner with 46.5 per cent of the online vote; Porteous finishing runner-up for his debut header against Reading, with Faye Brough’s goal on her first home match against MK Dons coming third.
Anne Meiwald (v Portsmouth), Ismaïla Sarr (v Reading) and Poppy Wilson (v Ipswich Town) were the other goals nominated.
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić stressed that he and his Watford squad know there is no time to lose as they bid to keep themselves in the promotion picture, ahead of the visit of Preston North End at Vicarage Road tomorrow (Saturday March 4, 3pm KO).
The Hornets currently sit eighth in the Sky Bet Championship table with 12 games to play, 14 points off the top two but just four behind local rivals Luton Town in sixth and with three of their next four games on home soil.
Though defeated by high-flyers Sheffield United last time out, Bilić has taken heart from the last five games that also yielded three successive draws and a victory over West Brom, and with the improved fitness of his players he is hopeful of kickstarting a winning run against Preston.
He said: “We were disappointed with the result last week of course, but I thought we controlled large periods, we contained them and we were good on the ball. It was only really in the final third that we weren’t good enough.
“But there were positives, like Imrân [Louza] playing just under an hour and some of the other recent returnees getting more minutes, like [Ken] Sema and João [Pedro] again. Everything is positive, because the guys’ fitness has got better, and now I expect us to play even better.
“We know we have to kick on, and that now is the time for the results. You can’t calculate how everything is going to go, but make no mistake, we’ll be going for 36 points from these next 12 games. We know where we are, but we are optimistic because this is the point of the season we looked at as being really important, and we knew we had to get to it without dropping too far away in the table.
“We still have a few players out injured, but I’d say now we’ve got 90 per cent of the players we’d use in these last 12 games, and they’re all getting stronger as we go on. We’re not happy with how some of the previous games have gone but we’re still in the running, and we believe that we have the tools to pick up good results, starting tomorrow against Preston.”
Having faced both Sheffield United and league leaders Burnley in their last three games - as well as the in-form West Brom - and come away with four points from a possible nine, Bilić acknowledged that the prospect of playing four teams (Preston, QPR, Birmingham and Wigan) sat below them in the standings during March represents a good chance to strengthen their top-six hopes.
But, well-acquainted with the English second-tier, the former Croatia boss insisted that the Golden Boys can only look as far ahead as their next game, with Ryan Lowe’s Lilywhites having demonstrated their quality in the reverse fixture in August.
“Some games do look easier on paper, but we know that good performances don’t come from paper,” he said. “We need to make that our motivation, and use these upcoming games to give us confidence, while also remembering that we haven’t got time to waste now.
“For now we just need to focus on getting a result against Preston. We are fully aware of how they play, and they are a good side who don’t concede many goals, but we will be ready to go.”
Finally, Bilić gave a mention to young Brazilian star João Pedro, who has showcased his maturity with the captain’s responsibilities in recent weeks, and fellow forward Keinan Davis, who the Head Coach is hoping can have a big influence on upcoming results.
“I speak to João on a daily basis, and I think he’s really enjoyed that extra responsibility,” added Bilić, 54. “He’s still very young but we know how good he is, and he’s a great person to have around the rest of the guys both on and off the pitch.
“Everyone says how good a player Keinan is, and he is a special talent. He is a big, physical guy, but he also has an unbelievably soft touch. The only thing he has been lacking recently is goals, but I’m confident he can play a big part in helping us to success up to the end of the season.”
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Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Preston North End (March 4, 3pm KO), with Slaven Bilić’s men looking to bounce back to winning ways following a narrow defeat at Sheffield United last time out.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Preston North End, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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International Women’s Day (Wednesday March 8) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The day also marks a call to action for accelerating women’s equality. The Hornets are proud to continue our tradition of being at the forefront of football’s campaign to be fully inclusive by supporting International Women’s Day.
Today (Friday March 3) marks the start of five days of awareness, which includes activations at both the men’s and women’s team matches this weekend, before which our players will be wearing warm-up t-shirts designed by Stephen Dawber-Derks from Geshers School, who won a competition organised by Watford FC’s Community Sports & Education Trust.
The Women of Watford supporters’ group and the club have worked together since the group’s formation in 2021, to deliver on a number of projects and ideas. Among the highlights, Kate Lewers, the founder of WOW, delivered an informative talk about women’s safety, respect, consent and allyship to our Academy players at the London Colney training ground ahead of the match against Blackpool in January.
The club also recently announced that Megan Chandler from our women’s team has joined men’s team centre-half Christian Kabasele as a patron of WOW, and we’ll hear more about that from Christian, Megan and a few of the group’s members next week. The club’s retail team have also engaged with the group to develop a range of fashionwear for women, which we’re planning to launch soon.
We asked Kate to share a few more details about the work we’ve been doing...
She said: “WOW has been a big part of the club now for over 18 months, and in that time we’ve achieved a lot. We were honoured to receive the Supporter Engagement Award at the FSA Awards back in November in recognition of that. When I tell you we weren’t expecting to win... well that would be an understatement! However it was incredible for our members to receive recognition for all their hard work and dedication - I am so proud of them, and it’s a real privilege to continue to meet, get to know and call these members my friends.
“As ever we’ve got a lot in the pipeline and plans galore for the next 12 months that I could tell you about. But actually what I’d like to do, rather than focus on the ‘big’ things, is show you how WOW has changed the lives of one of our female fans. Because in all honesty this is the biggest thing about WOW - the individual stories of empowerment, of finding their voice and the community of supportive female fans we now have at Watford ready to welcome any guys, gals and non-binary pals who’d like to join. So without further ado, I will hand over to Lisa Beavan...”
Lisa said: “Just a brief introduction to the old me – for over 30 years I have been a mum and wife, supporting Watford FC for even longer. I was content doing everything with my husband and family but over time I lost my individual identity. Less than two years ago my whole world changed. My son went to study in the USA, my daughter went off to university and I then found out that my 20-year marriage was coming to an end. For so long I had been part of a family of four, but now I lived on my own.
“A few months later, I saw a message on social media inviting female supporters to join WOW on their first away day to Brentford. The thought of me, and my mum, going to away games on our own was a little daunting but we decided to go for it. We met other women in a pub just around the corner from the ground. We participated in an interview with Kelly Somers, before walking to the ground as a group.
“We had some interesting comments about being a group of mums, as well as wolf whistles and more. Many people believe the type of behaviour we encountered to be a thing of the past, and although not all females have the same experiences, at times I have felt quite uncomfortable.
“Anyway, the less said about that game the better, but it was the start of positive things to come for the new me, and for WOW. Along with my mum and occasionally my daughter, we attended other away days with WOW, slowly building up a new circle of friends. For me, going through a divorce was difficult at first, but my new friends became a source of support, without them even knowing.
“It hit me most when my parents were away in Spain, which coincided with WOW having their first social event, a get together at the Estcourt Tavern on International Women’s Day. I debated whether to go or not. I am usually confident, and I’ll talk to anyone, but I had never had to walk into a pub on my own. So this was another first for me. WOW has allowed me to attend games on my own, knowing that there will be a friendly face there when I arrive.
“It has given me the confidence to go to new grounds that are unfamiliar to me. Some of us have even discussed travelling to games together using car share, if we’d prefer that to going on the coach with WOW. On occasions, I have shared my appreciation with Kate, who added some of my comments to the report requested by the FSA when WOW were nominated for a supporters’ group award (which we actually won!).
“My children have seen the change in me, and my pride in being part of the Watford FC family has grown, even when results don’t go our way. To be part of WOW, backed by Watford FC, and encouraging other clubs to follow our lead in setting up their own women’s groups, can only be positive.”
To find out more or get involved, you can find Women of Watford FC on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
Back to the Hornets’ matches this weekend, and from a partnerships point of view we are pleased that Stake, Corpay, American Airlines and Alan Day will all be changing their LED logos to IWD purple throughout.
There is also an advert in the men’s official matchday programme (available for just £3.50 either outside the ground or online HERE) featuring a QR code that provides fans with access to the Clementine app for three months for free. Clementine is an app that helps you shift your mindset, using hypnotherapy to help you get to sleep, improve your confidence and reduce your stress and anxiety. The three-month membership gives access to 80+ mindset shifting sessions, all the deep sleep sessions and courses to help you become more calm and confident.
Fans can also get 15% off at WUKA.co.uk using code WFC15. WUKA is a locally-based, female-led start-up offering the UK’s largest range of reusable, leak-proof period wear for teens and adults. Using this code is also part of a community give back project.
Watford FC CSE Trust’s Feel Good Fitness sessions are also available for anyone who identifies as female and has little to no previous experience of physical activity. The sessions cover a range of activities, with the focus on getting active, looking after your health & wellbeing, and having fun and making friends. There are currently two sessions taking place every week at the Meriden Community Centre on Tuesday evenings: Introduction to the Gym (5.30pm - 6.30pm) and a Body Sculpt Fitness Session (6.30pm - 7.30pm), with a third weekly session to be added very soon.
To celebrate International Women’s Day, the Trust is offering these sessions free of charge on Tuesday March 7, 2023. Anyone who wants to come along to either of these sessions for free on this day, or if you have any questions, please contact healthadmin@watfordfc.com.
SEO ImageLess than nine points from three upcoming home games wouldn't worry Slaven Bilic, but he admits it wouldn't be enough
Slaven Bilić’s right-back options are bolstered by the return to fitness of Jeremy Ngakia and João Ferreira, who took part in training this week.
The Hornets Head Coach will make a late call on their involvement in Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Preston North End (March 4, 3pm KO), but is pleased to have the duo available for selection ahead of an important run of fixtures.
“They started to train with us early in the week,” said Bilić, 54. “Their injuries weren’t long but weren’t 10 days. They are maybe not [fit] for this game but they are back, it’s very good to have players back for this stage of the season.”
Samuel Kalu expects to be back with the group in two weeks, stepping up his return from the hamstring injury picked up in early January against Norwich City, and Hassane Kamara awaits results from a scan on the same muscle.
“They are going to scan Hassane today, he feels better than the scans are showing and a lot of it depends on the scan but he is training okay,” added Bilić.
Tom Dele-Bashiru will miss the rest of the 2022/23 season having suffered an ankle injury in training, with Edo Kayembe’s calf problem likely to keep him out of action for the same period.
Francisco Sierralta’s metatarsal injury will see him miss several weeks, but the Chilean defender will be hoping for a return before the campaign’s end. That is less likely than Tom Cleverley’s return, as the club captain seeks to resume training in three to four weeks.
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“Watford is forever in my blood and in my heart.” Those are the emotional words of Helen Ward who has announced she will be retiring at the end of the season.
Louza is back to fitness, Ngakia and Ferreira training, Kamara misses tomorrow, three out for the season, but Cleverley on the way back.
Watford’s trip to Coventry City on Easter Monday has been chosen for live broadcast by Sky Sports.
The date and kick-off time for the Sky Bet Championship fixture have not been changed, meaning the Hornets will travel to the Coventry Building Society Arena on Monday April 10 (3pm KO).
Due to Sky Sports broadcast, Hive Live video coverage of the Coventry game will only be accessible to supporters in countries where the match is not being televised. A list of exempt territories will be revealed in due course ahead of the match, while Hive Live audio commentary will be available to all domestic and overseas supporters.
No further games involving Watford up to April 10 have been selected for TV broadcast in the UK, meaning the trip to Luton Town (Saturday April 1, 12.30pm KO) and the home match against Huddersfield Town (Good Friday April 7, 3pm KO) will be available to stream for domestic and overseas supporters via Hive Live.
TV broadcast selections relating to fixtures scheduled for the remainder of April will be made over the coming weeks.
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Watford FC confirms that Golden Girls skipper Helen Ward will retire from football at the end of the 2022/23 campaign.
The Hornets legend and Wales all-time leading goalscorer has penned an emotional farewell to the game below, thanking teammates, staff and fans for their support during her goal-laden career...
So, at the end of this, my 22nd season in senior football, I am hanging up my boots.
Since making my debut in 2001 at the age of 15, I’ve been through every emotion possible.
I’ve won titles and promotions and I’ve suffered relegations. I’ve experienced cup final wins and penalty shoot-out heartache. Last-minute winners and heart-breaking last-second defeats (2022, you went too far!), I’ve been in mid-table mediocrity and had a couple of seasons cut short in a global pandemic. I’ve been a guaranteed starter, an impact player and the one who can’t get a game. I’ve been the baby of the squad and the captain. There’s not much I haven’t seen or been through.
But what all of those moments and experiences have taught me is that, while winning is fantastic and losing is unbearable, it’s actually the people you share those times with that keeps you going.
I’ve been fortunate enough to have played alongside some of the greatest players we’ve seen from these shores and around the world.
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But I’ve also met some of the best people who I can now call my friends. Football has given me some of the best friends I’ll ever have and those friendships will last way beyond the pitch.
To the players, staff and wonderful supporters of Arsenal, Chelsea, Reading and, of course, my Watford; I may never have technically been a ‘professional’ footballer, but please know I always tried to behave as any professional would and represent your clubs with pride, passion and respect and I always, always gave my all.
To end my career here, at Watford, where it all began all those years ago feels like a perfect symmetry. Thank you for helping me love the game and for the endless support and love for me and my family. Watford is forever in my blood and in my heart.
Thank you to every single person whose path I have crossed on and off the field and thank you football for making me who I am.
To my family. My mum, dad and brother for the encouragement, support, endless lifts and happy home as I grew up with the game and the babysitting and sacrifices as I started my own little family.
And finally, to my Wardies, my world. Matt, Emily and Charlie, who have had to deal with the ups and downs, the crazy schedule, the messy house and the sacrifices of their time. I couldn’t have done any of this without you behind me. You are everything.
Football, you’ve been a blast.
Ward’s Career: A Timeline
1995 - Joins Watford
2001 – Makes first-team debut for Hornets
2007 – Wins Southern Premier League with Watford
2007 – Captains Watford for first time
2008 – Makes full international debut for Wales, scoring against Luxembourg
2009 – Leaves to join Arsenal, wins first of two league titles with the Gunners
2010 – Joins Chelsea
2013 – Signs for Reading
2013 – Becomes Wales’ all-time leading goalscorer, scoring against Slovakia to go ahead of Ian Rush
2017 – Re-joins Golden Girls after eight years away
2021 – Wins promotion with Watford to the Championship via upward movement
2022 – Makes 100th cap for Wales against France
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The Hornets welcome Preston North End to Vicarage Road this weekend (Saturday March 4), as Slaven Bilić’s squad look to bounce back to winning ways in the Sky Bet Championship following defeat at Sheffield United last time out.
Ahead of the approaching encounter, we take a look back at five of the best matches between Watford and the Lilywhites.
Watford 3-2 Preston North End – August 24, 1974
A match full of flair, intensity and attacking football - when Watford and Preston met in August 1974, goals were guaranteed. The Lilywhites were under the stewardship of player-manager and World Cup winner Sir Bobby Charlton, while the Hornets were managed by Mike Keen.
After a draw with Colchester United in the opening game of the season, Watford were hoping to begin their home campaign with a victory. It started well as Keen’s Hornets romped to a three-goal lead, with Dennis Bond notching a brace and Pat Morrissey heading home.
Mike Elwiss was able to reduce the arrears for the visitors on the stroke of half-time, while Mel Holden scored the last goal in a brilliant match between the two sides.
Watford 3-1 Preston North End – January 17, 1998
In the third-tier, Graham Taylor’s Watford were flying high as they entered the new year. Peter Kennedy, who was joined by Jason Lee up front, opened the scoring for the Hornets before the 20-minute mark.
An impressive display set up the second as Richard Johnson, Kennedy, Lee and Micah Hyde all got involved, with the latter concluding the move at the far post. A shellshocked Preston team were two goals down within 30 minutes.
The travelling side did eventually get back to their feet and put GT’s team under an immense amount of pressure, earning a goal back soon after. With the momentum firmly with Preston, against the run of play, Kennedy made it three to the relief of the supporters at The Vic.
With the victory secured, Watford would go on to finish the season as champions and win promotion to the First Division.
Watford 2-0 Preston North End – February 14, 2004
Valentine’s Day 2004 saw the Hornets and the Lilywhites go head-to-head in the second-tier. Watford had struggled during the winter period, only winning once since December, but manager Ray Lewington was determined to stop the rot.
Eighteen-year-old Hameur Bouazza scored on his full debut for the club to put the Hornets into the ascendancy on the cusp of half-time. A stubborn and astute Watford defence were able to hold off the Lilywhites for long enough to snatch a second.
Paul Devlin’s late strike secured the Golden Boys’ first victory of 2004, keeping just a second clean sheet in two months.
Watford 2-0 Preston North End – November 7, 2009
Having only lost four games since the start of the season, the Hornets had made a decent start to the 2009/10 campaign, occupying the mid-table positions.
When the whistle blew for kick-off at Vicarage Road, Watford started brightly and turned the pressure up on the opposition immediately. It would lead to the opener within the first 10 minutes from Heiðar Helguson, who was back on-loan with the Golden Boys.
The Player of the Season that campaign and current Watford captain Tom Cleverley would double the lead going into the break, and due to an impressive goalkeeping performance from Hornet Scott Loach, that’s how the match would conclude.
Watford 4-1 Preston North End – November 28, 2020
In the third-most recent meeting between the sides, Watford put four past Preston at The Vic in an impressive display of attacking intent.
Domingos Quina was first to etch his name onto the scoresheet, powering Ismaïla Sarr’s cross past goalkeeper Declan Rudd on the volley. After a quiet end to the first half, the Hornets fired back into action after the interval, scoring two in 10 minutes through Troy Deeney and Nathaniel Chalobah.
Despite a Tom Barkhuizen consolation strike, João Pedro secured the victory by notching the fourth and moving Watford up to third place in the second-tier table, making it 19 points from a possible 21 at Vicarage Road.
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Hornets legend Tommy Mooney is set to lead a team of fans in a special one-off match tomorrow to mark the centenary of Watford’s move from Cassio Road to Vicarage Road.
A Watford Centurions supporters’ XI is set to take part in a ‘Match Of The Century’ this Saturday (March 4) - a one-off game to mark the centenary of the club’s move from Cassio Road to Vicarage Road, as well as 100 years of local sport at West Herts Sports Club.
Ahead of Slaven Bilić’s men taking on Preston North End later in the day at The Vic in Sky Bet Championship action, a team of 18 Centurions will take to the field to play a West Herts FC XI (made up from their regular Sunday League squad) at their impressively refurbished Park Avenue ground (WD18 7HP), for a 10am kick-off.
The Watford Centurions squad for the fixture is as follows:
Geoff Broomhead
Cliff Kemp
Ethan Kemp
Peter McManus
Tom Mortimer
Steve Mills
Simon Biddulph
Charlie Vallis
Louis Sheppard
James Glass
Matthew Archer
Chris Stopford
Thomas Tully
Dave Jackson
Jason Martin
Paul Whittenbury
Alastair Grass
James KoskyManaged by Hornets legend Tommy Mooney, the players will get to line up in and keep a specially embroidered and personalised version of Watford FC’s commemorative VR100 third kit after the fixture.
Each spot in the Watford squad was secured by a minimum donation of £100, guaranteeing at least an hour’s action during the 90 minutes and the unique VR100 shirt keepsake. All donations are being split between two local charities: Peace Hospice Care and the club’s Community Trust.
Meanwhile, all on-the-day fundraising at West Herts will be in aid of Peace Hospice Care, which has provided outstanding care for local people across many decades.
All spectators are welcome, with the bar at the ground open from 9am.
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As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we’re taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
In this edition, James Garrett looks back at a special strike from Andre Gray against Leicester City, in a piece first included in last season’s matchday programme…
Watford entered this match in a unique position in their history; for the first time at this stage of a season they were in contention to qualify for a European place, while they were set to host an FA Cup quarter-final in two weeks’ time against Crystal Palace. It was truly an exciting time for the Hornets, and the games were coming thick and fast.
In their previous two matches there had been the usual highs and lows that the Premier League brings, with the Golden Boys having thrashed Cardiff in Wales thanks to a Gerard Deulofeu hat-trick, before a midweek 5-0 mauling at the hands of Liverpool at Anfield. With Watford eighth in the standings, we welcomed mid-table Leicester City to Vicarage Road alongside their new manager who was in charge for his first game, a certain Brendan Rodgers.
Despite their defeat on Merseyside four days before Watford dominated the early stages, and Kasper Schmeichel had already saved Adrian Mariappa’s shot at point-blank range when after just five minutes the Hornets took the lead, Troy Deeney placing a delicately flicked header home from a fierce in-swinging Deulofeu free-kick.
Ex-Watford manager Rodgers had taken over a talented squad at 2015/16 Premier League champions Leicester, and slowly over the next hour of the match the Foxes played themselves into the game. It was no surprise that Jamie Vardy equalised with 15 minutes left; it was a sublime pass from Youri Tielemans that allowed Vardy to run behind the Watford defence and slot the ball past Ben Foster.
There was a real tenacity about Javi Gracia’s side during this part of the season though, and a belief that the game could still be won. We also had our own super sub in Andre Gray, who was having his best time in a Watford shirt. In the previous home match Gray had come off the bench to score the winner against Everton, and he was again brought into action against the Foxes for the last quarter of this match.
In truth, the winning goal against Leicester came out of nowhere. Schmeichel, usually so consistently solid against the Hornets, attempted a casual drilled goal-kick in the 92nd minute but only scuffed it, and Deeney, often not given enough praise for his assists, volleyed the ball over his shoulder to the on-rushing Gray who fired the ball low and hard past the Danish keeper with his left foot for the winning strike. Vicarage Road exploded with joy, and not for the first time Leicester players felt the pain of losing a match in injury time at Watford.
It had been a tight game, but it sometimes comes down to fine margins in the Premier League as we all know too well. For Rodgers, although he was disappointed, he had seen enough to know that his squad could be a very good one, while for the Hornets’ skipper Deeney, he reminded us after the match that our season would not just fizzle out as it might have done in previous years.
The team were determined to achieve something special, and while they did struggle for form at the very end of the campaign in the league, it could be argued this was perhaps as a result of their FA Cup run which was about to produce two more legendary victories against Crystal Palace, and Wolves at Wembley.
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Hamza Choudhury came to Watford to play regular first-team football and now wants to help the club back to the Premier League.
In light of the Vicarage Road centenary celebrations earlier this season, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Olly Wicken writes about the arrival of a prodigious talent on the Watford scene, who went on to play a major part in the Hornets’ 1980s golden age.
Many men have helped make The Vic, but John Barnes can be singled out as one of the key figures that made it a venue for top-flight football. His arrival on the scene, early in the 1981/82 campaign, helped transform the team into one that stormed into the First Division for the first time in the club’s history.
It was clear from the beginning that, at the age of 17, he was the best player the club had ever had. Take a look on YouTube at the footage of Watford’s 3-0 win at home to Norwich in October 1981. It was only his fourth start at The Vic, but he was central to our total domination of the Canaries. There are five moments in the footage that joyfully sum up what Barnes brought to the team; and what he would bring for another five seasons at the highest level.
First, a ball is chipped forwards to him, above his head. He doesn’t flick it on, or head it to a team-mate, he heads it down to himself so he can take his defender on. We hadn’t seen anything like this before.
Then, for a corner at the Vicarage Road End, he’s waiting at the far post with his hand on the upright. When the ball arrives from a well-drilled flick-on, he turns it into the net. We’d see that several times again in the coming years, although he’d often be the one successfully flicking the ball on.
Later, he receives the ball, stops, and shows it to the Norwich full-back. As the tackle comes in, he pulls the ball away with the sole of his foot, before jinking sideways and taking a shot. In an interview afterwards, Graham Taylor revealed that they asked Barnesy for a “sole of the foot movement” in every game.
Then, he takes a free-kick, just outside the box at the Rookery End. He curls the ball round the wall, it hits the bar and Luther Blissett scores the rebound. Barnes’ left foot regularly made defensive walls redundant.
Finally, he takes the ball past a man, then another man. He turns, he takes on the same two men a second time, and skips between them. He runs off and attacks Norwich’s defence. He draws four opponents towards him and lays the ball off for a team-mate to shoot. It’s a great example of how Barnesy’s individual skill benefited the whole team.
His impact was sensational. The win against Norwich was Watford’s seventh in eight games after he’d made his full debut. By May, we had been promoted with two games to spare.
Of course, these moments against Norwich weren’t his most famous during his Watford career. Away from The Vic, in 1984, he scored a legendary solo goal for England at the Maracanã stadium in Brazil. He scored for us in two FA Cup quarter-finals - at Birmingham City (1984) and Arsenal (1987), he created the only goal in the 1984 semi-final against Plymouth at Villa Park, and he played at Wembley in our first ever FA Cup final.
And, at The Vic, over six seasons, he scored 49 goals at the Rookery and Vicarage Road ends. Some were absolutely sublime. Meanwhile, when he wasn’t scoring, he was providing assists for a team that averaged more than two goals per home game when he played. Our win percentage with Barnes on the pitch at Vicarage Road was 58 per cent.
But those are just the bits you can measure. What you can’t quantify is how he played football, and what a joy he was to watch. He had a fluidity which, combined with his artistry and athleticism, was unique. It was on display in the Norwich game in 1981, and also in his final season in 1986/87.
At home to league champions Liverpool, he assisted Watford’s first (with one of those flicked-on headers from a corner), and then scored a brilliant individual goal. Again, take a look on YouTube. On the halfway line, he receives the ball and nutmegs a defender, before running swiftly and smoothly towards goal. He reaches the edge of the box, jinks to his left, and drives the ball into the far corner. Just superb. The result was a 2-0 home win, and Liverpool going on to buy Barnes.
He went on to win the league title twice, lift the FA Cup twice, and be crowned Footballer of the Year twice - all with Liverpool. But, while he was ours, for six wonderful seasons at Vicarage Road, John Barnes played with a talent we’ll never forget.
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Voting is now open for the February Player of the Month and Stake Goal of the Month awards, with special strikes and impressive performances aplenty from the men’s and women’s sides!
This season voting for the awards is taking place via the official Watford FC app, available to download on iOS and Android.
Polling closes at 5pm on Friday (March 3), when the winners of both prizes will be announced across the Hornets’ social channels, website and app.
Six Hornets Up For POTM Award
We begin with midfielder Hamza Choudhury, who featured in every single men’s match during February. An ever-reliable presence in the middle of the park, the 25-year-old helped secure a crucial victory over West Bromwich Albion and points over the likes of Burnley and Blackburn Rovers.
Likewise, Dré Georgiou was an ever-present last month, operating either as a holding midfielder or further forward. The 26-year-old helped set the tempo in games and was strong in the tackle, especially during a 2-0 victory against league leaders Portsmouth.
Sophie McLean only joined on February 3 from Billericay Town, but she has hit the ground running making her debut off the bench against Ipswich in a 1-1 draw. After featuring against Cheltenham, McLean has started in every game since with her intelligent passing and build-up play on full display.
Joining her fellow women’s teammates, Kalani Peart only made her first start for the Golden Girls at the end of January, but is now a mainstay on the right side of the back three. Scoring on her second start against Cheltenham and versus Portsmouth later in the month, Peart boasts an impressive record of two goals in her first three starts from defence.
Meanwhile, Ryan Porteous has slotted in seamlessly since joining from Hibernian in the January transfer window. The Scottish centre-half has proved to be vital in defence for the Hornets, not missing a single minute of game time during the month of February. The 23-year-old also impressively scored on his debut against Reading, emphatically introducing himself to the Watford faithful.
Rounding off an exceptional list of candidates is Ken Sema, who enjoyed a fruitful month for Watford. Notably, the winger scored twice against West Brom during a 3-2 victory, as well as earning an assist versus Burnley for João Pedro’s opener. It takes the Swede’s tally to four goals and six assists for the campaign.
You can vote for your favourite below:
Six Supreme Strikes Up For Stake GOTM Gong
To begin we head back to the start of the month and Ismaïla Sarr’s opener against Reading. The well-worked move began with the Senegal international before Matheus Martins picked out Henrique Araújo who would return a square pass to Sarr for a comfortable tap-in from close range.
From the same fixture, Ryan Porteous also got his first goal in yellow on his debut for the club. Martins delivered an impressive corner before the Scotsman diverted it goalward with a powerful header into the top corner.
Another special finish selected for the gong comes from Porteous’ centre-back partner Wesley Hoedt, who scored a venomous volley on his debut for the Hornets. In front of a packed Vicarage Road crowd, the Dutch defender fired past the Blackburn shot-stopper from the edge of the box to level the game against Rovers.
The next strike nominated comes from Poppy Wilson. The in-form forward headed in a crucial 90th-minute equaliser following sustained pressure from the Golden Girls against fellow promotion hopefuls Ipswich Town. Annie Rossiter delivered an inviting ball which was met by Wilson for her seventh goal of the season.
Faye Brough’s half-volley against MK Dons is next to be nominated. Coming on the 22-year-old Japanese striker’s home debut, the goal would prove to be an 89th-minute winner in an important 2-1 victory over the Dons. Having only just came off the bench, Brough fired in Anne Meiwald’s throw-in to secure all three points.
Finally, Meiwald’s header against Portsmouth joins an impressive list of goals. The centre-half opened the scoring against the league leaders, nodding in Gemma Davison’s pinpoint free-kick to take her goal tally to two for the campaign.
You can vote for your favourite below:
The officials have been appointed for Watford's game with Preston North End at Vicarage Road on Saturday.
If Watford want to reach the Herts Senior Cup Final, they must win at Berkhamsted, the team who have won all 21 home games this season
Watford Under-21’s shot themselves in the foot twice and slipped to a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Bristol City.
Others may have made more flair but arguably nobody epitomised the work ethic of Graham Taylor’s Watford team of the 1980s better than Les Taylor.
Following an important victory against West Bromwich Albion earlier this week, the Hornets will travel up to Sheffield United as they face the Blades at Bramall Lane.
Ahead of the exciting clash this weekend (February 25, 3pm KO), we take a look at players and staff to have featured for both the Hornets and the Blades.
Tony Currie
We begin with a Sheffield United legend, and one of England’s most gifted midfielders during the 1970s. Former Blades star Tony Currie even has the South Stand at Bramall Lane named in his honour. But, the dynamic footballer originally launched his career at Watford.
Blessed with great vision and skill, Currie enjoyed a successful apprenticeship with the Hornets, scoring six goals in his first four league appearances, alongside two hat-tricks - all before his 18th birthday.
It meant that other teams had their eyes on the young talent and, in the end, Sheffield United were able to lure him to the top-flight of English football. He would make over 300 appearances for the Blades, the majority in the First Division.
Keith Eddy
Keith Eddy - who sadly passed away in October 2022 - has a special place in Watford folklore.
Known as ‘Steady Eddy’, with his composure and poise key to his longevity in the game, the staunch defender played a crucial role in the 1968/69 season. He featured in all 46 matches during the campaign, captaining Watford to the club’s first-ever Football League title and scoring eight goals.
Enjoying his success under manager Ken Furphy, Eddy would move to Sheffield United in 1972 with aspirations for top-flight football. He would make over 100 appearances for the Blades, enjoying four popular seasons at Bramall Lane.
For more on Eddy’s illustrious career, click HERE.
Ken Furphy
The man that would later become a hugely successful manager, taking charge of both Currie and Eddy at Sheffield United, Ken Furphy featured for the Hornets as a player-manager between 1964 and 1968.
The full-back would make the move to the Vicarage Road dugout permanently soon after, winning promotion to the Second Division for the first time in the club’s history in 1969. He would replicate similar success the following season in the FA Cup, making it to the semi-finals.
After the unprecedented success, Furphy would eventually end up in the hot-seat at Bramall Lane. The Blades’ boss would lead them to a sixth-place finish, one point off a UEFA Cup spot.
He moved to America in 1976 to take charge of the New York Cosmos, persuading Eddy to join him and meet some new faces - Pelé, Franz Beckenbauer and Giorgio Chinaglia.
Darius Henderson
Signed by Aidy Boothroyd, Darius Henderson hit the ground running at Vicarage Road, scoring on his debut for the Hornets in 2005.
Enjoying a noteworthy strike partnership with Marlon King, Henderson helped Watford back to the Premier League in 2006, scoring from the spot in the play-off final victory against Leeds United.
In over 75 appearances, the forward scored 31 goals in yellow. His form upon returning to the Championship in 2007 would ensure that Sheffield United would take notice of him. Moving to the Blades for a record fee, he was a regular starter despite his injuries, but couldn’t help Sheffield United avoid relegation to the third-tier in 2011.
Robert Page
The current Wales manager began his association with Watford through the Academy, eventually making his first appearance against Birmingham City in 1993. By 1997, Robert Page was appointed captain and enjoyed two extraordinary, successive promotions from the Second Division and First Division.
He was the skipper as Graham Taylor’s Watford returned to the top-flight after winning the play-off final in 1999. Despite disappointment at the subsequent relegation, Page won the Player of the Season award.
He would eventually go out on-loan to Sheffield United, before the switch was made permanent, captaining the Blades to a third-place finish in the second-tier in 2003.
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They looked clear of the pack, now Sheffield United are being caught - and Slaven Bilic isn't surprised at the Championship's unpredictability
Match Info
- Sheffield United v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Bramall Lane
- Saturday February 25, 3pm KO
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: Keith Stroud
- Assistant Referees: Sam Lewis and Mark Stevens
- Fourth Official: Ross Joyce
Opposition
Sheffield United currently occupy second place in the Sky Bet Championship table, and despite enjoying a largely impressive campaign up to this point, the Blades are currently experiencing a difficult run of form.
After beating Swansea City 3-0 on February 11, the South Yorkshiremen have lost their last two matches to Millwall and Middlesbrough - the latter of whom are hot on their tails in third.
Manager Paul Heckingbottom will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways against the Hornets this Saturday.
Stats Buzz
This is Watford’s first second-tier visit to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United since October 2010, winning 1-0 that day with a goal from Marvin Sordell.
Sheffield United are winless in their last six league games against Watford, scoring just one goal across this run in a 1-1 draw on Boxing Day in 2019.
Watford have won each of their last four Championship games against Sheffield United, by an aggregate score of 8-0.
For a full statistical breakdown check out Stats Buzz: Sheffield United In Numbers.
Team News
Slaven Bilić expects no major changes to the list of fit and available players for the trip north, off the back of the home win against West Bromwich Albion last time out (Monday February 20).
A late decision will be made on the availability of Craig Cathcart (groin) - who last featured at Reading in early February - while midfielder Imrân Louza (leg) continues to build his fitness after three successive substitute appearances. For full Watford team news, click HERE.
Rhian Brewster, Billy Sharp, Enda Stevens, Rhys Norrington-Davies and George Baldock are all likely to be sidelined for Sheffield United.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“A couple of weeks ago it looked like Sheffield United and Burnley were there already, but as we’ve seen many times in this league, they’ve had a couple of disappointing results and that’s opened things up.
“They are an experienced team, and a very physical team, with good individual players. It’s a very difficult place to go, and they’ll be wanting to get revenge for the reverse fixture, so we know what we’re expecting.”
Paul Heckingbottom, Sheffield United Manager:
“From an entertainment point of view, the Championship is always right up there - the margins, every single week, are so slim.
“There are always ups and downs but we’re ready for that. We’re just focusing, because it can be so unpredictable, on the things we know we can control.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 14
Drawn: 13
Lost: 19Last Six:
August 2022: Watford 1-0 Sheffield United (Championship)
December 2019: Sheffield United 1-1 Watford (Premier League)
October 2019: Watford 0-0 Sheffield United (Premier League)
March 2011: Watford 3-0 Sheffield United (Championship)
October 2010: Sheffield United 0-1 Watford (Championship)
February 2010: Watford 3-0 Sheffield United (Championship)Golden Flashback
A second-half goal from João Pedro was the difference as the Hornets got the 2022/23 campaign underway in style at Vicarage Road, with a 1-0 victory on opening day over Sheffield United.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Sheffield United v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Watford head coach Slaven Bilic can see a point in the very near future where he will have multiple options for every position in the team.
Former Watford boss Javi Gracia says he has unfinished business in the Premier League after taking on a relegation fight at Leeds United.
Slaven Bilić has urged his Watford players to embrace the challenge presented by Saturday’s trip to second-placed Sheffield United (February 25, 3pm KO), as they look to stretch their unbeaten run in the Sky Bet Championship to five games.
The Hornets built on three successive draws with a well-deserved 3-2 win over fellow promotion hopefuls West Bromwich Albion last time out (Monday February 20), leaving them seventh in the second-tier standings, though level on points with Millwall in fifth.
With momentum in their favour, and the ever-improving sharpness of the myriad of recent injury returnees, Bilić insists there is a good feeling around the camp with 13 crucial games left to play.
“We’re in good shape,” the former Croatia boss said. “It was a good win, against a direct opponent. It wasn’t that we weren’t confident before - we played well against Blackburn and Burnley - but we needed to convert those draws into a win and we did that which was great.
“We’re in a good mood, and with the players who have come back - and more to come - everything is positive. It’s important now at this stage of the season to keep going, and put a run of results together.
“This is a huge game, and we’re looking forward to it. Afterwards, three of the next four games are at home, so we want to keep this up and not break the chain. We all know this is the important part of the season now, and we need to make it count.”
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Paul Heckingbottom’s Sheffield United are among the favourites to go up to the Premier League this term, and Bilić expects their run of successive defeats will only serve them extra motivation ahead of Watford’s arrival at Bramall Lane.
He said: “A couple of weeks ago it looked like Sheffield United and Burnley were there already, but as we’ve seen many times in this league, they’ve had a couple of disappointing results and that’s opened things up.
“They are an experienced team, and a very physical team, with good individual players. It’s a very difficult place to go, and they’ll be wanting to get revenge for the reverse fixture, so we know what we’re expecting.
“But we had a similar challenge away to Burnley recently, and we did well, and we played well against West Brom on Monday. We have to do all of that again, and even better, and I’m confident we will do well.”
Finally, the Watford boss reserved a mention for the late John Motson, the legendary commentator who died yesterday having enjoyed an illustrious 50-year career with the BBC.
Bilić added: “John was a legend. We all grew up listening to his voice, and I think he was one of the first commentators to become a real star. It’s a huge blow for football, and we’ll all miss him greatly.”
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Watford FC is delighted to announce the launch of a brand-new auction site where fans can bid on exclusive and unique memorabilia.
Kicking off with match-worn and match-issued shirts from the Sky Bet Championship fixture against Burnley, more unique items will be added in the future including kit, trainingwear and signed merchandise.
The new platform will allow supporters the chance to own rare pieces of Hornets’ history, becoming the secure way to possess authentic souvenirs.
Items will be delivered in a presentation box with a security hologram and a certificate of authenticity included.
Ten per cent of the proceeds from sales will go to the Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust.
Everything supporters need to know before they make a bid is HERE. The new website is now live - click HERE to browse and bid.
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić expects no major changes to the list of fit and available players for Saturday’s trip to Sheffield United (February 25, 3pm KO), off the back of the home win against West Bromwich Albion last time out.
A late decision will be made on the availability of Craig Cathcart (groin) - who last featured at Reading in early February - while midfielder Imrân Louza (leg) continues to build his fitness after three successive substitute appearances.
Bilić said: “Craig is back, but not in full training yet. He’s a question mark for tomorrow, but he should definitely be available for the next game at home against Preston. Louza is back, and has been training with us for the full week.”
Hassane Kamara missed the West Brom clash with a hamstring problem, and Bilić provided an update on his recovery while mentioning that he hopes to welcome a few other familiar faces to training in the near future.
He said: “Hassane missed just one game. He won’t make it tomorrow, but he should be back in full training soon and hopefully he will be okay for Preston.
“Edo Kayembe (calf), João Ferreira and Jeremy Ngakia (both hamstring) all haven’t played for a long time, and they should join us in training next week.
“The squad is growing which is very positive, and hopefully the selection headaches and question marks for me continue to increase. We’re getting to a much healthier position, which is a good place to be at this important stage of the season.”
Samuel Kalu (hamstring), Tom Dele-Bashiru (ankle), Francisco Sierralta (foot), Tom Cleverley (thigh) and Dan Gosling (Achilles) all continue to work on their respective rehabilitation programmes at the London Colney training ground.
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James Morris only made his first league start in January, but now he's aiming to make a first-team place his own
Damon Lathrope lauded Watford’s 2-0 win over Portsmouth as the Hornets’ “best performance of the season”, with second-half headers from Anne Meiwald and Kalani Peart sealing a vital three points against the league leaders.
A jubilant Lathrope was full of praise for his side’s intensity in the midweek fixture having only played three days earlier in a dramatic 2-1 win over MK Dons, maintaining a high work-rate throughout.
Pompey had lost just one in 13 and were on a run of six and hadn't lost a league game since October before their defeat at Grosvenor Vale, but Lathrope felt the Golden Girls had complete control of the game.
“We got everything we deserved,” Lathrope smiled. “From my perspective, after the first five minutes we controlled the game and could have won by more but the girls - to a player - were superb.
“We train at a really good intensity. It doesn’t surprise me that they put in performances like that, and I couldn’t tell they’d played only three days ago because their work-rate was superb from minute one and we looked like we could have gone on for another 30!”
Excellently-delivered crosses from Gemma Davison assisted both goals for Meiwald and Peart, with the Hornets’ Head Coach delighted that their training had been put into practice in a crucial fixture.
“We worked on the details of set-pieces yesterday [Tuesday]; it’s really pleasing to see two come off,” continued Lathrope. “We know Portsmouth are a team that are really good at attacking and defending set-pieces, so it’s good to see the girls take on that information.
“It was the best performance of the season in my opinion and we need to take loads of confidence from that and momentum into the next few fixtures.”
A tough run of games continues on Sunday away at Ipswich Town [February 26, 2pm KO], three weeks on from the reverse fixture, a 1-1 draw at home.
Buoyed by three wins in a row and fully prepared for the Tractor Girls, Lathrope embraces the next challenge.
“We wanted nine points out of these games (MK Dons, Portsmouth, Ipswich) and we knew it’d be a big ask, but it’s six out of six so far which tees us up perfectly for the game,” added Lathrope. “We know they’re a good team but by no means are we going there for anything less than three points.”
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Legendary football commentator John Motson, who died early today at the age of 77, made many friends at Vicarage Road – the club’s stadium becoming something of a home-from-home on matchdays in recent years for him and wife Anne.
After his retirement in 2018, John – who lived in Hertfordshire – was a very regular visitor to the Watford FC Boardroom for first-team fixtures.
He enjoyed the Hornets’ hospitality and had a warm tale from his remarkable career for football folk of all generations delighted to share a little time with one of the game’s truly iconic figures.
“We were all very sad to learn of the news of John’s passing,” said Watford FC Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury.
“Over the past two or three seasons, he came to nearly every home game of ours alongside his wife Anne; they’re two lovely people whom I and the other members of the Watford Board had become very fond of.
“Matchdays were a delight in John’s company. He was in great form as recently as earlier this month at the Blackburn Rovers home game.”
Scott added: “Our thoughts are with Anne and all of John’s family at this time.
“We’ll pay tribute to a special friend of the club at our next home fixture.”
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Watford Women boosted their promotion prospects with a 2-0 victory over leaders Portsmouth last night.
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Dawid Hamiga.
The 17-year-old joined the Young Hornets in January 2023 having previously been on the books at Southern League Premier South side Beaconsfield Town. He has recently featured for Omer Riza’s Under-21 side after impressing as a trialist.
How would you describe your playing style?
I can play in central midfield, either as an eight or a 10, but I can also play out wide from both wings. I was scouted as a right-winger because I can cut inside.Your footballing idol?
I would say Robert Lewandowski because I’m Polish and he’s an inspiration to me. His best attributes are shooting, a good touch and dribbling - they are three things which I try to incorporate into my game.Biggest influence?
Definitely my parents. My dad has taken me to trials all around and has really influenced me. I would also say my coach from Beaconsfield Town - his name is Ash, and I would really like to thank him for his work. He helped me and he believed in me.
Most talented teammate?
That’s tricky because there are a lot of good players here. Adrian Blake, Tobi Adeyemo and Charlie Davis are three that have stood out. Blake is a really good winger and he knows how to beat players out wide. Adeyemo has played in the Championship and scored on his debut, and Davis is a really top player as well.Favourite football memory?
I have a lot of good memories, but I would have to say signing for Watford earlier this year. I used to be here when I was younger, but I got released, so to come back three or four years later is a good feeling.Your aims for the future?
Short-term I want to earn a professional contract at Watford, and then afterwards I’m aiming to be in the first-team and be a starter for the Under-21s. Those are my goals.
Best advice you’ve received?
Never give up, even when things aren’t going your way. For example, I didn’t get offered a place at other clubs when I was on trial, but I knew to never give up and I kept playing football and training hard.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
If I couldn’t do something within coaching, then I would like to own my own Polish restaurant because I love food. Somewhere in London would be really nice.How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 77 - I’m quite tall so short distances can be a little bit harder, but I’m fast on the ball.
Shooting: 81 - I can shoot with both feet, but I’m mainly left-footed.
Passing: 78 - I’ve got a good range of passing.
Dribbling: 84 - This is my best attribute.
Defending: 70 - I’m more than happy to help my team out defensively.
Physicality: 63 - I’m working on that in the gym.
OVERALL: 81Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: My grandmother’s cooking - my favourite dish is Kotlet with salad and potatoes
Favourite song: Humble by Lil Baby
Favourite boots: Puma Ultras in any colour
Favourite TV show: Love Island
Favourite kit: Poland’s national kitSEO Image-featured\_image.jpg)
To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
Blink and you missed it - Billy McKinlay's reign lasted only two games, but he stepped down as the only undefeated Head Coach in Watford's history.
By the time McKinlay's successor Slaviša Jokanović had been installed, the Hornets were on their fourth boss in 60 days - and the 2014/15 season was only into the first week of October.
In fairness, the breathless turnover wasn't exclusively of Watford's making.
McKinlay, who had arrived at Vicarage Road as Óscar García's training ground lieutenant, was promoted to Head Coach when the Spaniard was forced to quit after just four weeks because of ill health.
And at face value, he looked a safe enough pair of hands when his first game in charge produced a 2-1 home win against Brentford, an occasion made memorable by Matěj Vydra’s scorching half-volley which turned out to be the winner.
Odion Ighalo had opened the scoring with his first goal for the Hornets, devouring the rebound after shovelling his penalty too close to Bees keeper David Button, before Jonathan Douglas levelled for the visitors.
Heurelho Gomes, who had endeared himself to Watford fans from the first day of the season, made a flying save in stoppage time to deny Alan Judge another equaliser, and McKinlay had reason to be satisfied with his winning start.
“I was very, very pleased.” he said afterwards. “I'm delighted to be in charge, although I'd be exaggerating a little bit if I said I enjoyed it that much.
“Yesterday was hectic. I told the players the most important thing was their focus. These things happen in football, and I wanted them to cut away the sideshow. I think they did that really well."
After the post-match media formalities, the man from the Mirror introduced himself, wished McKinlay luck... and that was the last time I saw him in a Watford jacket.
Four days later, Lewis Dunk's header earned Brighton a 1-1 draw at The Vic and it turned out to be McKinlay's final game in charge. I was at an awards dinner in London on the following Monday night when I got a text message warning me of another change in the Hornets' cockpit.
From memory, dashing off to check it wasn't a wind-up, and crashing out a few sentences of copy to catch the first edition, made me late to intercept cycling royalty Sir Bradley Wiggins, who was presenting one of the awards and had agreed to a 10-minute interview backstage.
If McKinlay, now 52 and one of David Moyes' assistants at West Ham, was bewildered by the turn of events in the autumn of 2014, he wasn't the only one.
Ultimately, Watford were vindicated because Jokanović led them to promotion on an exhilarating run-in, but we should be thankful that the Scot's eight-day reign yielded four points from two games. Without those four points, the Hornets would have finished outside the automatic promotion places.
And for all the cheap shots aimed at Watford by outsiders over their changes of personnel in the hot-seat, Billy McKinlay will always be able to say he left with an unblemished record.
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His Watford career may be only eight appearances old, but Ismael Kone is big news back in his native Canada.
The football players are urging families to have a free cancer screening if they're eligible
Following Monday nights’s dramatic 3-2 victory over West Bromwich Albion, Watford will be hoping to stretch their unbeaten run to five games with another positive result on the road at Sheffield United on Saturday (February 25, 3pm KO).
With Slaven Bilić’s seventh-placed charges heading to Bramall Lane looking to strengthen their promotion hopes by replicating their win in the reverse fixture on opening day, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm GMT with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Tickets for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Southern Premier Division fixture against Oxford United (Sunday March 19, 2pm KO) at Grosvenor Vale will go on general sale to supporters at 10am on Monday February 27.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
SEO ImageWatford travel to Bramall Lane this Saturday (February 25, 3pm KO) to take on second-placed Sheffield United in a hotly-anticipated Sky Bet Championship encounter.
Following an important 3-2 victory against fellow play-off contenders West Bromwich Albion earlier in the week, Slaven Bilić’s side will be hoping to repeat the feat against the Blades.
Previous Meetings
This is Watford’s first second-tier visit to Bramall Lane to face Sheffield United since October 2010, winning 1-0 that day with a goal from Marvin Sordell.
Sheffield United are winless in their last six league games against Watford, scoring just one goal across this run in a 1-1 draw on Boxing Day in 2019.
Watford have won each of their last four Championship games against Sheffield United, by an aggregate score of 8-0.
Last time out, the Hornets beat the Blades 1-0 in August 2022. Watford have beaten the Blades home and away three times before; in 2000/01, 2002/03 and 2010/11, with this the 19th Football League season together.
Recent Form
Watford have only lost one of their last eight games in the Championship, and are unbeaten in their last four.
Sheffield United have lost each of their last two league games, as many as in the previous 17 (W11 D4) – they last lost three in a row outside the Premier League in December 2017.
No side has drawn more away games in the Championship this season than Watford (7), including in each of their last two games on the road.
The Blades have conceded six goals in their last two league games, as many as in their previous 11 fixtures.
Opposition Stat Attack
Oli McBurnie tops the standings for goals in the Sheffield United ranks with 11 to his name. The Scottish striker also has the most shots on target with 34, while Oli Norwood has 27 shots off target.
Midfielder Iliman Ndiaye has the most assists within the Blades’ squad (7), meanwhile Norwood has attempted the most passes (1,998) and the most passes in the opposition’s half (1,257). Also, John Egan has made the highest number of passes in his own half (916).
Defensively, Norwood has made the most tackles (87), while Egan has completed the most clearances (143) and blocks (23).
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Defender Harry Amass is part of the England Under-16 squad taking part in a UEFA Development Tournament in Cyprus this week.
Watford Women are looking forward to their first midweek fixture at Grosvenor Vale this season, as they entertain league leaders Portsmouth on Wednesday night in the FA WNL Southern Premier Division (February 22, 7.45pm KO).
The Hornets head into the game off the back of a late Faye Brough winner that saw them claim all three points against MK Dons on Sunday (February 19).
With the games coming thick and fast as the season starts to head towards its conclusion, Damon Lathrope’s side will be looking for a big performance as they aim to avenge the 2-0 defeat inflicted by Pompey earlier in the campaign.
Watford are again without captain Helen Ward, who is away on international duty with Wales, but with the introduction of Brough and the return of Bianca Baptiste from injury in recent weeks, the Golden Girls boast plenty of options in attack.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting our new home for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please Note – Parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas - we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £7
- Concession (U16, 65+, Disability) - £5
- Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
Watford Men’s and Wealdstone FC Season Ticket Holders will need to show proof of their season card to gain entry for £1.
The Match
The visitors come into the game sitting four points clear at the top of table, with chasing Oxford United in second and the Hornets and Ipswich Town a further four points adrift. With a steely defence and a strong run of recent form, Pompey look every bit worth their spot at the summit.
Portsmouth have tasted defeat just once in 13 in all competitions, conceding six goals in that stretch and scoring 32, posing a threat to the Hornets at both ends of the field.
Across their own 13-game spell, the Golden Girls have lost just twice, drawing once, while scoring 46 times and conceding 17 along the way. Watford are now on a run of six games without a clean sheet and Wednesday night’s match-up would be the perfect time to see the return of a defensive shut-out at The Vale.
Two early goals for Portsmouth left the Hornets with too much to do in September’s reverse fixture, but Lathrope is keen to avenge their first defeat of the campaign.
“[Portsmouth] are flying high at the top of the table, and we owe them one from last time,” said the Head Coach. “The girls are ready and we’ve prepared as best we can.”
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Ismaila Sarr thanked the Watford fans after Monday night’s victory over West Brom at Vicarage Road.
Slaven Bilic had special praise for his full-backs after Monday night’s 3-2 win over West Brom.
A referee who has been averaging more than five yellow cards per game this season is set to take charge of Watford’s trip to Sheffield United on Saturday.
1- Midway through the first half, the ever more loveable Ismaël Koné launched into one of his precision harpoon tackles to retrieve the ball, improbably, from a startled opponent. He surged at a backpedalling defence, the home stands roaring their appreciation, as skittles tumbled nervously in his path before decisively lumping a pass to his […]
Watford's Ken Sema has been globally praised for giving a live TV interview after last night's win over West Brom despite having a stammer.
Watford Football Club has Performance Analyst Internship placement positions available for the 2023/24 football season. The successful applicants will work in a fast-paced, demanding elite environment.
These placements are only for current undergraduate students studying a sport or equivalent degree, who are looking for a work placement opportunity within the field of performance analysis. The roles will be unpaid, however expenses will be covered. Please note, we cannot accept applicants who have finished or are finishing their studies this year.
Main duties of the internship will consist of:
• To film and capture games, training and other content including individual training
• To assist with performance analysis, assisting with the daily workflow as well as supporting training and matchday analysis
• Update video and statistical databases weekly
• Support all aspects of pre & post-match - team and individual analysis
• Assist in departmental projects, also combining and researching relevant academic literature
• Provide additional support to the first-team as directedThe placements are full-time, however working hours will vary depending on the fixture list of all teams. Please note, evening and weekend hours will be required.
Applicants should ideally be based local to London Colney or the surrounding area, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
• Studying towards a degree in football or sport and/or equivalent with a placement year
• Understanding of football coaching, tactics and game management
• Interest and passion for analysis of football
• Ability to commit for the 2023/24 season
• Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
• Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & SafeguardingYou would ideally have, but not vital:
• Experience of analysis software
• Experience of Tableau, R or Python
• Experience of working within a football environmentPerson specification:
• Extremely motivated individual and passionate about analysis of football
• Confident in working individually and together as part of a team
• A good knowledge and experience of working within a football environment
• Ability to offer innovative ideas, efficiently problem solve, make decisions and be comfortable working under pressure within strict time frames
• A good knowledge of tactical and technical aspects of football and game understanding
• Excellent computer literacy
• High organisational skills and sharp eye for detail
• Demonstrate relevant additional qualifications/courses
• Good interpersonal and communication skillsThe necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Performance Analyst Intern
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Full-Time for 2023/24 season
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Tuesday March 7 2023Application Process:
1. Please download and complete our internship application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed internship application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the internship, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.SEO Image
Watford Football Club has Data Analyst Internship placement positions available for the 2023/24 football season. The successful applicants will work in a fast-paced, demanding elite environment.
These placements are only for current undergraduate students studying a computer science, mathematical, sports science or equivalent degree, who are looking for a work placement opportunity within the field of data science or analysis. The roles will be unpaid, however expenses will be covered. Please note, we cannot accept applicants who have finished or are finishing their studies this year.
Main duties of the internship will consist of:
• Providing support to all aspects of pre & post-match - team and individual analysis
• Assist with daily workflow as well as support training and matchday analysis
• Assist in departmental projects, also compiling & researching relevant academic literatureThe placements are full-time, however working hours will vary depending on the fixture list of all teams. Please note, evening and weekend hours will be required.
Applicants should ideally be based local to London Colney or the surrounding area, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
• Studying towards a degree in computer science, mathematical or sport science and/or equivalent degree with a placement year
• Experience of working with complex data sets
• Experience of working with data visualisation and analysis tools (eg. Tableau)
• Interest in coaching, performance analysis or talent ID
• Ability to commit for the 2023/24 season
• Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
• Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & SafeguardingYou would ideally have, but not vital:
• Working knowledge of using SQL to extract and manage data
• Working knowledge of a computer language to extract and apply statistical analysis (eg: R orPython)
• An interest in data analysis in footballThe necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Data Analyst Intern
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Full-Time for 2023/24 season
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Tuesday March 7 2023Application Process:
1. Please download and complete our internship application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed internship application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the internship, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.SEO Image
Watford’s thrilling 3-2 victory over West Bromwich Albion capped off the club’s annual Trust Awareness Matchday in style, with all inside Vicarage Road helping highlight the hard work and impact of the Community Sports & Education Trust throughout Monday evening (February 20).
Alongside a four-page feature in official match programme ‘The Hornet’, the matchday saw the players wear Trust-branded t-shirts during their warm-up, while Trust logos and graphics were circulated on the big screens and LED boards, and Head of Football & Sports Development Neil Deans was interviewed pitchside at half-time.
Improving Lives And Enhancing Communities For 30 Years
The Trust - whose 30-year anniversary comes to a close in March - runs over 30 different programmes that engage with and support more than 150,000 people annually of all ages in and around the Hertfordshire area, in schools, sports clubs and social spaces.
To commemorate the Trust’s anniversary, a special brochure entitled ‘30 Stores for 30 Years’ is being produced to highlight its work through the words of others. The brochure will include the annual Social Impact Report - a document created to show stakeholders how their support has helped, as well as attract new partners.
Some highlights from the most recent reporting year include:
- 15,632 unique users engaged in projects, activities and events.
- In addition to the above number, there is engagement through the two community hubs: Meriden Community Centre in North Watford sees an average weekly footfall of over 1,100 people, while Cedars Youth & Community Centre in Harrow has an average weekly footfall of over 1,400 people.
- 97% of survey respondents agreed that the Trust is a valuable asset to their local community.
- 96% of survey respondents agreed that the Trust makes a positive difference to the lives of participants.
Keep an eye out for information about ‘30 Stores for 30 Years’ and the Social Impact Report on the Trust website, or on social media (search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter and YouTube).
Help The Trust Make A Positive Difference!
There are three big opportunities to get involved and support the Trust’s work in the community. See the events coming up this year below…
Gala Dinner
With plenty of partners and businesses already on board to support, all at the Trust are looking forward to welcoming people to Vicarage Road Stadium for a night of celebration at the Gala Dinner on Thursday March 23.
During the night there will be the first-ever Trust Champions awards - recognising some amazing local people who have benefited from Trust projects, activities and events. There will also be a silent auction, live entertainment, a three-course meal, and of course DJ and dancing until late.
Contact kristian.hitchins@watfordfc.com or click HERE for details.
24-Hour Football Marathon
Last year this event was held for the first time in partnership with Ahmadiyya Muslim Youth Association (AMYA) UK. In 2023 it is being launched once again, this time to support children’s education both here in the UK through the work of the Trust, as well as in Africa through the work of Humanity First.
This marathon - being held over the weekend of May 20-21 - is inviting all football teams, including grassroots, school, walking football, disability groups, and men’s and women’s teams, to take part in a one-hour timeslot in the Dome at Watford FC’s training ground.
For more information click HERE.
The Taylor Trek
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Following the success of this event’s first year in 2022, The Taylor Trek is set to return on Sunday October 15, 2023.
There will once again be three routes to choose from in a charity walk built so that everyone in the community can take part. As part of the route, trekkers will walk around Watford and the surrounding areas, taking in the key sites of Graham Taylor’s Hornets’ history.
To sign up, click HERE.
On Season 2, Episode 38 of the You Orns! Watford FC podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on a good, resilient Watford performance of character and confidence in a wild, wacky 3-2 win over West Brom at The Vic. Also: This is the Championship. And during the business end of the football season business is neither pretty nor smooth.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfc
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take X 2 (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Watford 3, West Brom 2: https://bit.ly/3Em8dIV
Follow You Orns! on Fanbase @youorns: https://fanbase.app/youornsFollow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC #WatfordFC
NEW SOCIAL MEDIA ADDITIONS FOR YOU ORNS! - Follow on Mastodon: https://mstdn.social/@YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: February 21, 2023.--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/appSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Of all the managers that have come and gone from Vicarage Road in the last decade, Javi Gracia was one who was shown the exit door prematurely
Ismaïla Sarr thanked both his teammates and the Hornets’ supporters after contributing to an encouraging 3-2 win over West Bromwich Albion.
The Senegalese attacker scored Watford’s second of the night and his ninth of the season to help defeat their fellow play-off hopefuls.
“We needed to win today because we needed to go up in the table, so massive congratulations to everyone in the team and a massive thank you to the fans,” said Sarr.
“I’m very, very happy about the whole dynamic and that I scored a goal again. I need to score goals, but all the action for my goal was thanks to the other teammates.
“I went to celebrate with the fans because when I score goals I’m very, very happy. The fans make so many sacrifices to come here so the minimum I could do was go to the fans.”
Slaven Bilić’s side visit second-placed Sheffield United on Saturday (February 25), and Sarr believes each of the remaining 13 games will be crucial to Watford’s promotion hopes.
“Every game from now until the end of the season is very important,” he said.
“We have to treat every game like a final, we have to go there and try to win them all. We have to work hard and we try to go there to win.”
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Watford’s Under-21 side take on Swansea City at The Vic on Friday February 24 (1pm KO) in the PL Professional Development League.
Tickets are now available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Seating is in the Sir Elton John Stand only, and is unreserved.
Season Ticket holders can gain complimentary access to the match by scanning their regular Season Ticket at the ticket readers adjacent to the turnstiles of the Sir Elton John Stand.
Ticket Prices
Season Ticket Holder: Free
Adult: £5
65 & Over: £3
18 & Under: £1Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
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Ken Sema said after last night’s game that he had told himself before kick-off that he needed to take more shots.
Faye Brough sent the Watford faithful into raptures with her home debut winner, and said it felt “really good” to secure all three points at Grosvenor Vale.
The Japanese forward had only played five minutes for the Hornets prior to her introduction in Sunday’s 2-1 victory over MK Dons, but quickly settled into the action against the Buckinghamshire side when called upon by Head Coach Damon Lathrope.
Controlling Anne Meiwald’s throw-in before a clever turn and finish, Brough was delighted to make such an immediate impact for her new club, having joined in January.
“Coming on, I knew that all I was supposed to do was score a goal and it felt good to get the win,” said Brough, 22.
“[Lathrope] said we need a goal, and I’m glad I could score for the team.”
The Golden Girls mobbed Brough when the ball rippled the net, and she described how it felt to celebrate the completion of a dramatic comeback with her teammates and the supporters.
“The atmosphere was really good, the fans were cheering us on and it was great to play in,” continued Brough.
“Throughout the time I was on the pitch, I knew that the defenders were really close to me, and if I turned, I would have a clear shot on goal. Luckily Anne gave me a really good pass inside the box and I had a shot on goal, which went in.
“Everyone congratulated me, it felt really good.”
With Portsmouth next up on Wednesday night (February 22, 7.45pm KO), Brough is keen to make a statement against the league leaders, as the Hornets mount their own title charge.
“We want to win the league so winning the next game is very important, and as a forward I need to score,” Brough added. “I’m looking forward to it.”
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Full-back James Morris was delighted to earn an important 3-2 victory against a tough West Bromwich Albion side at Vicarage Road.
The 21-year-old was brought into the XI following an injury to Hassane Kamara, and contributed to a dynamic attack throughout the game as he looked to provide support to Ismaïla Sarr and Ken Sema – both of whom got on the scoresheet.
Morris acknowledged the significance of the result against the Baggies and is hoping to carry the momentum into a crucial part of the campaign.
“It’s a massive three points,” he began. “Over the last few games, we have been in great positions and then it’s been the last bit we have been missing.
“We haven’t lost in those games, but to get the three points today was massive, especially to gain momentum now. I think that’s four unbeaten now and with 13 games left of the season, we just have to keep building on this and keep winning.
“It was massive to get a quick start to get the fans behind us. I thought they were brilliant today and if you start quick you put them on the back foot and it was great to start the game how we wanted. It was very important for us.”
Speaking about the advice offered pre-match by Head Coach Slaven Bilić, Morris took his instructions onboard and felt it helped combat the away side’s second-half resurgence.
Morris continued: “Slaven just asked me to be comfortable, he was very good to me and gave me a lot of confidence. He asked me to play my game which is what I thought I did.
“It was disappointing to concede, but I think the character we showed to get back into the game and win was a massive plus. Everyone stuck together and we got the three points which was brilliant.”
The left-back paid tribute to the Watford faithful for their unwavering support during testing moments in the game.
He added: “It was brilliant [to play in front of the supporters]. The fans are always behind us and it was a great atmosphere, especially at the end when we were clinging on trying to get those three points – it gives us that extra push we needed.
“Every game is a big game in this league. We go to Sheffield United now and try to get another big three points to keep the momentum going.”
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Slaven Bilic said he knew that only leading 1-0 at the end of the first half left the door open for West Brom to fight back.
A lifelong Watford FC fan has built a Hornets-themed pub in his garden – near Luton territory!
Head Coach Slaven Bilić urged his Watford charges to build on their first Sky Bet Championship victory since mid-January, after Ken Sema’s brace inspired the Hornets to a crucial 3-2 triumph over fellow play-off hopefuls West Bromwich Albion at Vicarage Road.
Sema’s close-range strike was all that separated the teams ahead of a dramatic second 45 minutes, during which Conor Townsend, Ismaïla Sarr and Jed Wallace traded blows before Sema fired in what proved to be the winner 12 minutes from time.
After four draws and a defeat in their previous five outings Bilić was delighted to see Watford claim what he believes was a deserved three points, while acknowledging there is still room for his players to improve in the weeks ahead.
“It’s a very good win, and a deserved win,” said the former Croatia boss. “We’ve had a few games like this, so it’s nice for it to have ended in our favour, and I think large parts of our play were very good.
“We started very well, and we managed to get out of their press and find lots of space. The only thing that wasn’t good was that we were only 1-0 up at half-time - it should have been two or three.
“They changed things with an extra midfielder so we had to adjust, and we conceded two sloppy goals that we should have done better with. But we showed good determination, we didn’t stop and we got what we should have got.
“We’ve got 13 games to go now and it’s down to us to keep this up now, with the same levels of character and determination. Today was the first time we’ve been able to see the likes of João Pedro, Ken [Sema] and [Keinan] Davis at better levels of fitness, and with more people to come back that will only improve so I see some positive days ahead.”
Sweden international Sema marked his third appearance since Boxing Day with his first goals since October, and Bilić showered him with praise for a performance that demonstrated his abundance of qualities.
He said: “Ken is a great player, a top professional and a great guy to have around. He is a dream for any manager because he can play almost anywhere on the pitch, and effectively as well. He was brilliant today and I’m really pleased for him.
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“There were good performances all over. Mario [Gaspar] and James [Morris] were brilliant at full-back - Mario has shown he can defend against any kind of winger, and I was delighted for James. I wanted him to start well to give him confidence, and he gave himself a great platform. He was active and very involved, which was great to see.”
Ahead of Saturday’s trip to Sheffield United (February 25, 3pm KO) Bilić provided an update on the fitness of defender Hassane Kamara - who made way for Morris in the starting XI against West Brom - while explaining how it felt for him to come up against his former side in his 200th game in management in England.
He added: “Hassane is out with a hamstring problem. He had a slight issue against Burnley, and I think Sheffield United will be difficult but the Preston game should be likely.
“I didn’t like playing my old club, because it mattered so much to us and them. It was special to see everyone again and I wish them well, but not too well! They have a good coach and a good squad, so I’m sure West Brom still have a big part to play this season.”
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Ken Sema spoke of his delight after etching his name on the scoresheet twice with an impressive double - and ultimately the winner - during Watford’s 3-2 victory over West Bromwich Albion in the Sky Bet Championship.
Under the lights at The Vic, the Swedish winger got Watford off to the perfect start by firing the opener into the roof of the net midway through the first half, before notching the final goal of the evening with an important strike that deflected off Erik Pieters and past Baggies shot-stopper Josh Griffiths.
The Sweden international, who has recently returned to the squad following injury, was delighted to make the difference in front of an adoring home crowd.
Sema began: “It’s been a while with my injury and stuff so I’m happy with the goals and I’m happy with the win today as well. It was a must-win match here at home, and it was an amazing night.
“It was great to celebrate in front of the supporters. I have been out for a while with my rehab and I did everything I could to come back stronger. Scoring today and getting the win feels brilliant.”
Describing his brace, the 29-year-old explained how he converted each chance to help lift the Hornets to fifth in the second-tier standings.
He said: “[Davis] had a shot on target with the goalkeeper and I was there. It was right on my foot and I smashed it into the goal. It was an easy one so I’m happy to have scored!
“For sure, my second goal was on target! A bit of luck I guess but you need to have it in football so it was good.”
Sema also understands how important the win could be, as Watford head towards another significant encounter against Sheffield United on Saturday afternoon (February 25, 3pm KO).
He addded: “It will be a very important win. A win at home is really important for our confidence as well, against a strong team. We know Saturday will be another hard test, but we’re feeling good and I’m looking forward to getting back out there.”
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Watford have moved back into the play-off zone after beating West Bromwich Albion 3-2 in an exciting encounter at Vicarage Road
A rollercoaster second half saw Watford pegged back twice before Ken Sema sealed the win with his second goal of the game
Watford FC youngster Damani Hunter has joined Isthmian League North Division side Grays Athletic on loan until the end of April, the club confirms.
The 18-year-old forward signed for the Hornets back in 2018, and has so far enjoyed a productive 2022/23 season that saw him feature on the bench during the first-team’s Emirates FA Cup defeat at Reading in January.
While also being a regular for Omer Riza’s Under-21 side, Hunter has spent time at National League South outfit Braintree Town this campaign, and he will now continue his development at Parkside.
Meanwhile, Under-18 midfielder Ethan Goulding has linked up with Oxhey Jets in the Combined Counties League Premier Division North on a work experience loan, also until the end of April.
The second-year scholar has been with Watford since 2013, and made his debut for the Jets in a 1-1 draw at Burnham on Saturday (February 18).
Go well, lads!
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Damon Lathrope was somewhat frustrated by the Golden Girls’ performance against MK Dons, but ultimately felt pleased to have overseen an important 2-1 win at Grosvenor Vale on Sunday (February 19).
With his team having fought to come back from behind after Laura Mitchell struck three minutes in for the Dons, the Hornets Head Coach hopes their recovery will stand the group in good stead moving forward, with Annie Rossiter and Faye Brough netting for the hosts.
Lathrope highlighted the Dons’ regimented defensive style as an obstacle his side were able to overcome in the second 45, thanks to “character and resilience”.
“I seem to say it every week, we had enough chances to put it to bed in the first half after conceding early and we gave ourselves work to do,” began Lathrope. “If you want to be a team at the right end of the table at the end of the season, you need to find a way to win and we did that, which was pleasing.
“They made it difficult for us and we had to dig deep, show character and resilience. That will serve us really well going forward, because we showed that in abundance.”
The introduction of Bianca Baptiste and Kalani Peart increased the tempo 10 minutes into the second half, with Jade Bradley and goalscorer Brough also brought on to reinforce the team.
Pleased with the Hornets’ strength in depth, Lathrope reserved praise for Brough, who came on to score the late winner on her home debut, having signed in January.
“We’ve got good depth and any player in our squad can come on the pitch at any point,” said the 33-year-old. “The subs have made an impact and played their part today.
“I’m really pleased for Faye. She’s finding her feet, been training with us for three weeks or so and has got real ability, we could see that straight away. Today was her first real opportunity to show us on the pitch, she got her chance and took it.”
One of only four midweek fixtures in the league season, the Golden Girls face league leaders Portsmouth at home on Wednesday night (February 22, 7.45pm KO), having lost 2-0 in the reverse fixture. The team have prepared for the tough test and will look to extend their winning run to three at The Vale.
“We didn’t want to look beyond MK Dons, we had to get the job done and we’ve put it to bed now,” reflected Lathrope. “[Portsmouth] are flying high at the top of the table, and we owe them one from last time. The girls are ready, we’ve prepared as best we can and will make sure we recover properly for Wednesday.”
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Tickets for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Southern Premier Division fixture against Crawley Wasps (Wednesday March 15, 7.45pm KO) at Grosvenor Vale will go on general sale to supporters at 10am on Tuesday February 21.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
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The countdown to Watford’s hotly-anticipated Sky Bet Championship clash at home to West Bromwich Albion continues (Monday February 20, 8pm KO), but several Hornets have been out on the grass strutting their stuff on loan across the weekend in England and beyond.
Winger Joe Hungbo opened his account for Huddersfield Town in the Terriers’ crucial 2-1 win over Birmingham City on Saturday (February 18), notching an equaliser in the 25th minute after former Watford skipper Troy Deeney had put the Blues in front early on.
Jaheim Headley grabbed the winner for Town in manager Neil Warnock’s first game back in charge, and at full-time Hungbo spoke of his delight at playing a big part of a result that leaves his temporary side just two points from safety in the Championship.
He said: “Luckily all the work I’ve been doing out on the training pitch has paid off in terms of me finishing, so I’m happy. Most importantly, the three points is what we needed so hopefully we can keep on building on this.”
Also in the second-tier, forward Ashley Fletcher helped Wigan Athletic earn a 0-0 draw at home to Norwich City, having scored his first goal for the Latics away at Bristol City in midweek (Wednesday February 15). An unbeaten run stretching to four games leaves Wigan bottom of the table, but only behind Huddersfield and Blackpool on goal difference.
Young midfielder JJ McKiernan tasted a third straight victory in the National League with Eastleigh, as the Spitfires saw off Maidenhead United 1-0 to move up to eighth, while in the National League South goalkeeper Myles Roberts kept a clean sheet in a 3-0 win for Welling United at Slough Town.
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Over in Belgium, Vakoun Bayo played 81 minutes of RSC Charleroi’s goalless draw at KV Oostende, and in the Scottish top-flight Mattie Pollock completed the full 90 minutes as Aberdeen were beaten 4-0 at defending champions Celtic.
Academy starlet Bodgan Marian was unfortunately withdrawn after just half-an-hour of AFC Rushden & Diamonds’ 1-0 defeat at home to Hednesford Town in the Southern League Premier Central, after failing to shake off a knock. William Troost-Ekong (Salernitana), Domingos Quina (Rotherham United), Kwadwo Baah (Fortuna Düsseldorf) and Shaq Forde (York City) similarly missed their teams’ most recent outings through injury.
Eastleigh photo credit: Ricky Hart/Tom Mulholland
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Midfielder Imran Louza could start his first Watford game in 125 days tonight when Watford host West Brom in front of the Sky Sports cameras.
Match Info
- Watford v West Bromwich Albion
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Monday February 20, 8pm KO
- Live on Sky Sports
- Yellow and black home kit
Officials
- Referee: Tim Robinson
- Assistant Referees: Scott Ledger and Nick Greenhalgh
- Fourth Official: Sunny Singh Gill
Opposition
West Bromwich Albion have recently seen an upturn in results after a bumpy start to this season under manager Steve Bruce.
Having snapped up former manager of 2021/22 play-off finalists Huddersfield Town, Carlos Corberán, Albion have climbed from 21st to 10th place, finding themselves four points off the play-off places as things stand.
Corberán will have his team fired up for this Monday night game under the floodlights as they look to push their play-off charge.
Stats Buzz
- Watford are unbeaten against West Brom in their last four league games at home, having won two and drawn two.
- West Brom have won just one of their last eight league meetings against Watford, having lost three and drawn four. Their last win was a 3-1 victory in December 2016 under manager Tony Pulis.
- West Brom have lost two of their last four league games, with their most recent outing ending in a 1-1 draw at home to Blackburn Rovers on Wednesday February 15.
For a full statistical breakdown check out Stats Buzz: West Bromwich Albion In Numbers.
Team News
Slaven Bilić confirmed in his pre-match press conference on Friday that his squad is much of the same as the side that faced Burnley last Tuesday night, but midfielder Tom Cleverley will be sidelined for around eight weeks.
The likes of Imrân Louza, Ken Sema and João Pedro were able to gain more valuable minutes at Turf Moor, with those players in contention to start against the Baggies.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“It’s a massive game for both teams. It’s very tight in and around the top six, and they have the same aims as us of winning as many games as they can to finish as high in the table as possible.
“They are doing really well now with Carlos [Corberán] in charge. They are back up there and we know it’s going to be a good battle, but we know what we need to do and we’re up for the fight.”
Carlos Corberán, West Bromwich Albion Head Coach:
“Watford are a very good team. They were in the Premier League last year. It is going to be a very, very good test.
“Every single game is a motivation for me. I don’t find any type of difference between matches. Always, I find reasons to play like it is the most important game of my life. This one is the same.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 13
Drawn: 11
Lost: 18Last Six:
August 2022: West Bromwich Albion 1-1 Watford (Championship)
March 2018: Watford 1-0 West Bromwich Albion (Premier League)
September 2017: West Bromwich Albion 2-2 Watford (Premier League)
April 2017: Watford 2-0 West Bromwich Albion (Premier League)
December 2016: West Bromwich Albion 3-1 Watford (Premier League)
April 2016: West Bromwich Albion 0-1 Watford (Premier League)Golden Flashback
Goals from M’Baye Niang and Troy Deeney secured a 2-0 win under Javi Gracia in 2017, the Hornets’ first win over the Baggies since November 1994.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v West Bromwich Albion, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Possession must lead to chances, and chances must lead to goals. That is the message from Watford head coach Slaven Bilic.
He may be only 21, but Joao Pedro has slipped on the Watford captain's armband with ease.
After a successful away trip to Cheltenham Town last time out, the Golden Girls return to Grosvenor Vale to face MK Dons just three weeks since the teams last faced off in FA Women’s National League Cup action.
Last time it was a semi-final berth at stake; this weekend (Sunday February 19, 2pm KO) the teams compete for three vital points in their league seasons.
The clash marks the start of a big week of football for the Hornets that will see them play three times in just eight days, providing the perfect opportunity to kick on in their quest to catch league leaders Portsmouth.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting our new home for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please Note – Parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas - we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £5
- Concession (U16, 65+, Disability) - £3
- Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
On the day sales for Adults & Concessions will see the prices increase by £2, so we highly recommend booking in advance if possible.
The £1 price will remain unchanged on matchday, with you just having to show proof of your season card to gain entry.
The Match
The Golden Girls are coming into the game knowing it’s the first of three massive fixtures in their season, with the visit of Portsmouth coming up on Wednesday night (February 22, 7.45pm KO) and a trip away to Ipswich the following Sunday (February 26, 2pm KO).
The Hornets ran out 5-1 winners at Grosvenor Vale the last time they went up against MK Dons last month, with goals from Bianca Baptiste, Ellie Head and Annie Rossiter, and a brace from captain Helen Ward, seeing them through to the semi-finals of the FA WNL Cup.
Baptiste blasted the Hornets into the lead inside seven minutes in that game, so as ever you’ll want to be inside Grosvenor Vale making as much noise as you can nice and early as it’s sure to be another exciting game.
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Wesley Hoedt has embraced the challenge of the Sky Bet Championship and has high ambitions for Watford, little under three weeks after signing for the Hornets.
The 28-year-old has quickly established himself in Slaven Bilić’s backline, playing the full 90 minutes in games against Blackburn and Burnley and scoring a crucial equaliser on his debut in the former.
Striking up a partnership with fellow new arrival Ryan Porteous at centre-half, Hoedt feels he has settled in quickly at Vicarage Road and reflects positively on the games since his arrival from Belgian side Anderlecht, but is now eager to get a first win under his belt.
“I had been quite a while without a game before I arrived which was quite tricky to adjust to, but luckily that all went well and now it’s up to me to keep progressing and help the team,” said Hoedt, speaking to Sky Sports News.
“It was a very disappointing result in the end [against Burnley] but we have to move on because we have a game on Monday. There were a lot of positives to take from the game.
“I think if you’ve looked at the last three games we should have won all three of them. Burnley equalised late but I think we could have got away with a win there. For sure the objective on Monday is to win.”
While expecting West Brom to present a tough test, former Southampton star Hoedt feels he is suitably equipped for the physical challenges of the second tier, and believes Watford “need” to be a Premier League side.
“I’ve been in the Premier League so I know what kind of football it is in the UK, but the Championship is quite particular,” said the Dutchman. “I saw that in the Reading game when I didn’t play, but it’s quite direct and it surprised me a little bit.
“I just arrived a few weeks ago so I didn’t see much of West Brom’s games, but I think our staff will definitely bring us up to date. We will have to play our own game, and I’m quite sure we can have a great result.
“A club like Watford needs to be in the Premier League, so that’s our one and only objective - to bring the club back.”
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Not having to play this weekend is something Watford head coach Slaven Bilic isn't unhappy about
Announcing our “Deceased Watford Player Of The Month” for February 2023 – Jack Gran. He changed his name after he left Watford. His name became known throughout the world. You can learn about him here: https://hornetheaven.com/john-joseph-gran/ Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin.
Head coach Slaven Bilic said replacing Joao Pedro with Christian Kabasele late in the game at Burnley was a "logical decision"
Daniel Bachmann has revealed he slipped on the astroturf that it is behind the line in seconds leading up to Burnley’s equaliser on Tuesday night.
1- “Never say ‘no’. Always say, ‘yes, but…’.” These words, ten years or so ago, came from someone who understood and negotiated the politics of life in a large company far better than I do. The logic was that as soon as you say ‘no’ people stop listening. The explanation, the qualification never gets heard […]
It was 183 days since he last played a senior game for Watford, and Tom Cleverley had a smile on his face, even if the draw was disappointing.
For the second successive home game Watford had to come from behind to earn a point when they really should have had all three.
On Season 2, Episode 36 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford held at home by Blackburn Rovers. Omar did not see the match but offers analysis regarding the team and squad and the business end of the season as well as playoff aspirations and prospects. Also: Tom Cleverley, Imran Louza and Ken Semi return to action after long layoffs.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfc
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Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: February 11, 2023.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) - Watford 1, Blackburn 1: https://bit.ly/3HMfoe8FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Fanbase @youorns: https://fanbase.app/youornsFollow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
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--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/appSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Captain Tom Cleverley was delighted to be back on the Vicarage Road pitch during a 1-1 draw with Blackburn Rovers, featuring for the Hornets for the first time since August 2022.
Despite the visitors taking a first-half lead through Bradley Dack, Watford remained the more impressive attacking outfit and eventually made their pressure pay as Wesley Hoedt scored on his debut.
Golden Boys midfielder Cleverley felt his side deserved more from the game, but was happy to be back in front of the Watford faithful.
“I think Blackburn Rovers had one real threat and chance in our box and they scored it,” he began. “Up against any team in this league, it’s difficult when you concede the first goal.
“They frustrated us with a lot with their timewasting ploys, but fair credit to them because I thought they were quite decent in the first half and then we really pushed in the second half, but we couldn’t quite get a winner.
“It was really pleasing to be back involved, especially to come back here at home. It’s the first time I’ve played under Slaven Bilić and I’ve been really enjoying the training over the past few weeks, being back with the boys and even the whole experience of travelling and being in the hotel last night. It’s nice to feel like a footballer again.”
Delving deeper into his recovery, Cleverley pointed to his teammates and the club as important factors during his rehab.
He continued: “I tried for six weeks or so to manually treat this injury, but it needed surgery in the end. Now I feel like there is nothing in the way for the rest of my career. It has always been a little niggle of mine, my achilles tendons.
“My teammates, going to Spain with them in November, helped me through it alongside my family and also the medical team at Watford. Lee Stafford especially in the gym gave me a great rehab. I feel as good as ever.”
Being introduced to the action with 20 minutes left to play, the 33-year-old revealed what Head Coach Bilić asked of him in the closing stages. And with further minutes under his belt following his appearance for the Under-21s earlier this week, Cleverley is looking forward to the next few fixtures.
He added: “He asked me to keep the shape, because it turned into basketball in the last period. We want to win which was pleasing to see, and he said let’s keep the pressure on. We did, and I thought that once we scored one we would definitely win the game, so I’m disappointed we didn’t.
“These next few games will be difficult, but we can take confidence with how we have accumulated points over these teams at the start of the season. There are no easy games in this league and hopefully we can pick up some points.”
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić believes Watford’s 1-1 draw at home to Blackburn Rovers was a sign of some good times to come before the end of the 2022/23 season, with a number of injury returnees and recent arrivals showing glimpses of their quality at Vicarage Road.
The Hornets went behind against the run of play midway through the first half, when Bradley Dack prodded home for Rovers after Joe Rankin-Costello’s initial effort, but Wesley Hoedt smashed in an equaliser 16 minutes from time to ensure the spoils were shared.
Bilic made three changes to his XI in the wake of last weekend’s 2-2 draw at Reading - with Hoedt, João Pedro and Ismaël Koné coming in - and with Tom Cleverley, Ken Sema and Imrân Louza also earning their first minutes of 2023 from the bench, the former Croatia boss stressed that things are only going to improve.
“We played well,” said Bilić, 54. “I think we did more than enough to win the game - we created four or five proper chances to do so - but our final touch and final decision-making was lacking.
“Their goal didn’t kill us, and it didn’t really change the pattern of the play. It obviously affects the game when you’re on top and then you suddenly concede, but I thought we did well. I was disappointed with how we finished the game, because we didn’t really create anything, but overall I think it was good.
“We gave everything and of course it is good to have players back available. They are not in top form yet, but that will come. For now we have to find the balance of using them in the correct way and building them back to their best, and we saw today how valuable a lot of them are to our team.”
João Pedro - who was handed the captain’s armband from the start - impressed throughout his 79 minutes on the pitch, while goalscorer Hoedt and his central defensive partner Ryan Porteous were also singled out for praise by Bilić.
He said: “João Pedro got some minutes last week at Reading, and today was another step in the right direction. It’s going to take a bit of time until he’s ready for 90 minutes, but today he showed the quality we’ve been missing.
“When he’s on the pitch it’s totally different, and he has a big impact on all the other players around him. [Ken] Sema as well, he made a big difference when he came on with his physicality and crossing, and you see what we’ve missed.
“Both of them [Hoedt and Porteous] are very impressive. They played like a proper partnership today in their first game together, and they already have a good understanding. They’re both good with and without the ball and are dominant, and Wesley topped it off with a goal which is great.”
Having recorded successive draws, Watford next travel to league leaders Burnley on Tuesday night (February 14, 8pm KO), ahead of similarly tough-looking matches at home to West Bromwich Albion (Monday February 20, 8pm KO) and away at Sheffield United (Saturday February 25, 3pm KO).
With Watford sitting sixth with 15 games of the campaign remaining, Bilić insisted that the upcoming run of fixtures won’t determine their fate, and is focused on attacking each game as they come, one-by-one.
He added: “We can’t look too far ahead - we have a plan and it’s game by game. In the end, it’s the same really - we want to win every game, and if we’re successful that will take us up the standings.
“We’ve got more players on the team sheet now, but they’re not in top form and that will come. We’ll continue doing what we’re doing and I’m sure we’ll get better. We’re determined, and we definitely have a chance of picking up plenty of good results in the coming weeks.”
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Defender Wesley Hoedt was pleased to score on his home debut for the Hornets, but was disappointed that the match ended in a 1-1 stalemate with Blackburn Rovers.
Following intense pressure from the Golden Boys during the second period, the centre-half’s impressive volley, from Ken Sema’s deflected set-piece, cancelled out Bradley Dack’s opener for Rovers.
Having signed from Anderlecht during the January transfer window, putting pen to paper on a two-and-a-half-year deal, Hoedt had been eager to make a positive first impression in front of his new supporters.
And with the match ending level, the Dutchman felt that his side deserved more from the game, but is hopeful for better results in future encounters to come.
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“It was a bit of a weird game because we dominated the whole match, but we couldn’t find the opportunities to score and I think this is a part that we have to improve,” Hoedt said.
“It was a deflected ball from the goalkeeper and it came back to me. It was a good strike and it was nice to score on my home debut, but I would rather have had the three points.
“Defensively, I think we gave nothing away at all. I think they had a shot on goal once and we dominated the whole game. You have to convert the possession we had into chances and then you’re going to win games.
“It was an amazing atmosphere in the stadium, so that was very nice and I really enjoyed it. We have a few days now until Burnley (Tuesday February 14, 8pm KO), and we need a win, so it will be an important game.”
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Frustration was again the over-riding emotion at Vicarage Road as Watford dropped more points in their quest to strengthen their play-off bid as they had to settle for a 1-1 draw against fellow top-six rivals Blackburn Rovers.
First published in today’s edition of matchday programme The Hornet (Saturday February 11), Watford FC Honorary Life-President Sir Elton John CBE pays tribute to the late Oli Phillips, the man who provided decades of club coverage for The Watford Observer…
As a writer, a fan and a man, Oli Phillips was someone for whom I had great respect, and I was hugely saddened to hear of his passing.
When I first became involved with Watford Football Club in the 1970s, Oli played an integral part in bringing the two parties together and then opening lines of communication. However, I knew all about him before then because, like so many fans, I would look forward to, and then read, his forensic coverage of Watford every Friday.
The Watford Observer always has been, and still is, the place that I would go to read about the club – and in Oli Phillips we were all so fortunate to have someone who took coverage of a local football club to a different level.
He was fair, he was insightful and he was thorough. He was a brilliant wordsmith with that rare ability to write match reports with such detail and clarity that you felt you were there. He could craft beautiful features and his ‘Just A Thought’ columns were among my favourites.
Most of all he was a fan; someone who never pulled any punches when criticism was justified but was equally willing to laud the many great Watford achievements during his writing career. He wore his heart on his sleeve, but it was a heart that always had a place for Watford.
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I always enjoyed talking to Oli and being in his company. I trusted him and, in return, he never printed anything told to him in confidence – and I know Graham Taylor placed such faith in Oli that he told people only to believe stories when they read them in the Watford Observer.
We shared a love of music. I know Oli was a huge fan of Bob Dylan and also Buddy Holly, and we would often talk about new artists we had discovered or reminisce about great tracks from the past. And, like me, Oli was rather partial to a hat, too!
He was a big man with a big character and a big heart.
Oli Phillips was one of a kind and I send my condolences to his wife Ellie, his daughters and his grandchildren.
I am delighted that he will be recognised by Watford with the Media Suite and tributes at today’s game, and it warms my heart to know that some of his family will be guests of the club this afternoon.
Love, Elton.
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Sir Elton John has paid this tribute to Oli Phillips in Watford's matchday programme for today's game with Blackburn Rovers.
The Golden Girls head west to Gloucestershire to take on Cheltenham Town in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division this weekend (Sunday February 12, 2pm KO), geared up for what promises to be a tough test with the hosts having recorded a strong win over Oxford United last time out.
Watford Head Coach Damon Lathrope and his side will be looking for a return to winning ways, having picked up a valuable point against fellow high-flyers Ipswich Town in their last clash.
Currently fourth in the table but holding three games in hand on league leaders Portsmouth, and two on second and third-place sides Oxford and Ipswich, the Hornets are looking to keep in touch with those at the summit.
With all 12 sides in league action this weekend there is plenty of room for change, and the Golden Girls will be looking to build some momentum as they head into a busy fixture schedule over the coming weeks.
The Ground
Cheltenham play their games at The Corinium Stadium, the home of Cirencester Town FC. The artificial turf pitch is surrounded by plenty of areas for standing, both covered and uncovered. There are covered stands on three sides of the pitch, the stands at the sides of the pitch have plenty of seats, while the stand behind the goal is standing only.
Situated on the outskirts of Cirencester, the easiest way for spectators to travel to the ground is via car. The ground provides a large car park with ample room for the fans in attendance at the game. Full details on directions to the ground can be found HERE.
However, there are ways to attend the game via public transport.
By Train: The nearest railway station is Kemble, on the Swindon to Cheltenham Inter-City link line, with a frequent service from London Paddington. It is possible to catch a bus from Kemble Station but the service is infrequent and not always to timetable as shown in Kemble Station car park.
By Bus: National Express buses run from Heathrow, London Victoria and Cheltenham to Cirencester, that stop in the town centre. There are also local services from Swindon and Cheltenham to Cirencester Market Place, which is a 20-minute walk from the stadium.
For those travelling by public transport, please be mindful of Sunday service changes when making your plans.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased on the gate, priced at £6 for adults, £3 for concessions and children going free.
Children must be accompanied by an adult to gain entry to the ground. Please note, it is not clear if it is cash, card or both available for the ticket purchase, so please go prepared for both.
The Match
Cheltenham Town will have their tails up after a strong display against the then-league leaders Oxford United last Sunday. The Robinesses ran out 2-1 winners, with first-half goals from Laura Holden and Issy Newns.
Town have started their 2023 league fixtures in fine form, bouncing back from a penalty-shootout defeat away at Crawley Wasps in the FA Women’s National League Plate to comfortably beat Billericay Town and Oxford back in the league. This form has put them within touching distance of the Golden Girls, which leaves the hosts knowing three points could see them leapfrog both their visitors and Billericay.
The Hornets will be looking to draw on the confidence of the reverse fixture, when they ran out 6-0 winners thanks to goals from six different scorers. With the recent form of Cheltenham, it looks set to be a tough test, but Watford have shown their combative spirit in recent weeks and are ready for the fight.
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Match Info
- Watford v Blackburn Rovers
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Saturday February 11, 3pm KO
Officials
- Referee: Jeremy Simpson
- Assistant Referees: Andrew Dallison and Adrian Waters
- Fourth Official: Alan Young
Opposition
After a decent start to the campaign, Rovers have only won three times in the league since November 1. With their last two Championship outings having produced draws with Bristol City and Wigan Athletic, Head Coach Jon Dahl Tomasson will be searching for victory when they arrive at Vicarage Road.
Stats Buzz
Watford have won three of their last four league games against Blackburn Rovers, one more than in their previous eight such encounters.
Blackburn are looking to secure a league double over Watford for the first time since 1969/70, in the first season the teams faced off.
The Hornets have won four of their last five home league matches against Blackburn, since a 1-0 defeat in February 2001.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Blackburn Rovers In Numbers.
Team News
Watford boss Slaven Bilić is looking forward to welcoming a handful of first-team players back to the fold, with captain Tom Cleverley, Ken Sema and Christian Kabasele all set to be involved.
The clash is likely to come too soon for Imrân Louza though, while Craig Cathcart is out with a groin problem picked up in training.
For full Watford team news, click HERE.
Goalkeeper Thomas Kaminski is unavailable for Blackburn with a knee problem, but defender Daniel Ayala could feature after an ankle injury.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“It’s good to start having players back, and we’re going to need them. We have a run of tough games now - nothing will be decided after them, but we know if we do well out of them we will have a big boost.
“We are only concentrating on Blackburn for now, though. They’re a good team, with experienced players and energy in the ranks. They have had a season a bit like ours, with ups and downs, but we know they’re capable of beating the teams at the top and we need to be ready.”
Jon Dahl Tomasson, Blackburn Rovers Head Coach
“We already played one good game against Watford this season, and now we’re away to one of the favourites to go up. We are more or less at the same level in the table, so it is going to be an interesting game and a good challenge for us.
“They’ve brought in a few new players. We’ve been stretched with our numbers, and we’re not totally there but we’re going in the right direction so hopefully we can put on a good performance.”
Been At Both - Tim Sherwood
Born in Hertfordshire, Tim Sherwood began his career with the Hornets making his debut against Sheffield Wednesday in 1987. The dynamic midfielder played more than 50 times before making his final appearance at the end of the 1988/89 campaign.
After a move to Norwich City, he departed for Kenny Dalglish’s Rovers, where he would eventually be made captain, and in 1995 he held the Premier League trophy aloft at Ewood Park. In total, Sherwood played more than 200 times for Blackburn.
Head-To-Head
Overall:
Won: 13
Drawn: 12
Lost: 14Last Six:
September 2022: Blackburn Rovers 2-0 Watford (Championship)
February 2021: Blackburn Rovers 2-3 Watford (Championship)
October 2020: Watford 3-1 Blackburn Rovers (Championship)
February 2015: Watford 1-0 Blackburn Rovers (Championship)
September 2014: Blackburn Rovers 2-2 Watford (Championship)
March 2014: Watford 3-3 Blackburn Rovers (Championship)Golden Flashback
Goals from João Pedro, Tom Cleverley and an own goal gave Watford a 3-1 victory over Blackburn Rovers in their last meeting at Vicarage Road during the 2020/21 campaign.
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Head coach Slaven Bilic watched Wesley Hoedt, Tom Cleverley and Britt Assombalonga increase their match fitness.
Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Blackburn Rovers (February 11, 3pm KO), with Slaven Bilić’s men looking to build on last weekend’s 2-2 draw away at Reading with three points to boost their promotion hopes.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Blackburn Rovers, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Two Watford players are among the nominees for the 2023 London Football Awards.
Ismaïla Sarr’s extraordinary strike from his own half against West Bromwich Albion in August is shortlisted for Goal of the Season alongside Heung-min Son (Tottenham v Leicester), Michael Olise (Crystal Palace v Man Utd), Paul Smyth (Leyton Orient v Doncaster) and Laura Wienroither (Arsenal v Man Utd).
Voting for Goal of the Season is open until 1pm on Friday February 10, and supporters can have their say HERE.
Meanwhile, João Pedro has been nominated for EFL Player of the Year alongside Zian Flemming (Millwall), Paul Smyth (Leyton Orient), Miles Leaburn (Charlton) and Omar Beckles (Leyton Orient).
All the winners will be announced at the London Football Awards ceremony on Monday March 13 at The Roundhouse in Camden.
Click HERE for more details.
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić is hoping the gradual easing of Watford’s injury concerns can inspire them to victory at home to Blackburn Rovers on Saturday (February 11, 3pm KO), and kickstart a good run of form heading into the business end of the campaign.
The Croatian’s tenure at Vicarage Road has been largely impacted by absences in all areas of the pitch, but the availability of captain Tom Cleverley and fellow key players Ken Sema and Christian Kabasele this weekend, in addition to the improving fitness of João Pedro, provides a much-welcome boost.
Craig Cathcart’s unexpected absence - due to a groin problem picked up in training - is naturally a big blow, but with Wesley Hoedt having looked sharp while playing for the Under-21s alongside Cleverley in midweek, and Ryan Porteous impressing on debut at Reading, Bilić is remaining positive.
He said: “Things are getting better, and it’s starting to look good on paper. We’re getting back to a stage where we have quantity and quality of fit players, we just have to handle the situation properly and make sure we keep the players who are coming back.
“We have to be patient, and make sure all the time we are having conversations with the medical team, the fitness guys and the players themselves. We want to make sure they’re in the right headspace, and are confident in themselves when they’re back on the pitch as well.
“We have players back for this game, which is really important. Players like Cleverley for example are very important for the dressing room, with his leadership and character. I know we have lost Cathcart, which is a blow, but we have players to come in with experience and quality.
“Wesley [Hoedt] has played in big leagues and knows what he’s doing - I saw that straight away. Ryan [Porteous] as well had a good debut, and it was a shame his goal didn’t turn out to be the winning one. Both are good additions to the defence.”
Despite being dealt such severe injury issues - with 15 senior players having been unavailable at the start of 2023 - Watford sit fifth in the Sky Bet Championship standings with 16 games left to play.
The visit of Blackburn kickstarts four February clashes against teams within the top seven - with Burnley (1st), West Bromwich Albion (6th) and Sheffield United (2nd) to come - and Bilić is aware how important the coming weeks could be to his team’s hopes of a Premier League return.
He said: “It’s been a tough period, but I think we’ve done okay. We could have got more points in certain games, but the guys have done well. Since we came in players have had to play out of position, but they’ve shown good attitude and quality, and that’s what we still need from them.
“It’s good to start having players back, and we’re going to need them. We have a run of tough games now - nothing will be decided after them, but we know if we do well out of them we will have a big boost.
“We are only concentrating on Blackburn for now, though. They’re a good team, with experienced players and energy in the ranks. They have had a season a bit like ours, with ups and downs, but we know they’re capable of beating the teams at the top and we need to be ready.”
Finally, in the wake of the squad list being published earlier this week, Bilić passed on his best wishes to forward Rey Manaj, who has left the club having scored one goal in seven appearances since his summer arrival.
Bilić added: “I’m sorry for Rey that it didn’t work out. He trained with us during the World Cup break and was showing that he is a proper striker, and that he wanted to do well.
“Unfortunately, in the first game back against Hull he picked up another injury. He’s still young and he’s on the way back now after his second surgery, so I wish him all the best for the future.”
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Watford boss Slaven Bilić is looking forward to welcoming a handful of first-team players back to the fold for tomorrow’s Sky Bet Championship clash against Blackburn Rovers (Saturday February 11, 3pm KO), with his unenviable injury list continuing to gradually decrease.
Club captain Tom Cleverley (achilles) came through 45 minutes of the Under-21s’ defeat to Crewe Alexandra in midweek, and will be involved in the matchday 18 for the first time since August’s victory over Burnley at Vicarage Road.
Ken Sema and Christian Kabasele - who have both been sidelined with hamstring problems since the festive period - are also back in full training, and in contention for selection.
Bilić said: “Cleverley is ready to play, not for the full game, and not from the start, but he is available. He’ll be a big asset to us in the dressing room - he’s the captain, he has great character, and also he is a brilliant player.
“Ken and Kaba are looking good, as well. As we know there is a difference between training and playing at 100 per cent in a game, but things generally are positive and we’re looking forward to having them back.”
Imrân Louza is close to completing his rehabilitation following a leg injury sustained at Millwall in October, but Bilić indicated that this weekend is likely to come too soon for him.
Defensive stalwart Craig Cathcart definitely won’t be involved, with Bilić explaining that the Northern Ireland international picked up a minor groin problem in training during the week.
One player who made a welcome return to action in last Saturday’s draw at Reading was João Pedro, and after completing 20 minutes at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, Bilić suggested he is ready to step up his involvement against Blackburn.
Bilić said: “It’s great to have him back of course, not only because of his quality, but also because of his character and his presence. We are a different team with these sorts of players - he makes a big difference.
“He looks good, he played 20 minutes last week and he was tackled heavily but his ankle stood up well. I think he’s probably ready for 45 minutes now.”
Looking beyond tomorrow’s game, Tom Dele-Bashiru is hoping to join in with full training next week, while Edo Kayembe’s nagging calf strain is showing signs of easing as he starts to work outside on his own for now.
Hamstring injury victims Jeremy Ngakia, Samuel Kalu and João Ferreira are also working outside as their rehab continues.
It’s bad news for Francisco Sierralta, however. Having sustained a break to a metatarsal (foot bone) at Middlesbrough, he had surgery last week and is in a surgical boot for now as his rehab programme begins.
Dan Gosling is working hard to build strength back into his achilles after his operation back in November. Progress has been good, with some light running the next target along on his recovery schedule.
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Craig Cathcart is out of tomorrow's game with Blackburn due to a groin injury, but a number of injured players are back in contention
All at Watford FC were saddened to learn of the passing of former player Colin Bateman.
Born in 1930 in Hemel Hempstead, Colin was the youngest of nine children. Starting his senior career with Hemel Hempstead Town, football had to be put on hold when he was called up for National Service in the early 1950s. Having been deployed to Malaya with the Army, he was scouted on his return by Watford manager Len Goulden and went on to make 56 appearances from 1953-58 for the first-team – who then wore blue and white – as well as many more for the reserves.
A tough-tackling full-back, Colin and his older brother Ernest – a centre-half who turned out for Watford 25 times from 1955-57 – were the last siblings to play together for Watford in the league for more than three decades, and they later retired together at Sittingbourne.
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After leaving Watford as a player, Colin remained an avid fan and would attend as many games as possible. During one of his many trips to Vicarage Road, while attending an England A v B pre-season game, one of the squads ended up a right-back short due to an injury in the warm-up. Word got out that Colin was in the stands and he was asked to step in. Despite often commenting on the honour of wearing the Three Lions, he did also complain his performance would have been better but for him only having had beans on toast for lunch!
Colin had extremely fond memories of watching the Hornets; one of his more recent highlights being a 1-0 win against Sunderland in 2017 when he met one of his favourite players, Luther Blissett.
Sadly, Ernest passed away in 2018 and Colin, along with other family members, was kindly invited to attend the Huddersfield game by the club. A convincing 3-0 win was enjoyed, a match which proved to be his last visit to Vicarage Road. With his health deteriorating, Colin was unable to travel as much as he would have liked.
A Watford supporter through and through, he was over the moon when he received a phone call from Tom Cleverley, who was checking in to see how he and his wife were coping during lockdown.
Colin sadly passed away on November 18 last year at the age of 92. His funeral was held on December 20; his coffin adorned with his replica shirt and flowers in the club colours he so adored. He is survived by his loving wife Shirley and family. You couldn’t wish to meet a more genuine, generous man, with such a great sense of humour.
He will be sorely missed.
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Hornets legends Luther Blissett and Ross Jenkins pay tribute to the Watford Observer's late sports editor and legendary Hornets correspondent Oli Phillips.
A referee who has yet to show a red card this season is set to be in charge when Watford host Blackburn Rovers on Saturday.
Wesley Hoedt has played in three of the world's best leagues, and alongside the likes of Klose, van Dijk and Robben.
There has been continued backlash against a “flask ban” at home games — as the club seeks to clarify the situation.
Watford FC are excited to be celebrating Junior Hornets Matchday as part of Saturday’s game against Blackburn Rovers at Vicarage Road (February 11, 3pm KO).
We will be marking the first 12 months of our refreshed Junior Hornets offering to young Watford supporters with a host of fun activities throughout the afternoon.
It’s also one year since Ann Swanson – a key driver in Watford FC becoming ‘The Original Family Club’ in the late 1970s and 1980s – became the new Junior Hornets patron and had the Family Stand renamed in her honour.
There have been plenty of exciting events, competitions and activities for Junior Hornets to take part in over the past year.
From a behind-the-scenes look at Vicarage Road, to the chance to experience a day in the life of a professional footballer, and a special Vicarage Road Fun Day with Watford FC Women, there has been something for everyone to get involved in and there’s even more to look forward to in 2023!
Read on for some of the things the Junior Hornets have been up to over the last 12 months.
Family Zone
Launched earlier this season, the Watford FC Family Zone features a wide range of activities for all young supporters and their families to enjoy before entering The Vic on matchday, and you don't have to be a Junior Hornet to attend! The zone, which is free to visit, opens at least two hours before kick-off and is located at Cornerstone Church on Vicarage Road, directly opposite the turnstiles for the Ann Swanson Family Stand.
Grounds Staff Competition
Two Junior Hornets have been invited to join the Grounds Staff for the day, assisting our award-winning team pre-match, during half-time and after this weekend’s game against Blackburn. Having correctly guessed how many squares feature in one goal net at The Vic (4,206), the winners will be helping with important tasks such as setting up the corner flags and goals, painting the white lines and operating the sprinklers.
Away Days
Now a regular event, our designated Junior Hornets Away Days – featuring discounted match tickets and coach travel to selected away fixtures, competitions, games and prizes – have proven popular, with our latest trip to Reading on Saturday (February 4), including a pre-match visit to a trampoline park, selling out!
Mini-Golf
Lucky Junior Hornets members were invited to play a game of mini-golf at Puttshack Watford in October, where they were surprised by some of their favourite Watford FC players, including Hamza Choudhury, Daniel Bachmann and Helen Ward.
Fun Day
The Watford FC squad met with hundreds of Junior Hornets members at our 2022 Fun Day back in August. Held at the Hornets’ training ground, as part of the special afternoon the coaching and playing staff signed autographs, took photos and got involved with the variety of games that were on offer.
Christmas Party
There was a stellar night of entertainment and fun at the Junior Hornets Christmas Party at Vicarage Road in December. With games, raffles and more taking place, the players were also on hand to take part in photos and sign autographs.
SIGN UP NOW!
Junior Hornets is our free supporters club for Watford fans aged 0-15, with exciting benefits including a membership pack, regular events and a website containing quizzes, wordsearches and many other downloads and activities! Visit juniorhornets.watfordfc.com to sign up.
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The Hornets host Blackburn Rovers in the Sky Bet Championship this weekend (Saturday February 11, 3pm KO), as they look to make amends for the 2-0 defeat from earlier in the season.
Ahead of the meeting with Rovers, we take a look at all the stats, facts and figures surrounding the fixture.
Previous Meetings
Watford have won three of their last four league games against Blackburn Rovers, one more than in their previous eight such encounters beforehand.
Blackburn are looking to secure a league double over Watford for the first time since 1969/70 in the first season the teams faced.
The Hornets have won four of their last five home league matches against Blackburn since a 1-0 defeat in February 2001.
The Rovers have lost on each of their last two league visits to Watford; they’ve never lost on three consecutive trips to the Hornets in the Football League before.
Recent Form
Watford have lost only one of their last five Championship games, and haven’t lost in the league at Vicarage Road since Boxing Day.
Blackburn drew 0-0 with Wigan Athletic last time out; they haven’t kept consecutive clean sheets in the league since their opening two games of 2022/23 against QPR and Swansea.
No Watford player has scored more goals or recorded more goal involvements (13 – eight goals, five assists) than Ismaïla Sarr in the Championship this season, with Sarr involved in three of their last six league goals.
Having failed to draw 32 consecutive Football League games between April 2022 and January 2023, Blackburn have drawn each of their last two league fixtures, last drawing three in a row in February 2020.
Opposition Stat Attack
Ben Brereton Díaz leads the way in Blackburn ranks for goals this campaign with nine. The Chilean has also had the most shots on target (29) and shots off target (28) in the squad. The 23-year-old shares the most assists (4) with Tyrhys Dolan and Ryan Hedges.
In the middle of the park, Dominic Hyam has attempted the most passes (1362) and the most passes in his own half (1052). Tyler Morton has made the most passes in the opposition’s half (601) and has attempted the most crosses (70).
Defensively, Daniel Ayala has made the most clearances (101), while Lewis Travis has attempted the most tackles (66) and Hyam has completed the most blocks (20).
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The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated striker James Collins.
The 18-year-old joined the Young Hornets in January 2023 from Hertford Town. Impressing while on trial, Collins has played for the Hornets’ Under-18 and Under-21 sides, notching goals for both teams.
How would you describe your playing style?
I play as a hold-up striker. I like to keep hold of the ball and bring others into play. Normally most of my goals come from around the penalty spot and the six-yard box. I like converting cutbacks and crosses.Your footballing idol?
I’d probably say Harry Kane. I try to play like him; he is very good in his hold-up play and he scores plenty of goals. He isn’t the fastest striker so I can take a lot from him. I used to watch the likes of Wayne Rooney a lot when I was younger. His tenacity and his physicality, even when he wasn’t the biggest, was always impressive.Biggest influence?
I would definitely say my Dad. He has always been there for me, dropping me off and taking me wherever. He has been great.
Most talented teammate?
Michael Adu-Poku. I think he is very good on the ball, and quick and effective at what he does. He is a good all-round player. I played with him up-front recently and it was good. I feel like we work off each other quite well because his pace and my hold-up play blends well together.Favourite football memory?
I would probably say during my trial period I scored a hat-trick against QPR. That was one of the best moments considering I had never been at an academy before.Your aims for the future?
I would like to the play in the Premier League, that’s the dream for the long-term.-dynamic\_image.jpg)
Best advice you’ve received?
The one I would say – even if you haven’t had a good game, just keep working hard and eventually it will come to you.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I would like to get into coaching within football if I didn’t play. I would be a more chilled coach and let the players get on with it!How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace 80 – Not the fastest but not the slowest.
Shooting 89 – This is my main attribute.
Passing 80 – It’s a big part of my game but I need to keep working on it.
Dribbling 83 – Important for hold-up play.
Defending 65 – Probably the weakest part of my game.
Physicality 78 – I try and play a physical game.
OVERALL – 83Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Sirloin steak
Favourite song: Samantha by Dave
Favourite boots: Nike Mercurials in the new black and pink
Favourite TV show: Top Boy
Favourite kit: Dortmund’s 19/20 blackout kitSEO Image
Following last weekend’s 2-2 draw at Reading, Watford will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways on home soil against Blackburn Rovers in the Sky Bet Championship this Saturday (February 11, 3pm KO).
With Slaven Bilić’s fifth-placed charges looking to strengthen their promotion hopes by claiming all three points at Vicarage Road, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm GMT with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford FC are delighted to be supporting a Step2Skills job fair that will be held in the town later this month.
The inclusive job fair, which takes place on Thursday February 23 from 10am-3pm at West Herts College, is part of the Supported Employment services offered by Step2Skills and is aimed towards adults with learning and physical disabilities, sensory needs, neurodiversity and mental health conditions.
Employers attending the event include Watford FC, West Hertfordshire NHS Hospitals Trust, Sky Studios Elstree, Align, J Clean, Ringway, Computacenter, The Grove, Ashridge House, Warner Brothers Studios Leavesden, Hertfordshire County Council, Mission Employable and Herts Catering Ltd.
Sponsored by West Herts College and partnering with Jobcentre Plus, Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce, Watford Borough Council and Watford FC, the job fair will be packed with local employers and offers visitors the chance to meet employers, network with others and discuss local employment and training opportunities.
This event is free for Hertfordshire residents to attend and you can book your place on Eventbrite by clicking HERE. Booking is not essential but is advised as spaces are limited for each slot.
A British Sign Language Interpreter will be available all day for visitors. The final hour of the job fair, from 2-3pm, will be a ‘Quiet Hour’ with a reduced number of tickets available and background noise kept to a minimum, for those with sensory needs.
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Our Watford FC correspondent Andrew French was a colleague and close friend of the legendary Oli Phillips for 35 years.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are back to discuss Watford confirming their squad list for the remainder of the Championship season. They're also joined by Ryan Hildred from 'The Inside Brockhall Podcast' to preview our upcoming game with Blackburn Rovers.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Tom Cleverley thought he might be involved at Reading on Saturday, but followed advice and instead made his comeback in Tuesday’s Under-21 game.
Watford FC Academy goalkeeper Roraigh Browne has joined Chertsey Town on a short-term loan.
The 17-year-old, who has featured for Charlie Daniels’ Under-18 side this term, has put pen to paper on a deal with the Isthmian League South Central Division side until March 4.
Browne joined the Young Hornets in 2019 and is a first-year scholar. The South African shot-stopper deputised for Gabriel Ortelli during the Under-18s’ run to the fifth round of the FA Youth Cup as part of the successful goalkeeping unit.
Good luck, Roraigh!
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Striker Rey Manaj has had his contract cancelled, while on-loan defender Kortney Hause has not been included in the club’s new 24-man squad list.
Tom Cleverley is excited to get back on the pitch for the first-team, with the Watford captain hoping to make his anticipated return against Blackburn Rovers this weekend (Saturday February 11, 3pm KO).
After being sidelined since August’s 1-0 victory over Burnley, and subsequently undergoing achilles surgery, the 33-year-old has been fighting to return to full fitness as quickly as possible.
The midfielder believes his recovery took an important step forward yesterday afternoon (Tuesday February 7), as Cleverley played 45 minutes for the Under-21s during a 2-1 defeat to Crewe Alexandra in Kings Langley.
“I was excited to get out there,” he began. “It didn’t quite go to plan as far as the result was concerned, but it’s an important 45 minutes in an uncontrolled situation for me.
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“It’s a massive step forward to be available for the first-team. It did feel good. There is always that anxiety in the back of your mind, that no matter how much training and gym work you do, nothing can replicate being at your maximum for 45 minutes. That’s when it comes under the most strain.
“The biggest test is a single leg jump off the operated side, which fortunately I don’t have to do too much! You have to manage your way through it, and the other one has been as good as gold for four or five years. Nothing is in my way now to perform as well as I can. I will recover well now, and hopefully be good to go on Saturday.”
Cleverley could have potentially featured last time out against Reading, but following conversations with the medical staff and Head Coach Slaven Bilić, the collective decision was to err on the side of caution.
He continued: “I thought I could have an impact during the Reading game, but I think that was my heart making decisions over my head. The club, who have given me a fantastic rehab, said one more stepping stone – play for the Under-21s for 45 minutes and then you’ll be in a much better position to be involved.
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“It was not so long ago that [Bilić] got promoted, and we believe he is the guy to take us up. We are working every day to make sure that is the case. I feel like he has missed one or two of his older heads, which I think the boss really values.
“Fresh legs and fresh minds are important, because I think with 46 games disappointing results can sometimes get on top of you. I think you will see a bit of a different team in the coming weeks.”
Cleverley also travelled down to Vicarage Road on Monday to watch Watford’s Young Hornets in action against Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup, and was proud of the performance that Charlie Daniels’ charges put on.
“I was really proud of the team,” Cleverley explained. “To be drawn against Everton and Arsenal is never going to be easy, but I thought we probably scored too early in the game and gave them 85 minutes to get back into it.
“There were some great performances and some of the lads will have caught the boss’ eye, and that will add to the first-team experience some of them are already getting. There was not much between the two teams other than one or two stand-out players for Arsenal.
“Our lads can be proud not only to go 2-0 up, but 4-2 is certainly not embarrassing and they mixed it with some of the best in the country.”
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Watford FC can confirm the club’s squad list for the remainder of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season.
Each club may register up to 25 first-team players over the age of 21. All Under-21 players - other than those who are on loan - do not need to be named in the squad list to be eligible to participate in a league match. For this season, these are players who were born on or after January 1, 2001.
Defender Kortney Hause, who is on loan from Aston Villa, has not been included in the Hornets’ squad list.
Rey Manaj’s contract has been terminated by mutual consent. The Albanian forward scored one goal in seven appearances following his arrival in July 2022, though much of his time at Watford was affected by injury. We wish Rey all the best for the future.
Below are the 24 names registered in the Hornets’ squad list:
Registered players
1 Daniel Bachmann
2 Jeremy Ngakia
3 Mario Gaspar
4 Hamza Choudhury
6 Imrân Louza
7 Keinan Davis
8 Tom Cleverley
12 Ken Sema
14 Hassane Kamara
15 Craig Cathcart
21 Henrique Araújo
22 Ryan Porteous
23 Ismaïla Sarr
24 Tom Dele-Bashiru
25 Leandro Bacuna
26 Ben Hamer
27 Christian Kabasele
28 Samuel Kalu
31 Francisco Sierralta
34 Britt Assombalonga
35 Maduka Okoye
37 Matheus Martins
39 Edo Kayembe
44 Wesley HoedtUnder-21 players
10 João Pedro
11 Ismaël Koné
13 João Ferreira
18 Yáser Asprilla
42 James Morris
49 Michael Adu-Poku
50 Adrian Blake
53 Jack Grieves
54 Tobi Adeyemo
57 Ryan AndrewsNote: All other Under-21 players are also eligible to be included.
Relating to other professionals on Watford’s books, Jorge Segura’s contract has been terminated, while Jaime Alvarado has joined Independiente Medellín on a permanent deal and Ober Almanza has completed a loan move to Deportivo Pereira until December 31, 2023.
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Tom Cleverley played his first 45 minutes of football since August and Wesley Hoedt made his first appearance as the Under-21s were beaten.
Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust welcomed secondary school pupils to their community hub in North Watford – Meriden Community Centre – recently, for a unique community event as part of their delivery of the Premier League Inspires programme.
The day, full of impactful conversations and activities, saw students from Bushey Meads School, Falconers School and The Reach Free School attend ‘Safe Space: Tackling Tough Conversations’.
The students worked in rotating small groups, taking part in a range of workshops, talks with inspirational speakers, as well as physical activity sessions delivered by Beast Boxing Academy. This gave the young people the opportunity to have open and honest conversations about topics they might not regularly get the chance to discuss, with experts in the field from Dignify, Impressionable Minds and GamCare.
Topics included gambling and gaming addiction, sexualised languages and behaviour, drugs and county lines, as well as physical and mental wellbeing. Local Police Community Support Officers (PCSOs) and the Safer Neighbourhood Policing Team were also in attendance, offering their support.
Reflecting on the day, the Trust’s Community Project Manager (Young People), Lucy Tearle, said: “Events like these are so vital to empowering and educating the young people engaged in our programmes about local societal issues and how to make more positive choices. This day allowed those difficult topics to be discussed outside of a classroom environment in a safe place. I hope that we can continue running more of these opportunities and engaging even more young people.”
Russell Symons, of Impressionable Minds, said: “It is amazing to see the hard work the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust team put in. I have followed the Trust over several years and I am in awe of the dedication and creative thinkers behind the scenes making a positive difference to the lives of young people in the local community.
“I jumped at the opportunity to work with students from Bushey Meads School, Falconer School and The Reach Free School at part of the Watford FC Inspires Programme. The young people fully engaged with a really sensitive topic and were respectful throughout. They took part in discussions and interactive sessions to explore drugs & alcohol, mental health and county lines. It is really important that we equip young people with the skills and knowledge around these subjects to build better futures. Thank you for having me.”
Another partnering organisation, Dignify, also spoke of the success of the event, with Helen Roberts commenting: “Dignify is always delighted to partner with Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust, and January’s day in the Meriden was no exception.
“Tackling tough conversations is something many people avoid; with young people overlooking it. The tough conversations were made accessible, and the young people were accepted and welcomed. The range of conversations was diverse, and the schedule was fast paced which helped keep young people equipped and engaged. We were glad to be part of it and hope there will be more events like this for Dignify to partner with the Trust.”
This event was part of Premier League Inspires - a curriculum-based programme which aims to give young people aged 11-25 the skills, resources and opportunities to reach their full potential in life. The programme focuses on improving confidence, developing skills, gaining knowledge and creating a positive attitude. It can be adapted and tailored to the needs, abilities and outcomes of young people and is available for free to all secondary schools or educational establishments. This programme aspires to create a safe space to have open and honest conversations about things that may be affecting young people now and in the future.
If you want further information on any of our work with local young people, then please get in touch with Lucy by emailing lucy.tearle@watfordfc.com. You can find out the work of the Trust by clicking HERE or by following @WFCTrust on social media.
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Hornets favourites Tommy Mooney and Alec Chamberlain and a former editor of the Watford Observer who became a good friend are among those who have added to the tributes to Oliver Phillips following his death last week.
Under-18 skipper George Abbott was disappointed to exit the FA Youth Cup following a 4-2 defeat against Arsenal, but felt proud of his side’s efforts.
Following a dream start for the Young Hornets, that saw Michael Adu-Poku and Tobi Adeyemo earn a 2-0 lead before the quarter-of-an-hour mark, the Gunners fought back to overturn the deficit during the second half to secure their place in the quarter-finals.
Abbott is adamant that the players will benefit from this experience heading into future FA Youth Cup ties and their senior careers.
“It was tough out there,” he began. “It was a fast start. I think we were two goals up in about 12 minutes, and it’s just a shame to go out like that.
“I thought we had them coming in at half-time two goals up. You think you couldn’t be in a better place, and then we concede four goals in what was such a short space of time which is really disappointing.
“I think it was a massive learning curve for all the second-year scholars with their FA Youth Cup journey over, but I hope that the first-year scholars and the Under-16s can take something from this as they’ve still got a year or two more of Youth Cup football to play. It can be a massive learning curve for them.
“I think Charlie [Daniels, Under-18 Lead Coach] and Armand [Kavaja, Under-18 Assistant Coach] identified to us their strengths and I thought we had them. It’s just a shame with the two penalties going in because I think that didn’t help. I was just disappointed that we didn’t stay in the game. It’s just a shame.”
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Reflecting on an impressive FA Youth Cup journey, which included memorable victories over Lincoln City and Everton, Abbott is excited to see how this group develops in the future.
He continued: “I think if we had won this game, I genuinely think we could’ve gone to the end of the tournament, but that’s football. Everything happens for a reason and it’s just how you can react from this now and move forward.
“It’s disappointing to be knocked out of this competition, but every game leaves you in good stead for the next. You might lose an FA Youth Cup game, but the longevity of it is can you have a career in football? We haven’t won the FA Youth Cup now, but can you look forward? Can you play in the FA Cup? Those bigger competitions on a bigger stage as a senior player.
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“That’s the ambition for all of us in the dressing room. It’s about taking these experiences as a youth team player and taking them forward to become a senior player.”
The centre-half also wanted to pass on his own message of gratitude to the supporters in attendance at Vicarage Road.
He added: “I want to say a massive thanks to all the friends and families of the boys, and especially the fans. I think without them we wouldn’t have had this memory of tonight. I just want to say a massive thank you to everyone that came down to support us.”
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Plenty to learn and also lots of positives as Watford's FA Youth Cup run is ended by Arsenal.
Under-18 Lead Coach Charlie Daniels explained that his Young Hornets will learn a lot from their 4-2 defeat at the hands of Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup fifth round.
Michael Adu-Poku and Tobi Adeyemo gave Watford an early two-goal lead, but Arsenal responded with four second-half goals to secure their place in the competition’s last eight.
Daniels believes that the Under-18s can only improve from the loss and will become better players in the future as a result.
“As you can imagine they are very dejected and they are very down,” Daniels began. “They gave me all their effort, and they always do.
“It’s a learning curve for a lot of them, especially having to deal with the pressure that’s ultimately going to come in the future. After Arsenal scored the first goal I don’t think we dealt with the setback as well as we could have.
“We went for a game plan of how we can affect the game and how we can disrupt their backline. I thought we did it extremely well, scoring two goals in quick succession quite early on. It was a dream start and I think the lads were really buoyed by it.
“Unfortunately, they scored the first goal and then it went two goals, three goals and four. It went a bit too quickly in succession. They’re young players, so they will have to learn from this when they get older.
“It’s a learning curve for a lot of them and they can get over it. And next time it happens, it won’t have the same impact.”
Reflecting on the FA Youth Cup journey as a whole, despite exiting the tournament in the fifth round Daniels believes that his side should be proud of themselves.
“There’s so much to take from the tournament,” he said. “There’s so much to take from every single game because every single game was different. Against Lincoln City, we dominated the game and we went three goals up.
“Then coming to Everton at home, a category one opposition, was a big test and we stood up against the challenge well. We really affected the game. We got three great goals, and then coming into today we scored two great goals and then we were probably up against it the rest of the game.
“I’m really proud of them. To a man, they’ve given me everything. They’ve really progressed not only as individuals but as a team as well. They showed togetherness, they showed spirit, they showed fire and they showed quality as well. I’m really proud of them and they should be really proud of themselves.
“And not only have they done the club really proud, they’ve done their families really proud as well. Obviously tonight will hurt, not just tonight, but probably for a few days, but after that, looking back on their performances, they should be really proud of what they’ve done.”
With over 2,400 in attendance at Vicarage Road, Daniels thanked the supporters for coming out to back the Young Hornets.
He added: “It was a really special occasion to have nearly two-and-a-half-thousand people here tonight. I know the players are really happy and glad that the supporters came out and supported them tonight.
“You could really feel the energy, especially when we scored two early goals, they’re celebrating like mad. They’re really taking in what it means to be a footballer. The players are really appreciative of all the fans coming out and hopefully the fans will appreciate the quality of their play, the spirit and the fight that they showed.”
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Watford led 2-0 and were halfway to an FA Youth Cup upset but then bowed out as Arsenal hit them with four goals in 12 second-half minutes.
Watford led 2-0 at half-time but were blown away by a stunning burst of four goals in 12 minutes shortly after the interval
Watford FC Women are pleased to announce the arrival of promising young forward Faye Brough following a successful trial period with the Hornets.
The Japanese attacker has put pen to paper on permanent terms with the Golden Girls having trained with Damon Lathrope’s squad for several weeks, impressing with her quick feet and eye for goal.
Brough, 22, arrives from Japan, where she has thrived at university level, and she will wear the number 26 shirt for Watford.
Great to have you with us, Faye!
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It was another busy week of action for some of Watford’s loan stars who are currently out plying their trade at their temporary clubs.
Defender Mattie Pollock featured in his second game for Aberdeen after making the short-term switch to the Scottish club during the January transfer window.
The centre-half helped secure the Dons’ 3-1 win over Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership, ending a record of five straight defeats.
Three points helped Aberdeen maintain seventh place in the league, now only three points off Livingston in fourth.
Elsewhere, Vakoun Bayo made his first appearance back at RSC Charleroi during a 2-2 draw with KV Mechelen in the Belgian First Division.
The forward earned an assist for Adem Zorgane’s first strike, before the midfielder equalised for Charleroi.
Meanwhile, JJ McKiernan played 90 minutes in Eastleigh’s 1-0 victory over Woking in the National League.
With the Spitfires still in the hunt for a play-off position at the end of the campaign, the Northern Irishman played in the centre of midfield as they secured the win.
Joseph Hungbo played 70 minutes for Huddersfield Town as they look to drag themselves out of the bottom three in the Sky Bet Championship.
The 23-year-old, who joined the Terriers during the winter window until the end of the season, featured in a 1-1 draw with Queens Park Rangers from the right wing.
Also, goalkeeper Myles Roberts played in a 2-2 draw against second-placed Dartford for his temporary club Welling United in the National League South.
The shot-stopper made an impressive double save during the match to keep the game level at two-a-piece.
Finally, York City’s Shaq Forde came on as 71st-minute substitute during a 2-0 defeat against Southend United in the English fifth tier.
Eastleigh photo credit: Ricky Hart/Tom Mulholland
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Defender Wesley Hoedt explained that conversations with William Troost-Ekong helped convince him that Watford was the best place to write the next chapter of his impressive career, with the January arrival eager to aid the Hornets’ promotion push in the weeks ahead.
The 28-year-old signed a two-and-a-half-year deal at Vicarage Road on deadline day last week, joining for an undisclosed fee from Belgian giants Anderlecht having also turned out for the likes of Lazio and Southampton since making his professional debut for boyhood club AZ Alkmaar in 2013.
With a pool of friends and colleagues within the game, Hoedt turned to former youth international teammate Troost-Ekong before signing terms with the Golden Boys, and after putting pen to paper he expressed his delight at the manner in which all at Watford have helped him settle in so far.
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“I spoke to William Troost-Ekong, just after he’d signed for Salernitana on loan,” said Hoedt, who has won six full caps for the Netherlands. “We played together for the Dutch Under-21s, so I know him well.
“I asked him some details, and he was very positive about the move. That helped me make my decision, and I’m delighted to be here now. It’s a great club, and it’s a great opportunity for me.
“The atmosphere around the training ground has been amazing so far. Everyone has helped me in the best way possible and made me feel at home straight away – the other players, but also every staff member I’ve met.”
Having faced off against the Hornets on four occasions during his four years with the Saints on the English south coast, Hoedt has fond memories of the club and is looking forward to making more in the famous yellow jersey.
He said: “I remember coming up against some tough players against Watford, including Troy Deeney. He was very friendly, but very strong physically! He was an amazing player, and I know how important he still is to the fans here.
“I always remember Vicarage Road being a great stadium, with a great pitch. There’s always a brilliant atmosphere, and I’m really delighted to have the opportunity to call this my home ground now.”
Hoedt was an unused substitute during Watford’s 2-2 draw at Reading on Saturday (February 4), and he is itching to gain his first minutes with 16 games of the campaign remaining.
With such a wealth of experience Hoedt is confident he can provide a useful asset to Watford’s hopes of an instant Premier League return, and he offered an insight into what supporters can expect to see from him on the pitch.
He added: “I’m excited to get playing again. I had a tough couple of months at my last club, so it’ll be great to be back out on the grass, and in England again after my time at Southampton.
“Of course, I’ve played for a few different clubs, and for the Netherlands national team, so I think I have a lot to offer. I’d say one of my strong points is my physicality, and I like to think of myself as a leader as well.
“Collectively, there’s only one ambition, which is to win promotion. We will do everything in our power to achieve that, and hopefully we can deliver it for the fans.”
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Watford face a huge hurdle in the shape of Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup Fifth Round tonight but the reward should they win is a home quarter-final
Ryan Porteous scored on his Watford debut but ended up disappointed as a 2-0 lead turned into a 2-2 draw.
Watford boss Slaven Bilic said his side should have killed Reading off when they had the chance.
1- I can’t claim to have had a close relationship with Oli Phillips. We met a couple of times, he was kind enough to provide some appropriate words for the back of the book. Others have written meaningful and informed testimonies about the man himself. I often find my reaction to the passing of people […]
He glittered like few others, a people person, a mentor and wise sage – those are just some of the terms that have been used to describe Oliver Phillips by former colleagues and friends as heart-felt tributes continue to be paid to this newspaper’s legendary Watford FC correspondent.
On Season 2, Episode 35 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford throwing away a 2-0 lead at Reading and settling for a 2-2 draw.
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Episode publish date: February 4, 2023.
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Slaven Bilic said he had spoken to the officials after the 2-2 draw at Reading about a number of their decisions.
Referee Steve Martin's contentious decisions played a major factor as Watford saw two points, and a two-goal lead, slip away.
Domingos Quina has been recalled from his loan at Spanish side Elche and joined Rotherham United for the rest of the season.
Watford FC confirms that midfielder Domingos Quina has joined fellow Sky Bet Championship side Rotherham United on loan until the end of the 2022/23 season, after being recalled by the Hornets from Elche CF.
Portugal youth international Quina - who has featured 37 times for the Golden Boys since signing from West Ham United in 2018 - made 11 appearances for Elche in all competitions, having joined the La Liga side on a temporary deal last summer.
Last tasting match action in a 1-0 defeat to AD Ceuta in the Copa Del Rey on January 3, Quina will now look to aid Rotherham’s push up the second-tier standings, in his fifth loan move away from Vicarage Road.
Having finished the 2020/21 campaign at Elche’s Spanish rivals Granada, Quina spent time at Fulham and Barnsley in the Championship last season before heading to the Estadio Manuel Martínez Valero.
Good luck, Domingos!
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An exciting opportunity has become available in the Academy at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Kit Coordinator to be a part of our forward-thinking team responsible for managing and overseeing the daily running of the club’s Academy kit and laundry.
The role will be based at the club’s training ground in London Colney, and will include evenings, weekends and home and away games.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
Essential:
- Previous laundry or kit experience
- Knowledge of Microsoft Office
- Strong organisational and time management skills
- Excellent communication skills to engage with all staff and players
- Strong attention to detail, maintaining high professional standards
- Ability to remain calm under pressure and to prioritise workloads
- Ability to work weekends, evenings and unsociable hours
- Valid full UK driving licence due to the driving requirement of the role, between all sites and other stadiums
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post
Desirable:
- Previous experience in a professional football club or equivalent environment
- Experience of using a heat press machine
- Have an emergency first aid certificate
- Have an FA Safeguarding certificate and or equivalent
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Kit Coordinator
Salary / Rate of Pay: £21,000 - £23,000
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Sunday February 19
Interview Date: Wednesday March 1Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
Netherlands international defender Wesley Hoedt has joined Watford FC from Belgian giants Anderlecht for an undisclosed fee, the club is delighted to confirm.
The 28-year-old - who has signed a two-and-a-half-year deal with the Hornets, until the summer of 2025 - arrives at Vicarage Road boasting a wealth of experience in England and on the continent, having initially come through the academy ranks at boyhood club AZ Alkmaar in his home country.
With 30 appearances for the two-time Dutch champions to his name, Hoedt embarked on the first of two spells at Italian heavyweights Lazio in 2015, before leaving for Premier League side Southampton in a multi-million-pound deal in August 2017.
Hoedt’s first season on the English south coast saw him feature 32 times in all competitions, scoring once as the Saints preserved their top-flight status and reached the Emirates FA Cup semi-finals, ahead of a loan move to La Liga club Celta Vigo midway through the following campaign.
After spending the next two seasons away from St Mary’s, with Royal Antwerp in Belgium and back at Lazio respectively, Hoedt left Southampton permanently for Anderlecht in June 2021.
In a year-and-a-half with the Brussels-based side he scored four goals in 73 appearances, including featuring six times in the group-stage of this season’s UEFA Europa Conference League competition.
Internationally, Hoedt won the last of his six Oranje caps in a World Cup qualifier at home to Bulgaria in September 2017, having risen through the age-groups to make his senior debut against the same opponents earlier that year.
Welcome to Watford, Wesley!
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Dutch international defender Wesley Hoedt has completed his move from Anderlecht to Watford.
Tom Cleverley once had to say no to Roy Keane on transfer deadline day, and then had to eat humble pie
Watford’s latest acquisition Britt Assombalonga is excited to have returned to where his career started, after signing a six-month deal with the Hornets.
Having risen through the youth ranks at London Colney, Assombalonga left for pastures new in 2013 and went on to enjoy several successful seasons in English football, making more than 300 appearances and scoring over a century of goals.
With his footballing journey having come full circle, the prolific striker is eager to get to work.
“I’m very excited to be here,” Assombalonga began. “When I got told about the opportunity, I was over the moon and just wanted to get it over the line. Now I’m here, I’m looking to kick on.
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“The move has been going on for a while, and being in a different country - it was difficult. Going back and forth, taking 10 suitcases on the plane, but getting to Watford to get everything over the line – it was perfect.
“Everyone’s sent me loads of nice messages, it’s crazy. To have that much love from people is amazing. As a person you always want to take on challenges, this is a new challenge for me and I’m ready to take it on.”
Reminiscing on his first spell as a Hornet, Assombalonga played four times in yellow before departing for Peterborough, notably making his debut at Vicarage Road against Coventry City in March 2012.
He continued: “I was in the Trust’s Centre of Excellence and got the opportunity to come on trial at Watford, did well and signed.
“The first call I got was when Sean Dyche was the manager. He called me to say that he wanted me to go on loan to Wealdstone. I was still able to train with the first-team, I did well on loan and got called back.
“I went back on loan to Braintree, scored five in five and came back the next day to find out I was in the squad. The next thing I know I’m starting!
“[Against Coventry City] I had a chance to score a header, I still remember it to this day. I should have put it down, but things happen for a reason. My shirt is still hung up in the house from that day.
“I felt like I grew a lot at Peterborough under Darren Ferguson, and I felt it was the right choice to leave and show myself. I had a really good time there with so many good memories, but I was only there for nine or 10 months, then I was on the move again.”
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Back in the Sky Bet Championship, after stints at Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough, and a spell in Turkey, the DR Congo international is looking forward to reconnecting with the Watford faithful back at The Vic.
He added: “It’s going to be a moment to remember, and I’m sure all my family will want to be there so I need to get a load of tickets for them. I can’t wait.
“I’ve followed Watford since I left, seeing them grow in the Premier League. My message to the fans is I’m going to do my best, carry on pushing and hopefully be back in the Premier League.”
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To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
It didn’t end well but, in fairness, it had begun brightly.
On a concourse under the stand at Bournemouth, Marco Silva was extolling the virtues of Watford’s slick 2-0 win in August sunshine at Dean Court when the embryonic Premier League table appeared on a TV screen above him.
For what it was worth, after just two games, the Hornets were in the top four after Richarlison’s first goal for the club and Etienne Capoue’s late missile.
It had been a thoroughly accomplished day at the seaside, marred only by Harry Arter’s call for Nathaniel Chalobah to leave it as the Watford midfielder prepared to pull the trigger from 15 yards – at face value a poor advert for sportsmanship.
Glancing up at the screen from the huddle of hacks conducting their post- match debrief with the managers, the man from the Mirror pointed out to Silva he was the first Hornets boss since Graham Taylor to lead Watford into the Champions League places, and he was now only 36 games from Europe.
He returned serve with a good-natured response, and everyone of a yellow, black and red persuasion headed home with their bucket, spade and three points in high spirits.
The following week, Silva demonstrated his ability to organise a shutdown when the Golden Boys’ 10 men kept Brighton at bay for an hour after Miguel Britos had introduced himself to Anthony Knockaert with unacceptable levels of bravado and timekeeping.
Even when Watford were trounced 6-0 by Manchester City – not for the last time – they did not look a poor side. And three weeks running, Silva presided over last-gasp goals against Swansea, West Brom and Arsenal. His first eight games as Head Coach in this parish were hugely enjoyable.
Don’t forget, it was also Silva’s personal intervention which brought Richarlison to Vicarage Road for a bargain £11.3 million when the Brazilian winger was on the brink of signing for Ajax. Twelve months later, he would be sold for a tidy 300 per cent profit.
As we know now – and it was hardly a secret at the time – he was soon being pursued by another Premier League club. In the end, it was surprising that Silva lasted three weeks into 2018 before a parting of the ways.
Watford later received £4 million in compensation for him, but it was a strange episode where intrigue somehow held sway over football, which is a pity. As Fulham’s success this season and last has shown, Silva is a talented coach.
In his autobiography, former Hornets captain Troy Deeney acknowledged his virtues,admitting: “I don’t think Silva rated me too highly. I rated him, actually, but he didn’t rate me. He was a good coach and his staff knew their roles well, training was excellent and varied. I had nothing but good to say about his coaching.”
But, yes, it was a messy divorce. And the post-script, when Silva’s Everton lost 1-0 at The Vic in February 2019, was not exactly a convention of hearts and flowers, either.
From that brief glimpse of the Champions League places to the Rookery belting out an unfavourable comparison with his successor, ultimately Marco Silva and Watford was not a match made in heaven... although it was never dull.
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Following the announcement of Britt Assombalonga’s return to Watford, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the striker and his impressive career.
19 years, 3 months and 11 days – Assombalonga’s age when he made his professional debut for Watford during his first spell at the club, in a goalless draw against Coventry City back in March 2012.
4 – The number of games the forward played in his first spell with the Hornets. The DR Congo international rose through the ranks at the club, making four appearances in yellow during the 2011/12 Championship campaign.
27,158 – The total number of minutes Assombalonga has played in his career, with more than half of them coming in the second-tier.
400 – games in his career. The experienced forward has played for seven different clubs, across more than six competitions, with over 350 appearances coming up top.
18 – the number of managers Assombalonga has featured under. Making the most appearances under Tony Pulis, he scored the highest number of goals under Darren Ferguson during his time at Peterborough.
130 – total career goals. The lethal striker has an impressive pedigree in front of goal, notching more than 10 league goals in eight of the last 12 seasons.
2 – times Assombalonga has played against the Hornets since leaving. His first encounter with the Golden Boys came in the 2014/15 season for Nottingham Forest, with his most recent appearance coming during the 2020/21 campaign for Middlesbrough.
9 – appearances for DR Congo. Featuring in international friendlies and the Africa Cup of Nations, the striker scored his first goal for his country in 2019 against Zimbabwe.
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Watford were winless against Arsenal in the top-flight for nearly 30 years before a midweek game at the Emirates Stadium in 2017 marked a memorable victory.
A deadline-day clash meant the Hornets were busy in other areas that same day; Odion Ighalo had departed for Changchun Yatai that afternoon and M’Baye Niang was signed on loan from AC Milan the day before. Adlene Guedioura, hero of the Golden Boys’ last win over the Gunners, had also departed. Arsenal meanwhile were without Arsene Wenger on the touchline through suspension, but were firm favourites and second in the Premier League table.
Away supporters making the short trip to North London may have had little expectation of a win following a run of seven games without victory, but it wouldn’t take long for the Hornets to believe. A free-kick from range was laid off by Tom Cleverley for Younes Kaboul, who unleashed a rocket, deflecting off Aaron Ramsey and into the bottom corner.
Barely two minutes after the Frenchman put Watford ahead, Kaboul’s compatriot was crucial to a second goal. Etienne Capoue intercepted a long throw-in on the halfway line, coasting past his now-Villarreal teammate Francis Coquelin and driving towards the box. Capoue’s effort was saved by Petr Cech but set up Troy Deeney to tap home the rebound.
It was impressive enough to be two goals ahead after 12 minutes, but now a tougher task would be to maintain that lead. Walter Mazzarri’s side continued to threaten the Gunners’ goal, with Daryl Janmaat’s effort saved, Sebastian Prödl’s header tipped over and Miguel Britos’ attempt blocked by Olivier Giroud.
The second half provided a difficult test for Watford shot-stopper Heurelho Gomes as Arsenal began to grow into the game. The Brazilian saved substitute Theo Walcott’s effort five minutes after the break, and later made a fantastic reaction stop to deny Alex Iwobi. The Nigerian would later get his goal, halving the deficit before the hour mark.
The Hornets frustrated the hosts thanks to some professional defending and heroics from Gomes. Nacho Monreal attempted the spectacular and shot well wide, before Lucas Perez rattled the crossbar with his strike.
Despite Arsenal’s 20 shots, the new-look Watford defended valiantly in their 4-4-2 style and Niang looked a constant threat on the counter-attack.
Victory took Watford up to 13th in the table, in a season where the Hornets secured survival for a second successive campaign. They would register a win over the Gunners again that year, thanks to a last-gasp goal from Tom Cleverley at Vicarage Road during the first half of 2017/18.
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All the news, chat and updates from Deadline Day - spent inside Watford's training ground
Striker Vakoun Bayo has gone back to former club RSC Charleroi on loan for the remainder of the 2022/23 season.
Forward Vakoun Bayo has re-joined former club RSC Charleroi on loan for the remainder of the 2022/23 season, Watford FC can confirm.
The 26-year-old arrived at Vicarage Road from the Belgian top-flight side in July 2022, going on to make his debut for the Hornets in the 1-0 win over current Sky Bet Championship leaders Burnley a month later.
Since then Bayo has tallied up four goals in 25 appearances for the Golden Boys, with the Ivory Coast international hitting a dramatic winner against Middlesbrough on the 100th anniversary of the first match at The Vic, and also striking away to Rotherham United, Stoke City and Norwich City.
After being limited to nine league starts in yellow Bayo will now look to help Charleroi improve their current 12th-place standing in the Jupiler Pro League back in familiar territory, having scored 11 goals in 16 games during his first spell with the club.
Good luck, Vakoun!
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The Watford Women’s head coach has his sights firmly set on silverware after watching his side convincingly beat MK Dons 5-1 to move into the semi-finals of the FA Women’s National League Cup.
Watford defender Ryan Porteous is excited to get going in his new colours and meet the supporters following his move from Scottish Premiership side Hibernian.
Putting pen to paper on a four-and-a-half-year deal with the Hornets, the 23-year-old racked up more than 150 appearances in his native Scotland, and making the journey south of the border felt like the natural next step in his career.
A key factor in deciding on his new home, Vicarage Road, was the ambition and stature of the Golden Boys, with Porteous explaining he feels it’s the perfect place to showcase his talents.
“I’m delighted,” he began. “It took a while to get everything done, but I’m delighted to be here and I’m excited about the challenge.
“The size of the club, the ambition, a top manager and top players as well. Watford have been in the Premier League last year, so it’s a massive step up from the Scottish game and I’m ready to test myself. This is the perfect club and the perfect platform to do that.
“I spoke to a couple of people [before joining] who have played in the league, like John McGinn and a couple of others. They talked highly of the club and spoke highly of the league and the challenge that it will bring me. I feel that I’m at the age now where I’m ready to step up and test myself at this level.
“I’m looking forward to playing in front of the supporters and there will be a lot of big games – Luton [Town] especially. Ever since I got off the plane that’s all people have been saying, to make sure we win that game!
“Vicarage Road will definitely have a good atmosphere and feel about it, and it’s the big games I enjoy when it’s sold out. They are the games that have stood out to me, and I’m looking forward to having big games every week. It’s an exciting part of my life right now and I’m raring to get going.”
The centre-half has gained plenty of experience from his time in Scotland, including earning his debut cap for the Scottish national team in September 2022, and he is looking forward to applying his attributes to the competitive second-tier.
He continued: “I joined Hibs when I was around 11 or 12 years old, and I spent a large part of my life there. It was a club that I supported growing up, and it was always going to be a difficult decision to eventually leave.
“If I wanted to progress my career the way I wanted to, I needed to make the step. I’m very grateful for the years I had at the club and the countless hours that a lot of people put into me, but it’s a new challenge in my career and I’m excited about it.
“It was a dream come true [to play for Scotland], and one of the reasons I chose to make the next step was to be a regular for Scotland and to get in every squad. I want to be a starter for them, and I feel like the platform that Watford can provide is one that will showcase the ability and talent that I want to try and show everybody.
“I want to build from the back and show quality on the ball. I like the physical side of the game and getting stuck in, and hopefully the fans will appreciate that. Off the park, I like to see myself as a bit of a leader and a character in the group, and hopefully a role model to the younger players as well.
“Anybody that I have spoken to about the Championship has mentioned how competitive the league is, how physical it is, and all the experiences I have gained at Hibs at league, cup or European level should help me. For 23 years old I feel quite experienced - I have played a number of games.”
Focusing on his objectives for the rest of the campaign, Porteous is adamant in his aspirations to reach the top-flight and prove himself alongside other defenders at the club.
“I want to get as many games under my belt as possible, help the team and ultimately we want to get promoted to the Premier League,” he added.
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“[Craig Cathcart] has played at the top level throughout his career and he is definitely someone I will be looking to pick his brain and base a lot of things off his game because he is a top player, and clearly a top professional. I’m delighted to get to play with him and I look forward to learning from a lot of the boys in the team.
“I’m coming here to try and put my stamp on things, and I’m not coming here just to make up the numbers. I want to be here and I want to be playing.”
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Tickets for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Southern Premier Division fixtures against MK Dons (Sunday February 19, 2pm KO) and Portsmouth (Wednesday February 22, 7.45pm KO) at Grosvenor Vale are now on general sale to supporters.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
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Following the signing of Scotsman Ryan Porteous from Hibernian late last week, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the defender’s career so far.
18 years, 7 months and 6 days – The age that Porteous made his first league appearance for his boyhood club. This came during a 3-0 away win against Kilmarnock, with the youngster being subbed on in the 75th minute.
113 – The total number of appearances Porteous made for Hibernian in regular Scottish Premiership seasons. He also featured four times in top-six split games, and three times in relegation rounds. Having risen through the youth ranks at Hibs, Porteous made over 150 senior appearances in total.
17 – The number of goals Porteous has scored so far in his career. Three of them have come already this season against Rangers, Ross County and Motherwell.
20 – The number of games this season that Porteous played the full 90-minutes for Hibs. The defender had been virtually an ever-present this campaign, only missing one match due to suspension and being substituted with 10 minutes left to play in the other.
1 – Cap for the Scottish men’s national team. The promising centre-back recently started his first game for his country in September 2022, playing the full 90 minutes in a Nations League goalless draw against Ukraine. Scotland boss Steve Clarke described his performance as “outstanding”.
9 – The number of European games that Porteous has played in. This includes five Europa League qualifying matches and four Europa Conference League qualifiers.
15,588 – The number of minutes played throughout his career. The 23-year-old comes to The Vic with a lot of experience, having played in nine different competitions so far.
24 – The number of appearances Porteous made for his temporary club FC Edinburgh - then known as Edinburgh City - during the 2016/17 campaign. His one and only spell away from Hibernian came with Edinburgh on loan, where he enjoyed plenty of game time.
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Watford FC Women can confirm the departures of Morgan Rogers and Scarlett Williams, with both defenders having joined fellow FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division side Billericay Town.
Wales international Rogers signed for the Golden Girls on an initial dual-sign agreement last January from Tottenham Hotspur, making the deal permanent ahead of the 2022/23 season. The 20-year-old made seven appearances last term, but only featured once in the current campaign. Rogers has joined Essex-based Billericay on a permanent deal.
Williams missed a large portion of the season through injury having arrived on a dual-sign agreement from Spurs last summer. The Welsh youth international made one appearance in yellow before returning to the north-London side for injury rehabilitation, coming on for Kalani Peart in a 6-0 FAWNL Cup win over Norwich City.
Watford FC would like to thank both players for their professionalism, character and efforts at the club, and wish them all the best for the future.
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Watford FC Women Head Coach Damon Lathrope has his sights firmly set on winning the FA Women’s National League Cup following a convincing 5-1 victory over MK Dons in the quarter-finals of the competition.
A free-flowing attacking display saw Bianca Baptiste open the scoring before goals from Helen Ward, Ellie Head and Annie Rossiter wrapped up the tie, with Laura Mitchell’s goal only a consolation for the visitors at Grosvenor Vale.
With Wolverhampton Wanderers or Huddersfield Town visiting Ruislip in the final four, Lathrope believes his side can go all the way in the cup competition, and was delighted to be back on home soil after nearly two months away.
“We want to win it, we’re not shying away from that,” Lathrope began. “We want silverware this year, and we’ve made that very clear amongst the group.
“It’s really good to be back here, it’s been a long time since we played here and we want to make it a fortress, and we have this season. It was really good to get the win, we definitely deserved it, we’ve worked really hard over the last couple of weeks and we needed a game off the back of it.”
Kalani Peart made her full Hornets debut, slotting into the defensive spot vacated by Grace Garrad, who left the club earlier this month. Committed in defence and carrying the ball forward to create attacks, Lathrope was encouraged by the centre-back’s first start.
“I thought she was brilliant,” Lathrope smiled. “Having not played so much this season, I thought she settled into the game really well. She showed a tenacious side to her game and defending, which we needed today.
“They’re a good team and she’s given herself a great chance of keeping her spot now. It’s healthy competition that we’ve got in the squad, and we want that across the board.”
The Watford boss also reserved praise for Baptiste, who set the tone for an eventful afternoon with an excellent strike after seven minutes.
“That was a great start for us,” reflected Lathrope. “I felt like we’d maybe started a little bit slow, and that sort of kicked us into gear.
“It was a brilliant strike. I’m really pleased for Bianca, we know she’s got it in her. Sometimes you just catch them sweetly and they go in the top corner like that did!
“Now we’re in the semi-final, we’ve got to win two more games. We know it will be a very tough test against either side, they’re both at the top end of their league. It’ll be something a bit different playing against a northern side, but we’ll do our homework on them, we’ll prepare the team and look to go and win the game.”
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It’s been another busy week for Watford’s players at temporary clubs, who continue to progress in their development on loan in England and abroad.
JJ McKiernan enjoyed a stellar restart to the second-half of his loan spell at Eastleigh, having re-joined the Spitfires until the end of the season recently following a productive opening period to their National League campaign.
The 21-year-old came off the bench to make an instant impact for his side during a 3-1 victory over play-off rivals Southend United on Saturday (January 28).
With Eastleigh two goals in front, the Shrimpers fired one back and despite some potential nerves as the game concluded, McKiernan exhibited impressive composure, striking well from the edge of the box and beating the Southend goalkeeper.
It takes the Northern Irishman to three goals for the season in the fifth tier, ahead of a clash against Barnet tomorrow (Tuesday January 31, 7.45pm KO).
Elsewhere, Joseph Hungbo made his debut for Huddersfield Town, coming off the bench during a 2-0 defeat to Coventry City in the Sky Bet Championship.
The winger recently confirmed a loan move to the Terriers, where he will remain until the conclusion of the 2022/23 season.
Meanwhile, Shaq Forde played 90 minutes for York City in a 2-1 defeat at the hands of Maidenhead United in the National League.
Also, William Troost-Ekong made his first start for Salernitana in the Italian Serie A during a 2-1 victory against Lecce on Friday (January 27).
The centre-half, who recently joined on a loan deal until the end of the campaign, was part of Salernitana’s first win since October as they look to maintain their top-flight status.
Eastleigh photo credits: Ricky Hart/Tom Mulholland
Watch Now
The Watford Observer will be blogging live on January Transfer Window Deadline Day from inside the Watford FC Training Ground!
Refunds will be given to individual match buyers and subscribers after Watford’s Hive Live service suffered problems on Saturday.
Young goalkeeper Vincent Angelini has completed a permanent transfer to Brentford B, Watford FC confirms.
The 19-year-old joined the Hornets in July 2021 following his departure from Scottish giants Celtic, and went on to feature on the bench three times for the first-team during the 2021/22 Premier League campaign, against Brentford, West Ham United and Tottenham Hotspur.
A regular part of the senior set-up at the London Colney training ground, Angelini also assumed a leadership role for the Under-21s during his time with the club, captaining Omer Riza’s side on a handful of occasions this season.
We wish Vincent all the best for the future.
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Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann admitted that he was fed up trying to explain another grim away day.
Watford FC is pleased to confirm the signing of striker Britt Assombalonga on an initial six-month contract, with the Hornets holding an option to extend for a further year.
Returning to his first club after 10 prolific years in the Sky Bet Championship, League One and Turkish Super League, Assombalonga, 30, has made over 300 appearances in the English game, turning out for Peterborough United, Nottingham Forest and Middlesbrough since leaving the Golden Boys in 2013.
The DR Congo international ascended the youth ranks at Vicarage Road and signed as a scholar having impressed Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust coaches at Hertswood School, becoming a professional in 2010 after a fruitful spell in the Under-18s and reserves.
Assombalonga thrived on loan at non-league sides Wealdstone and Braintree Town and earned a recall to the first-team, making his debut against Coventry City in March 2012.
A loan to Southend United saw Assombalonga prosper further and move permanently to Peterborough, where he finished as the second-highest goalscorer in League One in 2013/14, with 23 goals.
Enjoying three successful seasons at Championship level with Forest, Assombalonga scored 30 in 69 games and became top goalscorer in his final campaign at the City Ground, helping the Reds to secure survival on the final day of 2016/17.
He joined Middlesbrough in the summer of 2017, spending four years at the Riverside Stadium and netting double figures in three of his four campaigns on Teesside, amassing 47 goals for Boro before leaving for newly-promoted Adana Demirspor in 2021, netting 18 goals in 54 games for the Turkish outfit.
Making nine international appearances for DR Congo since his 2018 debut, Assombalonga joins up with compatriot Edo Kayembe in Hertfordshire, and he will wear the number 34 shirt - the first number he was assigned as a Hornet back at the start of his professional career.
Welcome back, Britt!
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Watford FC confirms that defender Mattie Pollock has joined Scottish Premiership side Aberdeen on a loan deal until the end of the 2022/23 season.
Pollock, 21, signed for Watford from Grimsby Town in May 2021, spending last season on loan at League One outfit Cheltenham Town, where he scored three goals in 39 games in all competitions and won the club’s Young Player of the Season award.
After returning to the Hornets in the summer he made five Watford appearances in the current campaign, including three starts.
Good luck, Mattie!
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Watford have signed Britt Assombalonga on a six-month contract with the option to extend it.
Watford boss Slaven Bilic was at a loss to explain how Watfird managed to concede the opening goal yesterday.
On Season 2, Episode 34 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford getting dominated by Middlesbrough 2-0 at the Riverside Stadium, in their first Championship loss of 2023. The basics and fundamentals go missing for the Hornets. And: Slaven Bilic as angry as he's been as Watford head coach. Also: Evaluating the transfer window business Watford have done so far, as the deadline approaches.
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Episode publish date: January 28, 2023.
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić expressed his frustration following Watford’s 2-0 defeat at Middlesbrough, explaining that basic errors were largely to blame for a result that brought his team’s three-game unbeaten league run to an end.
First-half goals from Chuba Akpom and Marcus Forss - following an open start to the game – ultimately earned the Teessiders the spoils at the Riverside Stadium, with Matheus Martins going close for the Hornets when the clash was still goalless.
A series of substitutions at the start and during the second 45 helped ignite a handful of chances for the visitors – with debutant Henrique Araújo and fellow attacker Tobi Adeyemo both threatening – but Boro ultimately held on for all three points.
“It wasn’t good enough, and I feel angry with our performance,” said Bilić, 54. “I couldn’t wait for this game to start. We had everything - we’d picked up seven points from our last three games, so we had confidence, we had pace up front and on the flanks, we had the ability to defend and attack – and when we did things correctly we worked our way into good situations.
“But when you do the basic things wrong it’s hard to get anything out of the game. We were sloppy and made too many unforced errors. It was nothing to do with the quality we had within the team, it was about us not being focused enough and it’s simply not good enough.”
Former Croatia boss Bilić praised Middlesbrough for their performance, and their overall improvement since the appointment of Michael Carrick as Head Coach in October, but insisted he and his team had to take sole responsibility for the outcome of the clash at the Riverside.
He continued: “We knew before we travelled that they are a good team, and that they’ve improved a lot since Michael came in. We set up with a three at the back because of how they play with two 10s, and we saw that we could pin them back and stretch them when we had the ball.
“But we didn’t have the finishing touch when we got into good positions, and then we gifted them so many situations. That means it’s only a matter of time, and then we let in the two goals, so it’s down to us.”
Victory for Boro lifted them above Watford, who now sit fourth in the Sky Bet Championship table after 29 games, and 13 points behind Sheffield United in the second automatic promotion place, with the Blades having played one match fewer.
Bilić admitted that rather than holding hope of catching the top two, for now he is focused on picking up as many points as possible to avoid being caught in the play-off positions.
He added: “We have to be realistic, and based on this performance we have to get back to winning ways and fight the teams around us.
“I’m not talking about my team and my players in general – this is just one 90 minutes – so we will go again at Reading next week and we will try to cut out all the sloppy things we did here today.”
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Watford goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann was disappointed with the lacklustre performance that saw his side fall to a 2-0 defeat to Middlesbrough at the Riverside Stadium.
The Austrian shot-stopper, who made a few crucial stops to keep the Hornets within range of catching Boro, was frustrated with the gap in quality between the two teams throughout the 90 minutes.
“It was nowhere near good enough,” Bachmann began. “It’s simple to say that they were better on the day, but we made them look good. We played some nice football when it was 2-0, but they were so much better than us today in every single aspect, whether it was five-yard passes, whether it was running or tackling.
“It felt like every time they had the ball they had a chance of scoring a goal, which is just nowhere near good enough. We only had one or two chances to score. It’s just not good enough, and it happens too often unfortunately.”
Bachmann pointed to Boro’s second goal just before the interval as a key point in the match, halting any Watford momentum.
He continued: “It obviously kills you if you’re 2-0 down going into half-time. I think we couldn’t have made it any easier for them with the goals they scored. Fair play to them because they played some nice football, but they went through us like a knife through butter every time they had the ball.
“It’s not just the goals, it's when we have the ball as well. We need to take more responsibility and play with a bit of swagger and arrogance, because that’s what you need to succeed. You can’t go out there and expect to make mistakes and be afraid.
“We’ve got to go out there with our heads up, perform and enjoy playing football. We are playing football - we should enjoy it - and for most parts of today, and not just today, it happens too often. It looks like we are forced to be out there on the pitch, and that needs to change quickly. We know we’ve got the quality, so we need to start showing it.”
Focusing on the future and praising the travelling Watford faithful for their unconditional backing, Bachmann is hoping he and his teammates can put the record straight when they face Reading next weekend (Saturday February 4, 3pm KO).
He added: “We are a good team and a good group. We’ve got a solid team of leaders and we’ve got to make sure we cancel these performances out or minimise them. Performances like this are going to happen, but we need to make sure we minimise them in the last 17 games and do the best that we can.
“We are travelling back down south now with recovery tomorrow. We need to make sure everyone is alright and then back to training at the start of next week. We need to bounce back with one point in our last two games, and we need to make sure we win next Saturday and win the week after and the week after.
“We’ve got to go home now and probably won’t sleep. And I speak for the fans too who probably won’t sleep well, and with a long journey back. It’s incredibly difficult to get here so to see the numbers they’ve brought again, and we’ve disappointed them once again, on a long journey. It just hurts on so many levels.
“As I said, next week we’ve got 17 games left and we have to try and win as many as possible and chase the top two. We are not going to give up until it’s mathematically impossible, and we need to make sure we finish as high as we can in the league and get back to the Premier League.”
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Watford striker Henrique Araújo was pleased to make his first appearance for the Hornets but was disappointed to come away from the match against Middlesbrough empty-handed, following a 2-0 defeat at the Riverside Stadium.
The latest debutant to don the yellow shirt looked bright after being substituted into proceedings during the half-time interval; breaking past the last line of Boro defenders and calling opposition goalkeeper Zack Steffen into action on multiple occasions.
Adapting to the English game after his loan move from Benfica, the 21-year-old is hopeful of better results to come.
“It was good to be on the pitch with my teammates,” Araújo began. “It wasn’t the result that we wanted.
“We can do better; we want to do better. Today Middlesbrough were better than us and we need to keep going. Next week we have a tough game too [against Reading] and we need to be ready.
“English football is a quick game. There are a lot of turnovers in possession and it’s quick. It’s a little bit different to Portuguese football, but I felt there is more space to play and to make plays. Today we weren’t good enough, so it was a tough game.”
Araújo came close to reducing the deficit after the break when Matheus Martins picked out the Portuguese striker. Despite a decent stop from the Boro goalkeeper, he is hoping to build upon those chances.
He continued: “I saw Matheus [Martins] with the ball and I made the run. He played the ball well and I tried to score, but it was a good effort from their goalkeeper. We kept trying but the ball didn’t go in.
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“We wanted to win this match and we know Middlesbrough are competing with us for promotion to the Premier League. I think we have the capacity to do better and I think we are going to do better.”
Reflecting on his time at the club since joining at the start of the week, Araújo is looking forward to continuing his progression at Vicarage Road.
He added: “It has been a good experience and, of course, England is a little bit different to Portugal, but I’m enjoying playing with my teammates.
“I can’t wait to go again and try to win. That’s our goal and objective. Today was not the day, but we will keep pushing.”
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Head coach Slaven Bilic said his players didn’t even get the basics right in their 2-0 defeat at Middlesbrough.
The phrase ‘a critical friend’ is one of many I’ve heard used when describing how a local newspaper should report upon its football team, and it’s the one I personally think is the most apt.
Head coach Slaven Bilic may have given Watford fans a glimpse into the short-term attacking future of the team.
Watford FC is pleased to confirm the arrival of defender Ryan Porteous from Scottish Premiership side Hibernian for an undisclosed fee, on a four-and-a-half-year deal.
A product of the youth set-up at Easter Road, highly sought-after Porteous is signing following a decade with Hibs, with the Dalkeith native having previously been snapped up by Aberdeen as a schoolboy.
The now 23-year-old swiftly rose through the academy ranks in the Scottish capital and, in the wake of a formative campaign on loan at Edinburgh City in the fourth tier, went on to make his senior debut in green against Montrose in the League Cup in July 2017.
Since then, Porteous has featured more than 150 times for four-time Scottish champions Hibs, scoring 13 goals, and he played a key role in the team that finished third in the top-flight in the 2020/21 season.
Strong performances at a domestic level saw Porteous earn his senior international bow for Scotland against Ukraine in September 2022, after previously representing his country through the age groups.
Welcome to Watford, Ryan!
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After eight weeks away the Golden Girls make a long-awaited return to Grosvenor Vale this Sunday, looking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat away to Crystal Palace in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup last time out.
This weekend (January 29, 2pm KO) attentions have turned to the FA Women’s National League Cup, with the Hornets welcoming MK Dons in a quarter-final tie for the right to play the winner of Huddersfield Town v Wolverhampton Wanderers in the last four.
Originally scheduled for Sunday January 22, the fixture was postponed due to a frozen pitch at Grosvenor Vale on the morning of the game, and was immediately rearranged for the following weekend.
With Damon Lathrope’s charges yet to face the side from Buckinghamshire this season, they’ll be hoping to get off to their traditional fast start on home turf, where they’ve scored nine goals within the first 20 minutes of games so far in 2022/23.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting our new home for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please note – parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas - we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Individual tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £5
- Concession (U16, 65+, Disability) - £3
- Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
On the day sales for Adults & Concessions will see the prices increase by £2, so we highly recommend booking in advance if possible.
The £1 price will remain unchanged on matchday, with you just having to show proof of your season card to gain entry.
Tickets purchased for the originally-scheduled fixture remain valid.
The Match
The Golden Girls head into Sunday’s quarter-final looking to return to winning ways, having tasted cup defeat in their only game of 2023 so far. Head Coach Lathrope was pleased with the attitude of his players during the defeat to Crystal Palace where, despite the scoreline, his team pushed to find a way back into the game until the final whistle.
The last time that Watford and MK Dons faced off was two years ago, when the Hornets won through in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup thanks to an 18-minute perfect hat-trick from Rosie Kmita.
MK Dons come into the game off the back of a convincing 3-0 victory at home to Reading in a County Cup match, and having beaten Exeter City in the previous round of the FA Women’s National League Cup.
Like many teams their season has been up and down so far, with some important wins across their league and cup outings - the pinnacle being a 17-0 victory when they welcomed Penn & Tylers Green for a County Cup fixture in October.
This was followed by a 5-1 defeat away at Ipswich Town in the league, but that result brought about a strong run of form for the Dons that has seen them earn six wins in their last eight.
During this current run of form their only league defeat came at the hands of league leaders Oxford United, who required an 84th-minute winner.
Having played just three games since the start of December, the Golden Girls come into the game with mixed fortunes - a convincing 6-0 win against Crawley Wasps being the standout performance during that time. They were pushed all the way in the last round of this competition, taking 120 minutes to eventually see off Hashtag United 5-3, and they most recently fell short against Championship outfit Crystal Palace, falling to a 5-1 defeat in South London.
Both teams come into the game wanting to get their hands on silverware, so expect an entertaining game that could go all the way!
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Match Info
- Middlesbrough v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Riverside Stadium
- Saturday January 28, 3pm KO
- Blue away kit
Officials
- Referee: Darren Bond
- Assistant Referees: Philip Dermott and Mark Pottage
- Fourth Official: Martin Woods
Opposition
Boro host the Hornets this weekend at the Riverside Stadium, sitting sixth in the Sky Bet Championship standings and two points adrift of Slaven Bilić’s men.
Head Coach Michael Carrick spearheaded a run of eight wins in his first 12 games in charge following his October appointment, but Boro were served a 2-0 defeat at local rivals Sunderland last time out and will be eager to get their promotion charge back on track here.
Boro marksman Chuba Akpom is the top scorer in the Championship as it stands, with 13 goals in 2022/23.
Stats Buzz
- The Golden Boys have lost just one of their last six away games in the Championship, having won just one of their previous 12 away league games across the top-flight and second tier.
- Boro have won each of their last three league games at the Riverside Stadium, as many as in their first 10 of the 2022/23 campaign.
- Fifty-five per cent of Watford’s goals in the Championship this season have come after half-time, including each of their last seven in the competition since João Pedro’s 15th-minute penalty against Reading in November.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Middlesbrough In Numbers.
Team News
Head Coach Slaven Bilić indicated in his pre-match press conference that Keinan Davis is expected to be involved against Middlesbrough, with the forward having been absent since the 1-0 win at Norwich City at the start of January.
Recent arrival Henrique Araújo could make his Hornets debut in the North-East, following his loan move from Benfica.
For full Watford team news, click HERE.
Middlesbrough will be without suspended centre-back Dael Fry, while fellow defenders Matt Clarke and Anfernee Dijksteel are sidelined by injuries.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“They’re a very good team. Since [Michael] Carrick has come in they’ve shown how good they are and the quality they possess, and we go there now with them just two points behind us in the table.
“The last game was a derby game, and they got a red card so I think it was probably just a one-off. They’ll be looking to get back on track, and with Carrick in charge - and all the experience and know-how he’s got - it’s going to be hard.
“But I think we’re in a good moment ourselves. We’ve shown over the last few weeks that without loads of players, and our full quality, that we can play good games and get points, and I’m hopeful that will be the case again this weekend.”
Michael Carrick, Middlesbrough Head Coach:
“It’s going to be a tough game, and it’s a challenge for us. They’ve got real strengths in certain areas and they’re a good team.
“The position of the teams in the league is irrelevant really, in terms of how we prepare - it’s just another game for us. The boys have been good this week in training, and we’re in a good frame of mind.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 18
Drawn: 9
Lost: 14Last Six:
August 2022: Watford 2-1 Middlesbrough (Championship)
April 2021: Middlesbrough 1-1 Watford (Championship)
September 2020: Watford 1-0 Middlesbrough (Championship)
January 2017: Watford 0-0 Middlesbrough (Premier League)
October 2016: Middlesbrough 0-1 Watford (Premier League)
April 2015: Watford 2-0 Middlesbrough (Championship)Golden Flashback
The last clash between the two teams will live long in the memory of anyone in attendance last August, with Vakoun Bayo’s last-gasp strike sealing a dramatic 2-1 victory for Watford on the 100-year anniversary of the first match at Vicarage Road.
Rodrigo Muniz put the home festivities on ice when he headed Boro in front with less than five minutes on the clock, but Ismaïla Sarr coolly grabbed his second of the season to make it 1-1 before Bayo’s winner.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Middlesbrough v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Watford have confirmed the signing of Scottish international defender Ryan Porteous from Hibernian.
The end of the line for the extension of the Met, a confrontation between Hornets players and fans, the demise of a well-known high street chain and the end of an era at Vicarage Road were among the stories making our headlines five and ten years ago this week.
Watford boss Slaven Bilić is under no illusions about the challenges associated with Saturday’s trip to promotion rivals Middlesbrough (January 28, 3pm KO), but with ever-increasing options and three strong-willed league displays so far in 2023, he is confident the team can stretch their unbeaten run to four on Teesside.
Victory on the road at Norwich at the turn of the New Year preceded a 2-0 triumph over Blackpool and a 1-1 draw against Rotherham back at home, and the Hornets could complete January without defeat in the Sky Bet Championship with a positive result at the Riverside Stadium.
Boro’s fortunes have turned since Watford’s last-gasp 2-1 victory in the reverse fixture at the end of August - on the 100th anniversary of the club’s move to Vicarage Road - with the arrival of Head Coach Michael Carrick kickstarting an impressive run that has lifted them into the play-off places.
Indeed, eight wins in Carrick’s first 12 games in charge preceded a 2-0 defeat away at North-East rivals Sunderland last time out, and Bilić is expecting a tough game against a side looking to bounce back to winning ways at the first time of asking.
“They’re a very good team,” said Bilić, 54. “Since Carrick has come in they’ve shown how good they are and the quality they possess, and we go there now with them just two points behind us in the table.
“The last game was a derby game, and they got a red card so I think it was probably just a one-off. They’ll be looking to get back on track, and with Carrick in charge - and all the experience and know-how he’s got - it’s going to be hard.
“But I think we’re in a good moment ourselves. We’ve shown over the last few weeks that without loads of players, and our full quality, that we can play good games and get points, and I’m hopeful that will be the case again this weekend.”
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As the first-team’s absentee list continues to shrink slowly - with Keinan Davis set to be involved for the first time since limping off at Carrow Road - the addition of new players to the squad in the January transfer window has also provided more options to Bilić.
Latest arrival Henrique Araújo is eligible for selection against Middlesbrough following his loan move from Benfica, and Bilić has so-far been impressed by what he’s seen of the Portuguese 21-year-old at the London Colney training ground.
Bilić said: “He’s looked very sharp so far, and he’s put a smile on my face. He’s only had a handful of sessions, and we know it’s early days, but he’s very mature for his age and I’ve been impressed.
“The challenge for him is being able to jump into the Championship and kick on straight away. He seems to have slotted in well, and there are a lot of elements that make me hopeful he will do well.”
While Araújo joined Ismaël Koné, João Ferreira and Matheus Martins by coming into the fold this month, William Troost-Ekong left for Salernitana this week, and Bilić hailed the Nigerian defender for his service to the Hornets during his time in charge.
He added: “Ekong is a good leader, he was really important in the dressing room and he was at the club for a long time. At the end he didn’t play every game, but he was involved most of the time, and I wish him all the best.
“We still have a few days before the end of the transfer window, and we’ll see if some more business will happen.”
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Slaven Bilic confirmed that Watford expect to complete the signing of Scottish defender Ryan Porteous in the next few days.
Head Coach Slaven Bilić is buoyed by increased forward options within his squad ahead of Saturday’s trip to Middlesbrough (January 28), with Keinan Davis and recent arrival Henrique Araújo both expected to be involved.
Davis - who has scored four goals for the Hornets since his summer move from Aston Villa - hasn’t featured since the away victory at Norwich City at the turn of 2023, due to a hamstring injury and then illness.
The boost of his return is complemented by the addition of Araújo to the attacking ranks, with the Portuguese youngster having jumped straight into training with his new teammates ahead of a potential debut at the Riverside Stadium.
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Bilić said: “The situation with the injuries and other absences is improving, and after already welcoming Hassane [Kamara], Hamza [Choudhury] and Leandro [Bacuna] back in the last couple of weeks, I think the main news now is that there is a good chance for Davis to be part of the game in Middlesbrough.
“As well, Araújo is available. He’s done a few sessions with us since the signing was confirmed, and he looks sharp. He’s very mature for his age, and he’s also going to be in the squad that travels.”
After being hampered with 15 senior absences ahead of the Emirates FA Cup clash at Reading earlier this month, Bilić is relieved that number is gradually decreasing in conjunction with the addition of some new players.
While Araújo, Ismaël Koné, João Ferreira and Matheus Martins have come in since the start of January - and William Troost-Ekong and Joseph Hungbo have left on loan - a handful of first-teamers are expected to be available to Bilić in the near future.
The former Croatia boss added: “Things are getting better - we’ve brought in some new players in this window, and we’re hopeful that some of our very important players will be available to us again in the next couple of weeks or so.
“João [Pedro], Tom [Cleverley], Imrân [Louza], Ken [Sema] and Kaba [Christian Kabasele] - they’re all progressing well and have been doing work on the grass. The challenge is that we’re not in a position where we can bring them back gradually, with weeks of training or in friendly games. We will have to be clever with how we manage them.
“Similarly with the new guys, we’re hoping they hit top form as soon as possible, because we have a lot of important games straight away. It’s good news though, and it’s exciting to know our options are increasing.”
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Holocaust Memorial Day takes place every year, on January 27. It is supported and promoted by the Holocaust Educational Trust, a UK Government funded charity. Their motto, ‘learning from genocide - for a better future’, underpins the reasons why Holocaust Memorial Day was established in the UK in 2001, namely to ‘encourage remembrance in a world scarred by genocide’.
We invited the Jewish Hornets supporters’ group, founded in 2021, to share their thoughts on this important day of reflection and remembrance.
On January 27, our nation remembers the six million Jews murdered during the Holocaust, alongside millions of other people killed under Nazi persecution as well as victims from the more recent genocides in Cambodia, Rwanda, Bosnia and Darfur.
Why this date? It was on this date that the liberation of Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi death camp, took place.
Jews were murdered simply because they were Jewish. In the same way that a virus does not discriminate, antisemitism does not either. Jewish sportsmen, pivotal in the development of European football, were sent to concentration camps because they were Jewish.
To name just a few, we must remember Leon Sperling (who earned 16 caps for Poland), Józef Braun (a Hungarian international) and Julius Hirsch who won various domestic German titles and played for his national team. Hirsch was a former international footballer, sent to a concentration camp, just because of his race. That would surely be unimaginable today. But it happened.
There are so many names. There were so many victims.
More than six million human lives were tragically taken with the aim of destroying an entire race of people. How could this happen? What can we do to prevent history from repeating itself?
On January 16 2023, Holocaust survivor Eve Kugler attended Vicarage Road Stadium. She was invited by Watford Football Club to speak to a packed audience inside the Players’ Lounge.
Eve, now 92 years of age, delivered her testimony to an audience which included more than 15 Watford Youth Academy players. Eve was just a seven-year-old child when Nazi antisemitism escalated from targeted violence to the mass extermination of Jews across Europe.
Eve was born in Germany. She was only seven years old in 1938 when Kristallnacht (the night of the broken glass) took place. Eve’s parents were sent to concentration camps. Eve and her younger sister went into hiding. As young children, they travelled through France and into Spain and Portugal where she managed to escape by ship to America. Remarkably, her parents survived and in 1946, her entire family unit was reunited.
Throughout the evening, the Academy players remained engaged, listening to every word delivered by Eve. After her speech, she immediately asked the audience to ask her questions. A few adults asked questions and Eve answered. Eve then turned towards the group of Academy players and invited them to ask her questions about her life during the Holocaust. A short question and answer session took place between a 92-year-old Holocaust survivor and several 15-year-old Academy players who were keen to listen and eager to learn.
Eve’s message to the audience was clear. “I want to share the stories to memorialise the memory,” she said. Eve wanted to share her stories about those who were murdered, and those who survived.
Eve told us that “education in remembering the past and educating the young is so important”, and that is why she was adamant that she wanted to engage with the youth players as much as she was able to. And she certainly did.
“Eve’s story was compelling and has made me think of surviving the Holocaust in a different context beyond the concentration and death camps,” said Paul Palmer, a member of staff from Watford FC’s Community, Sports and Education Trust, who attended the event with other club and Trust staff members.
“I’ve not thought of those Jews who escaped German persecution, by whatever means, as being Holocaust survivors, but of course, they are. My view has changed and I have a greater understanding as a result of the evening.”
Football, like wider society, is not immune from the virus of antisemitism, or indeed any other form of discrimination. For several years, Watford Football Club has been a leading influence in combatting discrimination using educational tools.
They might not seek publicity or shout about the work they do, and while they are not amongst the biggest of professional football clubs in this country, they shine more light upon the darkness of discrimination than most other clubs do.
The club is committed. Not just on Holocaust Memorial Day, but throughout the year. Watford Football Club’s very own We Campaign demonstrates its ongoing commitment to campaign and battle against all forms of racial, homophobic or discriminatory abuse, chanting or behaviour.
A lot of the work that the club does is rarely seen by the general public, but we can be assured that the Graham Taylor and Sir Elton John ethos continues. Watford FC, the Original Family Club, embraces and supports so many minority groups throughout the year, including the support and partnership with the Jewish Hornets supporters’ group by hosting a Vicarage Road Chanukah party.
It was a privilege to listen to Eve’s testimony. We’re sure that our Academy players will never forget the time when they met, listened to, and learned lessons from a Holocaust survivor. This is not the first time Watford have done this but sadly as time goes by we are losing our survivors, and so it is with great credit that the club ensures that these rare educational opportunities take place.
The club acknowledges that there is no finishing line with the work that they do, but it is very clear that they are committed to the ongoing journey of inclusive development. We were proud and honoured to have listened to Eve. We are also proud that Watford Football Club sets the benchmark, using the power of education, the single greatest key to human dignity. In doing so, on January 16 2023, inside the Players’ Lounge at Vicarage Road, Eve’s testimony and her recollections of the many victims she knew during the Holocaust, were memorialised.
For more information about the Watford FC Jewish Supporters’ Group, or to get involved, email watfordjewishfans@gmail.com or follow them on Twitter or Instagram.
Click HERE to find out more about the Holocaust Educational Trust.
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Our Watford FC correspondent reflects on the changes that have happened in his job and the industry since his first spell at the Watford Observer.
Dutch international central defender Wesley Hoedt set to sign for Watford this morning on a permanent transfer.
Darren Bond is set to be in charge at the Riverside Stadium for the third time this season when Watford travel to Middlesbrough tomorrow.
Watford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
Next to take on the questions is midfielder Adekite Fatuga-Dada, who made her debut for the Hornets back in August 2015, featuring more than 100 times in yellow since.
Best mate: Helen Ward
It’s got to be Helen. We’ve known each other for years, and get on really well.Last to buy dinner: Dré Georgiou
Probably Dré - she just seems like someone who wouldn’t want to contribute! She won’t like me for saying that though!Worst dressed: Emily Wallace
This is a tough one, but I’ll throw one of the newer signings under the bus as I haven’t seen much of their fashion yet. Let’s go with Emily!
Dressing room DJ: Anne Meiwald
I would have to say Mei, as she’s taken over now from Dré [Georgiou] and Flo [Fyfe]. She likes chucking ABBA in there, which I actually don’t mind.Teacher’s pet: Flo Fyfe
I’m going to say Flo, as she loves all the GPS stats. It definitely shows in her numbers this season!Always late for training: Gemma Davison
It’s got to be Gemma, doesn’t it? She’s turned up to one gym session all season, I can’t pick anyone else!First on the dance floor: Megan Chandler
She dances all the time! She wouldn’t do well in Strictly Come Dancing but that’s not her thing, she’s more of a club girl.
Most likely to disgrace themselves at the Christmas party: Anne Meiwald
Helen wouldn’t be there, for one. Anne Meiwald wouldn’t make it past 10pm, she’d be spewing up somewhere.Best at FIFA: Adekite Fatuga-Dada
It has got to be me. I’m the gamer of the team - PS4, PS5, you name it.Best future manager: Helen Ward
It’s got to be Helen. Anything like that you’ve just got to say Helen. She is very diplomatic and quite quiet, but if you annoy her, she can let loose a bit.SEO Image
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated defender Scott Holding.
The 19-year-old joined the Golden Boys in May 2022 after a productive spell with Stockport County. The centre-half captained County’s academy side, and impressed while on trial with Watford before making the move permanent.
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How would you describe your playing style?
I like to be aggressive in defence and play the ball out and forward. Obviously, I like to win and keep a clean sheet. That’s my aim every time I step onto the pitch.Your footballing idol?
John Terry and Nemanja Vidić are big inspirations of mine. I try and take their physical attributes especially, and the fact they put their bodies on the line. They would do anything to defend.Biggest influence?
I’d say my dad. He has taken me everywhere, stuck with me and been great for advice. He’s been really important in my journey.
Most talented teammate?
I have to say that I really enjoy playing alongside George Abbott; he’s a really good defensive partner. We pair up quite well and we both know each other’s strengths and weaknesses. We help each other out.Favourite football memory?
I would say my debut at Stockport. It was really special because I was 18 years old at the time and it was in front of quite a big crowd against Larkhall Athletic.Your aims for the future?
I just want to be playing first-team football. I want to try and get into men’s football. That’s really important to me.
Best advice you’ve received?
Richard Shaw [Under-21 Assistant Coach] told me that when defending you always have to think the worst. You have to think one step ahead defensively.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I’m genuinely not sure what I would be doing without football. Nothing at school ever stood out to me in particular. My whole life has revolved around football and I can’t see myself doing anything else.How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 80 - For a defender I’m quite quick actually.
Shooting: 50 - My heading isn’t too bad, but my main job is to keep them out of the goal.
Passing: 83 - A hugely valuable asset for a modern-day centre-back.
Dribbling: 65 - Carrying the ball out of defence is important.
Defending: 90 - The most important attribute needed to be a defender.
Physicality: 80 - Another big part of my game.
OVERALL: 84Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Wagyu steak sushi roll
Favourite song: Sweet Caroline by Neil Diamond
Favourite boots: Nike Phantoms in the new pink colourway
Favourite TV show: The Inbetweeners
Favourite kit: Bolton Wanderers’ black and gold away kit from the 2011/12 Premier League seasonSEO Image
The Hornets continue their Sky Bet Championship campaign with a trip to Middlesbrough this Saturday (January 28, 3pm KO), following a point against Rotherham United last time out.
As kick-off draws ever nearer, we pick out five former Golden Boys who also represented the red and white of Boro at the Riverside Stadium during their playing days…
Nathaniel Chalobah
Nathaniel Chalobah started his professional career at Chelsea after growing up in their academy. At the time, he was a precious footballing talent, captaining the Blues to FA Youth Cup success.
He joined Watford on loan for the 2012/13 Championship season and played a vital role in the Hornets’ midfield, starting 37 games and scoring five goals. The peak of his Watford loan came when he unleashed a blistering long-range shot away at Leicester City, scoring to win the Hornets the match in a promotion battle.
In January 2014, Chelsea sent him on loan to Middlesbrough for the remainder of the season, where he made 19 appearances and scored once to help secure a mid-table finish.
Watford later bought the midfielder permanently in the summer of 2017, and he then received a full England call-up due to a strong start to the season. Chalobah went on to tally up over 100 appearances for the Golden Boys, before joining Fulham in 2021.
Danny Graham
Danny Graham signed his first professional contract in March 2004 for Middlesbrough. He only made 15 appearances for Boro between 2004 and 2009, as most of his time there saw him sent on loan to clubs including Darlington, Derby, Leeds, Blackpool and Carlisle.
The forward then joined Watford on a permanent transfer in 2009. During his first season for the Golden Boys, Graham made 46 appearances, scoring 14 goals. His second season brought him the club’s highest individual goal tally for 28 years, with 24 goals. He also became only the second player in the club’s history to have scored twice in four consecutive matches, and he then enjoyed scoring sequences of seven games and six games later in the season.
More than just a goalscorer, he impressed with his all-round game, resulting in a transfer into the Premier League with Swansea City. After joining Sunderland in January 2013, he had another loan spell for Boro in the 2013/14 season, making 18 appearances and scoring six goals.
Adlène Guedioura
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In two loan spells from Crystal Palace, Adlène Guedioura assisted Watford’s successful charge for promotion to the top-flight with his energetic and skilful performances. He appeared 17 times for Watford during the second half of the 2014/15 season, scoring three goals.
After the Hornets achieved promotion, Guedioura struggled to break into the starting XI, making 15 appearances from the bench and only three starts. Memorably during an FA Cup fixture against Arsenal at the Emirates, the midfielder won the game with a thunderous first-time effort from outside of the box.
After his time with Watford had concluded, Middlesbrough signed the midfielder in January 2017. Guedioura made five appearances for Boro in their Premier League season, which ended in relegation.
Andrew Taylor
Former Watford left-back Andrew Taylor started his career at Middlesbrough at the age of nine. He signed his first professional contract in 2003, but didn’t play until a loan move to Bradford City in 2005.
After arriving back from that temporary spell, Taylor completed six seasons in a row with Boro, with the first four being in the Premier League. In the 2010/11 campaign, he joined Watford on loan for the first half of the season.
The Englishman scored his first-ever professional goal for the Hornets on his final home appearance against Portsmouth, with a long-range volley which he struck in spectacular fashion.
Mark Yeates
Mark Yeates started his career at Tottenham Hotspur, rising through the academy from the age of 14. He embarked on a series of loan spells while trying to earn himself a place in Spurs’ first team. However, he was sold to Colchester in 2007, where he became the first goalscorer at their new ground.
Middlesbrough were impressed with his performances for the U’s and decided to sign him in the 2009/10 season to play in the Championship. The busy midfielder made 19 appearances for Boro that season, getting on the scoresheet once.
Yeates was bought by Watford in the summer of 2011, where he spent two seasons. During his first campaign in yellow, the Hornets finished 11th in the Championship, with Yeates making 33 appearances and scoring three goals. His second season helped Watford into the play-offs, finishing third in the league, just missing out on automatic promotion. He featured 29 times, scoring four goals.
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Portuguese striker Henrique Araújo is looking forward to scoring his first goal as quickly as possible during his loan spell at Watford.
Following last weekend’s home draw against Rotherham United, Watford will be hoping to bounce back to winning ways and extend their unbeaten Sky Bet Championship run in 2023 when they travel to Middlesbrough this Saturday (January 28, 3pm KO).
With Slaven Bilić’s third-placed charges looking to reduce the gap between them and Burnley and Sheffield United in the automatic promotion places, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm GMT with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.50pm GMT with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture has been selected by international broadcasters for live coverage, meaning we are unable to show video footage of the match in countries in which the game is being televised. Supporters in these countries who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
EFL Broadcast Exempt
- Supporters in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories (see list below) will be able to video stream the match on Hive Live. This match will be included in monthly and seasonal subscriptions, or individual match passes, all of which can be purchased HERE.
- The exempt territories for this fixture are: Afghanistan, American Samoa, Andorra, Anguilla, Antigua, Armenia, Aruba, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Barbuda, Belarus, Belgium, Bermuda, Bhutan, Bonaire, Botswana, British Virgin Islands, Brunei, Cambodia, Cape Verde, Cayman Islands, China, Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Comoros, Cook Islands, Cuba, Curacao, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Fed States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Gibraltar, Grenada, Guam, Guinea-Bissau, Guyana, Haiti, Indonesia, Italy, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macau, Maldives, Malta, Marshall Islands, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montserrat, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, Netherlands, New Caledonia, Niue, Norfolk Islands, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Pitcairn Islands, Poland, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Saba, Samoa, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Socotra, Solomon Islands, South Korea, South Tyrol, Sri Lanka, St Eustatius, St Helena & Ascension, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Pierre & Miquelon, St Vincent & The Grenadines, Suriname, Swaziland, Switzerland, Tahiti, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Thailand, Tokelau, Tonga, Tortola, Trinidad & Tobago, Turkmenistan, Turks & Caicos, Tuvalu, Ukraine, US Virgin Islands, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna, Western Samoa, Zimbabwe.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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The Hornets travel to Middlesbrough this Saturday (January 28, 3pm KO), as they look to continue their unbeaten streak in the Sky Bet Championship.
Ahead of the encounter at the Riverside Stadium, and after a memorable 2-1 victory on the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first-ever match at Vicarage Road in the reverse fixture back in August, we look at the statistical context surrounding the match.
Previous Meetings
Three of the last four Football League meetings between Middlesbrough and Watford in the North-East have ended in a draw – as many as the first 15 such encounters.
Middlesbrough are winless in their last 10 league games against Watford, since a 2-1 away victory back in October 2012.
Watford haven’t lost any of their last five away league matches against Middlesbrough, since losing 1-0 back in November 2011.
The Hornets’ 10-game unbeaten run against Middlesbrough in the Football League is currently their joint-longest streak against an opponent currently in the EFL.
Recent Form
Only Burnley have won more points from losing positions in the Championship this season than Middlesbrough.
The Golden Boys have lost just one of their last six away games in the Championship, having won just one of their previous 12 away league games across the top-flight and second-tier.
Boro have won each of their last three league games at the Riverside Stadium, as many as in their first 10 of the 2022/23 campaign.
Fifty-five per cent of Watford’s goals in the Championship this season have come after half-time, including each of their last seven in the competition since João Pedro’s 15th-minute penalty against Reading in November.
Opposition Stat Attack
Striker Chuba Akpom tops the rankings for goals at Middlesbrough, having notched 13. The 27-year-old is first for shots on target (25), while Riley McGree is top for shots off target (16).
Full-back Ryan Giles leads the way for assists this campaign for Middlesbrough, with seven. Elsewhere, Darragh Lenihan has attempted the most passes (1,558), and the most passes in his own half (1,047). Midfielder Jonny Howson has attempted the most passes in the opponent’s half (912).
Defensively, the suspended Dael Fry has made the most clearances (89) and interceptions (37) for Boro this campaign. Lenihan has attempted the highest number of blocks (19).
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Hot prospect Henrique Araújo has set his sights on firing Watford back into the Premier League at the first time of asking, following his recent loan arrival from Portuguese giants Benfica on a deal until the end of the current campaign.
The 21-year-old forward has already raised eyebrows in his homeland and on the continent after bursting onto the scene for the Eagles in recent months, notching three goals in his first five senior league outings, netting a hat-trick in last season’s UEFA Youth League final, and firing in a late strike on his Champions League group-stage debut in November.
Having been restricted to five Primeira Liga appearances in 2022/23, Araújo jumped at the opportunity to further his development with the Hornets, and he has already made it clear what he wants to achieve between now and May.
“I’m really happy to be here, and excited to get started,” Araújo said. “I’m hoping to get the chance to play lots of minutes while I am here, score lots of goals and help Watford get back into the Premier League.
“I know returning to the Premier League is the club’s objective, and it’s mine as well. The Championship is a highly competitive league, and I’m excited to experience a new division and test myself.
“I’d say my biggest quality is my intelligence on the pitch. I like to attack spaces the defenders leave behind, and of course as a striker my main aim is to score goals. I bring some big experiences with me - like scoring in the Champions League - and I hope that can help the whole team be successful on the pitch.”
Though displaying high levels of ambition and maturity by removing himself from his comfort zone to explore a new challenge in England - all the more impressive considering his tender age - Araújo’s latest adventure isn’t the first time he’s stepped into the unknown in order to reach his own high standards.
Aged just 16, the Portugal Under-21 international took the plunge and left his native Madeira to sign terms with Benfica, and he is hoping for a similar rate of success in Hertfordshire to the one that saw him rapidly rise through the age groups, and into the B-team and senior ranks in Lisbon.
He said: “I left home for Benfica, and in four-and-a-half years there I gradually went from Under-17s, to Under-19s, Under-23s, the B-team and then the senior squad. It was a fantastic choice for me to go there - it’s a huge club and I’ve really enjoyed it.
“I want to keep progressing, and ultimately follow in the footsteps of Cristiano Ronaldo. He is from Madeira like me, and he’s done amazing things in Portugal, here in England, in Spain and in Italy, so I’ll just keep working to try and enjoy some of the success he’s had.”
Compatriot João Ferreira - who similarly linked up with Watford this month - represents one familiar face within the Hornets squad for Araújo, with the duo having played together over 20 times in Benfica red, while the latter is enjoying getting to know all of his new teammates at the London Colney training ground.
Saturday’s 1-1 draw at home to Rotherham United provided Araújo with the opportunity to experience the Vicarage Road atmosphere for the first time, and he is itching to get out on the pitch and show the supporters what he can do as soon as possible.
He added: “I talked to him [Ferreira] before I came to the club, and he only said good things which helped me make my decision. There are other Portuguese speakers in the squad - like Matheus Martins and João Pedro - which is nice, but I’m trying to speak to everyone in the team and improve my English!
“I saw the last game at Vicarage Road, and I loved the atmosphere. When we scored the goal the crowd was bouncing, and I can’t wait to be out there and to experience it playing.”
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Watford Football Club is to name the Media Suite at Vicarage Road Stadium in honour of former Watford Observer Sports Editor Oliver Phillips.
Unfortunately, the legendary 81-year-old journalist has been suffering from a blood disorder for the last five years and has been in hospital for the last few months after becoming more ill.
Therefore this announcement has been made in conjunction with The Watford Observer and Oli’s family – and timed with their full support.
He is now due to return to his home in Saint-Amans-Soult, in southern France, in order to spend his final days and weeks in the comfort of his own home with his family and dogs.
Oli covered Watford for more than 40 years and was regarded locally and nationally as the oracle on the club.
He reported on more than 2,000 matches and, having spent virtually his entire working life in football press boxes, the club is honoured Oli has agreed to the naming of its Media Suite in his honour – befitting of a life-long love for the Hornets.
This comes shortly after Watford Borough Council announced that Oli had been added to their list of 100 people who made the town of Watford as part of its celebrations to mark its centenary last year.
Oli said this week: “It’s all getting a bit hard to take in!
“Suddenly I find a Media Suite named after me just as soon as I am listed as one of 100 people to most influence the town. I am humbled by it all.
“The only thing I can say in my defence is that nothing pays like hard work, and I most certainly worked hard.
“Thank you to all who supported my nomination. I am absolutely stunned by it all.”
The Media Suite at Vicarage Road is housed in the Sir Elton John Stand – named after the world-famous music icon and former Watford Chairman, who Oli played a role in bringing to the club in the 1970s. The pair have stayed friends ever since.
On matchdays, the Media Suite hosts all the regional and national press; including newspapers, websites, radio and TV, as well as providing working space for reporters and photographers.
There is also a large theatre-style room which is where managers and players speak to the press after matches.
The Watford Observer’s current Watford FC reporter, Andrew French, started his career alongside Oli in the late 1980s and uses the Media Suite at every home game.
“It’s a perfect and thoroughly-deserved tribute to a great writer and even better man,” said Andrew.
“I’ve spoken to Oli this week, and despite his illness he retains his sense of humour and love for the club; every time we talk, he asks about how the team are doing and how my job is going.
“He is genuinely touched, and clearly proud, to have been honoured by both the council and the football club. For him and his family to be able to see and know just how highly regarded he continues to be will hopefully bring some cheer at a difficult time.”
During his first spell at Vicarage Road, Watford FC’s Head Of Communications & Media Relations Richard Walker saw Oli’s final years of covering the club.
“For me, he has always been a great man to deal with; full of insight and a love for his writing – not to mention a sharp wit and knowing smile,” said Richard.
“Long before I first joined the club in 1999, Oli really fuelled my love of writing about sport when I was lucky enough to spend two summers helping cover holidays on the sports desk in the early 1990s.
“Typical of his great memory for just about everything, when I then joined the club some years later, he remembered me and my summer stints – and that really helped us form an excellent working relationship.
“On behalf of the club, it’s our privilege to be able to honour a journalist in Oli who’s done far more in one life-time’s reporting on the club and its history than anyone ever has or, I suspect, ever will.”
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The Watford FC Quiz Night is back!
We’re delighted to be holding the first Quiz Night since before the Covid-19 pandemic on Tuesday March 7 at 7pm at Mad Squirrel Tap Watford.
Hosted by Vicarage Road matchday announcer Tim Coombs, there’ll be Watford-themed prizes up for grabs for those finishing in first, second and third, as well as the traditional Quiz Night wooden spoons for the team in last!
Always a fun-filled and informal evening, tables of six are being sold at £120; this includes a pizza & side for each of the six participants.
To book a place for your team for the Watford FC Quiz Night please click HERE, using one Fan ID to purchase a whole table (individual places not available).
We hope to see you there!
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Midfielder JJ McKiernan has re-joined National League side Eastleigh FC on loan until the end of the season, Watford FC confirms.
The 21-year-old - who joined the Hornets in 2018, and travelled to Austria with the first-team during pre-season last July after a successful 2021/22 with the Academy and on loan at Bohemians - enjoyed an impressive first half of the current campaign with the Spitfires.
After notching three goals in 26 appearances at the Silverlake Stadium, Northern Irishman McKiernan will now further his development back in Hampshire, with Eastleigh currently sat 11th in the fifth-tier standings.
Good luck, JJ!
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Watford FC has announced it will name the Media Suite at Vicarage Road Stadium in honour of former Watford Observer Sports Editor Oliver Phillips.
Did you know that Watford had a goalkeeper who played in spectacles? Announcing our “Deceased Watford Player Of The Month” for January – Len Dewick. You can learn about him here: https://hornetheaven.com/len-dewick/ Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin.
If Salernitana stay in Serie A this season, then William Troost-Ekong’s move to the Italian side could be worth almost £1m to Watford.
Kevin Phillips was to become a Sunderland legend and returned to Southampton for £3 million but it was at Watford where he first rose to prominence with his scoring ability.
Three second-half goals earned Watford Under-21s only their second Professional Development League South win of the season away at Cardiff City.
Midfielder Hamza Choudhury highlighted Watford’s inability to turn possession into chances after the 1-1 draw with Rotherham.
Watford have confirmed the loan signing of striker Henrique Araujo from Benfica until the end of the season.
William Troost-Ekong has confirmed he has left Watford and is joining Salernitana in Italy.
First start, first goal - Saturday was an afternoon to remember for defender Joao Ferreira
Portuguese striker Henrique Araujo is joining Watford on loan from Benfica for the remainder of the season, but is unlikely to feature on Saturday
The Watford FC family zone is back once again for this weekend’s match with Rotherham United (Saturday January 21, 3pm KO).
Launched earlier this season, the fun-packed area features a wide range of activities for all young supporters and their families to enjoy before entering the stadium.
There are even occasional visitors from the men’s, women’s and academy teams, and each home matchday one lucky family zone visitor is picked to choose and present the Junior Hornets Hero of the Match award to the player of their choice after full-time!
The family zone is hosted by our neighbours at Cornerstone Church on Vicarage Road, directly opposite the turnstiles for the Ann Swanson Family Stand.
It starts from at least two hours before kick-off and is completely free of charge to visit.
See you there on Saturday!
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Following last weekend’s memorable 2-0 success against Blackpool, Watford are hoping to secure back-to-back home victories in the Sky Bet Championship when Rotherham United visit Vicarage Road this Saturday (January 21, 3pm KO).
With Slaven Bilić’s men looking to extend their unbeaten league record in 2023 so far, and reduce the gap between them and Burnley and Sheffield United in the automatic promotion places, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from approximately 2.50pm GMT with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass now available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com. Please refrain from sending correspondence regarding Hive Live streaming issues to the club via yourvoice@watfordfc.com or supporters@watfordfc.com, as you are unlikely to receive a reply on a matchday, weekend or during out-of-office hours.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we’re taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
In this edition, James Garrett looks back at a Goal of the Season winner scored by Cristian Battocchio against Huddersfield Town, in a piece first included in last season’s matchday programme…
Some last-minute goals might not be dramatic winners or have the glory of a 30-yard strike, but it’s always worth staying until the final whistle to see what might unfold! This goal would never have happened if it wasn’t for 100 local home supporters, who turned up at Vicarage Road after overnight snow had fallen and the club had pleaded for volunteers to help clear the pitch.
It’s probably true that no-one was expecting to witness possibly the best team goal ever scored at The Vic at the end of this match, as it was a freezing day and there didn’t seem much chance of watching any easy-on-the-eye football.
By January 2013, the Hornets were in the Championship play-off places under Gianfranco Zola and hosted a struggling Huddersfield Town side. The game started very slowly, and it was the Terriers who could have scored first.
But, just before half-time, a good move saw Matěj Vydra burst into the penalty area before a heavy challenge stopped him (okay, it may have been a couple of inches outside the box), and Troy Deeney rolled in the subsequent penalty kick.
The goal changed the game, and in the second half the team shifted up the gears as they kicked towards the Rookery. It was Vydra who took centre stage as he clinically volleyed in a wonderful Marco Cassetti cross, before he rushed on to a Deeney flick-on to make it 3-0. It was already looking like a comprehensive victory for Watford.
This though is a match that should be remembered for a wonderful 25-second piece of play as the clock turned towards 90 minutes. The move was started off by an Almen Abdi interception, with the Swiss international playing it long to Fernando Forestieri who laid it off to John Eustace; the midfielder making a rare cameo appearance.
The move then involved Forestieri again, Lloyd Doyley and Cassetti, followed by two smart Forestieri dummies and further play from Cristian Battocchio and Abdi, with the latter again finding Cassetti. A slick cross from the Italian full-back was met perfectly by the on-rushing Battocchio, who glanced the ball into the corner of the goal.
For some reason it is pretty hard to find the entire move for the goal on YouTube, or anywhere else online. I’ve always been surprised it never drew the attention it deserved, as in terms of a ‘team goal’ I’d like to be shown a better Watford one ever.
It was a goal that deserved to be seen by a much bigger audience, but hopefully for the 12,000 brave souls who embraced the winter weather that day it is one of those moments they will always remember.
Taking away the fact that it was against a team who were 3-0 down in the last moments of a match, it is simply a stunning strike and was voted by Watford supporters as the Goal of the Season.
It is always interesting to read manager comments after the matches that we remember. Fittingly Zola, having been informed as he got to the stadium that day about the supporters’ help, dedicated the performance to those volunteers who had turned up early to shift all the snow so the game could go ahead.
It had definitely been worth bringing those shovels so we could see this beautiful last-minute goal.
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Watford host Rotherham United this Saturday (January 21, 3pm KO) in the final home game of the month, following victory at The Vic against Blackpool last weekend.
Ahead of another important Sky Bet Championship contest, we take a look back at five of the best matches between the Hornets and the Millers over the years, as the current crop of Golden Boys look to reproduce similar successes.
Watford 5-1 Rotherham United – February 8, 1969
The visitors travelled to Vicarage Road managed by former Watford player Jimmy McAnearney on a matchday where the weather put the game in jeopardy.
An appeal from the club had led to supporters turning up to clear the pitch and terraces from snow. The fans were rewarded with a convincing 5-1 victory, with Walter Lees coming off the bench to score his first two goals for the club.
Watford 3-2 Rotherham United – August 18, 2001
Watford earned a hard-fought three points during Gianluca Vialli’s second game in charge, picking up their first win of the season.
The Hornets were awarded a penalty in the first minute of the match after the referee spotted shirt pulling in the box, but it was a decision that bemused many spectators. Nonetheless, Tommy Smith stepped up and had his spot-kick saved by the Rotherham goalkeeper, but the ball came bouncing back to the forward to tap in the rebound.
The away side then equalised before Allan Nielsen put the Golden Boys back ahead on the stroke of half-time. Smith then earnt a two-goal lead with a hooked finish into the net to finish off a fluent move. Despite the Millers notching one back only six minutes later, it wasn’t enough to stop Watford from securing victory.
Watford 3-0 Rotherham United – February 24, 2015
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Watford cruised past a struggling Millers side as they moved within six points of the league leaders, Derby County, after a convincing 3-0 victory at Vicarage Road.
Odion Ighalo continued an impressive run of scoring form, bagging two goals which took his total for the season up to 17, whilst scoring 14 in his last 11 appearances for the club. The Nigerian’s first goal exhibited impressive composure as he rounded the keeper with his classic scoop turn to tap into an empty net.
Club captain Troy Deeney also got on the scoresheet after Joel Ekstrand played the ball across the box for the skipper to tap in.
Watford 2-0 Rotherham United – December 8, 2020
A quick-fire double in the first 15 minutes of the game helped Watford up to third in the table after 17 games played, just one point away from Norwich City and Bournemouth in the automatic promotion spots.
Current Hornet Christian Kabasele scored the first within the opening four minutes of the game, after a Ken Sema corner was flicked on by Deeney for the Belgian to volley home from six yards.
The second came just 10 minutes later when a Kiko Femenía cross found its way through to the back post for skipper Deeney to tap into an empty net.
Rotherham United 1-4 Watford – March 16, 2021
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A big victory in a must-win game for the Hornets during their promotion charge saw them up to second in the Championship table, closing the gap and putting pressure on Norwich City at the top.
The first goal came in the ninth minute when a Philip Zinckernagel cross was converted by Francisco Sierralta - the Chilean’s first goal in yellow. Only 15 minutes later, another teasing ball by the Dane into the box was parried away and diverted towards Ismaïla Sarr, who volleyed well on his left foot into the roof of the net to double to Hornets' lead.
The Golden Boys weren’t done there when another Zinckernagel cross reached the edge of the box to Sema, who teed it up and smashed it into the bottom right corner. A penalty was awarded to the hosts on the hour mark, but Daniel Bachmann guessed correctly and got down well to his right to maintain the three-goal advantage.
Rotherham did get one back with a long-range strike before Watford went straight down the other end and Dan Gosling fired home to complete a comfortable victory.
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The Watford FC family zone is back once again for this weekend’s match with Rotherham United (Saturday January 21, 3pm KO).
Launched earlier this season, the fun-packed area features a wide range of activities for all young supporters and their families to enjoy before entering the stadium.
There are even occasional visitors from the men’s, women’s and academy teams, and each home matchday one lucky family zone visitor is picked to choose and present the Junior Hornets Hero of the Match award to the player of their choice after full-time!
The family zone is hosted by our neighbours at Cornerstone Church on Vicarage Road, directly opposite the turnstiles for the Ann Swanson Family Stand.
It starts from at least two hours before kick-off and is completely free of charge to visit.
See you there on Saturday!
SEO ImageIt is with great sadness that we learned of the passing of John Cowen, who played in goal for Watford during the 1960s.
John transferred to Watford from Chelsea in 1964 and went on to make 17 appearances before his departure in 1967.
He retired from full-time football aged 22 but did play for Gravesend & Northfleet in the mid-1970s.
An England youth international, he played in goal as the national team beat Northern Ireland in the 1963 European International Youth Tournament final, which was also the first game played at Wembley Stadium under floodlights.
Our thoughts are with John's family and friends.
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With the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III taking place on Saturday May 6, the EFL and Watford FC can now confirm the date and kick-off time for the final round of 2022/23 divisional fixtures.
The Hornets’ final fixture of this season’s second-tier campaign against Stoke City at Vicarage Road, originally scheduled for Saturday May 6, will now take place alongside all other Sky Bet Championship matches on Bank Holiday Monday May 8 at 3pm.
The confirmed schedule was approved by the EFL Board at its recent meeting and follows consultation with stakeholders.
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Following last weekend’s memorable 2-0 success against Blackpool, Watford are hoping to secure back-to-back home victories in the Sky Bet Championship when Rotherham United visit Vicarage Road this Saturday (January 21, 3pm KO).
With Slaven Bilić’s men looking to extend their unbeaten league record in 2023 so far, and reduce the gap between them and Burnley and Sheffield United in the automatic promotion places, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from approximately 2.50pm GMT with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the International Half-Season Hive Live Pass now available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
SEO ImageTwo players who started their career under Graham Taylor are working hard to continue his legacy of developing young players
A familiar face will be in charge when Watford seek their third consecutive league victory at the start of 2023 against Rotherham United on Saturday.
We’ve, ummm, been busy…. We would like to re-announce the Watford Football Club Archive at watfordfcarchive.co.uk, a factual and statistical record of the entire history of Watford Football Club. The website was the work of the late, great Trefor Jones, whose two books – The Watford Football Club Illustrated Who’s Who and Watford Season by Season – formed a remarkable and definitive […]
Striker Vakoun Bayo has apologised for his reaction to being substituted against Blackpool at Vicarage Road on Saturday.
A long-serving journalist affectionately remembered by many for his coverage of Watford FC has been selected as one of the 100 people who made Watford.
Striker Vakoun Bayo wants to add to his four league goals this weekend, and do it in front of the Vicarage Road faithful as the Hornets host Rotherham United (Saturday January 21, 3pm KO).
And he has a message for Watford supporters ahead of the game, after he caused some frustration in the stands when he was substituted last weekend against Blackpool.
“I just want to say sorry to the fans, who have been so supportive of me and the team,” he told watfordfc.com earlier this week, at the club’s London Colney training ground.
“I got lost in my own disappointment for a few seconds when it was time for me to come off the pitch – and I wasn’t thinking about the team.
“The most important thing was the three points, and I was so delighted for Tobi [Adeyemo] to come on and score on his debut.”
Smiled the Ivorian forward: “It was a fantastic moment, and so important to help us get the three points!
“As a striker, I want to score goals and was disappointed that I did not do that on Saturday, especially after scoring at Norwich and feeling confident.
“But I’m hungry for the next opportunity, and looking forward to helping the team against Rotherham.”
Slaven Bilić confirmed after the victory over the Seasiders that he’d always planned to bring off Bayo around the 60-minute mark, as the 26-year-old had been working with the medical team to ensure he was fit enough to start the game. He’d been feeling some stiffness in his hamstring after scoring the winner at Norwich.
“Bayo was struggling for fitness after Norwich, so him coming off was planned,” Watford’s Head Coach told the media.
“He didn’t train the whole week with the team before Blackpool – only a few days.”
Fully focused and fully fit, he’s now raring to go again.
“Scoring the winner against Middlesbrough at Vicarage Road earlier this season was such an amazing feeling, and I want to make the fans happy like that again,” said Bayo, who scored the equaliser against the Millers in the reverse fixture in September.
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Watford FC Women are pleased to announce a partnership for the 2022/23 campaign with Pixellot, the world’s leading provider of AI-Automated™ sports video and analytics solutions, to deliver innovative video streaming, data, and analysis to take training to the next level.
As part of this landmark collaboration with Pixellot, Watford FC Women will use the Pixellot Air integrated mobile solution for video capture, review, and analysis. Pixellot Air is a lightweight, portable device with a dual camera array and direct cloud uploading. Alongside being easy to set up on any pitch, it is also capable of capturing 12 hours of play.
After training sessions or competitive games, Pixellot Air delivers automatically produced video for coding, tagging, and annotating on a dedicated coaching platform. Watford FC Women’s coaches will now be able to study video footage, game highlights, in-depth analysis, and video breakdowns. Watford FC Women can rely on the same technology to achieve a competitive advantage used by some of the premier teams in world football, such as Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Southampton FC and FC Barcelona.
“I’m really excited to partner with Pixellot and have them as our official analyst partner for our women’s teams,” said Laura Dyer, Watford FC Women General Manager and Assistant Coach. “This will be a key tool to use to help players and staff analyse our games and training, and support the further development of all. The product is easy to use and has good camera quality. We are excited as well to give back to the community by having a discount code for people to use if they are purchasing for their clubs.”
“Sitting second in the league, we are focused on promotion and Pixellot’s technology is going to be invaluable in helping us achieve that,” said Damon Lathrope, Head Coach.
“We’ll be able to analyse matchday and training session videos to see what is working for the team and what isn’t. This is a real game changer in terms of how we can help our players to develop and sharpen their game. We chose Pixellot because we felt they valued our partnership and provided excellent quality equipment, which is straightforward to manage and very cost-effective.”
Pixellot Air’s remote and automated nature means it requires no camera operator, electricity or even an internet connection. Cost-effective technology is key for the future of football clubs at all levels.
“At Pixellot we are a major supporter of women’s football, so we are delighted to be working with Watford FC Women,” said Alon Weber, CEO of Pixellot. “The coaches at the club will be able to leverage innovative technology to change the face of their coaching and talent development processes. This is a transformative opportunity for Watford FC Women to help their players and progress the growing women’s football space in England.”
To find out more about Pixellot, click HERE.
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Academy Director Richard Johnson has reflected on an “amazing” seven days for the youth set-up at London Colney, with a string of senior debuts, unforgettable individual moments and progression in cup competitions marking a period of unprecedented success in the early part of 2023.
It all began with the Emirates FA Cup third-round trip to Reading (Saturday January 7), which saw four Young Hornets make their first-team bows after rising through the age groups. A 3-1 win for the Under-18s against a Category One Everton side in the FA Youth Cup swiftly followed (Monday January 9), before the Under-21s sealed a place in the semi-finals of the Herts Senior Challenge Cup with a 2-0 triumph against London Lions (Wednesday January 11).
An immense week would culminate with Academy striker Tobi Adeyemo’s incredible opener against Blackpool in the Sky Bet Championship fixture (Saturday January 14), to set the Golden Boys on their way to three points, with fellow youngster Jack Grieves also making his first home league appearance.
Johnson has been extremely pleased to see the progression in the Academy since he took on the role of Academy Director back in 2021, alongside Head of Technical Development Jimmy Gilligan.
“It’s been absolutely amazing,” he said. “The FA Cup debuts, with Michael Adu-Poku leading the line as a 17-year-old, was just amazing. I thought he competed really well, and then Ryan [Andrews] came on at half-time, followed by Jack Grieves and Tobi Adeyemo.
“To have that period of getting four lads on the pitch making their debuts was brilliant, and obviously Tobi’s goal against Blackpool was great. It almost feels like everybody seems to have forgotten about James Morris, as well, who has held his place in the starting XI at the moment. I couldn’t be happier for James - he’s a manager’s dream.
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“You look at the FA Youth Cup, where [Adrian] Blake and Grieves played a major part in scoring those goals, and the morning of that game we actually had Adeyemo, Grieves and Blake in training with the first-team.
“It has been an incredible period, and I reflect on it with Jimmy [Gilligan, Head of Technical Development], about how far we’ve come in the 15 or 16 months since we’ve been in the building.
“We realise that some of it is down to circumstance, with the injury list in the first-team, but it’s still really pleasing to see the boys given an opportunity. To know they’ve done well with the opportunity, and that the manager trusts them to do a job, that is the biggest thing.”
Focusing on Adeyemo’s first senior goal against the Tangerines, Johnson feels that the moment symbolises significant evolution at the club, and he is pleased to have seen the effort made by the Academy staff and players.
Johnson continued: “It was all topped off with Tobi’s goal. Looking back, Slaven Bilić [Head Coach] had the faith in Tobi to let him go on, thinking he could have an input and a chance to change the game or to create something. That was a huge call on his behalf that thankfully was backed up by Tobi putting the ball in the back of the net.
“I was sat in the Directors’ Box, and I was jumping up and down. I lost my voice. What a moment. And I think that picture that has been shared, with him running up to Jack Grieves, just sums it all up really. I think you could sense the reaction from the fans as well, and to score at the Rookery End – he couldn’t have done it at a better end to celebrate with the supporters.
“From an Academy point of view, for whatever reason, it wasn’t going the way that we all would have liked as a football club, and changes were made. I’ve spent the last 15 months recruiting, because there were wholesale changes in terms of staffing and the direction of the Academy. I think it’s great to now see the sort of pitchside contribution we’re achieving, in terms of players getting an opportunity.
“But what’s really pleasing is the changes made by the staff in terms of the culture and the environment that we’re trying to create here for the players. We have a great team in place now, that first and foremost cares about the players. I think if you would ask any player or parent now about the culture and environment, it would be a lot different to a few years ago.
“Things like Tobi getting on the pitch, scoring and helping the first-team to win again, that can have a massive impact on kids coming through the Academy and on parents as well, realising that there could be a pathway here at the club.”
Johnson and Gilligan are both former Hornets, and the Australian believes that the change in culture has partly derived from their playing experience at Vicarage Road.
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He added: “I think myself and Jimmy, having played for the club and come through the youth system ourselves, we understand the club and its values. On the day Tobi scored it was the Graham Taylor Matchday, so it couldn’t have worked out any better.
“I do want to thank the staff that we have in the building now for helping change the environment here. Hopefully, the players are going to reap the benefits of that, and the club to a degree.
“Hopefully this period has given the players a bit of encouragement to see that there may be a pathway here to the first-team, which probably hasn’t really happened in the past.
“Obviously it’s not going to happen every week, but we know what we need to do. We need to prepare the players as best we can so that if the opportunity does arise, then they’re ready for it.”
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The Golden Boys host Rotherham United this Saturday (January 21, 3pm KO), as they look to make it three wins in a row in the Sky Bet Championship.
Ahead of the encounter against the Millers, and after a 1-1 draw in the reverse fixture in September, we look at the statistical context surrounding the match.
Previous Meetings
Watford are unbeaten in nine league matches against Rotherham United (W6 D3), since losing 2-1 at Vicarage Road in February 2003.
Rotherham haven’t scored in any of their last four away league matches against the Hornets (D1 L3).
The Golden Boys have scored two or more goals in four of their last five league games against Rotherham, while they’ve never lost to the Millers in the Football League while they were a newly-promoted side (W7 D2).
Among sides they’ve faced at least 20 times in the Football League, only against Wolverhampton Wanderers (9% - 2/22) do Rotherham have a lower win percentage than they do against Watford (17% - 4/23).
Recent Form
The Hornets have won their last two league games without conceding a goal – they last won three games in a row while keeping a clean sheet in each victory back in December 2015 in the Premier League.
Rotherham ended a run of six league games without a win last time out by beating Blackburn Rovers 4-0 - their biggest league victory since a win over Reading in August by the same scoreline.
Watford have only lost one of their last 15 Sky Bet Championship fixtures against newly-promoted opposition (W9 D5), a 1-0 defeat at Vicarage Road to Wolves under Slaviša Jokanović in December 2014.
The Millers haven’t scored in any of their last four away league matches against Watford (D1 L3).
Opposition Stat Attack
The South Yorkshire side are sitting 19th in the second-tier, with only one win in their last five games, which came last week against Blackburn.
The Millers’ winger and top marksman, Chiedozie Ogbene, has a total of six goals this season in the league. He also has the most shots on target (14), the most fouls won (56) and leads the way with offsides with 12.
Midfielder Daniel Barlaser has been one of Rotherham’s most important players this season and is joint top appearance maker with 27, featuring in every game.
He is top for assists (7), most passes attempted (1,224), passes in the opposition's half (874) and crosses attempted (105).
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Watford will wait until addendum to Independent Review into Child Sexual Abuse in Football 1970-2005 by Clive Sheldon is published before commenting
On Season 2, Episode 32 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford's winning ways continuing in the Championship in 2023--a special Graham Taylor-inspired 2-0 win at The Vic against Blackpool to send the Hornets up to third. Tobi Adeyemo makes his dream come true, scoring the winning goal in front of The Rookery.
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Episode publish date: January 17, 2023.
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić has called on his Watford side to channel the character and application displayed during the impressive 1-0 win over Norwich City earlier this month, ahead of Saturday’s home clash against Blackpool.
The Hornets remain plagued with a series of injury problems in the build-up to the Graham Taylor Matchday at The Vic, following last weekend’s brave Emirates FA Cup exit at the hands of Reading when the Croatian boss made 15 changes to his squad and handed out five senior debuts.
While acknowledging the situation remains bleak - despite the potential return of midfielder Hamza Choudhury - during his pre-match conference, Bilić hailed his squad’s attitude and commitment on and off the field over recent weeks.
And, though he expects a tough game against Michael Appleton’s Seasiders - who sit in the relegation zone but beat Premier League Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup last time out, and triumphed in the reverse fixture in October - he is expecting another gutsy performance from his charges that he hopes can yield all three points.
“We know playing Blackpool is going to be a big challenge,” said Bilić. “We always talk about how the Championship is so tight, and there are no games where you can relax. Every team in this division has their own goals.
“They’re a competitive side. We were dominant on the ball, but we lost the last game against them because we couldn’t cope with their counter-attacking and our defending wasn’t good enough, but we know what to do to change that.
“It’s true we’re still in in a tough situation with injuries, but it is what it is. We’re not going to moan about it, we’re going to get on with it, and the Norwich game showed what we can do when we’re all driving forward.
“It’s the Graham Taylor Matchday, and of course that will add to our motivation. Unfortunately, I never met him, but I’m aware how important he is to this club’s history and I know it’ll be a special occasion for everyone.”
The first home game of the New Year could provide Watford supporters with the opportunity to see recent arrivals João Ferreira and Matheus Martins in action for the first time, with the latter’s involvement depending on the confirmation of his visa.
With Canadian midfielder Ismaël Koné having also officially joined the club during the ongoing transfer window, Bilić is hoping for more activity alongside the return of some of his injured stars.
He said: “Ferreira is likely to be involved against Blackpool, because he’s fit and he’s trained with us. Koné played his first game last weekend, and Martins is with us too.
“We know we need more numbers available to us, but our targets are more or less the same as they were before the injuries started to bite.
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“The Academy lads that have stepped up recently have done well and played without fear, which put a smile on my face. Some of them will remain in my mind to be considered if we need them going forward.”
Watford currently sit fourth in the Championship table with 20 matches of the season remaining, and though they are 11 points off the automatic promotion places Bilić knows there is still plenty to play for.
He added: “We know it’s a big gap, and that the one below us is very small, but we also know that three or four games in the Championship can change everything.
“We’re taking it game by game, just trying to get as much as we can out of each match. If we win a lot of our games and pick up some momentum, anything can happen.”
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Defender James Morris was pleased with Watford’s gutsy performance as they came away with a 2-0 win over Blackpool in the Sky Bet Championship.
The Hornets applied the pressure early and had Blackpool on the back foot, and were unlucky not to go one up early on when an Ismaïla Sarr effort struck the crossbar following a corner.
Morris was part of a starting backline that was able to keep the visitors quiet throughout the match, but when the two sides went into the break level, Head Coach Slaven Bilić’s changes and half-time words could be seen as the turning point in the game.
“In the first half, we were probably the better team,” Morris said. “It was just that end product, it was that last ball. They tried to disrupt us, and I think in the first half that’s what they did.
“[Bilić] told us to keep doing the same things, keep doing what we’re good at, and I think that’s what showed at the end. We got the end result, got the goals and got the win.”
An abundance of youth has been on display at Watford in recent weeks, including senior debuts for the likes of Academy starlets Tobi Adeyemo and Jack Grieves, who once again made an impact against Blackpool. On Adeyemo’s home and league bow for the Hornets, the 17-year-old forward was able to break the deadlock and put his side ahead four minutes after entering the action.
On the moment, Morris commented: “It was brilliant. I remember just seeing [Adeyemo] score, putting his hands on his head in disbelief. It’s a great feeling to have someone from the Academy come on and score and help us win the game.
“It’s brilliant for him, he’s worked really hard. Scoring in front of that home crowd is amazing for him. The boys came on and did brilliantly, and we managed to capitalise and get two goals.”
The shutout against the Tangerines made it two clean sheets in a row in the league, and Morris - who has now started consecutive Championship matches - played an important role in preventing Blackpool putting the ball in the back of the net, ultimately helping the Hornets secure all three points.
“We can only do our job as defenders, and if we keep a clean sheet, we give ourselves the best chance of winning the game,” he said.
“That’s massively important [Watford’s clean sheet], two in a row now, Norwich City away and here today. We have another big opportunity [in the next fixture against Rotherham] at home in front of the fans, to get another three points and help us climb the table.”
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Today (Monday January 16), as part of the English Football League’s (EFL) annual Week of Action, the League has launched a new report highlighting the significant role that its 72 clubs play in supporting communities across England and Wales. The report was launched at a roundtable in Parliament with representatives from the EFL, its clubs and Club Community Organisations (CCOs), members of the community and the Sports Minister, the Rt Hon Stuart Andrew MP.
Produced by research experts Substance using data from 2019 to 2022, the report shows that EFL clubs and their Club Community Organisations (CCOs) generated more than £865m (£865,196,135) of social value to towns and cities across the country through ground-breaking community programmes during the 2021/22 season. This is the first time a social value has been attributed to the work of EFL clubs as a collective. It represents the estimated savings to public spending and other forms of social value that clubs and CCOs have delivered in areas including physical health, mental wellbeing, education and employment.
In the second version of the ‘Measuring the Impact of EFL Clubs in the Community’ report, EFL clubs are shown to be responding to the needs of their communities at an unprecedented scale with more funding and investment raised than ever before (£101m), more partnerships developed (6,744), larger numbers of staff and volunteers deployed (9,922) and more facilities and in-kind support made available to local people valued at over £40.8m (£40,848,263).
The reach of community work delivered by EFL clubs is vast and during the 2021/22 season, over 840,000 participants were engaged on EFL club community programmes over almost 580,000 hours of community sessions and events – this is an 11 per cent increase on 2018/19. Updated figures show that 80 per cent of the population (47.6m people) in England and Wales live within 15 miles of an EFL club, a reminder that EFL clubs are important civic institutions that impact the lives of people around the country. Most recently, this was demonstrated through the ‘Together – Supporting Communities’ initiative, where clubs and CCOs united to roll out initiatives to support those hit hardest by the cost of living crisis.
The report also quantifies the significant impact that clubs had in their communities during the pandemic period, with over 40,600 community members engaged in 8,752 Covid-19-related sessions and events resulting in more than 42,000 hours of support.
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Shining a light on the impact EFL clubs have, today marks the start of the EFL Week of Action campaign, taking place from January 16-20. Launched in 2017, the Week of Action sees clubs and CCOs from across the EFL’s three divisions showcase some of the most impactful community projects with managers and players joining participants across the country.
Rick Parry, Chair of the EFL, said: “This report provides substantial evidence that our clubs continue to be at the heart of their communities, bringing life-changing opportunities that leave a lasting impact. The need for EFL clubs to continue as catalysts for social change remains, with an increasing scale of club community work delivered since 2019. Financial sustainability for EFL clubs is key to enabling them to continue as a force for good in their communities.”
Liam Scully, Chair of the EFL Trust, said: “We’re immensely proud of the community support delivered by EFL clubs and CCOs, and are thrilled to now be able to put a social value on this good work. We look forward to showcasing some of the most impactful community projects throughout this year’s Week of Action.”
Gavin Mellor, Head of Data and Consultancy at Substance, said: “EFL clubs and CCOs have arguably never been more important to their communities and this report shows just how fantastically they have responded even in the most challenging of circumstances.”
Sports Minister, Stuart Andrew MP, said: “The EFL’s Week of Action is a great way to highlight the significant contribution football clubs make to local communities.
“Football is a way of life across England and this research shows just how vital clubs are in bringing people together and fostering a strong sense of pride.
“We are determined to protect these vital community assets, so clubs are placed on a sustainable footing now and into the future and continue to play a central role for generations to come.”
To download a full copy of ‘Measuring the Impact of EFL Clubs in the Community’ report, click HERE.
For more details on the EFL’s Week of Action, please visit www.efl.com.
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Academy Director Richard Johnson has reflected on an “amazing” seven days for the youth set-up at London Colney, with a string of senior debuts, unforgettable individual moments and progression in cup competitions marking a period of unprecedented success in the early part of 2023.
It all began with the Emirates FA Cup third-round trip to Reading (Saturday January 7), which saw four Young Hornets make their first-team bows after rising through the age groups. A 3-1 win for the Under-18s against a Category One Everton side in the FA Youth Cup swiftly followed (Monday January 9), before the Under-21s sealed a place in the semi-finals of the Herts Senior Challenge Cup with a 2-0 triumph against London Lions (Wednesday January 11).
An immense week would culminate with Academy striker Tobi Adeyemo’s incredible opener against Blackpool in the Sky Bet Championship fixture (Saturday January 14), to set the Golden Boys on their way to three points, with fellow youngster Jack Grieves also making his first home league appearance.
Johnson has been extremely pleased to see the progression in the Academy since he arrived back in 2021, alongside Head of Technical Development Jimmy Gilligan.
“It’s been absolutely amazing,” he said. “The FA Cup debuts, with Michael Adu-Poku leading the line as a 17-year-old, was just amazing. I thought he competed really well, and then Ryan [Andrews] came on at half-time, followed by Jack Grieves and Tobi Adeyemo.
“To have that period of getting four lads on the pitch making their debuts was brilliant, and obviously Tobi’s goal against Blackpool was great. It almost feels like everybody seems to have forgotten about James Morris, as well, who has held his place in the starting XI at the moment. I couldn’t be happier for James - he’s a manager’s dream.
“You look at the FA Youth Cup, where [Adrian] Blake and Grieves played a major part in scoring those goals, and the morning of that game we actually had Adeyemo, Grieves and Blake in training with the first-team.
“It has been an incredible period, and I reflect on it with Jimmy [Gilligan, Head of Technical Development], about how far we’ve come in the 15 or 16 months since we’ve been in the building.
“We realise that some of it is down to circumstance, with the injury list in the first-team, but it’s still really pleasing to see the boys given an opportunity. To know they’ve done well with the opportunity, and that the manager trusts them to do a job, that is the biggest thing.”
Focusing on Adeyemo’s first senior goal against the Tangerines, Johnson feels that the moment symbolises significant evolution at the club, and he is pleased to have seen the effort made by the Academy staff and players.
Johnson continued: “It was all topped off with Tobi’s goal. Looking back, Slaven Bilić [Head Coach] had the faith in Tobi to let him go on, thinking he could have an input and a chance to change the game or to create something. That was a huge call on his behalf that thankfully was backed up by Tobi putting the ball in the back of the net.
“I was sat in the Directors’ Box, and I was jumping up and down. I lost my voice. What a moment. And I think that picture that has been shared, with him running up to Jack Grieves, just sums it all up really. I think you could sense the reaction from the fans as well, and to score at the Rookery End – he couldn’t have done it at a better end to celebrate with the supporters.
“From an Academy point of view, for whatever reason, it wasn’t going the way that we all would have liked as a football club, and changes were made. I’ve spent the last 15 months recruiting, because there were wholesale changes in terms of staffing and the direction of the Academy. I think it’s great to now see the sort of pitchside contribution we’re achieving, in terms of players getting an opportunity.
“But what’s really pleasing is the changes made by the staff in terms of the culture and the environment that we’re trying to create here for the players. We have a great team in place now, that first and foremost cares about the players. I think if you would ask any player or parent now about the culture and environment, it would be a lot different to a few years ago.
“Things like Tobi getting on the pitch, scoring and helping the first-team to win again, that can have a massive impact on kids coming through the Academy and on parents as well, realising that there could be a pathway here at the club.”
Johnson and Gilligan are both former Hornets, and the Australian believes that the change in culture has partly derived from their playing experience at Vicarage Road.
He added: “I think myself and Jimmy, having played for the club and come through the youth system ourselves, we understand the club and its values. On the day Tobi scored it was the Graham Taylor Matchday, so it couldn’t have worked out any better.
“I do want to thank the staff that we have in the building now for helping change the environment here. Hopefully, the players are going to reap the benefits of that, and the club to a degree.
“Hopefully this period has given the players a bit of encouragement to see that there may be a pathway here to the first-team, which probably hasn’t really happened in the past.
“Obviously it’s not going to happen every week, but we know what we need to do. We need to prepare the players as best we can so that if the opportunity does arise, then they’re ready for it.”
SEO ImageWatford have been blessed with some fine goalkeepers over the years but this man remains the best in the view of many fans.
An exciting opportunity has become available within our Academy at Watford Football Club. We are currently looking to recruit a Professional Development Phase (PDP) Academy Sports Scientist. The successful candidate will work as part of a multi-disciplinary support team delivering scientific support to Academy players and coaches.
Duties will involve:
• To design and deliver scientifically robust fitness testing, physiological, and training load monitoring systems across all Academy age groups. Providing relevant, appropriate feedback to players, coaches, and parents and/or guardians in a time-efficient manner, with the primary focus being on health, wellbeing and performance enhancement.
• To deliver a scientifically, age-appropriate sports nutrition support programme for all Academy players.
• To work with Academy coaches to understand and integrate their philosophy within the delivery of scientific and strength and conditioning support.
• To lead the design and delivery of a relevant sports science education programme that educates players, coaches, and parents and/or guardians. Where appropriate, identify and facilitate appropriate communication methods, including workshops and seminars.The role will be based at the club’s training ground in London Colney, and will primarily be working with the PDP squad but may include working across all Academy ages (U9s to U21s at times).
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford and London Colney or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
• BSc in Sport & Exercise Science or a sports-related discipline
• FA First Aid and/or Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification (EFAiF)
• FA Safeguarding Certificate
• Extensive experience of working in a sports science setting with elite young athletes
• Experience of working in a football academy setting
• Be able to work effectively in a team environment and operate effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary support team
• This role will have regular contact with children, and it is therefore required by law to have a DBS Enhanced Criminal Record Check with children’s barred list check
• Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
• Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & SafeguardingFor the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Professional Development Phase (PDP) Academy Sports Scientist
Salary / Rate of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience (discussed at interview)
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Friday February 3 2023Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
When Jack Grieves stepped onto the pitch at Reading in the 54th minute of the FA Cup tie for his Watford debut, it completed a rollercoaster journey.
Watford’s FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division clash away at Gillingham has been rescheduled for Sunday March 12 (2pm KO).
The Hornets were originally due to face the Chatham-based outfit on Sunday January 8 before advancing to the Vitality Women’s FA Cup third round, instead facing Crystal Palace on that date.
Damon Lathrope’s side will be hoping for a similar performance to the one that yielded a 3-2 victory in the reverse fixture, with goals from Helen Ward, Bianca Baptiste and Dré Georgiou helping open the 2022/23 season in style.
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All at Watford FC are pleased to announce our participation in the world’s biggest football campaign to tackle climate change, Green Football Weekend, joining a group of 80 professional UK clubs in the battle to protect our world.
Today (Tuesday January 17) scoring opens for the campaign’s Green Football Cup, where it’s not the players but fan action that will decide the winner. By scoring green goals by taking climate-friendly actions, our fans can help us take home the silverware, tackle climate change, protect nature and save money all at the same time.
Hornets fans can choose their activities and register their goals at greenfootballweekend.com, whether they’re selecting to eat a veggie meal, take a shorter shower, cycle and walk more, or turn the thermostat down by one degree. Three goals can be scored once by pledging, or three goals per action by taking action and evidencing it. The competition will culminate in Green Football Weekend on February 3-5, when the winning team will be revealed.
Sarah Jacobs, from Green Football Weekend, said: “In scoring green goals for their club, football fans have incredible power to help protect our world - and save money in the process. If the UK’s 36 million supporters adopted three climate-friendly habits across the course of the 20-day tournament - reducing their shower time to four minutes, having two meat-free days per week and turning the thermostat down by one degree - fans could save more than 700 million kg CO2e, the equivalent of planting 11.78 million trees.
“And the benefits go beyond helping tackle climate change and protecting nature. In taking part, fans can also make significant savings. By adopting these small changes for one year, they could reduce their household bill by £728.”
The campaign, which is set to become an annual event, is backed by more than 30 major supporters, including the FA, the EFL, the WSL, the National Trust, RSPB and the Church of England.
On January 21, the Archbishop of Canterbury’s Football Team will be taking on an interfaith team for a Green Football Weekend match, supported by the Archbishop of Canterbury and the Bishop for Sport Libby Lane.
An area of rainforest the size of 1,000 football pitches will be protected by Rainforest Trust UK in the name of the winning club.
Thousands of schools are taking part, with teachers running special lessons and clubs sending club staff and mascots into classrooms to inspire students.
Green Football Weekend is powered by Sky Sports, BT Sport, the Football Supporters’ Association, Pledgeball, Planet League, First News and Count Us In.
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Ben Aiton & Tom Wicks from 'The Golden Pages Fanzine' return to discuss Watford picking up all three points in a 2-0 victory over Blackpool.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watford FC forward Joseph Hungbo has joined fellow Sky Bet Championship side Huddersfield Town on loan until the end of the 2022/23 season, the club confirms.
The 23-year-old signed for the Hornets in July 2019, following his departure from Crystal Palace, and after making his senior debut against Tranmere Rovers in the Emirates FA Cup six months later, he went on to spend the 2021/22 campaign at Scottish Premiership side Ross County.
A year north of the border yielded plenty of success for Hungbo, with the London native scoring six goals in 33 appearances in all competitions - including the Cinch SPFL Goal of the Season against Dundee - while he also claimed Ross County’s Goal of the Year, Players’ Young Player of the Year and Young Player of the Year awards.
Having returned to Hertfordshire in the summer, Hungbo has featured nine times during 2022/23 - including starts against MK Dons and Reading in the Carabao Cup and FA Cup respectively - taking his tally of total club appearances to 17.
He will now gain further experience at Huddersfield under Head Coach Mark Fotheringham, with the Terriers currently sitting 22nd in the second-tier rankings ahead of an away clash at Blackpool on Saturday (January 21).
Best of luck, Joe!
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Watford’s important 2-0 victory over Blackpool (Saturday January 14) received plenty of attention online, following a league debut goal from Tobi Adeyemo and a spot-kick conversion from Ismaïla Sarr.
Players past and present and supporters alike took to social media to express their delight at the win.
One of the heroes from the afternoon was 17-year-old Adeyemo, who shared his emotions on Instagram.
Goalscorer Sarr joined Adeyemo in conveying his personal delight at the three points.
Alongside Adeyemo, four other Hornets made their home league debuts, as João Ferreira, Jack Grieves, Ismaël Koné and Matheus Martins all took to the field, with the latter two posting on social media.
View this post on InstagramCraig Cathcart's leadership at the back was the basis for a second successive league clean sheet as Watford beat Blackpool on Saturday.
Watford secured an impressive 2-0 victory against Blackpool on Saturday (January 14), with a memorable league debut goal for Tobi Adeyemo and Ismaïla Sarr’s spot-kick rounding off the win.
Having caught every moment as the game unfolded at Vicarage Road on the Graham Taylor Matchday, we’ve compiled some photos from the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship fixture.
Pre-Match Preparations
First-Half Battles
Adeyemo Opens His Account - Watford 1-0 Blackpool 72’
Sarr Converts From The Spot - Watford 2-0 Blackpool 87’
The Full-Time Scenes
Selected images: Darren Campbell
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Matheus Martins had to fly to Brazil and Italy before making his debut on Saturday and having a hand in both goals.
In little over a week Tobi Adeyemo played in the FA Cup, helped win an FA Youth Cup tie and scored for the first team
Watford head coach once again made it clear he wants a new midfielder, a new winger and a new striker before the transfer window closes
Two league starts, two clean sheets and two victories – what a way for James Morris to announce his arrival in defence
Slaven Bilic hailed the way Tobi Adeyemo scored the opening goal in yesterday’s 2-0 win over Blackpool.
1- So Monday’s a big day. Well not really. Not in the grand scheme of things. But sort of significant, to me. Or it should be. A milestone, a big one, an Important one. I remember Dad telling me on my fifteenth birthday, “The first fifteen are the longest. The next are half as long. […]
The jobs on offer range from store and deputy managers to stock assistants and young store management apprenticeship schemes
Tickets for Watford’s trips to Reading (Saturday February 4, 3pm KO) and Burnley (Tuesday February 14, 8pm KO) in the Sky Bet Championship will go on sale to supporters in Away Group A at 12noon on Monday (January 16).
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Monday January 16- Away Group B
12noon, Tuesday January 17- Away Group C
12noon, Wednesday January 18- Away Group D
12noon, Thursday January 19- Away Group E*
10am, Friday January 20- General Sale
3pm, Friday January 20*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixtures at Reading and Burnley will finish at 4pm on Friday February 3 and 11am on Tuesday February 14 respectively. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Reading - Junior Hornets Away Day
The away trip to Reading has been selected as a Junior Hornets Away Day. A morning trip to Red Kangaroo Trampoline Park is now fully subscribed, but Junior Hornets and their families can still join us in the Junior Hornets seating area for the match.
Junior Hornets match ticket sales will be available from 12noon on Monday January 16 - there is no need to wait for your respective sales group. Junior Hornets Away Day bookings can be made by phone or in-person only. Please either call us on 01923 223023 or visit the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Junior Hornets aged under 14 must be accompanied by an adult when attending the match. Those aged 14 and 15 wanting to attend without an adult must complete a consent form. These can be found HERE, and completed forms should be returned, via email, to supporters@watfordfc.com.
Junior Hornets is open to all young Watford supporters, aged up to 15. You can sign up to become a Junior Hornet at tickets.watfordfc.com. Membership is free of charge.
Reading - Ticket Prices
The pricing structure, including different pricing for supporters in away sales groups and those who are not, has been set by Reading. A limited number of seats are being offered by Reading at the cheaper family rate - we are subsidising extra seats as necessary to ensure all Junior Hornets and their families can take advantage of that price level.
- Adult (Away Group / No Away Group / Junior Hornets Area): £20/£20/£18
- 65 & Over (Away Group / No Away Group / Junior Hornets Area): £15/£18/£15
- 18-24 Year Olds (Away Group / No Away Group / Junior Hornets Area): £12/£15/£12
- 13-17 Year Olds (Away Group / No Away Group / Junior Hornets Area): £8/£11/£5
- 12 & Under (Away Group / No Away Group / Junior Hornets Area): £6/£9/£2
Reading - Coach Travel
General supporters’ coaches for our trip to Reading will depart from Occupation Road at 11.30am. Coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Reading - Car Parking
Car parking, including accessible parking, is available to be booked in advance by visiting ticketing.readingfc.co.uk or phoning 0118 968 1313.
Reading - Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Friday February 3, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking. We will arrange for replacement tickets to be available for collection from the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Burnley - Ticket Prices
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £18
- 18-21 Year Olds: £18
- Under 18: £10
Burnley - Coach Travel
All coaches for our trip to Burnley will depart from Occupation Road at 12noon. Coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination.
As this journey is using the M1 northbound there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 12.45pm.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Burnley - Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Monday February 13, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking. We will arrange for replacement tickets to be available for collection from Turf Moor.
Burnley - Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocation specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area is available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for these matches.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
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Francisco Sierralta shared his delight after Watford’s 2-0 win over Blackpool, with home and league debut goalscorer Tobi Adeyemo and the other youngsters stepping up to help the Hornets secure a second consecutive Sky Bet Championship success.
The Chilean defender was key to securing a clean sheet at Vicarage Road, playing the full 90 minutes in a committed display on the Graham Taylor Matchday.
With Adeyemo’s goal and Ismaïla Sarr’s penalty ultimately the difference against the Tangerines, Sierralta praised the Golden Boys’ resolve despite their ongoing injury woes.
“It’s an important victory, and we are all happy for the young players,” said Sierralta, 25. “We demonstrated that we are a team even with some players injured, we are happy and need to continue.
“It’s difficult, every game in the Championship is difficult. I think we need to try and keep a clean sheet every time because our attack is very good and will score. If we keep a clean sheet we will win the game.
“All the team was involved, all the team ran, all the team pressed. We are happy and it is very important that we got a win.”
Tributes were paid before kick-off in honour of GT and fellow former manager Gianluca Vialli, who passed away recently, and Sierralta felt the full support of all four stands on an emotional afternoon at The Vic.
With Rotherham United visiting the Golden Boys next weekend (Saturday January 21, 3pm KO), Sierralta is now turning his attention to the next test.
“It’s incredible,” he added. “The fans always give something more to us so we can win the game. It’s good to play at home as they always sing and support us.
“It was important to get a clean sheet to win the game, we keep going and will push every game.
“We want to rest now, and in the week we will prepare for the next game. Hopefully we can deliver the same result.”
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić was full of praise for his youthful Watford side, after their latest gutsy performance earned an impressive 2-0 win over Blackpool in the Sky Bet Championship on Graham Taylor Matchday.
Teenage forward Tobi Adeyemo stepped off the bench to make it 1-0 on his league debut 27 minutes into the second half, before Ismaïla Sarr put the result beyond doubt with a composed penalty kick close to the death.
With a host of injuries and other absences continuing to severely limit the numbers available to Bilić, the former Croatia boss handed out five league debuts - to Adeyemo, Ismaël Koné, João Ferreira, Matheus Martins and Jack Grieves - while seven players aged 21 or under were on the pitch draped in yellow at full-time.
“The boys were brilliant,” said Bilić. “We never gave up, we were very together, and we showed incredible spirit. I’m very proud of all of them. Some games mean more than just three points, and this was one of them. We’ve shown what we can do without so many players out, and we’re only going to get better.
“The game was a bit flat in the first half - we started well and hit the bar, and had a lot of possession - but we weren’t dangerous enough where it matters. So, I decided not to wait to make the change - we went to a back four at the start of the second half, and it gave us more going forward.
“The changes made an impact straight away - we were suddenly more creative, and from one of those chances we scored the first goal. We then went on to score a second, and in the end it was a deserved three points.”
Bilić lauded the attitude and desire of the whole squad in the wake of the team’s second successive league victory, particularly showering praise on a couple of the day’s standout young stars.
He said: “We saw Tobi a few days before the Reading game - like some of the other young guys - and I liked what I saw in training. He came on in that game and he lifted the whole team with his running and his bravery, which is what strikers are asked of in this division.
“We were always planning on bringing him on for Bayo, because Bayo hasn’t trained much since Norwich, but he came on in a pressured situation where we needed a goal - which wasn’t ideal - and he made the most of it.
“What I really like is that he plays with freedom and responsibility. A lot of young players wouldn’t have taken his goal like he did - they would have shied from it because they wouldn’t want to be embarrassed, but he wanted to score. I like that mentality, and I’m really pleased for him.
“[Matheus] Martins also came on and was directly involved in both goals. His shot led to Tobi’s goal, and he won the penalty. He’s been training with us, but he’s still had to come to a completely new country with a different language, and he’s hardly been here this week.
“He had to go to Brazil for his work permit and then to Italy, and I wasn’t sure if he’d be ready to play, but he told me he wanted to be involved. He was great, and the exciting thing is he’ll only get better.”
Hamza Choudhury featured for 68 minutes in his first appearance of 2023, and Bilić is buoyed by the promise of more returnees in the coming weeks, along with the knowledge he can count on the club’s Academy talent.
The 54-year-old also recognised the leadership and quality demonstrated by some of his more experienced players, with stand-in skipper Craig Cathcart and goalscorer Sarr coming in for praise.
Bilić added: “We always had in mind that Hamza would play 60 or 70 minutes, because he’s just come back, and it was good to have him in the team. We know players are going to continue to come back, and if they come back in good shape, and we’re able to add some more names during the transfer window, we’ll be in good shape. I certainly wouldn’t be afraid of playing any team in this division.
“We’re still in this situation with missing players, but the main reason I’m excited tonight is because this team would have been extremely young for a friendly game, nevermind a Championship game! We’ve come through it, and shown what we’re about.
“The Academy lads know they’re with us because of the injury situation, but they’ve all been great and we know more about them now. We know that they are there, and they can help us if we need them.
“In the second half Cathcart was playing alongside [James] Morris, and [Francisco] Sierralta alongside João Ferreira, which I thought worked well. Cathcart has to step up in these types of games because he is the class master, and that’s exactly what he did. He was brilliant.
“Sarr was unbelievable, as well. In these sorts of situations you require extraordinary personalities, and he’s one of the players who brought that today. I talked to him about stepping up, and he did. He was leading the team, encouraging other players, and I liked the fact he really embraced that challenge. Everyone showed their value today, and it was a great display.”
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João Ferreira was delighted to make his first appearance in yellow and is excited for more to come, after Watford beat Blackpool 2-0 at The Vic in the Sky Bet Championship.
A second-half strike from youngster Tobi Adeyemo put the Hornets ahead, before an Ismaïla Sarr penalty sealed the three points for Watford on the Graham Taylor Matchday.
Ferreira was subbed on at half-time in place of Jeremy Ngakia for his club debut, and the 21-year-old - who arrived in Hertfordshire earlier this month from Benfica - showed plenty of positive signs that left him feeling good about the coming weeks.
“I’m feeling very happy,” Ferreira said. “It’s my first match and I hope there are many more games to come, and I feel better because we won too.
“I think it was a difficult game, but together we stepped up, we scored the first one and after that the game became easier. We’re all delighted with the final result.”
Besides Ferreira’s Watford bow there were first home and league appearances for Ismaël Koné, Matheus Martins, Tobi Adeyemo and Jack Grieves, as Watford looked to embed some of their new signings and youngsters.
Ferreira explained that he enjoyed playing alongside his new teammates, especially Craig Cathcart and his defensive partners.
Ferreira will be looking to follow up his performance against Blackpool next week, when the Golden Boys host Rotherham United (January 21, 3pm KO) back on second-tier duty.
He added: “[The other defenders] have a lot of experience, and I have a lot to learn from them, so I feel very good because they give me comfort at the back.
“But I feel very good, and I think I can take much from them and learn from them. I can’t wait to get back out there next week, and I hope we can deliver the same result.”
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Watford forward Tobi Adeyemo was awestruck after opening the scoring for the Hornets on his senior league debut, in an impressive 2-0 victory over Blackpool at Vicarage Road.
After a goalless first half, the 17-year-old Academy striker took just four minutes to score the first for the club after being substituted into the action, sending the Vicarage Road faithful into raptures before Ismaïla Sarr secured all three points from the spot close to the death.
At full-time, Adeyemo couldn’t quite believe what he had just achieved, but was extremely thankful to the club and the staff for their unwavering support.
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“It was an indescribable feeling,” he began. “First and foremost, I want to thank God, I want to thank my family and I want to thank all the staff at Watford who have supported me throughout this journey because this is just unbelievable.
“I want to say that dreams do come true. I have dreamt about this moment, scoring on my home debut. The fans are incredible, it was an amazing feeling.”
Before stepping onto the pitch with the match deadlocked, Head Coach Slaven Bilić had some wise words for Adeyemo to inspire the youngster to make a difference.
When the chance did fall to the second-year scholar, he made no mistake and ran over to celebrate with a familiar face from the youth set-up, Jack Grieves, who would eventually make his own home debut on Graham Taylor Matchday.
Adeyemo continued: “Slaven [Bilić] told me that I was here for a reason, and that he wanted me to go out there and show what I can do. I just want to thank Slaven so much for giving me the opportunity - I’m just so grateful.
“The ball came out after the Blackpool goalkeeper parried it, and I said to myself ‘I’m going to get my foot on this, I’m going to score here’. When the ball went in the back of the net I couldn’t believe it. I literally put my hands on my head and I was in shock, honestly. I couldn’t believe it.
“I can’t describe [the celebration]. It’s terrific, absolutely terrific. Grieves, what a legend, I love that guy. Seeing him from the Academy and being on the pitch together at the same time is different class.”
Adeyemo is hoping to use this incredible moment as a platform to continue progressing in his bright career.
He added: “It’s been an incredible week, with the FA Youth Cup win [against Everton], and making my debut against Reading. I’m just so grateful really. Everything has happened so fast, I’m just trying to keep up.
“I’m going to remember this for the rest of my life. I will not forget this moment. I just want to kick on now, and I’m hungry for more.”
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Watford head coach Slaven Bilic said he made a double substitution at half-time because he wanted to lift a game that had become flat.
Watford continued their winning start to 2023 in the Championship and moved up to third in the table after a moment that would have brought a broad smile to the face of the club’s greatest ever manager.
A young Watford side rise to third in the league with a win on the Graham Taylor Matchday
Watford’s reward for beating Everton 3-1 on Monday is a home tie with either Newcastle or Arsenal in the FA Youth Cup Fifth Round.
Tickets for Watford FC Women’s FA WNL Southern Premier Division fixture against Ipswich Town (Sunday February 5, 2pm KO) at Grosvenor Vale will go on general sale to supporters at 10am on Monday January 16.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com if you have any queries.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
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For the remainder of the 2022/23 season, the Hornets Shop at Vicarage Road Stadium will be closed on Sundays (excluding matchdays).
The Atria store in Watford town centre will continue to trade as usual, while fans can also shop online HERE.
The up-to-date opening hours for both stores are as follows:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Monday to Saturday: 9am - 6pm
Sunday: CLOSEDAtria Watford
Monday to Saturday: 9am - 6pm
Sunday: 11am - 5pmAs well as on matchdays, store opening hours may differ on Bank Holidays.
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Match Info
- Watford v Blackpool
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road Stadium
- Saturday January 14, 3pm KO
Officials
- Referee: Gavin Ward
- Assistant Referees: Adrian Waters and Robert Hyde
- Fourth Official: Darren Drysdale
Graham Taylor Matchday
Watford FC will mark the sixth anniversary of the passing of our greatest ever manager with the Graham Taylor Matchday against Blackpool.
Over the past few seasons, supporters have raised a scarf in GT’s honour as the players have entered the field before kick-off, and we are delighted to continue this tradition in 2023.
Before the match commences, supporters are invited to hold their scarves aloft to pay tribute to GT and the fantastic work that continues in his name.
Opposition
The Seasiders travel to Vicarage Road winless in the league since late October, sitting 22nd in the Sky Bet Championship table on 26 points. Since the World Cup break however, they have drawn four and have only lost once in the second tier.
This season, Blackpool have received a staggering seven red cards and fall bottom of the fair play table.
Following a 4-1 victory over Premier League outfit Nottingham Forest in the Emirates FA Cup last weekend, the Tangerines will be looking to change their tune in the league to try and avoid the drop.
Stats Buzz
Blackpool are looking for their first-ever league double over Watford, following a 3-1 victory at Bloomfield Road earlier this season.
The Hornets have scored 11 goals in their previous two home Football League games against Blackpool, as many as in their last six such games against the Seasiders (W1 D2 L3).
The Tangerines are looking to avoid three consecutive defeats against Watford at Vicarage Road in the Football League, having lost on just one of their previous seven visits before then (W3 D3).
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Blackpool In Numbers.
Team News
Hamza Choudhury is back training with the Watford squad and will be assessed ahead of the game. Keinan Davis and Edo Kayembe are close to a return but will not be featuring this weekend.
Slaven Bilić is hoping recent arrival Matheus Martins will be available this weekend, as the club await visa confirmation, while new defender João Ferreira is eligible for selection.
Full Watford team news can be found HERE.
For Blackpool, Callum Connolly is back at Michael Appleton’s disposal having served his suspension, with returning loanee Josh Bowler also available.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“We know playing Blackpool is going to be a big challenge. We always talk about how the Championship is so tight, and there are no games where you can relax. Every team in this division has their own goals.
“They’re a competitive side. We were dominant on the ball, but we lost the last game against them because we couldn’t cope with their counter-attacking and our defending wasn’t good enough, but we know what to do to change that.”
Michael Appleton, Blackpool Head Coach:
“They’ve got good players in their team. I know they’ve got a few injuries, but you’ve only got to look at the top end of the pitch to see how strong they are as a unit.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 9
Drawn: 9
Lost: 8Last Six:
October 2022: Blackpool 3-1 Watford (Championship)
January 2015: Watford 7-2 Blackpool (Championship)
September 2014: Blackpool 0-1 Watford (Championship)
March 2014: Watford 4-0 Blackpool (Championship)
August 2013: Blackpool 1-0 Watford (Championship)
March 2013: Watford 1-2 Blackpool (Championship)Golden Flashback
Watford turned around a 2-0 half-time deficit to win 7-2 in the last meeting between the Hornets and Blackpool at Vicarage Road in January 2015, with Odion Ighalo netting four.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Blackpool, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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It may be a cliché that every New Year brings New Year’s resolutions and a flurry of plans to improve your health and get fit, but if you are determined to make 2023 the year of change, Watford Football Club’s Community Sports and Education Trust can help you.
If you think that you’d like to but are facing barriers, the Trust can also help with that as well. In the current cost of living crisis, for example, there are two programmes on offer completely free thanks to various partners and funders.
First up is Shape Up, delivered by the Trust across Hertfordshire (upcoming courses in Hatfield, Hemel Hempstead, South Oxhey, Watford, and Welwyn), and funded by the Premier League and PFA Community Fund, and Hertfordshire County Council.
Shape Up is a free 12-week weight management course designed for adults aged 18 to 65 years old with a BMI (Body Mass Index) of 30 or over, or for those from ethnic minority backgrounds with a BMI of 28 or over.
Participants meet up weekly for a 90 minute session, comprising of a 45 minute educational segment and a 45 minute physical activity session.
These two segments are delivered with the aim of improving participants’ healthy lifestyle knowledge, to ensure a sustainable weight loss rather than the typically short-term benefit of a diet-based programme.
Backed by local GPs, participants can get involved with Shape Up by signing up through their local surgery, or by emailing or visiting the Trust’s website.
Speaking about the programme, previous participant 46-year-old Rob said: “I can’t recommend this course highly enough, do it! Take 90 minutes out of your weekly routine, change your life; take small steps but you will reap the benefits. I have!”
You can register for this programme HERE or contact Shaun Murphy on 07938 486378 or shaun.murphy@watfordfc.com.
Next up is Active Watford and Three Rivers, funded by the Premier League and PFA Community Fund, Watford Borough Council, Three Rivers District Council, Herts Valley CCG, and Watford Community Housing.
Active Watford and Three Rivers is a programme that works with inactive people in Watford and Three Rivers, who are at risk from cardiovascular disease and/or mild to moderate mental health issues, helping them become active.
The programme does this by providing face-to-face consultations, delivered by the Trust’s Health and Wellbeing Manager, lasting for up to a year. Individuals will look at why they would like to become active, and what barriers they might face, establish their goals and confidence levels as well as create action plans.
As part of this process, a consultation will look at what activities or sports the client will enjoy so that they can be signposted to local sports clubs, exercise classes, leisure centres, gyms or community exercise programmes based on their needs.
You can self-refer into the scheme if you are aged over 16 years old, live in Watford and Three Rivers, and do less than 30 minutes of physical activity a week. To self-refer click HERE or contact Alison Goodchild on 07710 096398 or alison.goodchild@watfordfc.com
The Trust’s community hub in North Watford, the Meriden Community Centre, also has a fully equipped gym, available at a lower cost than mainstream gyms. To enquire about this, why not pop in to see the team at WD18 9ET or contact them at MeridenReception@watfordfc.com
For general information on these programmes or any of the Trust’s other projects, you can contact community@watfordfc.com, visit the Trust’s website HERE or follow them on social media HERE.
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Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Saturday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Blackpool (January 14, 3pm KO), with Slaven Bilić’s men looking to bounce back to winning ways after their Emirates FA Cup exit at Reading last time out.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Graham Taylor Matchday
Watford FC will mark the sixth anniversary of the passing of our greatest ever manager with the Graham Taylor Matchday against Blackpool.
Over the past few seasons, supporters have raised a scarf in GT’s honour as the players have entered the field before kick-off, and we are delighted to continue this tradition in 2023.
Before the match commences, supporters are invited to hold their scarves aloft to pay tribute to GT and the fantastic work that continues in his name.
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Blackpool, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Slaven Bilic said he did not agree with comments made by Technical Director Ben Manga about automatic promotion
Slaven Bilic said that Manchester United winger Facundo Pellistri is a player he hopes might come to Watford.
Slaven Bilic was able to talk about a player returning to action for Watford, but that was somewhat tempered by the news another was ruled out.
The new Energy Bill Discount Scheme - which was announced this week - will reduce instead of capping energy costs for businesses and will last a year
Seven years on from the death of Graham Taylor, former Watford FC head of communications Andrew French pays tribute to his friend and former boss
Watford fans and the wider football community are today remembering Graham Taylor six years after his death.
Watford have confirmed that 21-year-old Portuguese defender Joao Ferreira has joined on a four-and-a-half-year deal.
Watford’s 2-0 defeat to Reading may have seen the Hornets bow out of the Emirates FA Cup, but the occasion provided the opportunity for four Golden Boys to make their first-team debuts having risen through the Academy ranks.
The Royals struck in either half through Kelvin Abrefa and Shane Long as Slaven Bilić made 15 changes to his Watford squad due to a growing list of injury absentees, with the Head Coach selecting several youngsters who worked hard to repay his faith in them.
Michael Adu-Poku, 17, started the game alongside Adrian Blake, who was making his second appearance for the club, with Ryan Andrews, Jack Grieves and Tobi Adeyemo coming on as second-half substitutes.
Reflecting on their professional debuts post-match, the Young Hornets were delighted to rub shoulders with first-team names and be a part of the senior squad, with Assistant Coach Julian Dicks also full of praise for their efforts at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Michael Adu-Poku:
“It was tough, but I tried to put my all into the game and work hard for the team.
“The game was physical, the defenders didn’t give me an easy time at all, but it was a good challenge. I tried to hold my own and give it back to them, and with experience I’ll get better.
“In academy football I’d say I’m more dominant, I’m a bit bigger than the players I come up against, but the players today were bigger than me which means I had to use my brain more and play off it.
“The team around me helped, gave me words of advice and to go out and enjoy it which helped.
“[The support] was brilliant, really motivated me and gave me an extra push when I was tired.”
Ryan Andrews:
“I found it an absolute joy! Hopefully there are many more experiences to come, but it’s a dream come true for me, my family and everyone that’s helped me in my career so far.
“[Bilić] told me to express myself, leave everything out there and do what I do best.
“In the first couple of minutes out there I felt a bit nervous, but that’s to be expected. After that I got into the game, got more comfortable, and having the likes of [William] Troost-Ekong beside me helped a lot.
“I’ve worked so hard throughout my time in the Under-18s and 21s, and I’m glad this moment came.”
Jack Grieves:
“I enjoyed it a lot. To make my debut for my boyhood club is everything to me, I’m really proud. It’s a shame about the result, but we’ll keep looking forward.
“The fans showed great support for all of us. There were quite a few young players in the squad today, and the players and fans made it easier for us to settle in. It was a great experience for all of us.
“I got on the ball a little bit, obviously coming into the first-team environment and a professional game it takes time to adjust, but I thought when I got on the ball I did okay, and did what I could off the ball to regain possession.
“I had my nan, parents and brothers here, it was nice to know they were there supporting me because they’ve supported me throughout my whole career so far.”
Tobi Adeyemo:
“Today was a terrific opportunity for me, I’m so grateful. To come on and make my professional debut, I’ve dreamt about this moment a thousand times, coming up from the Academy to make my debut is unreal.
“Slaven said he expected two things from me, to be up for the occasion and to enjoy it. I just wanted to do what I’m good at, make runs, be aggressive and get beyond the defender.
“Me and Adrian Blake grew up together so to come on with him starting, and Michael Adu-Poku too - we played in the same Sunday league team - it was fantastic.”
Julian Dicks:
“Losing 2-0 is a tough result, but the boys that came in were superb.
“They’re gutted, but for the young lads it’s the start of their careers. They worked hard and that’s all you can ask for.
“I remember making my debut and you never forget it, but you do realise how tough it is to play at this level. They can all be very proud, they’ve done really well and it’s good for Watford Football Club.
“It’s tough for them, but it will stand them in good stead. I’m sure they’ll have a good future.”
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Watford head coach Slaven Bilic said he would be looking for “answers” after he saw another senior player limp off in the FA Cup defeat at Reading.
Midfielder Ismaël Koné was pleased to make his Watford debut despite his side falling to a 2-0 defeat at Reading in the Emirates FA Cup.
During his first outing in the traditional yellow strip, the Canadian’s focus was at the base of midfield as he looked to break the lines and give the Hornets an opportunity from set-pieces.
The 20-year-old was disappointed with the end result, but felt there were positives to take into a potential first league appearance against Blackpool next weekend (Saturday January 14, 3pm KO).
“It felt good [to play], I felt good,” Koné said. “I think we fought well. Unfortunately, we couldn’t score, but I think we had the right mentality going into the game.
“When you look at it, that was a team that has been put together over the last few days with players from the Academy, players that don’t play a lot and me, who has just come in. I’m just proud of the fact that we came and we fought, and we were able to play in our moments because we knew it was going to be tough, but I’m proud.
“I was hoping to get my debut from the start of the week, but it wasn’t clear until yesterday when I knew I was starting the game.
“This was for me to get minutes, to get my match fitness in and to get ready to go back with the team and play. Slaven Bilić didn’t ask much of me, he just asked us to execute the game plan that we all had and to be the best player I can be.
“That’s why I came here, because it’s a physical league that has a lot of good technical players. It’s a challenge for me and I’m really looking forward to it. I think I did well in my first game and hopefully I can do more and next time we win.”
Koné was joined in Berkshire by a selection of talented young Hornets hoping to make an impression on Head Coach Slaven Bilić.
Despite being a younger member of the squad himself, the former CF Montréal man can recall breaking into the first-team himself, and looked to guide the Academy players accordingly.
He continued: “I was in their position not so long ago, and coming into the team it would be greedy not to help them. They have talent and we had a lot of young players playing in that game, but it was good for them to get those minutes and see what it was like.
“For me, it was good to help them and coach them in a way to be better in the game. I think they did well and we fought well.”
It was also Koné’s first experience in front of the travelling Watford supporters – something he won’t be forgetting in a hurry.
“I didn’t know they were that loud!” he added. “I wasn’t expecting it to be that loud. It was an experience and I really liked it.
“We also talk about the 12th man and it’s real. You can feel the passion and the fact they are behind us. It motivates us to perform and do well, and I was very happy to see that, but unfortunately we couldn’t give them what we wanted. We all fought and I hope they are proud of the way we played. I look forward to more.”
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić hailed the attitude and character displayed by his inexperienced side as Watford’s 2022/23 Emirates FA Cup campaign came to an end with a brave 2-0 loss at Reading in the third round.
Goals at the end of either half from Kelvin Abrefa and Shane Long sealed the Royals’ win, but the Hornets more than played their part in Berkshire and went close through Yáser Asprilla and substitute Tobi Adeyemo.
Adeyemo was one of five debutants on the day, with Bilić having made 15 changes to his matchday squad following Bank Holiday Monday’s win at Norwich City due to injuries and other absences.
Four of the five making their senior bow - Adeyemo, Michael Adu-Poku, Ryan Andrews and Jack Grieves - are all products of the Watford Academy, and Bilić expressed his pride at their brave showing against the club’s Sky Bet Championship rivals.
“Of course I’m never happy when we lose a game, but considering the situation and the team we put out, I’m happy with what we gave to the game,” said Bilić, 54.
“The guys that came in gave their best, and I’m really pleased with the character and quality they showed - especially in the second half. You could see it was perhaps a bit early for some of them, but they all approached the game in the right way.
“I told them to not get too nervous, and to enjoy it, and I think they all did great. The first goal was a bit of a strange one to concede, but we came back and showed we could create a few chances before they scored again right at the end.”
The one other to have come into the team for his first minutes in yellow was recent arrival Ismaël Koné, with the full Canada international completing 90 minutes at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Bilić was delighted with the impact of the 20-year-old and has high hopes for him in the short and long-term future, insisting that his ability and mentality will benefit the whole club on and off the field.
Bilić said: “It’s early days and he’s one for the future, but we could see already today that he’s ready to make an impact straight away.
“He looks like an athlete, he’s good on the ball and he’s aggressive when he’s on a player. He’s also got the right character, and you can see he’s going to bring his personality onto the pitch.
“He put a smile on my face with his performance. He showed me that I can count on him and use him straight away, which is obviously going to be very important going forward.”
The seemingly endless injury concerns at Watford were compounded when Koné’s fellow midfielder Leandro Bacuna hobbled off with a hamstring problem just nine minutes after coming on at half-time, leaving Bilić frustrated and perplexed after the final whistle.
He added: “He [Bacuna] was getting himself into a rhythm after signing last month, and his best game was last time out against Norwich so this was an ideal opportunity for him to get another 45 minutes. For him to get injured as quickly as he did is strange, impossible and unacceptable.
“I’m not a doctor or a physio, but this situation is affecting me the most, and I want answers. We can’t just keep saying it’s unlucky, unlucky, unlucky. We’re going to have a meeting about this, because it’s clear we need to change things.”
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Watford FC is pleased to announce the signing of Portuguese defender João Ferreira on a four-and-a-half-year deal from Benfica, for an undisclosed fee.
The 21-year-old arrives from his native country having spent the first half of the season on loan at top-flight side Rio Ave, where he made 12 appearances in all competitions.
A graduate of Benfica’s academy, Ferreira regularly featured for the Eagles’ B Team and youth sides as he rose through the ranks domestically, and internationally for Portugal up to Under-19s level.
His youth journey yielded a runners-up medal in the UEFA Youth League in 2020, after lining up against the likes of Dinamo Zagreb and Ajax en route to the showpiece against eventual winners Real Madrid.
Ferreira made his league debut for Benfica’s first team against Nacional in January 2021, having made his maiden appearance a month prior in the UEFA Europa League, and marked the moment with an assist during a group-stage fixture at Standard Liège.
Adept at playing on either side of the backline, Ferreira moved to Vitória de Guimarães on loan for the 2021/22 campaign - where he made 14 league appearances and helped earn a sixth-place finish - before making a second temporary switch to newly-promoted Primeira Liga rivals Rio Ave.
Ferreira will join training immediately and becomes eligible to feature from next weekend’s game at home to Blackpool (Saturday January 14, 3pm KO).
Welcome to Watford, João!
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A young Watford team slipped out of the FA Cup and once again there was an injury sustained by a senior player.
A beloved café has revealed the reason for its imminent closure amid an outpouring of sadness from customers.
The football world has paid tribute to Gianluca Vialli following his passing at the age of 58, with former Hornets reflecting on the time they shared with the ex-Watford manager.
Golden Boys legend Paul Robinson took to Twitter to pay his respects, thanking him for his guidance and sending well-wishes to Vialli’s family and friends.
Robinson was the second-highest appearance-maker under Vialli, and expressed his sadness upon hearing of his former manager’s passing.
“Having seen him play in top-level football, I couldn't wait to learn from him,” Robinson remembered, having expressed profound sadness at his former manager's untimely death.
“I was inspired by him as a person, having seen how he played at the very top level of the game. There was a sense of awe when I first spoke to him, but he was so down-to-earth.
“He put a lot of trust in me; I remember him saying he knew I could play left wing-back and any other position he needed - and my confidence grew from that. I felt my game really went to the next level.
“I'd had great seasons as a team already of course, under GT [Graham Taylor], so I was a little bit older at this point and Luca really allowed me to express myself.
“I wanted to learn from him; to understand what he wanted from our team and me as a player. I must have really clicked with him, because I played loads of games and scored a nice few goals that season.
“Both Luca and Ray [Wilkins] were inspirational people for me. You wanted to listen to their experiences.
“He was a total gentleman. That feeling of respect; that was my first emotion when I met him, so it was a great sadness when I heard the news of his passing.”
Marcus Gayle also provided a personal tribute to Vialli, having been brought to Vicarage Road by the Italian in 2001.
“It’s sad, sad news,” said Gayle. “He strove for perfection in all that he did, on and off the pitch. I had the pleasure of watching him on TV, playing against him and then was coached by him. What a top guy.”
Also signed for the Hornets by Vialli, compatriot Filippo Galli posted an emotional message accompanied by photos on Instagram, with the caption:
“Goodbye Luca, rest in peace. My condolences to the family. You will forever be my gaffer.”
Captain during Vialli’s tenure at Vicarage Road, Neil Cox remained close friends with his former manager many years after their association at Watford, catching up on the phone, sharing managerial advice and meeting for rounds on the golf course.
“Luca was a true gentleman that loved his football,” said Cox.
“He had a winning mentality towards the game, and he was a student of it. He knew it inside out.
“But most of all he was a great person that cared for the people around him. He was a touch of class, on and off the pitch.”
Watch Now
Head coach Slaven Bilic wants Watford to use January to bring in players that will help him immediately, as well as signing young talent.
There’s not one answer, reason or solution to the Watford injury crisis says Watford head coach Slaven Bilic.
New signing Ismael Kone will almost certainly make his Watford debut in the FA Cup Third Round tie at Reading tomorrow.
Watford’s FA Cup third round trip to Reading tomorrow may be an all-Championship affair, but the game will be refereed by a Premier League official.
Watford Head Coach Slaven Bilić is looking forward to a testing Emirates FA Cup third-round fixture against Reading this Saturday (January 7, 12.30pm KO).
Following an impressive 1-0 victory over Norwich City earlier this week, the Hornets will be looking to replicate that success as they travel to the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Speaking to the media ahead of the encounter, Bilić asserted his belief the Norwich City win will give his side the motivation needed to take the match to the Royals despite a mounting absentee list.
“There has been a good mood and it’s good after every successful result, especially after Monday’s victory against Norwich City,” Bilić began.
“Considering the situation we are in it was quite an extraordinary win. Of course, that has an effect on the training ground, but we have a game tomorrow. It’s been a positive injection.
“We have a situation [with injuries] and we don’t have a first-team and second-team, it’s just one group. It’s a very tiny group and it’s not a very good situation regarding that.
“Reading are a good side, a tough and solid side. They have threat up front and if you give them space, they will play. They are a very decent side and they are in good form. They have the fighting spirit like their manager [Paul Ince] had – he was that kind of player. I’m looking forward to the game.
“We are asking for something from this game. It’s completely opposite to a friendly game and knowing the situation we're in, we are expecting some individual performances that will say, ‘I can play that position if you need me’.”
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In preparation for the upcoming cup tie, Bilić has had to find the right balance between focusing on his squad’s fitness and giving new opportunities to deserving players, alongside remaining competitive in the world’s oldest national football competition.
He said: “Some of the guys will not be risked tomorrow because of the situation. I’m really trying to respect the FA Cup also. It’s a wonderful competition.
“It’s the easiest way to create a good impact because with a little bit of luck and a good team, you can go far.
“To be fair, Watford were in the final a few years ago. It is very tempting, but at this moment we have priorities, and we can’t do both unfortunately.”
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As a result of the current fitness issues presented, Bilić has enjoyed a look at some of the academy players during training, with a decision to be made on who to involve before Saturday.
“Some of them have only trained with us once, while others like Adrian Blake have been training with us for a while,” he explained.
“We got James Morris through the academy. When I came here, he wasn’t training with us at all, but when we didn’t have an alternative for Hassane Kamara he came in. With the progress that he has made, I wasn’t afraid to give him a chance against Norwich City and he looked really good.
“There are a few others that are training with us, a few that we know better than the rest like Blake. On him, it’s a no-brainer that he has something and he is talented. The rest to be fair I have only seen once or twice, so it’s very early to make a judgement on them, but they look lively and good.”
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Match Info
- Reading v Watford
- Emirates FA Cup third round
- Select Car Leasing Stadium
- Saturday January 7, 12.30pm KO
Officials
- Referee: Peter Bankes
- Assistant Referees: Edward Smart & Nick Greenhalgh
- Fourth Official: Tom Reeves
Travel Disruption
From January 3 to January 8, the South Western Railway (SWR) network will be impacted by industrial action.
SWR is urging customers to only travel if absolutely necessary between those dates. The latest information and details of which services are running can be found HERE.
Opposition
The Royals have tasted victory three times since suffering a 2-0 defeat to Watford back in November, when João Pedro’s double made the difference on the night. However, Reading are without a win in their last two and head into the FA Cup contest looking to regain their momentum.
Team News
Fifteen senior players are definitely unavailable to Slaven Bilić for Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup third-round tie.
The injury list stands at 13, Hassane Kamara is suspended and Matheus Martins continues to await his international clearance.
Young Canada international Ismaël Koné will be available to add to Watford’s midfield options. For more team news ahead of the match, click HERE.
For Reading, centre-back duo Liam Moore and Scott Dann could feature but Tom Holmes will not be available due to illness.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“It's been a good mood here considering the [injury] situation. It was a quite extraordinary win [against Norwich City] and it does give a positive injection into the training ground.
“Reading are a good side, a tough side, with fighting spirit like the manager [Paul Ince]. I'm looking forward to this one.”
Paul Ince, Reading Manager:
“Watford have got some injury worries, but no-one worried about us when we had so many injuries at the club so I’m not going to concern myself about them.
“Watford have a big squad, they’ve just bought a player for good money who is going to come in and play so I’m sure Slaven Bilić will be putting out a team who he knows can win the game. And whatever team they put out they are going to be good players.”
Head-To-Head
Overall:
Won: 50
Drawn: 26
Lost: 45Last Six:
November 2022: Watford 2-0 Reading (Championship)
April 2021: Watford 2-0 Reading (Championship)
October 2020: Reading 1-0 Watford (Championship)
August 2018: Reading 0-2 Watford (League Cup)
March 2015: Watford 4-1 Reading (Championship)
December 2014: Reading 0-1 Watford (Championship)Golden Flashback
The last time both sides met was only two months ago, when a brace from João Pedro earnt the Hornets three points in the Sky Bet Championship.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live audio coverage of Reading v Watford in the Emirates FA Cup, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the encounter.
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Watford’s Championship matches away at Burnley and at home to West Bromwich Albion have been selected for live broadcast by Sky Sports.
Slaven Bilic has described Gianluca Vialli as “one of the Peles of his generation” following the legendary Italian striker’s death.
Watford’s Sky Bet Championship matches away at Burnley and at home to West Bromwich Albion have been selected for live broadcast by Sky Sports.
The date for the trip to Burnley remains the same (Tuesday February 14), with kick-off being pushed back to the later time of 8pm, while the West Brom clash at The Vic is now set to take place at 8pm on Monday February 20.
Due to Sky Sports broadcast, Hive Live video coverage of the Burnley and West Brom games will only be accessible to supporters in countries where the matches aren’t being televised. A list of exempt territories will be revealed in due course ahead of each match, while Hive Live audio commentary will be available to all domestic and overseas supporters.
The Hornets’ other February fixtures remain set as previously scheduled, against Reading away (Saturday February 4, 3pm KO), at home to Blackburn Rovers (Saturday February 11, 3pm KO), and on the road at Sheffield United (Saturday February 25, 3pm KO).
Hive Live video streams will be available to overseas supporters only for these matches due to the Saturday 3pm blackout, while audio commentary will be available to all domestic supporters. Further details will be communicated in due course.
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The former Watford manager, and Chelsea and Italian footballing legend Gianluca Vialli, has died aged 58
Watford Head Coach Slaven Bilić paid tribute to former Hornets boss Gianluca Vialli following his passing at the age of 58.
Bilić, who faced the former Chelsea striker in his playing days, lauded Vialli and his achievements in the game as a player and manager, and reflected on the former Italy international’s illustrious career and warm personality off the pitch.
“It’s a sad day,” Bilić began. “I’m not just saying that as Watford manager, although he was part of our club and the club should be proud that one of football’s legends was with Watford.
“I didn’t know him personally but I’m sad. When you say Vialli, you mean a world-class footballer in every sense of the word. When you say Vialli, you have to say [Roberto] Mancini and when you say Mancini, you have to say Vialli.
“As a person, I have never read anything bad about him. I know a lot of people who played with him and he is only four years older than me; we are from the same generation. Some of my friends played with him, I played against him and they say he is one of the biggest gentlemen in football.
“To know that he fought cancer for five years, he deserved to live for centuries. It’s very sad. After Pelé, to lose Vialli too; Vialli was one of the Pelés of his generation, a truly top footballer on and off the pitch.”
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All at Watford FC are saddened to hear of former manager Gianluca Vialli’s passing aged 58.
Appointed at Vicarage Road in the summer of 2001, the arrival of one of the most decorated strikers in European football - who had also won five trophies during a two-and-a-half-year spell as Chelsea manager - was considered a major coup and ensured Watford’s profile remained high despite relegation from the Premier League a year previous.
Tasked with the difficult job of replacing club legend Graham Taylor, Gianluca achieved a 14th-place finish in the second tier alongside assistant Ray Wilkins and departed the club at the end of the 2001/02 campaign.
A prolific striker in his playing days, the Italy international plied his trade at Cremonese, Sampdoria, Juventus and Chelsea, winning two Serie A titles, the UEFA Cup and several domestic cups in his home country and England before going on to serve at the helm of the Blues following his on-pitch retirement.
Gianluca worked as part of Roberto Mancini’s backroom staff during Italy’s Euro 2020 triumph, capping off a trophy-laden career as a player and coach.
Our thoughts are with Gianluca’s family and friends at this difficult time.
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Watford greats Nigel Gibbs and Paul Robinson have paid tribute to Gianluca Vialli as the football world comes together to mourn the legendary Italian striker.
Watford fans will again have the opportunity to raise their scarves in tribute to the club’s greatest ever manager when the Hornets face Blackpool in their next home game.
Watford FC will mark the sixth anniversary of Graham Taylor’s passing with the ‘Graham Taylor Matchday’ against Blackpool on Saturday January 14 (3pm KO).
The Sky Bet Championship clash against Michael Appleton’s Seasiders represents the nearest home matchday to the anniversary of the death of the Hornets’ greatest ever manager, in 2017.
Taylor - who led the club to five promotions, into Europe and to an FA Cup final during spells in charge between 1977 and 1987, as caretaker in 1996 and from 1997 to 2001 - left an everlasting legacy at Watford, and we will continue to pay tribute to his remarkable impact on both the club and the community.
Over the past few seasons, supporters have raised a scarf in GT’s honour as the players have entered the field before kick-off, and Watford are delighted to continue this tradition in 2023.
Supporters are invited to hold their scarves aloft before the Blackpool match commences, to pay tribute to GT and the fantastic work that continues in his name.
Ticket information for the Blackpool match, and for the following week’s visit of Rotherham United (Saturday January 21, 3pm KO) can be found HERE, with prices for adults starting at just £20.
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Fifteen senior players are definitely unavailable to Slaven Bilić for Saturday’s Emirates FA Cup third-round tie at Reading (January 7, 12.30pm KO).
The injury list stands at 13, Hassane Kamara is suspended and Matheus Martins continues to await his international clearance.
Young Canada international Ismaël Koné will be available to add to Watford’s midfield options. He will wear squad number 11.
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The injury absentee list reads as follows:
Defenders: Christian Kabasele (hamstring), Kortney Hause (knee)
Midfielders: Imrân Louza (leg), Hamza Choudhury (knee), Tom Cleverley (achilles), Dan Gosling (achilles), Ken Sema (hamstring), Tom Dele-Bashiru (ankle), Edo Kayembe (calf)
Forwards: João Pedro (ankle), Keinan Davis (hamstring), Rey Manaj (hamstring), Samuel Kalu (hamstring)
Hornets’ supporters should expect to see a number of the club’s Academy players feature at the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Saturday, with over 2,000 fans set to make the trip to Berkshire.
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Watford get their 2022/23 Emirates FA Cup campaign underway at Reading this Saturday (January 7, 12.30pm KO), with Slaven Bilić’s men looking to build on their thrilling 1-0 win over Norwich City in the league last time out, and ultimately progress into the fourth round for the first time since reaching the final in 2018/19.
Ahead of the mouth-watering fixture at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, we take a look back at five of the best matches between the Hornets and the Royals over the years.
Watford 5-0 Reading – August 23, 1977
After a two-legged first-round League Cup tie that saw the Royals and the Hornets unable to be separated, a replay was in order. The first leg of the tie was Graham Taylor’s first match in charge of the Golden Boys, securing a 2-1 victory before a 1-0 loss in the reverse fixture.
The Watford boss was certain that his side would make no mistake this time, and the Hornets were ruthless in the replay. The players who etched their names onto the scoresheet that day were Bobby Downes, Sam Ellis from the spot, Roger Joslyn, Alan Mayes and Keith Mercer.
GT’s squad would reach the third round before being knocked out by West Bromwich Albion.
Watford 4-2 Reading – April 16, 1996
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GT would return to Watford as a Caretaker Manager, taking his place in the hotseat in February 1996 after a poor run of form in the First Division. With the Golden Boys languishing in the bottom two, GT’s return saw optimism and hope re-emerge as the team only lost three games from March onwards.
During that spell, Watford secured entertaining victories such as a 5-2 thrashing of Port Vale, a 6-3 win against Grimsby and a 4-2 triumph over the Royals. Devon White notched a brace, while Craig Ramage and David Connolly secured the result.
Despite an upturn in form, the Hornets would be relegated back to the Second Division where Kenny Jackett would take over the reins, with GT moving to General Manager.
Watford 3-0 Reading – April 24, 2010
It had been a nervy 2009/10 campaign, with the Hornets having struggled especially over the winter period. It meant that coming into the penultimate match of the season, Watford hadn’t secured their second-tier status for next season and needed to beat Reading to be assured of survival.
Any worries would be washed away in the opening stages as the ever-reliable Danny Graham notched the first. The chances kept coming, and Graham’s strike partner Heiðar Helguson would double Watford’s lead, before the Englishman put the result beyond doubt in the second half.
Current Watford skipper Tom Cleverley would be crowned Player of the Season on that day, before returning to his then parent club Manchester United.
Watford 4-1 Reading – March 14, 2015
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A memorable season that saw the Hornets get promoted to the top-flight after spending eight consecutive campaigns in the Championship included a convincing victory over the Royals.
The season had been breathtaking, and the start of this fixture was no different as Almen Abdi opened the scoring after just 53 seconds, before Matěj Vydra made it two before half-time. Following the break, Troy Deeney got in on the act as he fired the ball into the net and, despite a Reading goal, Fernando Forestieri would make it four with a neat left-footed strike.
The victory would help further the Golden Boys’ momentum as they headed towards the automatic promotion places, losing only once more for the rest of the season and securing promotion in style against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Watford 2-0 Reading – November 8, 2022
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The most recent encounter between the sides came in the league just two months ago, with João Pedro goals either side of half-time powering Watford to a comfortable 2-0 win under the lights at Vicarage Road.
It took the 21-year-old just 15 minutes to open the scoring from the penalty spot, after he was fouled in the Royals’ 18-yard box, and the Boy from Brazil later put the result beyond doubt with an empathic finish on the bounce just three minutes from the death.
After a home defeat to Coventry City in their previous game, three points in the penultimate clash before the World Cup-enforced break marked a fourth victory in five for Watford, that pushed them back into the Championship play-off places.
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If Watford are to be serious promotion contenders, then owner Gino Pozzo must deliver what head coach Slaven Bilic needs this month
Jeremy Ngakia has achieved his first appearance milestone as a Watford player, with the young full-back breaking the half-century mark with his start against Swansea City at the end of December.
The 22-year-old joined the Hornets from Premier League side West Ham United in August 2020, having started his professional career in East London. Ascending the academy ranks with the Hammers, Ngakia made five professional appearances for them before making the switch to Vicarage Road.
After making his Watford debut in a 1-0 win over Middlesbrough in the first game of the 2020/21 Sky Bet Championship campaign, Ngakia went on to rack up 25 league appearances that season.
The then teenager quickly made his mark in the matchday squad, and was rewarded with regular game time from then Head Coach Xisco Muñoz as Watford were successful in their pursuit of promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Ngakia made his first top-flight appearance for the Hornets away at Tottenham Hotspur in August 2021, before going on to play a further 15 Premier League games last season.
Ngakia struggled with injury during the first half of this season but has now made five consecutive starts for Watford in the Championship, re-establishing himself as a regular in the team.
Since surpassing the 50-appearances mark against Swansea, Ngakia has taken his tally of clean sheets to 20 in all competitions, with the most recent one coming in the 1-0 victory away to Norwich City on Bank Holiday Monday.
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To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
Only two managers, in Watford's 142-year history, have led the Hornets out at Wembley in the FA Cup final.
Graham Taylor, already gone six years but never forgotten, was the first in 1984, and Javi Gracia followed in the great man's footsteps in 2019.
What we will come to appreciate even more, as time goes by, is the fabulous job Gracia did in his 66-match reign at Vicarage Road, and how entertaining it was to follow his team that season where the trail led to Wembley.
Many of you will have joined in the Rookery chorus with the opening line, “Javi Gracia, he drinks Sangria” - and indeed he was an advocate of his native country's fruit punch. Even if he didn't drink it himself, he was happy to present a bottle to his opposite number Alan Dowson at Woking, where the Hornets' FA Cup run began in 2018/19, as a goodwill gesture.
Good-natured and refined, the Spaniard invariably brought a touch of class to his work.
When former colleague Vikki Orvice, a much-loved and regular attendee at pre-match media conferences at London Colney, lost her stupendous battle with cancer, for instance, it was Gracia who convened a minute's silence as a tribute before addressing the weekly checklist of groin strains.
He also signed my son's birthday card with a 'Vamos Watford' flourish and, as a measure of self-improvement, he always tried to work new words or turns of phrase into his English when the cameras or tape recorders were running.
Behind the engaging, diffident smile Gracia, the son of two teachers, was a stickler for punctuality, introducing £100-a-minute fines for players who were late for training - not as a big stick but to encourage a unity of purpose and respect for each other among his squad.
Above all, he will deservedly be remembered for that journey to Wembley, winning the first four games of the season (culminating in a memorable Super Sunday eclipse of Tottenham), the sense of fun he generated along the way... and a purple patch where his substitutions were coloured by genius.
In three consecutive home games, he sent Andre Gray from the bench to deliver winning goals against Everton, Leicester and Crystal Palace. Those who felt Gray never quite delivered on his transfer fee may care to reflect those three goals were worth upwards of £7 million in prize money alone.
And when the Rookery noisily serenaded a certain former Watford boss with the refrain “He's better than you, Javi Gracia, he's better than you”, the Pamplona-born Head Coach sidestepped the back-handed compliment as deftly as thrill-seekers on his home town's world-famous bull run.
Of course, Gracia's best substitution of all was to throw on Gerard Deulofeu with the Hornets 2-0 down in the Cup semi-final against Wolves.
Some of us were surprised the magic man had not been included in the starting XI - but not as startled as Wolves after Deulofeu's wonderful two-goal cameo and Troy Deeney's nerveless penalty when the hourglass was down to the last grains of sand in normal time.
We all have our reasons to be grateful for the joy of that golden comeback.
Muchas gracias, señor.
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Slaven Bilic singled out one characteristic that was the difference between the performances at Swansea and Norwich
Watford centre-back Craig Cathcart reached 250 matches in yellow last month against Swansea City, completing another remarkable milestone in a memorable and long-standing Hornets career.
The Northern Irish defender linked up with the club for a second spell in 2014, and has been a crucial part of the squad throughout his time at Vicarage Road.
The 33-year-old joined Watford permanently from Blackpool, after having previously enjoyed a short loan stint from Manchester United in 2009. His initial temporary move to Hertfordshire had started when he was aged 20, under Malky Mackay, turning out 12 times in his second season at Championship level.
During his time at the Seasiders, he racked up over 100 appearances, scoring three goals during a four-year stint between 2010 and 2014 before rejoining the Golden Boys a month into their promotion-winning 2014/15 season.
His second debut for the Hornets came on September 20 2014, in a home clash against Bournemouth that ended 1-1. Cathcart came off the bench for the injured Gabriel Tamaș, and scored the equaliser in the 83rd minute with a thunderous volley into the bottom corner, cancelling out a Harry Arter strike earlier in the match.
Going on to play 29 times in the first of two promotions as a Hornet so far, Cathcart scored three goals including an audacious bicycle-kick against Birmingham City to secure a vital three points in the push for the top two.
A key component of Watford’s defence during a successful five-year run in the Premier League, Cathcart has made 153 top-flight appearances in yellow, and started the majority of the Hornets’ 2018/19 FA Cup run, which saw the Golden Boys reach the final.
The Belfast native tasted promotion again in 2020/21, playing 25 times in the joint-best Championship defence in history.
Since joining the Hornets a second time, Cathcart has accumulated over 50 clean sheets and scored eight goals. He has featured 17 times in league action so far this term, and is looking to add a third second-tier promotion to his impressive Watford CV.
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Reports suggest Ligue 1 side Nantes have made drastic changes to the way they use agent Mogi Bayat, who has brokered many transfer deals for Watford
Maurice ‘Mo’ Johnston’s stay at Vicarage Road lasted less than a year but in that short space of time he proved himself as one of the most naturally gifted goalscorers in the club’s history.
Watford Under-18s will host Everton in the FA Youth Cup fourth round at 7pm next Monday (January 9) at Vicarage Road.
Charlie Daniels’ Young Hornets comfortably saw off Lincoln City 3-0 in their first outing of this year’s competition, and will now look forward to taking on a Toffees side currently lying seventh in the U18 Premier League North table.
Two-time winners Watford will be itching to go one better than their fourth-round exploits last season - when they were narrowly beaten by eventual semi-finalists Chelsea after extra-time - but will be wary of the Merseysiders who themselves have lifted the coveted trophy on three occasions.
Please read below to find out how you can keep on top of all the action, with fans able to attend the fixture in person or follow via a free live stream.
Ticket Details
Tickets for the tie are now available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road. Seating is in the Sir Elton John Stand only, and is unreserved.
Fans will be able to purchase tickets from the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road on the night of the game.
Season Ticket holders can gain complimentary access to this match by scanning their regular Season Ticket at the ticket readers adjacent to the turnstiles of the Sir Elton John Stand.
Ticket Prices
- Season Ticket Holder: Free
- Adult: £5
- 65 & Over: £3
- 18 & Under: £3
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Streaming Details
Those unable to make it to The Vic will be able to follow the clash live via a free stream on the club’s official YouTube channel.
Coverage will feature footage from four cameras - capturing every moment as it unfolds - while commentary will be provided by Jon Marks live from the stadium.
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Watford keeper Daniel Bachmann clearly understands the importance of leadership on the pitch.
Watford will enjoy a break from league action following a thrilling late victory over Norwich City on Bank Holiday Monday, as they next kickstart their Emirates FA Cup duties.
Entering at the third-round stage, the Hornets have a short journey to Reading to look ahead to. As the countdown to kick-off continues (Saturday January 7, 12.30pm KO), we pick out five Hornets from the past and present who have also represented the Berkshire-based outfit during their careers…
Tom Dele-Bashiru
Dynamic midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru made his move from Manchester City to Watford in the summer of 2019, and would later go on to make his debut against Tranmere Rovers, scoring in a 3-3 draw in the FA Cup. After an unfortunate absence due to injury, Dele-Bashiru made the temporary move to Reading for the 2021/22 campaign.
The 23-year-old helped the Royals avoid relegation, notching four goals and two assists, while featuring 38 times in the Sky Bet Championship.
Following his return to Vicarage Road, Dele-Bashiru has recently broken into the side, featuring in five of the last seven matches, earning plaudits and an impressive assist for João Pedro’s opener against Huddersfield Town. Despite suffering an injury against Swansea City during the final match of 2022, Dele-Bashiru will be looking to regain his place upon his hotly-anticipated return.
Lee Nogan
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Welshman Lee Nogan was a hard-working, reliable frontman who began his football in Oxford before a career-defining move to Watford in 1991 where he would feature for the next four years, making over a century of appearances. Some of his highlights included a memorable header against his future employers Southend United in 1994, before making the short trip to Reading where he signed a permanent deal.
At the Royals, Nogan notably opened the scoring with a spectacular effort in the 1995 First Division play-off final, however, it wouldn’t be enough to secure victory over Bolton Wanderers.
It was particularly frustrating with Reading having finished runners-up in the second-tier that season, with the club only denied an automatic promotion place due to a restructuring in the Premier League. Nogan would make more than 70 appearances in blue and white hoops before departing for pastures new.
Darius Henderson
A lethal and clinical finisher in front of goal, Darius Henderson enjoyed three productive seasons at Vicarage Road, securing a promotion to the Premier League in 2006. But before the striker made his way to Hertfordshire, Henderson began his footballing journey at Reading.
Having risen through the ranks at the Royals, Henderson made his first start for the club against Wycombe Wanderers and would eventually become a regular in 2002, scoring seven times as Reading were promoted to the second-tier.
After a loan spell at Brighton & Hove Albion, and a permanent move to Gillingham, Henderson eventually decided on making The Vic his home. During his time in yellow, he contributed 31 goals, including a play-off final penalty against Leeds United that earned his club ascendancy to the Premier League, before departing for Sheffield United in 2008.
Adrian Mariappa
An influential Watford stalwart, Adrian Mariappa began his career with the Hornets at the age of eight. As a captain of the Academy sides, the full-back turned centre-half was highly thought of at the club and earned his first appearance in 2005 during a League Cup fixture against Notts County.
He would go on to make the centre-back position his own before eventually being courted in 2012 by top-flight side Reading. Although he would only spend a season with the Royals, and the club got relegated, Mariappa made 29 league appearances and would make a move to South London to join Crystal Palace the campaign after.
After three years at Selhurst Park, the defensive general returned home in 2016 to take his total appearances in yellow to 340.
Nigel Gibbs
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Born into a footballing family in St. Albans, dreams of playing for Watford were never too far away for one-club man Nigel Gibbs. Featuring under the great Graham Taylor during his two reigns, the vibrant full-back sits in third on the list for all-time appearances at Watford having made nearly 500 appearances in yellow.
Having won the FA Youth Cup in 1982, the Player of the Season gong in 1992, the Second Division in 1998 and promotion to the top-flight in 1999, Gibbs is certainly one of the most decorated Watford players ever.
Following his retirement from the game in the early 2000s, Gibbs turned to coaching, ultimately earning himself a job at Reading within the youth teams in 2006. He would work his way up the ladder at the Royals, becoming assistant manager in 2009.
In his role in the dugout at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, Gibbs presided over promotion to the Premier League in 2012 and would depart the club in 2013.
For more information on the Hornets Ambassador’s story, click HERE.
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Watford Under-18s will host Everton at Vicarage Road in the FA Youth Cup fourth round at 7pm next Monday (January 9).
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Max Delyfer.
The 18-year-old joined the Golden Boys in August 2022 following a successful trial period, having previously been involved in the youth set-up at Arsenal and gone on to feature for Isthmian League side Potters Bar Town.
Delyfer made his international debut for Cyprus’ Under-19s in November 2022, and as well as being an established member of Omer Riza’s Watford Under-21s squad, he was named on the bench for the first-team’s Carabao Cup clash against MK Dons at the start of 2022/23.
How would you describe your playing style?
I like to get on the ball as much as possible and dictate the play. I try to control games, show off my passing range and get the team from defence to attack while creating chances.Your footballing idol?
Definitely Cesc Fàbregas. I based my game on him when I was younger, and I was an Arsenal fan growing up so that helps. I prefer the Arsenal Fàbregas over the Chelsea Fàbregas!Biggest influence?
It has to be my dad. The amount of time he has spent driving me and taking me to all the sessions to get to this point - I could never repay him for that.-dynamic\_image.jpg)
Most talented teammate?
I’d say George Abbott. He is a great leader, very solid at the back and good with his feet. He is the modern-day centre-back and is a great asset.Favourite football memory?
The day I signed for Watford is 100 per cent, without a doubt, a great memory. Another one would be being on the bench in the Carabao Cup this season, and my international debut recently for Cyprus’ Under-19s has to be up there as well. They are the joint top three.Your aims for the future?
I just want to keep working hard and trying to progress at Watford, and go as far as I can. I want to continue my work with the Under-21s and continue performing, and then hopefully push on to the first-team and really help out the club as much as possible.
Best advice you’ve received?
You just have to never give up, because an opportunity will always be around the corner. You have to make sure you’re always working hard, even if you don’t see the finish line ahead. Literally, in just a few days the whole situation could change, and you have to be ready for it.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I would be studying at a university in America right now. As a student I would probably be studying maths.How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 70 - It’s an important part of being a midfielder.
Shooting: 80 - I reckon I’m decent from range.
Passing: 90 - My passing is by far my stand-out attribute.
Dribbling: 75 - I play off one or two touches.
Defending: 80 - It’s something which I have to do in my position. Off the ball is extremely important.
Physicality: 80 - In terms of endurance, that is a strong aspect of my game.
OVERALL: 86Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Greek Moussaka
Favourite song: Heart on Ice by Rod Wave
Favourite boots: Nike Magistas
Favourite TV show: NCIS Los Angeles
Favourite kit: This season’s Watford blue away kitSEO Image
When Ismaila Sarr sprinted away down the left flank in the 86th minute, Vakoun Bayo had only one thought in his mind: try and keep up with him!
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are back & they discuss Watford's 1-0 away victory over Norwich City.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Season 2, Episode 31 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford's excellent bounce back win and character-building display after two abominable performances for a 1-0 victory and eighth clean sheet in 16 games under Slaven Bilic. And: New acquisitions are coming to Watford, and Joao Ferreira is one of them. Also: Injuries are mounting to deep concern to some Watford fans, who sound off in this episode about the injuries and the stellar, battling Watford performance.
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Episode publish date: January 3, 2023.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on the YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Norwich 0, Watford 1: https://bit.ly/3VDE7q3 | Swansea 4, Watford 0: https://bit.ly/3GuAgY9FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
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Goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann hailed his side’s incredible commitment and fighting spirit, after Watford’s dramatic 1-0 victory against Norwich City at Carrow Road.
Striker Vakoun Bayo gave the Hornets a late lead with a goal that eventually earned all three points, while Bachmann helped marshal his defence to a clean sheet on the road.
The Austrian shot-stopper was pleased with the efforts from the entire team considering the current injury predicament.
“I think we showed that fighting spirit which we had been lacking in the last two matches,” Bachmann said.
“We know how difficult the situation is with the injuries we have. There are two ways you can deal with it - put your head in the sand and think everything is going against us, or you do what we did today. Everyone stuck together, fought on the pitch and that was the result.
“We knew the last two performances weren’t acceptable, and that’s a nice way to say it. We knew we had to sort ourselves out. We have a good dressing room, with a good mix of characters and leaders.
“I thought at half-time it must be a good game to watch for the neutral, because it was quite end-to-end. There were decent chances from both sides, and we defended incredibly well.
“We were struggling with absentees during the match, like [Christian] Kabasele, but we stuck together until the end with every player that came on, and it’s a great goal from the team.”
Bachmann reserved a special mention for Watford’s central midfield pairing of Mario Gaspar and Leandro Bacuna, both of whom played an important part in securing the victory.
“I don’t really want to name single players, but Mario Gaspar and Leandro Bacuna were great,” he continued.
“Bacuna hadn’t had a club for a few months, and he has started the first few matches here consecutively. He has played a lot of minutes and he is getting fitter, and today was by far his best game.
“Mario especially played well. It’s almost like a Dan Gosling situation, just the other way around [with Gaspar, a full-back, playing in midfield]. You can see the experience he has got and the fight, the running and the tackling. His English isn’t great, but he is trying. Every day in the dressing room he is trying to speak English to people, and he is trying to improve.
“That is exactly the kind of character we need. People who want to be here and want to fight for the team, and that’s exactly what we did today.
“I said before the match that we don’t just need three or four leaders, we need 11 of them. Even the ones who don’t speak English very well or who are young. You need to show that you’re a leader on and off the ball, even if it’s not talking.”
Watford’s number one Bachmann also mentioned the travelling Watford supporters, going on to explain the positive effect that the fans have on the team.
“We were talking in the warm-up with the goalkeeper coaches, and the support we have is incredible,” he added.
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“The away stand was full, and that’s incredible in any situation. We have been way below par in the last few weeks, but for them to stick with us has boosted us going forward. We are honestly incredibly grateful for that.
“We know we can rely on them, and we need to make sure that they can always rely on us to at least give 100 per cent every game and fight for the badge.”
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The last few weeks have been very positive for a handful of up-and-coming Hornets who are continuing their development on loan in the English lower tiers.
Under-21 forward Shaq Forde stepped up to score on his debut for York City on Monday (January 2), with a dramatic last-minute equaliser against Gateshead.
The National League side drew the game 2-2 after coming from behind twice. Forde was substituted on for the last 20 minutes of the match and made an instant impact, showing his quality for his new team with a composed half-volley inside the box.
At the opposite end of the pitch, 21-year-old goalkeeper Myles Roberts has been very consistent for National League South outfit Welling United this season, including an excellent display on Boxing Day that saw him keep a clean sheet in a 1-0 win away to Tonbridge Angels.
The reverse fixture was then played on New Year’s Day, with the Wings achieving a 2-1 home victory with another solid performance between the sticks from the Young Hornet.
Meanwhile, exciting midfielder JJ McKiernan helped National League side Eastleigh earn four points over the Christmas and New Year period, with the 20-year-old completing the full 90 minutes of back-to-back fixtures against Dorking Wanderers that saw the Spitfires draw 1-1 on the road before powering to a 4-0 win at home.
Featured image: Tom Poole
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Watford’s late win over Norwich City prompted waves of support on social media from supporters and players past and present.
With Vakoun Bayo’s goal the difference in a hard-fought 1-0 victory, the Hornets took to Twitter and Instagram to express their delight.
The winning goalscorer kicked off 2023 with a bang, and shared the message “Happy New Year to all” on Instagram, pictured alongside Ismaïla Sarr, who grabbed the assist.
Teammates Christian Kabasele, Jeremy Ngakia and Tom Dele-Bashiru commented their support on the post, which received over 2,000 likes.
Daniel Bachmann put in a performance former Watford goalkeeper Heurelho Gomes would be proud of at Carrow Road. The Brazilian former Hornet was watching the victory, and reserved a special mention for the supporters who travelled to East Anglia to back the Golden Boys.
The current Watford number one took the opportunity to speak directly to the supporters on his Twitter account, thanking them for their continued support following disappointing results over the festive period.
Playing the full 90 minutes, James Morris put in a solid performance against the Canaries on his full league debut, occupying the left wing-back role. Morris, who joined the Hornets in 2021, expressed his delight at marking the occasion with three points on Instagram.
Former teammates Ben Foster, Kamil Conteh and Daniel Phillips were among the commenters on the post, as well as current defensive partners Francisco Sierralta, William Troost-Ekong, Mattie Pollock and Jeremy Ngakia.
Watch Now
Watford’s 2022/23 Emirates FA Cup campaign kicks off this Saturday (January 7, 12.30pm KO), with Slaven Bilić’s men looking to build on Bank Holiday Monday’s thrilling victory over Norwich City, and ultimately progress into the fourth round for the first time since reaching the final in 2018/19.
The Hornets’ first opponents of this year’s competition - in the third round - are Sky Bet Championship rivals Reading, who went down 2-0 in the league at Vicarage Road the last time the sides met in November 2022.
Ahead of the match-up against the Royals at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, find out below how you can keep on top of all the action on Watford’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic & International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 12.25pm GMT with a £2.50 match audio pass, £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- Only audio commentary can be streamed from Emirates FA Cup matches to domestic and overseas supporters, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match. Overseas supporters who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Grounds Maintenance Department at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit an Apprentice Groundsperson to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing a pitch maintenance programme, and to ensure delivery of an excellent playing surface at the club’s Training Ground based in London Colney.
The role will be based on a 40-hour week which will include evening, weekend and matchday hours, and will be based at our Training Ground facilities in London Colney, however there may be a requirement at times to work at our Vicarage Road Stadium.
The successful candidate will work as an integral part of the Training Ground’s Maintenance Team, to learn how to carry out the following duties:
• Pitch Maintenance - procedures including but not limited to: mowing, marking, aeration, fertilising, scarifying, frost cover application, top dressing, seeding and pitch light maneuvering/maintenance
• Equipment Maintenance - goals, ball stopping nets, advertising boards etc.
• Machinery - greasing, cleaning, setting up, oil checks and visual checks before use
• Ensuring the safety of all playing surfacesThe successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and be willing to complete the Level 2 Sports Turf and/or equivalent qualification as part of the apprenticeship.
You must have:
• The desire to forge a successful career in the Sportsturf industry
• GCSE Maths & English, Grade 4 and/or above
• Excellent time keeping and organisational skills
• Ability to work in a team and use own initiative
• Willing to work unsociable hours, which will include evenings and weekends, and have a flexible approach to tasks and the ability to work to tight deadlines
• Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
• Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the roleFor the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Groundsperson Apprentice
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: Successful candidates meeting essential requirements will be offered an interview as they applyApplication process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
Different positions, varying results and extremes of team performance - but Jeremy Ngakia is thriving on it all
Slaven Bilic says Watford may complete signing of young Portuguese right-back Joao Ferreira in time for him to feature in Saturday’s FA Cup game.
Head coach Slaven Bilic picked out a few players for special mentions after the victory at Norwich.
Slaven Bilic hailed a performance at Norwich that he was extremely proud of, but his joy was tempered by the ever-growing list of injuries.
Watford returned to winning ways in style on Monday (January 2), beating Norwich City 1-0 at Carrow Road to kick off the New Year with three valuable points.
Having caught every moment as the game unfolded in East Anglia, we’ve compiled some photos from the day, covering key events from the dramatic late win.
Preparations Underway
First-Half Action
Second-Half Battles
Bayo Scores The Winner - Norwich City 0-1 Watford 86’
The Full-Time Scenes
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1- There’s something wonderfully liberating about having no expectations. Which doesn’t mean that you’d willingly suffer a mauling by Millwall followed by embarrassment at Swansea coupled with a ridiculous injury list to get yourself to that point. But once you’re there… there’s a sort of zen state that you lower yourself into like a warm […]
Defender James Morris couldn’t hide his delight after completing 90 minutes of his full league debut for Watford, as the injury-plagued Hornets secured a dramatic 1-0 win at Norwich City.
Having featured four times off the bench in all competitions earlier in 2022/23, the 21-year-old was drafted in at wing-back from the start in Norfolk, and impressed with a battling display that epitomised the attitude and resilience shown by the whole team.
Vakoun Bayo’s 86th-minute winner secured a hard-earned three points for Slaven Bilić’s men - ending a run of successive festive defeats - and Morris was delighted to have marked his special personal milestone with a win.
“I’m absolutely buzzing!” Morris said. “The fact we’ve come away with the three points is obviously the main thing, and the fact it was my full league debut made it even better.
“It was hard work! Obviously playing wing-back you have to get up and down the flank, so it’s tough, but it’s always worth it when you get the three points at the end.
“I played next to Craig [Cathcart], and he was talking me through the game all the time, encouraging me. It was the same for everyone - every time I did something well the lads gave me encouragement - and obviously being my first start that gave me some confidence, and helped me perform well.”
A tally of 11 unavailable players before kick-off was increased by three in Norwich, with Samuel Kalu, Keinan Davis and Christian Kabasele all limping off during the match, and Morris insisted the whole squad deserved credit for the attitude and commitment shown in such adversity.
He said: “The last couple of games weren’t what we wanted, but we’ve come here today, all worked together, and you could see that team spirit on the pitch. We lost another three players to injury today, and we’ve got players playing out of position, but we all stuck together, which made the win even more enjoyable.
“We had the better chances during the game, and we deserved the win. The late winner makes it that extra bit sweeter, and we’ll all go away with big smiles after the way we’ve approached the situation we’re in.”
On a personal level, Morris is itching to add to his six Watford appearances so far, and after making his professional debut in the Emirates FA Cup against Leicester City last season, he is hopeful of more minutes in the same competition at Reading on Saturday (January 7, 12.30pm KO).
And finally, the former Southampton starlet paid tribute to the 1,886 travelling Watford supporters at Carrow Road, who he said played an integral role in the team’s first win of 2023.
Morris added: “I’m just trying to keep working hard, and if I get minutes I want to keep performing well. That’s what I’ll be looking to do during the rest of the season and beyond.
“The fans were brilliant throughout the game, and it was great when we all went over at the end. It’s an amazing feeling to go over to them and thank them for coming all this way, and reward them with the three points!”
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Watford Head Coach Slaven Bilić was delighted to earn a late 1-0 victory against Norwich City, praising his side’s resilience and spirit to secure three important points.
Striker Vakoun Bayo scored the winner late on, tapping home Ismaïla Sarr’s square pass to send the travelling supporters into raptures at Carrow Road. However, during the contest Keinan Davis, Christian Kabasele and Samuel Kalu were all substituted after picking up unfortunate injuries.
Bilič was impressed with the fight and character on display from his squad, who currently have 14 players sidelined, and the Croatian believes it was the perfect response to the defeat against Swansea City last time out.
“I have to praise the players, because with the quality that we are missing and the quality that we have on the pitch, they did fantastic,” Bilić began.
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“It was full of spirit. We are at the maximum we can be, even over that, and that’s why we paid with injuries. A big chapeau to the guys.
“With injuries like Davis’ one, he has to do more on the ball than when we are at full strength. He has to run with the ball 60 yards with a man on his back. It’s not easy, and the same with Kabasele, so we paid the price again.
“It’s a great response [to the Swansea City match], and we showed great spirit in an extremely difficult situation which I have never faced so far in my career as a manager or as a player.
“We are missing so many important players, some of them are top players. To come here and show that resilience and the quality on the counter-attack – a big chapeau to the guys.
“We weren't dying for each other in Swansea. We were fighting, but not dying for each other. This situation requires that you are ready to die for each other, because we can’t rely only on quality. That’s what we showed today, and we needed to show it.”
As a result of the current injury problems facing his squad, Bilić was forced to slot players into unfamiliar roles, including full-back Mario Gaspar who enjoyed a shift in central midfield.
In addition, 21-year-old James Morris made his full league debut for the club at left-back, with the youngster earning special praise from the Head Coach.
“I don’t like to moan or talk about it, not even yesterday or now, but it is extremely difficult,” Bilić said.
“Mario Gaspar played in midfield with [Leandro] Bacuna. Bacuna joined the team two weeks ago, because we were lacking the players and he didn’t have a contract. Gaspar played as a holding midfielder and had a fantastic game today, but he is not a holding midfielder.
“The good thing about experienced players like them is that you explain things to them once and they understand what you want. They were vital in our performance today, they were like anchors for us. Second balls and everything. When we had time to distribute, they helped protect the back.
“Then we played with James Morris at left-back, who did an extremely good job. I want to single him out because it was his first league start for the club. He is from the Academy and he is one of our boys. It’s an unbelievable situation that we are facing.
“Can you imagine how Morris feels now? Ninety minutes against Norwich City away, three points and a good performance.”
The Watford boss was also extremely grateful to the 1,886 travelling supporters who made the journey to Norfolk. He felt they helped guide the team to a characterful performance.
Bilić added: “I don’t like clichés, but we could hear the fans and we were surprised at how many of them were there. We heard them today.
“We showed today that even when the situation is impossible, it’s still possible. The only way you will get something is if you give the maximum and you are positive, otherwise you have no chance. That’s what happened today.
“Sometimes the manager says a game is more than three points. This game was like that. It might have only been three points on the table, but it’s much more than that.”
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Matchwinner Vakoun Bayo is itching for a goal-laden 2023, after his fourth strike of the Sky Bet Championship season powered Watford to a dramatic 1-0 victory over Norwich City at Carrow Road.
The 25-year-old was introduced to the action as a 29th-minute substitute for the injured Samuel Kalu, and threatened Angus Gunn’s goal on a number of occasions before ultimately breaking the deadlock from close range four minutes from the end.
While Keinan Davis and Christian Kabasele went on to add their names to the Hornets’ seemingly ever-increasing absentees list in Norfolk, a brave Watford performance - that saw a number of players drafted into the side, often out of position - deservedly yielded three points.
And after securing the result, to the delight of the vociferous travelling supporters, Bayo is hoping his first goal since October can be the start of many going into the business end of the campaign.
“I feel great,” the Ivory Coast international said. “We all feel good because it was a brilliant team performance, and it keeps us in the running towards the top of the table. We are very happy.
“I was very happy to score. We all know Ismaïla Sarr is very fast so when he got the ball on the left I just followed his run. He gave me a great assist and I managed to finish it off.
“I’m really pleased because it had been a long time since I’d scored, and I’m confident more goals can come. Hopefully with some time I can keep helping the team in this way.”
Bayo may be forgiven for hoping for more opportunities in Watford’s third kit, with three of his four goals for the club having come emblazoned in the black and white strip that was released to commemorate 100 years at Vicarage Road.
And as the former RSC Charleroi forward eyes more minutes at Reading in the Emirates FA Cup on Saturday (January 7, 12.30pm KO), he paid tribute to Head Coach Slaven Bilić and the whole squad for the manner in which they responded to successive festive defeats amidst such tricky injury issues.
“I love the black and white shirt, it seems to be good to me!” Bayo laughed. “As long as I keep scoring, everyone will be happy, and we’re all pleased with how we fought to get the win today.
“We know we need to go away and rest well now, because we have a lot of injuries. It’s important we stay together and keep fighting, and hopefully some players will be able to come back soon.
“I say thanks to the Head Coach because it’s not easy to lose so many players, but he’s dealt with the situation very well. Together we’ve all fought well, and this is not an easy situation, so we’ll be happy together and keep moving forwards.”
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Watford overcame their injury list and the miserable defeat at Swansea to emerge with three heroic points at Norwich
A late goal by Bayo gives Watford three points on a day when they ended the game with 13 injured players
Match Info
- Norwich City v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Carrow Road
- Monday January 2, 3pm KO
- Black and white third kit
Officials
- Referee: James Linington
- Assistant Referees: Sam Lewis and Rob Smith
- Fourth Official: Keith Stroud
Opposition
Recently parting ways with Head Coach Dean Smith, Allan Russell has taken interim charge of the Canaries and secured a point at home against Reading on Friday night in his first game at the helm. Norwich, who were beaten 2-1 by the Hornets in the reverse fixture in October, are one point behind the Golden Boys on 36 points after 25 games, putting them just outside the play-off places.
Stats Buzz
Watford have only lost one of their last five away games, but that defeat came in their last match against Swansea City.
Norwich have only won three of their last 14 Championship games, and are winless in each of their last three fixtures.
Norwich City have lost six of their last seven league meetings with the Hornets.
For a full statistical breakdown check out Stats Buzz: Norwich In Numbers.
Team News
Watford continue to be without the likes of João Pedro, Hamza Choudhury, Imrân Louza, Edo Kayembe, Dan Gosling, Tom Cleverley, Kortney Hause and Rey Manaj, with Tom Dele-Bashiru also suffering an injury in the 4-0 defeat to Swansea City on Friday that will keep him out for at least a couple of months.
Defender Sam Byram returned to the bench for Norwich’s Boxing Day defeat to Luton Town, but hasn’t featured for the Canaries since early November. Aaron Ramsey and Todd Cantwell have also been absent for the past two games due to knee and groin injuries respectively.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“We’re not going to give up now. The only way out of this and the only way forward is to get the best out of this situation and nick some points until these [injured] guys come back.”
Allan Russell, Norwich City Interim Head Coach:
“The challenge will be [Watford] have fast, creative players with quick feet; they look to go in behind and play through you.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 33
Drawn: 29
Lost: 43Last Six:
October 2022: Watford 2-1 Norwich City (Championship)
January 2022: Watford 0-3 Norwich City (Premier League)
September 2021: Norwich City 1-3 Watford (Premier League)
April 2021: Norwich City 0-1 Watford (Championship)
December 2020: Watford 1-0 Norwich City (Championship)
July 2020: Watford 2-1 Norwich City (Premier League)Golden Flashback
The last trip to Carrow Road was a fruitful one for the Hornets, with a first-half header from Emmanuel Dennis and two goals for Ismaïla Sarr securing a first away win in 2021/22.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Norwich City v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Two of the county's most successful sports stars belonged to the same secondary school group
The Hornets travel to Carrow Road for their first game of the New Year (Monday January 2, 3pm KO) as they look to bounce back from their 4-0 loss against Swansea on Friday night.
Ahead of the fixture against the Canaries, we look at the statistical context ahead of the encounter...
Previous Meetings
Watford have won six of their last seven matches against Norwich in league competitions, losing once in a 3-0 defeat in the Premier League last season.
None of the previous 11 league meetings between Watford (seven wins) and Norwich (four wins) have been drawn, their joint-longest run in the Football League (also 11 between January 2001 and November 2007).
Watford have won on each of their last three Football League trips to Norwich, only against five sides previously have they won on four successive league visits before, one of which was earlier this season against Cardiff.
Only against QPR (50) and Crystal Palace (43) have Norwich won more Football League games against a side than Watford (39), while their 177 goals against the Hornets is also a league high against an opponent.
Recent Form
Norwich have only won three of their last 14 Championship games (D4 L7) and are winless in each of their last three fixtures (D1 L2).
The Hornets have only lost one of their last five Championship games on the road (W3 D1 L1), though that defeat came in the last game against Swansea.
Watford have lost their opening league match in nine of the last 11 calendar years (W1 D1), failing to keep a clean sheet in all 11 games in this run.
The Canaries are unbeaten in their opening league game in each of their last six calendar years when in the second tier (W5 D1).
Opposition Stat Attack
The hosts have two top marksmen in their squad, scoring a combined total of 17 goals this season. Top scorer Josh Sargent has nine and Teemu Pukki has eight.
Grant Hanley has been a very valuable player for the Norwich squad this season, leading the most pass attempts (1233) and passes in own half (925). He is also top for most clearances (97) and blocks (20).
Max Aarons also looks to be one of the dangermen for Norwich, leading dribbles attempted (58), tackles attempted (48) as well as being top for interceptions (38) and fouls won (33).
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Midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru faces a couple of months on the sidelines with an ankle ligament injury.
On Season 2, Episode 30 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford's no-show capitulation in the heaviest defeat of their Championship season, 4-0 at Swansea. Also: Slaven Bilic gets honest and direct. Plus: The buck stops with Gino Pozzo and he's well and truly run out of ideas or cares about the identity of the team. And: The rot starts from the top.
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Episode publish date: December 26, 2022.
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A former Watford FC goalkeeper has been made a Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the New Year’s Honours list.
Watford head coach Slaven Bilic said he will not be giving up and he expects his players to react positively after the 4-0 defeat at Swansea.
Slaven Bilic admitted some of his players “didn’t give their best” leaving others to carry what he referred to as “passengers”.
Head Coach Slaven Bilić awaits a full prognosis of the ankle injury suffered by forward João Pedro in the Hornets’ 2-0 defeat to Millwall, but admits he isn’t optimistic that the damage is minor.
The Brazilian was slide-tackled by Lions midfielder George Saville after 27 minutes at Vicarage Road, and while the Watford boss didn’t believe the challenge was malicious, it left João Pedro on the ground for several minutes before he headed to the sidelines.
The 21-year-old - who has scored eight goals in 20 Sky Bet Championship appearances so far this season - tried to continue and returned to the pitch, but was eventually replaced by Yáser Asprilla to avoid further aggravating the injury.
“We are going to see tomorrow, but it doesn’t look good,” Bilić said. “It didn’t look like an awful tackle, it didn’t look reckless.
“It’s the ankle ligament, and when you lose him it’s obviously hard to find another Pedro in the squad. We’ve just got to hope for the best until we hear more.”
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Following a productive week of training in the wake of a 2-0 away win against Huddersfield Town, Watford boss Slaven Bilić was frustrated to see a drop in quality from his side as Millwall ran out comfortable 2-0 winners at Vicarage Road.
A frustrating first half saw João Pedro be withdrawn through injury, Hassane Kamara sent off and Andreas Voglsammer score for the Lions, with Millwall top goalscorer Zian Flemming adding to his tally in the second half from a free-kick.
Suffering defeat for the first time in five matches, the Hornets Head Coach felt the whole performance was below par.
“I’m very disappointed,” Bilić began. “It’s hard to explain this performance from us because everything was good after Huddersfield, a great week of training and everything a coach can ask for. We prepared for Millwall and their strength, long balls and second balls but we were poor from the start. We didn’t have the ball and our passing was poor.
“Then when you lose João Pedro and a goal [is scored], and we thought it was a penalty on Keinan [Davis] before that, that wasn’t given. Then a red card, and after that we tried to be solid and use the chances we have.”
Bilić made no excuses following Kamara’s dismissal, and spoke to the defender about his conduct afterwards.
“The sending off is fair, it was reckless,” admitted the 54-year-old. “You can’t react like that.
“Yes, he tripped him, but instead of going down, he does the worst thing you can do. He was provoked, but you get provoked all the time in football.
“I told him at half-time that it’s unacceptable. It’s then difficult to play against 11 with 10 men.”
Frustrated by his team’s display primarily, the Head Coach also felt that Davis was fouled inside the box in the first half, and believed a Watford penalty could have changed the complexion of the encounter.
“I’m not objective of course, but it looked like a penalty,” added Bilić. “He put his leg between Keinan’s legs and it’s a penalty for me in a key moment. You don’t always have to start great, but it’s 0-0 and that can change anything. Key decisions went against us, that’s true, but we have to hold our hands up and say we weren’t anywhere near where we want to be.
“There are many teams in the Championship that play like that, and we have to cope with those basics. You have to anticipate and be focused on the second ball. I am the first to admit we were poor. We can’t be this poor.”
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Forward Keinan Davis insisted that thoughts among the Watford squad have already turned to bouncing back to winning ways as quickly as possible, following the Hornets’ frustrating Boxing Day defeat at home to Millwall.
Goals from Andreas Voglsammer and Zian Flemming either side of half-time sealed the 2-0 scoreline in the Lions’ favour, while home disappointment was further compounded by an injury to João Pedro, and a first-half Hassane Kamara red card.
Indeed, Davis - who has netted four times in yellow since his summer switch from Aston Villa - felt his side’s numerical disadvantage did impact the pattern of play, though he praised the fight and refusal to lie down displayed by the Golden Boys.
Flemming’s free-kick late on put paid to an encouraging spell of home pressure, and having gone into the game with confidence after last weekend’s win at Huddersfield Davis is looking for a fast response in his team’s next festive outing.
“It’s a tough defeat,” said 24-year-old Davis, who saw his appeals for a penalty waved away in the first half. “We went into it feeling good after a good result last time out, but we gave away a sloppy goal in the first half and then went down to 10 men.
“That obviously makes things harder, because everyone’s got to cover a lot more ground, but I actually thought we battled well. We had a bit of momentum, but that second goal killed things off because it just made that mountain even harder to climb.
“We know we’ve got a couple more games coming up in quick succession, so hopefully we can just put this one behind us and recapture our form quickly.”
A trip to South Wales to take on Russell Martin’s Swansea City lies next in store for Watford (Friday December 30, 7.45pm KO), and as well as aiming to provide a response to this latest defeat the Hornets will be looking to exact revenge for the 2-1 loss dealt by the Swans at Vicarage Road in October.
An away clash against fellow promotion hopefuls Norwich City is then scheduled for Bank Holiday Monday (January 2, 3pm KO), and Davis is confident he and his teammates can deliver some festive cheer to the Watford faithful over the coming week.
He added: “We’re all really desperate to bounce back straight away, and we know we’ve got a good opportunity to do that with two big games coming up. They’ll both be tough games, against good sides, but we’ll be on the lookout for the points.
“We want to repay the supporters for their brilliant support. We know it’s Christmas and they’ve come out to support us, we all appreciate it and we hope we can get results for them at Swansea and Norwich.”
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Watford suffered a Boxing Day humbling at home against Millwall, had Kamara sent off and saw Pedro leave the ground on crutches.
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated defender Ben Casey.
The 17-year-old, who featured for Fulham and Arsenal before linking up with the Hornets, is a first-year scholar who has featured regularly for Charlie Daniels’ Under-18s this season.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’d say I’m a ball-playing centre-half. That’s where I start my game. I take pride in keeping clean sheets and I love defending.Your footballing idol?
It has to be Steven Gerrard for me. He was a great leader and could do everything on the pitch, from scoring goals to defending. Defensively, Virgil van Dijk makes everything look effortless, and he has a great range of passing.
Biggest influence?
My dad has been really important. He got me into football at a young age and that’s something that I’m very grateful for. He has taken me to loads of games, getting me help when it is necessary, extra training, running - all that sort of stuff.Most talented teammate?
I would probably say George Abbott. He is so professional in everything he does on and off the pitch. For example, in the gym he always gives 100 per cent and makes sure he does everything to the right standard. He is not afraid to pull people up if they are slacking.Favourite football memory?
I would say playing for the Under-18s last season as an Under-16. I played well enough to keep my spot for the rest of the season from the early months to the end. I earned the trust of my teammates and my coaches.Your aims for the future?
I would love to play in the FA Youth Cup this year, because it’s a massive tournament. You get to play against great teams in great stadiums in front of fans, which is something I really want to progress to this season.
Best advice you’ve received?
Play every game like it is your last. If you had it in your mind that this was the last time you would play football, you would give it 100 per cent and everything.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I’d be a postman, because I always deliver!How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 83 – I think I’m fairly quick, but I’m not quite at Michael Adu-Poku’s level yet!
Shooting: 68 – Being a centre-half I don’t get many efforts on goal, but I have a good strike.
Passing: 86 – I have quite a good range of passing, from little passes into midfield or direct passes to the opposite winger.
Dribbling: 66 – I don’t get to show off my dribbling too much.
Defending: 88 – It’s something I really take pride in.
Physical: 85 – I consider myself to be quite strong if I’m honest.
OVERALL: 86Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: My grandmother’s pasta
Favourite song: Wants and Needs by Drake
Favourite boots: Nike Tiempos in all black
Favourite TV show: The All or Nothing documentaries
Favourite kit: This season’s Watford home kitSEO Image-featured\_image.jpg)
A miserable Boxing Day for Watford as they ended well beaten, had Kamara sent off and saw Joao Pedro limp off
Ben Aiton is joined by Tom Wicks from The Golden Pages Fanzine & Pidge from Taylor Made Army TV with a Voices of the Vic Christmas Special where the lads choose their picks in a variety of categories based on the club. The also pick their five best & worst signings under the Pozzo's.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We’d like to wish all our listeners a very merry Christmas with this year’s special episode for the festive season. Listen below, or via your preferred podcast platform, or on Spotify, or by downloading an MP3 file here. GEEKS BEARING GIFTS Can a pair of feuding Watford fans, in December 2022, be reconciled by a […]
Match Info
- Watford v Millwall
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road Stadium
- Monday December 26, 12noon KO
Officials
- Referee: Josh Smith
- Assistant Referees: Sam Lewis and Lee Venamore
- Fourth Official: Andy Woolmer
Opposition
Millwall head into the game sitting 10th in the Sky Bet Championship, on 32 points. Coming into the clash off the back of a 3-0 defeat to Sunderland and a 1-1 draw with Wigan Athletic, the Lions sit just two points outside the play-off positions.
Playmaker Zian Flemming has scored four goals in his last three appearances for the Londoners, including a hat-trick against Preston North End last month in a 4-2 away win at Deepdale.
Stats Buzz
Watford have won five of their last six home games against Millwall (D1), including a promotion-clinching 1-0 victory in 2021, keeping four clean sheets in this run since a 2-0 loss in March 2006.
This will be the 100th Football League meeting between Watford and Millwall, with the Lions becoming the eighth different opponent the Golden Boys have faced at least 100 times.
Following their 3-0 win at The Den in October, Millwall are looking to complete the league double over Watford for the first time since the 2001/2002 campaign.
For a full statistical breakdown check out Stats Buzz: Millwall In Numbers.
Team News
Without any fresh injury concerns for the game, Slaven Bilić expects a similar squad to be available as in last Saturday’s win over Huddersfield Town.
Illness has disrupted training this week however, with Keinan Davis, James Morris and Mattie Pollock all affected.
Benik Afobe and Ryan Leonard may be available to Millwall manager Gary Rowett, with loanee Callum Styles set to be assessed.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“It’s a big test, we didn’t forget Millwall away, it was a game that hurt us. Every defeat hurts but that was done in 35 minutes, we couldn’t cope.
“At that time we had injury problems with the back four and it was very painful. Now we are in a different moment, we have options at the back, not only quantity but quality also. As a team we have improved a lot, have kept four clean sheets and to keep a fifth one we will have to be at the top of our game, not only at set-pieces but especially in that area.
“Every game is difficult, but this one especially so. We have extra motivation because of that defeat, that feels like yesterday.”
Gary Rowett, Millwall Manager:
“They [Watford] are a very good side with a really big, experienced manager in Slaven Bilić, who is a great guy.
“You can see the influence he’s had on that team – they have started to be very consistent.
“They have got some excellent players, the likes of João Pedro, Ismaïla Sarr and Keinan Davis – it almost seems silly some of those players are in the Championship, but that’s where they are.
“Their recent form shows they are a Premier League side with parachute money, trying to find their way to the top end of the Championship.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 33
Drawn: 28
Lost: 43Last Six:
October 2022: Millwall 3-0 Watford (Championship)
April 2021: Watford 1-0 Millwall (Championship)
January 2021: Millwall 0-0 Watford (Championship)
January 2017: Millwall 1-0 Watford (FA Cup)
April 2015: Millwall 0-2 Watford (Championship)
November 2014: Watford 3-1 Millwall (Championship)Golden Flashback
Watford sealed promotion to the Premier League in Millwall’s last Vicarage Road visit, in April 2021. A first-half penalty from Ismaïla Sarr made the difference, as Xisco Muñoz’s Hornets went up to the top-flight in second place.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Millwall, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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The defeat at performance at Millwall in October is still something that hurts Watford head coach Slaven Bilic
Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Boxing Day’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Millwall (Monday December 26, 12noon KO), with Slaven Bilić’s men looking to serve up a Christmas treat by building on an impressive 2-0 win over Huddersfield Town last time out.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Millwall, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Watford head coach Slaven Bilic says he is really pleased with the current situation at Watford, other than a big sweeping through the changing room.
Following a 3-0 defeat in the reverse fixture against Boxing Day opponents Millwall back in October, Watford Head Coach Slaven Bilić is keen for his Hornets side to demonstrate how far they have progressed, as they seek a fifth consecutive clean sheet.
Buoyed by their 2-0 win over Huddersfield Town last Saturday, the Golden Boys’ nine-day gap between fixtures has allowed Bilić to further build on his philosophy on the training pitch.
While not boosted by any immediate returns from injury, the 54-year-old is pleased with the progress of the sidelined players, and could welcome some back into the fold in January.
“It’s been a good week,” reflected Bilić. “We played on Saturday and play next on Monday. We’ve had more than a week to prepare and it’s always a good situation, especially if it comes after a win. You’re in a good mood, you have a good platform to have different types of training and do more in every way.
“We’ve used it well and I’m really pleased with the situation now. Apart from a few injuries, but that situation is also improving and it is very likely a few of them will be back in a couple of weeks. I’m happy with the way we’re training and the concentration and focus.
“We have to transmit it onto the pitch; we did that against Huddersfield, and we still have three days before the game, but we’re in a good moment and have to work on it and keep it that way to make it an even better moment for us.”
Gary Rowett’s Lions sit five points behind Watford in 10th place, presenting a tough test for Bilić’s charges. While the previous meeting remains in his mind, the Hornets boss is more focused on seeing his side continue a rich vein of form.
“It’s a big test,” continued the Croatian. “We didn’t forget Millwall away, it was a game that hurt us. Every defeat hurts but that was done in 35 minutes, we couldn’t cope.
“At that time we had injury problems with the back four and it was very painful. Now we are in a different moment, we have options at the back, not only quantity but quality also. As a team we have improved a lot, have kept four clean sheets and to keep a fifth one we will have to be at the top of our game, not only at set-pieces but especially in that area.
“Every game is difficult, but this one especially so. We have extra motivation because of that defeat, that feels like yesterday.”
Without fresh injury concerns from the win against the Terriers, Bilić can count on the same players that travelled to Yorkshire last weekend. The only issue within the group is a minor bug.
“There’s a bit of a virus floating around that means a couple of players didn’t train in the last few days,” Bilić added. “It wasn’t always the same players, but a few of them had it. Players like [Keinan] Davis, [James] Morris, Mattie Pollock, they all had it.
“Some other players felt something after the game, every game brings that kind of situation but at the moment it’s nothing major like Hamza’s [Choudhury] or Edo Kayembe’s, so if we are talking about the squad from Huddersfield it should be more or less the same.”
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Watford host Millwall on Boxing Day in the Sky Bet Championship (Monday December 26, 12noon KO), looking to make amends for the defeat to the Lions back in October.
The Hornets will be eyeing all three points at The Vic, and will be hoping to win their individual contests. Ahead of the encounter, here are some of the key battles to keep an eye on.
Keinan Davis & Jake Cooper
Keinan Davis has scored four goals for the Hornets so far this season, and has been vital in the attacking system. He was one of the busier forwards last week against Huddersfield Town, and although he didn’t score, he attempted the most shots in the match (4).
For Millwall, Jake Cooper leads most defensive stats, including clearances (63), blocks (13) and interceptions (32). He is also top for most passes attempted (833) and passes in his own half (471). This will be a good physical battle to watch throughout the game on and off the ball.
Tom Dele-Bashiru & Zian Flemming
After recently breaking into the team, Tom Dele-Bashiru has shown a lot of quality in the middle of the park. He executed a wonderful assist last week for João Pedro’s first goal, picking the ball up in his own half and driving towards the penalty area.
The Lions’ top marksman, Zian Flemming, has scored nine goals this season so far from midfield, including two direct free-kicks. Flemming also leads the way for number of shots on target (23) and off target (23) for the Lions. He has been Millwall’s top man this season, and will be looking to add to his impressive stats on Monday.
This will be a very interesting match-up to keep an eye on with Dele-Bashiru being more of a box-to-box midfielder, whereas Flemming plays in a more offensive position. The Millwall man may be forced to do some more defensive duties, to cope with Dele-Bashiru’s attacking ability.
Craig Cathcart & Tom Bradshaw
Craig Cathcart has been one of Watford’s most consistent defenders this season, with impressive performances against the top attackers in the league - keeping clean sheets against league leaders Burnley and Sheffield United. He also has the most blocks in the team, with 13.
Elsewhere, Lions marksman Tom Bradshaw bagged a hat-trick against the Hornets back in October, and during their last game against Wigan he assisted their only goal of the match in a 1-1 draw. The duo of Flemming and Bradshaw is one to watch, as they will likely be the main force against the Watford backline on Monday.
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It was a stellar night of entertainment and fun at the 2022 edition of the Junior Hornets Christmas Party.
Alongside a star-studded line-up, including the likes of Ismaïla Sarr, Imrân Louza and Hassane Kamara, 130 Junior Hornets members were invited down to Vicarage Road Stadium to celebrate the festivities.
With games, raffles and more taking place, the players were also on hand to take part in photos and sign autographs.
Below is a selection of pictures from the exciting and successful Junior Hornets event.
Pictures With The Players
Festive Fun & Games
And More!
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New midfielder Leandro Bacuna made his debut in Saturday’s win at Huddersfield even though he didn’t actually expect to start.
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated defender Ben Casey.
The 17-year-old, who featured for Fulham and Arsenal before linking up with the Hornets, is a first-year scholar who has featured regularly for Charlie Daniels’ Under-18s this season.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’d say I’m a ball-playing centre-half. That’s where I start my game. I take pride in keeping clean sheets and I love defending.Your footballing idol?
It has to be Steven Gerrard for me. He was a great leader and could do everything on the pitch, from scoring goals to defending. Defensively, Virgil van Dijk makes everything look effortless, and he has a great range of passing.Biggest influence?
My dad has been really important. He got me into football at a young age and that’s something that I’m very grateful for. He has taken me to loads of games, getting me help when it is necessary, extra training, running - all that sort of stuff.Most talented teammate?
I would probably say George Abbott. He is so professional in everything he does on and off the pitch. For example, in the gym he always gives 100 per cent and makes sure he does everything to the right standard. He is not afraid to pull people up if they are slacking.Favourite football memory?
I would say playing for the Under-18s last season as an Under-16. I played well enough to keep my spot for the rest of the season from the early months to the end. I earned the trust of my teammates and my coaches.Your aims for the future?
I would love to play in the FA Youth Cup this year, because it’s a massive tournament. You get to play against great teams in great stadiums in front of fans, which is something I really want to progress to this season.Best advice you’ve received?
Play every game like it is your last. If you had it in your mind that this was the last time you would play football, you would give it 100 per cent and everything.Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I’d be a postman, because I always deliver!How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
Pace: 83 – I think I’m fairly quick, but I’m not quite at Michael Adu-Poku’s level yet!
Shooting: 68 – Being a centre-half I don’t get many efforts on goal, but I have a good strike.
Passing: 86 – I have quite a good range of passing, from little passes into midfield or direct passes to the opposite winger.
Dribbling: 66 – I don’t get to show off my dribbling too much.
Defending: 88 – It’s something I really take pride in.
Physical: 85 – I consider myself to be quite strong if I’m honest.
OVERALL: 86Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: My grandmother’s pasta
Favourite song: Wants and Needs by Drake
Favourite boots: Nike Tiempos in all black
Favourite TV show: The All or Nothing documentaries
Favourite kit: This season’s Watford home kitSEO ImageWatford FC and the club’s Community Sports and Education Trust would like to thank supporters for their generous donations and support for this year’s Christmas Toy Drive.
Following on from last year’s successful campaign, supporters and local businesses have kindly provided over 500 presents for children who may not have otherwise received gifts for Christmas this year.
Your kind donations have been received by the Children’s Ward at Watford General Hospital, Keech Hospice Care for children and Home-Start Watford & Three Rivers – all of whom make a significant impact in the local community.
The presents were also gratefully received by 14 schools and 30 families in the local area.
We would also like to thank Watford Junction, Fresh Ego and Mobilize Financial Services for their help and assistance in donating and delivering.
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The Hornets host Millwall at Vicarage Road on Boxing Day (Monday December 26, 12noon KO), as Slaven Bilić’s charges aim for two wins on the bounce in the Sky Bet Championship.
Ahead of the fixture against Gary Rowett’s Lions, we look at the statistical context of Watford’s upcoming encounter.
Previous Meetings
Watford have won five of their last six home games against Millwall (D1), including a promotion-clinching 1-0 victory in 2021, keeping four clean sheets in this run since a 2-0 loss in March 2006.
Following their 3-0 win at The Den in October, Millwall are looking to complete the league double over Watford for the first time since the 2001/2002 campaign.
This will be the 100th Football League meeting between Watford and Millwall, with the Lions becoming the eighth different opponent the Golden Boys have faced at least 100 times.
The Londoners have recorded clean sheets in two of their last three league games against Watford, as many as their previous 10 encounters.
Recent Form
Watford won their last league Boxing Day game 1-0 against Norwich in 2020. They’ve not won consecutive matches on the festive day since a run of six between 1988 and 1994.
The Hornets are unbeaten in their last four league games, and have kept a clean sheet each time. It’s their longest run in the Football League without conceding since a five-game stretch in November-December 2001.
Millwall haven’t won an away league game on Boxing Day since 2006 (4-1 v Brentford), drawing two and losing four of their six such games since then.
Only Huddersfield (five) have picked up fewer points on the road in the Championship this season than Millwall (nine), while they could lose as many as 12 away league games in a calendar year for the first time since 2013.
Opposition Stat Attack
The Lions’ top marksman, Zian Flemming, has scored nine goals this season so far from midfield, including two direct free-kicks. Flemming also leads the number of shots on target (23) and off target (23).
Wing-back Scott Malone is the top assister for Millwall with four, while also topping crosses attempted (94). Defensive midfielder Billy Mitchell has attempted the most passes in the opposition half (487), while 21-year-old Tyler Burey leads the charge with the most dribbles attempted (43).
Defensively, Jake Cooper leads the majority of stats including clearances (63), blocks (13) and interceptions (32). He also is top for most passes attempted (833) and passes in his own half (471).
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Watford have confirmed Ben Manga as their new Technical Director, while Helena Costa joins as Head of Scouting
Watford FC confirms the appointment of Ben Manga as its new Technical Director.
Spending six-and-a-half seasons at reigning Europa League champions Eintracht Frankfurt, Manga boasts an impressive background in recruitment, most recently serving as Director of Professional Football at the Waldstadion.
The 48-year-old also operated as Chief Scout for the Eagles, having spent successful periods at fellow Bundesliga sides Hoffenheim and VfB Stuttgart prior to joining Frankfurt – who won the DFB Pokal during his time at the club.
Helena Costa (pictured with Ben Manga) has also joined as Head of Scouting, while further appointments to Manga’s team are likely to follow.
Former Equatorial Guinea international midfielder Manga plied his trade in Germany as a player and moved into coaching and scouting following his on-pitch retirement.
Manga and his staff have begun work this week at the Hornets’ London Colney training ground.
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All UK-based and overseas Watford fans will be able to tune in to live video coverage of the Hornets’ home clash against Millwall on Boxing Day (Monday December 26, 12noon KO).
With Slaven Bilić’s side looking to build on last Saturday’s 2-0 victory at Huddersfield Town (December 17), find out below how you can follow the enticing clash on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 11.50am GMT.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 11.50am GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the new International Half-Season Hive Live Pass now available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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In light of the recent Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, Richard White writes about 1960s and 70s crowd favourite Stewart Scullion, who scored arguably the best individual goal ever witnessed at The Vic.
Think back to the last time you saw a Watford player at Vicarage Road jink past five opposition defenders with the ball under close control and have his shot saved by the keeper… then seconds later win the ball back, dribble round five players again and slip it into the net. If you can then you were at the Watford v Stockport County match on October 21, 1967, when Stewart Scullion displayed his consummate dribbling skills to maximum effect.
The goal was described by the Watford Observer as ‘fantastic’, ‘incredible’ and ‘one of the greatest goals ever seen at Vicarage Road’. It contributed to a 5-0 win and even had the opposition keeper applauding, along with an extended ovation from the crowd. It was no fluke event – Scullion made a career out of running rings around some of the toughest men in football, in the days when referees were more lenient towards defensive ‘challenges’.
Scullion – known to fans as ‘Scully’ – was a much-loved and highly regarded winger who played 348 times for Watford, scoring 55 goals, during two spells between 1966 and 1976. In an era when wingers were prized for their ability to beat full-backs consistently, he could light up the most mundane of games and leave spectators smiling on their way home.
He arrived in February 1966 aged 19 as a makeweight in the transfer of Cliff Holton to Charlton Athletic, having played in the Addicks’ reserves for a year without getting a first-team opportunity. Proposing his inclusion in the deal was a shrewd piece of advice given to Manager Ken Furphy by Pat Molloy, Watford’s trainer-physio, who had spotted the potential of the young wingman, who had previously appeared for Chesham United.
Scoring on his debut for Watford in a 2-1 win at Exeter on February 5, 1966, Scully immediately became a first-team regular.
Unlike some wingers, he didn’t need to rely on out-and-out pace – although he was certainly quick, especially over short distances. He would sidle up to opponents before enticing them into a challenge which he would skip over or jink past, taking the ball with him into the green grass beyond.
Should the defender turn quickly and try to keep pace, it wasn’t unusual for Scully to turn back and take him on again, beating him once more just for the pleasure of it. The crowd loved him, but his fellow forwards were often less amused as they found it rather difficult to gauge if, when and to where Scully would release his final cross.
Born in Scotland, it was said that if he could have lifted his head he might have gained an international cap. This wasn’t the mediocre Scottish team of recent vintage mind you; he played during the era of worldclass forwards such as Denis Law, Kenny Dalglish and Jimmy Johnstone.
Scully was anything but unproductive, as his goals and many assists show. A man for the big occasion, he made headlines when scoring Watford’s goal against the reigning European Champions, Manchester United, with a cracking 25-yard shot in the 1-1 FA Cup draw at Old Trafford in January 1969.
That season he was an important member of the Watford team that won the Division Three championship, gaining promotion to the second tier of the Football League for the first time. He also featured strongly in Watford’s run to the FA Cup semi-finals the following season, including the fine 1-0 win over Liverpool.
During his first spell at Watford, Scully was tracked by several clubs who recognised his potential to play at a higher level. Negotiations took place with Leicester and Sheffield Wednesday as Manager Furphy tried to raise money to freshen up his team then struggling in Division Two, but both deals fell through. Finally, he was sold to Division One Sheffield United for £25,000 in May 1971.
Two-and-a-half years later, after scoring seven goals in 57 games for the Blades, Scully re-joined Watford for £15,000. In this second spell he notched 19 goals in 87 appearances for the Hornets, before moving to Tampa Bay Rowdies at the end of 1974/75 campaign, initially on loan. While in the USA, as a resident player he represented Team America in the 1976 Bicentennial Cup tournament, scoring their only goal in a 3-1 defeat against England. Scully was a man who just loved playing football, and it was evident in his play.
Supporters warmed to him not just for his wily skill, but also his qualities of courage and persistence, making him one of the outstanding figures in Watford’s footballing history.
He remains grateful for the opportunity Watford gave him to play regular first-team football, and we remain very grateful to have had him.
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To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
The curtain had fallen on another Watford manager’s reign, and the grapevine was humming with delicious speculation that Graham Taylor was about to make his second coming.
With the Hornets so far adrift of dry land that passengers aboard the lifeboat could barely see the shore, it was a heartwarming prospect amid the grim reality of a relegation battle in February 1996.
The man from the Mirror was despatched to Vicarage Road, and with impeccable timing he arrived as the youth team coach – and long-time fixture at the club – pulled up in the car park with a group of academy prospects in tow on their return from the training ground.
Politely, I asked Kenny Jackett if he knew anything about the great man’s imminent return. “I don’t know anything,” he grinned. “I’m just the minibus driver.”
Before the week was out, we had our answer. Taylor was back, with Luther Blissett and Jackett as his first lieutenants. Although he was unable to complete a great escape on the last day of term, the seeds of revival had been planted.
Handing over the reins to Jackett the following season, Taylor moved ‘upstairs’ as General Manager, and the rookie boss stopped the rot.
Either side of Christmas in the 1996/97 campaign, Watford went on a 22-match unbeaten run in the league – although 15 of them were draws, which explains how they finished halfway down the Second Division table but only six points outside the play-offs.
If his baptism as a manager was a glass-half-full campaign, it gave Jackett an essential foundation in the laws of fine margins, and he absorbed the lessons expertly.
He went on to win promotion with Swansea, Millwall and Wolves, plus two near misses with Portsmouth.
In 25 years as a coach or manager, he has always applied his rule of three when scouting new recruits, and it has served him well. Athleticism, ability, application... players who ticked all three boxes were invariably a good fit for his methods.
And when you look at Jackett’s overall record in a notoriously fickle industry, it explains his longevity and why he is so widely-respected in the game.
In 910 games as a manager, he has a 44.6 per cent win ratio – which compares favourably with his revered mentor Taylor’s record of 1,384 games with a 43.06 per cent win ratio.
His work was also valued enough for ex-England coach Sven-Goran Eriksson to include him in his inner circle at Manchester City.
As a player, we were proud to see Jackett become a poster boy for Watford’s golden generation of home-grown players who graduated from apprenticeship to the first team. He was born so close to Vicarage Road that he could see the floodlights from his bedroom window. No wonder the club’s scouts picked him up and took him on Hornets godfather Taylor’s magic carpet ride.
One night, as a spectator, I remember going to Wembley when England played Wales in the now-dormant Home International championship, and watching Jackett marking Blissett at set pieces.
But he remains one of the country’s most unsung club managers, delivering results almost everywhere he has worked.
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The officials who will take charge of Watford’s three Championship fixtures over the festive period have been named.
Craig Cathcart was quick to praise two-goal Joao Pedro after Saturday's win at Huddersfield
On Season 2, Episode 28 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford's 2-0 win at Huddersfield. Plus: Leandro Bacuna's instant impact. Tom Dele-Bashiru rolls on starts and does well. Defensive prowess as Watford get their fourth clean sheet in a row (and tenth this season.) Also: The Watford FC Women power on in the FAWNL Cup. And: The inevitable summer exit of Joao Pedro we obviously don't hope for.
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Episode publish date: December 20, 2022.
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Adrian Blake scored twice from the penalty spot as Watford beat Lincoln City 3-0 to move into the Fourth Round of the FA Youth Cup.
Young Hornets duo George Abbott and Adrian Blake were delighted to book their place in the next round of the FA Youth Cup following a 3-0 win over Lincoln City.
Forward Blake etched his name onto the scoresheet twice after the half-time interval, with both goals coming from the penalty spot, while captain Abbott helped maintain an important clean sheet marshalling the ball away from danger.
The pair were pleased to see an improved second-half performance after struggling to make an impact in the opening period.
Abbott said: “I thought during the first-half it was quite tough and they were on us from minute one. I thought we were quite poor in the first 45 minutes, maybe even 60 minutes, but once we got into the game I thought we dominated.
“Then we had the class of Adrian [Blake] and Tobi [Adeyemo] up front. Tobi won the first and then Aaron [Benn] won the second, and Adrian put them both away.”
Blake added: “The first-half was quite sloppy and it took us time to get going. If it stayed like that then we would have lost the game, so we had to wake up. In the second-half, from the get-go I felt we went after it and the result showed. Obviously, in the end we got that 3-0 win and we can’t complain.”
Abbott and Blake have been at Watford since they were young, rising through the ranks almost simultaneously. As a result, the pair get on well and motivate each other during training and matches.
Blake continued: “George is experienced and the Under-17 captain of Wales previously, so it’s a pleasure playing alongside him. Every day I try to learn from him.”
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Abbott explained: “Adrian is a brilliant teammate to have in the team. If things are ever getting tough and you need that little bit of class, we know that Adrian can give us that.
“And that’s the same with Michael [Adu-Poku] on the other side and Aaron [Benn] who came on – I thought they were brilliant as well.
“I think we have a great relationship and we have been teammates since I joined at Under-12s. Adrian has been here since Under-6s and Under-7s, so we have a great relationship.”
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Having secured their place in the fourth round of the competition against Everton, Abbott and Blake are excited to take on their Merseyside opponents in the New Year.
Abbott added: “The FA Youth Cup is a special tournament and a special cup to try and win. Playing under the lights with quite a few fans is brilliant and we just look forward to Everton and we are ready to go.”
Blake said: “Everton won’t be as easy as this game, so we are up for it and we are ready. I back us against any team. We are ready for it.”
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Players such as Luther Blissett and John Barnes may have gained more headlines for their impact in Watford’s golden era, but the midfield engine room of Les Taylor and Kenny Jackett was such an integral part of the success Graham Taylor’s sides achieved.
Under-18 Assistant Coach Armand Kavaja was pleased to secure passage to the fourth round of the FA Youth Cup with a 3-0 victory over Lincoln City at the LNER Stadium.
After a measured opening half, the Young Hornets grew into the match following the interval as Adrian Blake converted twice from the penalty spot before Joshua Mullins put the gloss on the scoreline with a well-taken headed goal.
Kavaja, who was standing in for Under-18 Lead Coach Charlie Daniels, felt that despite the impressive scoreline, his side should have competed much better in the opening stages and was pleased to see the changes after the break.
“I thought the boys did their job, more than anything,” Kavaja began. “I thought in the first-half we made it difficult for ourselves.
“We started very slow and our front line and two eights started really high and the full-backs were too high, which made it difficult for us to play.
“The movement wasn’t great and there were a lot of forced passes into the midfield. We had that chat at half-time and the boys rectified it into the second-half and grew into the game.
“Considering most of the boys have been exposed to Under-21 football, we should start a lot better and should be a lot more dominant, just like the way we ended the game because that is the quality we have.
“We can put it down to nerves, and some of them are first-year scholars, and it’s a tournament they look forward to. That can’t happen in the next game against better opposition because you’ll be three or two-nil down. We got through and that was the main thing.”
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Promising winger Blake began the second-half resurgence with two coolly taken spot-kicks and Kavaja was pleased to see the 17-year-old have a key impact on the game, with the substitutions maintaining the momentum.
“We put [Blake] on penalties because he is calm, collected and he has a clear head,” he continued.
“We know he has been doing that for a long time and it’s pleasing to see him get that goal and relieve a bit of pressure. It allowed us to play a bit more because I did feel there were some nerves and the second goal opened it up.
“I thought the changes made a massive difference. I thought Aaron Benn, Andres Aguilar and Jack Taylor had a big impact to calm the match down. They were aggressive, they were positive and it added a little bit more energy to us.”
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Kavaja also paid a special mention to defender Mullins, who notched the third, and goalkeeper Gabriel Ortelli, who made a special double save in the first-half to keep the match goalless.
“Mullins deserved his goal and we were talking about it with the staff and we thought he was outstanding,” he added.
“His duels - we talk about dominating the one versus one duels on the floor and in the air - and we thought he got stuck in. He deserves that goal because he gets on the end of a lot of crosses and it has been a long time coming.
“I thought overall he was one of the two who stood out for us including Gabriel [Ortelli], who kept us in the game with a fantastic save in the first-half and then even a few more in the second.
“We have two very good goalkeepers and it’s tough for us to pick, but Gabriel was outstanding. His reflexes, his shot-stopping – he is a really good leader from the back as well which is something that we need more of. He is a real good quality goalkeeper to have.”
The Under-18 Assistant Coach has also made the journey through the ranks at Watford alongside some of the key players in the squad, and he has been pleased to have seen their playing development first-hand.
He explained: “It’s a funny one. Adrian [Blake], George [Abbott], Charlie [Davis] and Jack Grieves – I started at the club eight years ago and that was the age group that I had at Under-10s. I had them again at Under-12s, then 13s, 15s and 16s, and now I work alongside them with the Under-18s.
“It’s great for my personal development to see what a player can look like at Under-10 level and then growing through the Foundation Phases and then onto the Professional Development Phase. It's been a really good journey for me; it has been a milestone.”
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With matchworn shirts from Watford’s Sky Bet Championship fixtures against Reading and Bristol City auctioned to raise money for this year’s Poppy Appeal, supporters have raised £14,143 for the Royal British Legion.
Each year, Watford shirts adorning poppies are signed and auctioned for the Royal British Legion via matchwornshirt.com, a website where supporters can bid for their favourite shirt and support an important cause.
Bids came in from 17 different countries for the Watford shirts, with João Pedro’s proving to be the most popular, fetching over £2,000 for his three listed.
A big thank you to everyone who helped raise important funds for the Royal British Legion.
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Watford assistant coach Julian Dicks is raffling a pair of his boots that he has autographed in order to raise money for two charities
Slaven Bilic is trying to strike the balance between flair and the 'dirty jobs' with his Watford team.
Following a frustrating injury lay-off that has limited her to just one start this term, midfielder Francesca Ali was delighted to score her second goal of the season in Watford’s 5-3 win over Hashtag United.
Ali poked home the Golden Girls’ third in the second half, but the game was taken to extra-time at 3-3 before goals from Grace Garrad and Poppy Wilson sealed Watford’s place in the FAWNL Cup quarter-finals.
“It was good to be back,” Ali began. “Obviously I’ve been away for a bit through injury, but it was great to be back out there with the girls. It was a tough game, but we got over the line in the end.
“It feels like it has been a really long and tough few months, so to get back out there was amazing. I can’t think of a better group of people to be out there playing with.”
Despite facing lower league opposition Watford were tested by a resolute and physical Hashtag side, who came back from 3-1 down to take the game to extra-time. Ali was pleased that the Hornets could see the game out in the end, but felt her side were capable of a stronger performance.
“We knew what we were up against, we knew it was going to be a tough battle,” Ali continued. “We probably made hard work of it in certain areas of the game, but the main thing is we got the win, we grinded out the result and we can go into the New Year happy.”
Taking time to look back on the campaign so far, Ali feels the Hornets stand in good stead in league and cup competitions, crediting Head Coach Damon Lathrope and Assistants Laura Dyer and Matt Bevans.
“We knew it was going to be a challenge, but Damon, Bevs and Laura have recruited well and brought in some really good individual players,” said Ali. “With the players we’ve managed to keep from last season, it’s going really well, and we’ve got a really good team rapport at the moment, so long may that continue.”
Tom Dele-Bashiru has given two impressive midfield displays after having to wait for his chance at Watford.
1- The panto was awesome, thanks for asking. Adrenaline propelled us through the traditionally magnificent after-show party (somewhere in a theatre in north Bedfordshire there are still people dancing) but would have fizzled out by Saturday without due attention giving way to the “what do I do with the rest of my life…?” low that […]
Watford midfielder Leandro Bacuna was delighted to help his teammates secure a 2-0 win over Huddersfield Town on his debut for the Golden Boys.
The 31-year-old was placed into the starting XI against the Terriers by Head Coach Slaven Bilić after signing for the club on Wednesday (December 14), and played an important role as João Pedro’s second-half double earned Watford a valuable win on the road.
Bacuna explained that he wasn’t expecting to make his first start in yellow, but was focused and ready to make an impact whenever the Watford boss needed him.
“I think it was great, coming back and playing for the first time in a long time, I was delighted,” he said. “Winning the game at the end was a brilliant bonus.
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“I didn’t expect to start. I was ready, for sure. The Head Coach came to me and asked how long I could play and I said if he needed me I’d be there.
“Looking back, I think I can be happy. I did my thing, I played my minutes. You’ve got to get your match fitness somewhere, and I think today was a perfect example to get my match fitness up and to get ready for the next run of games. Overall, I feel I can be happy with my performance.”
Watford’s latest recruit has been at the club for a number of weeks training with the squad, and felt that the familiarity with his fellow teammates was an advantage on the pitch. And the Curaçao international was full of praise for the goalscorer, João Pedro.
“Before I signed I’d been training with the group so I knew the players,” Bacuna said. “It was good coming back to the group, everyone knew me so it was familiar ground, and it feels like home.
“At the beginning of today, we were a bit sloppy. Once we got into the game we created a lot of chances, it was just lacking that one finishing touch, and you see in the second half how calm João was to finish that. He’s a brilliant player.”
Bacuna was also pleased to earn a clean sheet alongside his midfield partner Tom Dele-Bashiru, acknowledging that the achievement was a team effort.
“[Dele-Bashiru] has got a lot of talent, you can see that,” he added.
“On the ball, he’s got quality going forward, I think you saw that for the first goal, he was going forward before giving the ball to João. We’ve still got to get used to each other, definitely, it’s only the first game, but I’m excited.
“People always praise defenders for clean sheets, but it starts from the front. If the strikers do well, then the midfield and the support from the defence, I think it starts from the front and we all do it. We’ve all got to take credit for a clean sheet.”
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Watford Head Coach Slaven Bilić was pleased to see a fighting display from his side as the Hornets secured a 2-0 victory over Huddersfield Town at the John Smith’s Stadium.
Brazilian forward João Pedro was the key man in yellow, notching two second-half goals to guide the Golden Boys to a crucial win.
Bilić felt that Watford created plenty of opportunities to secure the result, and was delighted to see the impressive work rate on display.
He opened: “We created a lot today and we should have put this game to bed. We are in a good place at the moment, but we want to challenge. Everyone knows what we want and we are going to have to keep working very hard.
“Creating the balance of the team is important. It’s not just about when you have the ball, it’s other things in the game that mean just as much. To give an example, I’m more excited when I see [Keinan] Davis, João Pedro and [Ismaïla] Sarr doing the dirty work because it’s things they don’t want to do, but they are willing to do it for the team.
“Nine days off now is unusual in the Championship, before our next game against Millwall, but now we have some days where we are happy to come into the training ground and continue working.”
The Watford boss felt that João Pedro deserved the plaudits after his inspired performance, and acknowledged that the team gave him the platform to make pivotal contributions.
“João Pedro deserves the headlines,” Bilić continued. “He makes the difference and he gives everything for the team. Not only on the ball, but you saw him pressing today in dangerous areas.
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“We can’t talk about him as a finished product yet because he’s so young, but it’s scary the possibilities for him.
“Yes, the game-changers are the ones who decide the game, but the team has to provide the conditions for those kinds of players to affect the match.”
Playing behind the Brazilian was the midfield partnership of Tom Dele-Bashiru and debutant Leandro Bacuna. Bilić praised the pair for their impressive performance against the Terriers.
He said: “[Dele-Bashiru] has taken his chance because of the injuries and I wasn’t worried about him at all.
“He showed good awareness for the first goal. He was heading left and I wondered if he knew about the run from João Pedro but yes, that’s a great decision.
“Bacuna hadn’t played for a while, and he was better in the second half than the first half. We didn’t want to risk anything so we took him off after about an hour. That was right for him, and Yáser [Asprilla] came on and did a great job.”
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The only complaint head coach Slaven Bilic had after the 2-0 win at Huddersfield was that his side didn’t have the three points in the bag sooner.
Defender Craig Cathcart felt his side were full value for the three points, as Watford secured an important 2-0 victory over Huddersfield Town on their travels.
The stand-in captain played a vital role as he helped earn a fourth consecutive clean sheet, allowing the forwards a platform to progress as João Pedro notched a decisive double in West Yorkshire.
Cathcart knew that if Watford persevered and maintained their composure after a goalless first half, the encounter would eventually open up.
“It was great to have a solid defence today and it’s something to build on,” he began. “The more chances we can make, the more likely we are to win games.
“Early on I think we struggled with the patterns and movement, but I think overall we defended the box quite well. Going into half-time, we knew we had to be patient and take our chances in the second half and we did.
“We broke away two or three times and had opportunities. We knew if we kept knocking on the door the chances would come and that’s how it turned out in the end.”
With three points lifting Watford to third in the Sky Bet Championship table, the 33-year-old pointed to João Pedro as the difference maker.
“He’s brilliant, he’s dynamite in a game,” Cathcart continued. “I said to him after the match that I was more impressed with his header rather than his first goal because it was unstoppable and into the top corner.
“He’s quite aggressive and doesn’t mind putting his head in where it hurts. You get that a lot with Brazilian players – we had that with Richarlison.
“I think it’s key that we look after ourselves and not focus too much on the other teams now. We need to try and do our job and get the job done. We have struggled here over the years, so we need to move on now and try and build up the momentum.”
Despite a depleted midfield department due to numerous injuries, Cathcart praised the work rate and attitude of duo Tom Dele-Bashiru and debutant Leandro Bacuna.
He added: “The lads have done great today and put a big shift in. Leandro [Bacuna] has come in and done brilliantly. Obviously, he had to come off at the end and we worked around it. I think it just shows the depth in the squad that we managed to get the job done.
“We have options all over the pitch and the squad is really good. You need to be on the top of your game to stay in the team because whoever is on the bench is ready to come in.
“We want to build on today, keep the momentum going and hopefully give the fans a good performance on Boxing Day and get the three points.”
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Academy at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit an Academy Operations Administrator to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing administration support and managing the day-to-day football business of the Academy.
Key objectives of the role but not limited:
- Coordinate the U7-U15 game programme, including liaising with opposition clubs and supporting the lead phase coaches with the administration of schoolboy fixtures. Ensuring all U7-U15 correspondence is communicated internally and externally with staff, organisations, parents and governing bodies.
- Support the Head of Academy Recruitment and Academy Operations Manager in arranging trialist documents and submissions through IFAS, updating internal trialists spreadsheets for all U7-U15 players.
- Provide administration support to all Academy internal departments and on additional Academy administration tasks as and when required by the Academy Management Team.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Experience of football administration at a club, league or national level.
- E-literate with applications including MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook; databases and theinternet.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- Hands on approach with a can-do attitude.
- Ability to multitask in a fast paced, ever changing environment.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Ability to anticipate and prioritise workload.
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role.
- The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
You would ideally have:
- Knowledge and understanding of player contracts and regulatory guidelines.
- A working knowledge of rules and regulations at all levels of the game, specifically the Premier League/EFL/FA Rules & FIFA RSTP.
- Offer the highest standard of customer service.
- The ability to work effectively under own initiative and also as a member of a team.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Operations Administrator
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Tuesday January 3, 2023Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
Head coach Slaven Bilic said he has game changers in his Watford squad, and he needs them to deliver the goods on the pitch.
Hamza Choudhury’s knee injury is not as bad as head coach Slaven Bilic feared, and the Watford boss says Ismaila Sarr has been 'on fire' in training
New Watford assistant coach Julian Dicks talks honestly and openly about his career as a player and his good friend Slaven Bilic
Ismaila Sarr returned to the training ground on Monday and trained with his Watford teammates both yesterday and today (Wednesday).
Under-18 Lead Coach Charlie Daniels is excited by the prospect of facing Lincoln City in the third round of the FA Youth Cup this Friday (December 16, 7pm KO).
Ahead of the hotly-anticipated tie, the Young Hornets have been put through their paces as they prepare to write the next chapter in Watford’s illustrious FA Youth Cup legacy. The Golden Boys have won the competition twice before, in 1982 and 1989, while finishing runners-up in 1985.
Daniels is hopeful of continuing that proud heritage with a positive result against the Imps, following a series of productive sessions on the grass.
“Training has been really good ahead of the match,” he began. “We were fortunate enough to have a preparation game a few weeks ago, which was invaluable because a lot of our Under-18s are involved with the Under-21s.
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“It was nice to get everyone together and to get the players more familiar and comfortable with playing with each other.
“This week has been invaluable for us with the Under-18 group training as a whole. We had an in-house game recently against the Under-21s which was really good, and it gives us an insight ahead of the match against Lincoln.
“It’s really exciting to have all the second-year scholars mixing with the first-year scholars. I talk with Omer [Riza, Under-21 Lead Coach] every day about the players and how they are progressing. We are in constant contact, and it’s been really invaluable the opportunities that they have been given with the Under-21s.
“Hopefully they can bring that experience to the Under-18s. I’m really excited about what we are going into and what we are expecting. We are hoping to stamp our authority on the game.”
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The Under-18s boss has enjoyed his own experiences in the prestigious competition, reaching the semi-finals as a youth player for Tottenham Hotspur. Daniels knows the value and importance of the tournament, giving significant life experience at a crucial time in a player’s development.
“For me, the FA Youth Cup means a lot,” he continued. “The journey that you go on is really special and you never forget it. Even now if I speak to the players that I played alongside in the competition, we still talk about the games and our memories.
“I had two contrasting experiences as a scholar. In my first year, I was on the bench when we lost our first match to West Bromwich Albion away, which was pretty disappointing, but in the second year I was playing and we got through to the semi-finals.
“We had Watford in the third round and we won 2-0 – I scored which was nice! We played at Vicarage Road, White Hart Lane, Anfield and then we played against Ipswich Town at Portman Road in the semi-finals and we lost over two legs.
“The actual run that we went on and everything that surrounds it was really good and an invaluable experience. It means a lot to the players because it’s a massive life experience.”
Watford’s past in the competition includes a memorable 3-2 victory over Manchester United during the 1982 final, with Head of Technical Development Jimmy Gilligan etching his name onto the scoresheet that day. Daniels knows that the club’s history in the FA Youth Cup will only add to the motivation to want to perform well against Lincoln.
He said: “We take this competition really seriously and it’s a great opportunity to show what we are capable of and to put yourself out there as a player. I did a presentation on the history of the FA Youth Cup including how far Watford have gone in the past 10 years and the last time Watford won it, so we are well aware of the meaning of the competition.
“Of course, Jimmy [Gilligan] holds the FA Youth Cup very highly because he scored in the final against Manchester United, and he lets the lads know that he scored in the final against Manchester United!”
Daniels is anticipating a tough and competitive game against the Imps - who beat Tranmere Rovers 4-2 after extra-time in the second round - at the LNER Stadium, and with the match under the floodlights it’s certain to create a special atmosphere and environment.
“We are expecting a very good game against Lincoln,” he said. “We have watched a few of their games and they are a good team and we won’t take them lightly. They have some good quality players and we will have to be at our best to get through to the next round.
“It doesn’t get any better than playing under the lights at night. There is something special about playing in a stadium in front of supporters, it really gives you that extra buzz. I know the lads will be really up for it and we want them to be, but we need the emotions controlled which I’m trying to instil in them.
“They are young and it might be frantic in the first 15 minutes or so, but as long as we get through that, start to control the game and play the way we want to play, then I’m sure we’ll be fine.”
Ticket Information
Tickets for the Under-18s’ FA Youth Cup clash away at Lincoln City (Friday December 16, 7pm KO) are available to purchase HERE, priced at £5 for adults, £2 for 65+ and £2 for Under-18s.
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Young Brazilian winger Matheus Martins has been confirmed as joining Watford, although it is unclear if he has signed or is joining on loan.
Watford FC is pleased to confirm the signing of Leandro Bacuna on a free transfer, with the experienced midfielder having put pen to paper on a deal until the end of the 2022/23 season.
The 31-year-old arrives at Vicarage Road with a plethora of Sky Bet Championship and top-flight pedigree, and over 400 career appearances to his name.
Born in the Netherlands, but a full Curaçao international, Bacuna started out at Eredivisie side FC Groningen, working his way up the youth ranks.
After four consistent seasons in the Dutch first division, he made the jump to the Premier League to join Aston Villa where he featured alongside current Hornets captain Tom Cleverley.
During his four years in Birmingham, Bacuna helped the Villans to their first FA Cup final in 15 years in the 2014/15 campaign.
An 18-month stint with Reading soon followed, before he left for South Wales to feature for Cardiff City in January 2019.
A key figure in the Bluebirds’ squad, in both the Premier League and the second-tier, the versatile operator made over 100 appearances including two in the 2019/20 Championship play-offs.
Having departed the Cardiff City Stadium in the summer, Bacuna, who has been training with Slaven Bilić’s squad for a number of weeks, has signed terms with the Golden Boys and is available for selection immediately ahead of Saturday’s match at Huddersfield Town (December 17, 3pm KO).
Welcome to Watford, Leandro!
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Teenage Brazilian starlet Matheus Martins has joined Watford FC, and is training with Slaven Bilić’s squad ahead of a January registration.
Having featured for Brazil at both Under-16 and Under-20 levels, the Hornets are delighted to confirm the forthcoming signature of forward Martins.
The highly-rated 19-year-old, who paid a first visit to Vicarage Road for Sunday’s Hull City stalemate, will be available to feature for the Golden Boys from January 2023 onwards.
Welcome to Watford, Matheus!
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Watford have moved to ease their midfield injury crisis with free agent Leandro Bacuna set to sign a deal until the end of the season.
The Hornets head up to the John Smith’s Stadium to face Huddersfield Town this weekend (Saturday December 17, 3pm KO), with the aim of returning to winning ways in the Sky Bet Championship.
Ahead of the fixture against Mark Fotheringham’s Terriers, we take a look at the statistical context behind the encounter…
Previous Meetings
None of the last 14 league meetings between Huddersfield and Watford have been drawn, with the home side winning both games 2-0 the last time they faced off in 2020/21.
Huddersfield have lost three of their last four Football League games against Watford (W1), although each of their previous two league wins against the Hornets have come at home.
The home side in this fixture has kept a clean sheet in four of the last five Football League meetings. The last side to record a shutout away from home was the Terriers in January 1996 during a four-game run of clean sheets.
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Recent Form
West Yorkshire outfit Huddersfield - who currently sit at the foot of the standings - have lost more games in the Championship this season than any other side, winning just two of their last nine league outings.
Watford have lost just one of their last seven league games, while since Slaven Bilić’s first game in charge of the Hornets in October, only three other teams have collected more points in the Championship.
The Terriers have failed to score in six of their last eight league games, including each of the last two, last going three league games without a goal in July 2020 (run of four).
The Golden Boys have kept a clean sheet in each of their last three league games, last having a longer run in December 2001.
Opposition Stat Attack
The position of Huddersfield Town’s top marksman is shared by Jordan Rhodes and Danny Ward, with three each. Rhodes leads the number of shots on target (11), while Ward is top for shots off target (16).
Sorba Thomas is first for assists with six, while Tom Lees is top for passes attempted this season with 815. The 32-year-old leads the way for passes in his own half (545), and Jack Rudoni is top for passes in the opposition’s half (298). Midfielder Thomas has also attempted the most crosses (201) and dribbles (40).
Defensively, Rudoni has made the most tackles (28), while Michał Helik is top for clearances (90) and blocks (23).
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixtures against Blackpool (Saturday January 14, 3pm KO) and Rotherham United (Saturday January 21, 3pm KO) will go on sale from 12noon on Thursday (December 15).
Tickets will be available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Thursday December 15- Home Group B
12noon, Friday December 16- Home Group C
12noon, Monday December 19- Home Group D*
12noon, Tuesday December 20- General Sale
12noon, Wednesday December 21*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £20
- 65 & Over: £12
- Full-Time Student: £8
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £20
- 65 & Over: £12
- Full-Time Student: £8
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £24
- 65 & Over: £15
- Full-Time Student: £10
- 18 & Under: £5
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £26
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £14
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Following alterations to our online ticketing process, tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Please click HERE to read Watford FC’s Safeguarding Children & Young People Policy, with section 36 relating to matchday attendance.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
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Watford will be hoping it’s a case of third time lucky when Leigh Doughty takes charge of their trip to Huddersfield Town on Saturday.
All UK-based and overseas Watford fans will be able to tune in to live video coverage of the Hornets’ away clash against Huddersfield Town on Saturday (December 17, 3pm KO).
UEFA Article 48 protection is not in place during the World Cup, meaning Saturday 3pm matches that would otherwise not be available in the domestic market can be streamed in this period.
With Slaven Bilić’s side looking to build on last weekend’s goalless draw at home to Hull City, and strengthen their position towards the top of the Sky Bet Championship standings, find out below how you can follow the fixture on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm GMT.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 2.50pm GMT.
- This game is included in monthly (£25) and seasonal Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters, with the new International Half-Season Hive Live Pass now available for £85.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford had been leaking goals at a significant rate at the start of the 1984/85 season, conceding 33 in their opening 13 games, before Graham Taylor paid £225,000 to sign a new centre-half from Rangers. John McClelland would not only prove an instant success but would go on to establish himself as one of the finest defenders in the club’s history.
Exciting opportunities have become available within the Supporter Services Team at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a number of highly motivated individuals to join the team in providing excellent customer service within the Ticket Office.
You will play a key role in the sale of matchday tickets, both over the phone and face to face.
The successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford and London Colney or the surrounding areas, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- Availability to work matchdays, which vary depending on fixtures and kick-off times. These can include weekends and evenings.
- Excellent communication skills, able to engage with supporters of all ages and backgrounds.
- Confident IT skills, with the ability to learn how to use a ticketing system.
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
You would ideally have:
- Previous experience of working in a customer facing position.
- Strong organisational skills.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Supporter Services Staff
Rate of Pay: Hourly, depending on experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Vicarage Road Stadium
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: OngoingDownload the full job advert HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to dave.newman@watfordfc.com or by post to Dave Newman, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
Head coach Slaven Bilic was frustrated by the draw with Hull, but felt in the circumstances it was a decent display
Watford FC Women will face either Peterborough United or Durham in the fourth round of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup if they are successful in beating Crystal Palace in round three.
The third round tie against the Eagles was originally scheduled to to take place on Sunday December 11 but was postponed due to adverse weather, with the game set to be played at a soon to be confirmed date.
The fourth round is scheduled to take place on Sunday January 29, 2023.
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Watford Under-21s’ Professional Development League clash at home to Barnsley has been postponed due to a frozen pitch.
The match had been due to get underway at 1pm this afternoon (Tuesday December 13), at Kings Langley FC’s Orbital Fasteners Stadium.
A new time and date for the fixture will be announced in due course.
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On Season 2, Episode 27 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford and Hull in a dreary 0-0 deadlock at The Vic. Plus: Tom Dele-Bashiru starts and does well. Also: Ismaila Sarr, ever the mercurial one, goes AWOL against Hull. Should Sarr be fined, suspended or benched for a half for failing to appear, or none of the aforementioned?
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd or at https://youtube.com/@youornswfc
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Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: December 13, 2022.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Watford 0, Hull City 0: https://bit.ly/3uEvKzuFYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Fanbase @youorns: Download the Fanbase app (App Store, Google Play)Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC #WatfordFC
--- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/appSupport this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
When a player simply doesn't turn up, you have to question whether the culture at the club makes that seem acceptable
Watford Head Coach Slaven Bilić reserved special praise for Tom Dele-Bashiru, as the midfielder made his first start this season in the Hornets’ 0-0 draw with Hull City on Sunday afternoon (December 11).
Dele-Bashiru’s last league start was back in April on loan at Reading, having not been named in the Watford starting XI since October 2020 due to knee injuries.
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The 23-year-old has spent the World Cup break in full training with the group and making a positive impression on Bilić, who spoke in length to Dele-Bashiru about seizing the opportunity against the Tigers.
“When I arrived Tom didn’t play,” Bilić explained. “He was injured and played at Reading last season on loan. When he came back from injury we had a talk and he started to improve in training; it was like a pre-season for him.
“I told him, ‘you are there. Because of the situation in midfield you are definitely going to get a chance. Be ready for that’.
Dele-Bashiru put in a committed display at Vicarage Road, as Bilić effused about the former Nigeria youth international’s performance.
“I didn’t have any fear to put him in from the start because I saw him do well in training,” continued the Croatian.
“The way he played, for a player that hasn’t played this season, he played so maturely, with quality, passing forwards and keeping his position with good touches and intention, and on the front foot. It was a very, very good performance so well done to him.”
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Watford defender Jeremy Ngakia found the goalless draw against Hull City “a tough one to take” on a cold Sunday afternoon (December 11).
With clear-cut chances at a premium during the first half, the match opened up following the interval with the Hornets coming close through Rey Manaj and Yáser Asprilla in a closely-fought contest, although the match ended deadlocked.
Making only his second start this season, the marauding right-back felt the Hornets created enough to warrant more than the solitary point.
Ngakia began: “It was a tough one to take for us because I feel like we created enough good chances to come away with three points, but sometimes this happens in football. We have to move on quickly.
“I felt in the second half the game got a bit more open, which normally happens to be honest.
“Once we got into the mood we were much better, but I think we need to do that from the off. We need to get to that quicker.
“[Slaven Bilić] told us to try our best to join the attack when we can and be smart, but overall we’re not happy to come away with just one point.”
Looking ahead, Ngakia feels the World Cup-induced break will be beneficial in the long run as the full-back hopes to maintain his place in the starting XI following the intermission.
He continued: “We worked hard during the World Cup break and we didn’t really have a rest. We’re ready to attack the rest of the season.
“I’ve missed it a lot, playing in the stadium in front of fans. It’s a different feeling and I can’t describe it sometimes. I’ve missed it a lot and I can’t wait to continue.”
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Tickets for Watford’s trip to Reading (Saturday January 7, 12.30pm KO) in the Emirates FA Cup will go on sale to supporters in Away Group A at 12noon on Monday (December 12).
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices, the club’s Under-18s policy, and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Monday December 12- Away Group B
12noon, Tuesday December 13- Away Group C
12noon, Wednesday December 14- Away Group D
12noon, Thursday December 15- Away Group E*
10am, Friday December 16- General Sale
3pm, Friday December 16*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Subject to availability, tickets will be on sale on the day for an increased price at the Select Car Leasing Stadium. Tickets purchased in this manner will not count towards supporters’ booking history.
While tickets remain available, advanced ticket sales for this cup fixture will finish at 4pm on Friday January 6. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Ticket Prices
- Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £15/£20
- 65 & Over (Pre-Match/Matchday): £12/£15
- 18-24 Year Olds (Pre-Match/Matchday): £10/£13
- 13-17 Year Olds (Pre-Match/Matchday): £6/£9
- 12 & Under (Pre-Match/Matchday): £4/£7
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Coach Travel
Coaches for our trip to Reading will depart from Occupation Road at 8.30am. All coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination. Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Friday January 6, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking. We will arrange for replacement tickets for collection at the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocation specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area will be available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for this match.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures.
The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Slaven Bilic answered quickly and unequivocally when asked what he needed in the January transfer window.
1- No, I haven’t. No, I won’t and no I wouldn’t have. No, it’s been bloody miserable (except when we went out to dinner on Saturday evening and everywhere was empty). Yes, I do get to feel virtuous. 2- It’s panto week. I mention this every year, but am conscious that it’s impossible to convey […]
Head coach Slaven Bilic didn’t want to talk much about the absence of Ismaila Sarr for Watford’s 0-0 draw with Hull this afternoon.
Following a pitch inspection prior to kick-off, the Vitality Women’s FA Cup third round clash between Watford FC Women and Crystal Palace has been postponed due to adverse weather conditions.
The match had been due to get underway at 7pm on Sunday December 11, at Bromley FC’s Hayes Lane.
A new time and date for the fixture will be announced in due course.
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Watford midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru felt that the Hornets deserved more from a tightly-contested 0-0 draw with Hull City on a bitterly cold afternoon at Vicarage Road.
The 23-year-old made his first start for the Golden Boys in the Sky Bet Championship against the Tigers, with his minutes limited this campaign due to injury.
Dele-Bashiru was happy to play a key role in a central position, featuring alongside midfield partners Hamza Choudhury and later João Pedro following Choudhury’s substitution after picking up a knock.
“It was frustrating,” Dele-Bashiru began. “The first half was pretty even and we grew into the game a bit, but we didn’t start particularly well.
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“Hamza’s injury might have thrown us off a bit, but I think we grew into it during the second half. We started a bit poorly, but we created a lot of chances and we should’ve won the game, so it’s frustrating.
“It was good [to play alongside Choudhury and João Pedro]. I train with these guys all the time so I understand how they play. With Hamza, you have more of a leeway to go forward, but with João Pedro, I need to be more defensively engaged. It was good to play with both of them.
“In the second half, it was good but towards the end I started tiring, which is normal, but it was really good to get my first start.”
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After the interval, Dele-Bashiru noted a marked improvement in chance creation with the Hornets coming close to breaking the deadlock on multiple occasions.
“I think in the first half we were moving the ball too slowly,” he continued. “Our offensive patterns weren’t really coming off, but we stayed focused and we pressed well in the first half.
“I think we had the ball a few times and we had a few chances, but we knew in the second half we needed to keep going.
“We hoped that our offensive patterns and combinations would come off and they did, but we weren’t clinical enough. After the first 10 minutes we were comfortable, we had all the possession, and we created a lot of chances. We were just missing that final bit.”
The energetic midfielder explained what Watford Head Coach Slaven Bilić asked of him before the fixture and how much he enjoys playing under the Croatian.
Dele-Bashiru added: “He just asked me to play my game, enjoy it and try to get on the ball and make things happen. In the first half, when I got on the ball I thought I was good, but I needed to be on the ball a bit more.
“Slaven Bilić is a great manager. It has been a difficult start because I had my injury at the beginning of the season, but I’ve been working hard, training well and I’m grateful for the opportunity and I hope to keep my place in the team.
“It was disappointing not to get the three points today, but we know that we created plenty of chances in the second half and we should’ve won the game, so we will take that and the positives into the next game.”
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Head Coach Slaven Bilić admitted feeling a mixture of emotions following Watford’s goalless draw against Hull City, with frustration at the overall result being balanced with a sense of pride yielded by his depleted squad’s efforts at Vicarage Road.
Midfielder Hamza Choudhury was forced off through injury early on in the Hornets’ first taste of Sky Bet Championship action for a month, forcing João Pedro to drop into a deeper role and attempt to swing the game’s momentum in the home side’s favour.
While showering the Boy from Brazil with praise Bilić explained he was disappointed not to have kickstarted the festive period with three points, but considering the in-game circumstances he was pleased with the quality and quantity of chances created in the second half.
“I’m gutted with the result, based on what we expected to do today,” said Bilić, 54. “But considering the difficulties we had to deal with, I have nothing but praise for the players.
“The first half wasn’t good enough, but even though we couldn’t get the finishing touch to score a goal we didn’t lack the ball or creativity in the second. We created enough to score.
“We were already very thin on the ground in midfield before the game, so to lose Hamza so early on was very frustrating. I don’t know the full extent of the injury yet, but it meant we had to move João further back as we don’t have any other midfielders we could have brought on.
“He’s on another level, and it was a brilliant performance from him. He is so good he can play anywhere. But our squad is getting scarily small in certain areas and for the players to get through the game like they did was great.”
Having particularly struggled with injuries in defence earlier in the season, the midfield area is of main concern to Bilić at this stage, though striker Rey Manaj’s return was cut short as well to the Head Coach’s dismay.
Bilić said: “A few weeks ago we only had one fit centre-back, but now we’ve recovered in that position and we had [William] Troost-Ekong and [Francisco] Sierralta on the bench today.
“But the issue’s moved around and central midfield is our main worry now. [Edo] Kayembe is out with a calf problem, Choudhury’s picked up a problem today, and the likes of Imrân Louza and Tom Cleverley are obviously still out.
“We brought Rey [Manaj] into the game because he is a goalscorer, and with our added pressure we thought something could happen. He went very close with a chance, but then himself had to be replaced which is another disappointment. This will pass eventually, and now is the time just to stick together and keep going.”
While focusing largely on his own team’s display Bilić did reserve some credit for opponents Hull, who stretched their unbeaten run away from home to five games thanks to the draw at The Vic.
After gradually breaking down Liam Rosenior’s Tigers, without ultimately grabbing the all-important winner, the former Croatia boss is looking forward to another week’s training before Saturday’s trip north to face Huddersfield Town (December 17, 3pm KO).
Bilić added: “Hull don’t necessarily hurt you with a barrage of chances, but they are good at frustrating you with lots of possession, and by stretching teams.
“I expected us to hurt them more than we did in the first half, and after half-time we did create more chances, but I think they’re a better team than their position in the table suggests. We’ll keep working hard, and we’ll look forward to getting back out there next week.”
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Watford missed the opportunity to move into the top three in the Championship as their return to action after the World Cup ended in a frustrating goalless stalemate against Hull City at a freezing Vicarage Road.
An exciting opportunity has become available within the Academy at Watford Football Club. We are currently looking to recruit a Lead Academy Sports Scientist.
The successful candidate will work as part of a multi-disciplinary support team delivering scientific support to Academy players and coaches.
Duties will involve:
- To design and deliver a scientifically robust fitness testing, physiological, and training load monitoring system across all Academy age groups. Providing relevant, appropriate feedback to players, coaches, and parents and / or guardians in a time efficient manner with the primary focus being on health, wellbeing, and performance enhancement.
- To deliver a scientifically, age-appropriate sports nutrition support programme for all Academy players.
- To work with Academy coaches to understand and integrate their philosophy within the delivery of scientific and strength and conditioning support.
- To lead the design and delivery of a relevant sport science education programme that educates players, coaches and parents and / or guardians. Where appropriate identify and facilitate appropriate communication methods, including workshops and seminars.
The role will be based at the club’s training ground in London Colney and will primarily be working with the U21s squad, but may include working across all Academy ages (U9s to U21s at times).
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford and London Colney or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- BSc in Sport + Exercise Science or a sports related discipline.
- FA First Aid and/or Basic First Aid for Sport Qualification (EFAiF).
- FA Safeguarding Certificate.
- Experience of working in a sport science setting with elite young athletes.
- Experience of working in a football academy setting.
- Be able to work effectively in a team environment and operate effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary support team.
- This role will have regular contact with children, and it is therefore required by law to have a DBS Enhanced Criminal Record Check with children’s barred list check.
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role.
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
You would ideally have:
- MSc in Sports Science / Strength & Conditioning or a related field.
- BASES accreditation or working towards chartered scientist status.
- UKCA accreditation or working towards.
- Excellent communication skills.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills.
- The ability to work effectively under own initiative.
- Ability to multi-task in a fast paced ever changing environment.
- Ability to remain calm under pressure.
- Ability to anticipate and prioritise workload.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Lead Academy Sports Scientist
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Thursday December 22, 2022Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.SEO Image
Slaven Bilic has been reunited with a longstanding and trusted friend as Julian Dicks has joined Watford's coaching staff
To celebrate the resumption of Watford’s season in December 2022, we’ve created a short, inspiring piece about what makes us Watford fans. Listen below, or download an MP3 file here. THE FORCE NEVER DIES A long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away, a mentor advises a young Hornet. (4 minutes)
Head coach Slaven Bilic discussed new midfielder Ismael Kone, and also his meeting this week with incoming technical director Ben Manga
A month on from Watford Women’s last away game, the Hornets travel to familiar territory in the third round of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup on Sunday (December 11, 7pm KO), taking on Barclays Championship side Crystal Palace at Hayes Lane.
Easing into the current stage of the competition last week with a 6-0 win over Crawley Wasps at Grosvenor Vale, the Golden Girls have since been busy preparing for their toughest test so far in 2022/23, taking on second-tier opposition for the first time this season.
Captain Helen Ward reached goal 150 in a Watford shirt last week against the Wasps to help the Hornets through, and spoke confidently of her side’s chances against the Eagles.
“We faced them twice last season and that’s where we want to be next season,” Ward said. “So what better opportunity to test ourselves against a team that’s at the top end of their own table. But we’re hitting some good form at the moment, they’re in more of a sticky patch, so it’s a good time to go and play them. We’re going to respect them, but we’re not going to fear them.”
The Ground
Crystal Palace play their home games at Bromley FC’s Hayes Lane (BR2 9EF), where Watford faced the Eagles last season in the Championship.
Supporters travelling by car can leave the M25 at Junction 4 and take the A21 towards Bromley and London. After five miles, turn left at the traffic lights onto the A232 towards Croydon/Sutton. At the second set of traffic lights turn right into Baston Road (B265).
Continue straight on this road through Hayes. The road becomes Hayes Lane, and after the mini roundabout the entrance to the ground is down on the right. There is a car park at the ground which costs £2.
Rail strikes aren’t yet in effect on Sunday December 11, and supporters looking to travel by train can stop at Bromley South (step-free access), a 15-minute walk away and the closest station to the ground. It can be reached directly from London Victoria.
Alternatively, Hayes station is 20 minutes away, and can be reached from Cannon Street, London Bridge, Waterloo or Charing Cross.
Hayes Lane has two disability viewing areas and carer seats.
Seating is available via the main turnstiles and is located at the south side of the stadium.
Tickets
Tickets are available on Crystal Palace’s website and on the gate at the following prices:
- Adults: £8 (£10 on matchday)
- Over-65s: £5 (£5 on matchday)
- Under-16: Free entry
The Match
Sitting firmly in mid-table in the Barclays Championship, Crystal Palace will be looking to improve on last season’s fourth-placed finish. Buoyed by a 1-0 win over Lewes last week, Palace have won five of their nine games so far this term and are six points off top spot with a game in hand.
Facing off home and away last season, Palace got the upper hand at Hayes Lane in the penultimate game of the league season, as Molly-Mae Sharpe’s brace was enough to beat the Hornets despite a first goal in yellow for Gemma Davison.
The Vicarage Road fixture ended with a more positive result however, with Ylenia Priest and Anaisa Harney scoring in a dramatic 2-2 draw.
The game will see returns to Crystal Palace for former Eagles Bianca Baptiste, Dré Georgiou, Grace Garrad, Francesca Ali and Megan Chandler. Baptiste played a part in both of last season’s fixtures from the other side, facing off against Palace for the first time in a Watford shirt.
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As part of Watford Football Club’s Hornets Pride Week celebrations, Watford Men and Women captains Tom Cleverley and Helen Ward joined the Proud Hornets for a podcast to discuss the group’s foundation, hard work, the experiences of LGBTQ+ people in football and Watford’s role in tackling homophobia.
Sarah, Proud Hornets:
“Allies are welcome within the Proud Hornets, there isn’t a questionnaire when you join about how you define yourself or anything like that. It’s part of the DNA of our football club to be a family club.
“When Joe [Sarah’s son] came out as trans a lot of it is, ‘how are people going to react?’ and ‘what are people going to think?’. I put something out there when he was ready because we’re really proud of him and Dave [Messenger, Watford FC’s Equality, Diversity & Inclusion Lead] got in contact, and the first thing that had his name on it in print was his season ticket, that was something the club offered. For me that overcomes a big barrier, and for him to know there was no issue or fuss and that support makes a massive difference.”
Cleverley on Sir Elton John and Rainbow Laces…
“His image is in our meeting rooms, in the player lounge at the stadium, he’s a figure we’re really proud of.
“It’s nice to hear from you [Sarah and Peter] about how it does make a difference because sometimes as players, we can’t sort of feel like ‘is it a token gesture to take the knee or wear rainbow laces?’, but it’s nice to hear that it makes a difference and that these are not just token gestures.
“I think we could be educated more as players, this is probably the most education I’ve had on the Proud Hornets.”
Ward on Women’s football and inclusion…
“The Women’s game is a different space and I’ve grown up surrounded by women that are gay and it’s never been any different, so for us these campaigns mean a lot to the players. For them football is a safe space, but other places might not be. If they feel safe and welcome and see teammates supporting it that are not gay, it’s a big thing.”
Cleverley on the We Campaign…
“I remember a couple of years ago me and Troy [Deeney] did an event at the stadium with the We Campaign, with two guys who were convicted for racism at football grounds. It was a really powerful chat. The club is one of the best I’ve been at for doing stuff like this.”
To listen to the full podcast, click HERE.
Match Info
- Watford v Hull City
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Sunday December 11, 3pm KO
Officials
- Referee: Dean Whitestone
- Assistant Referees: Nigel Lugg and Robert Hyde
- Fourth Official: Tim Robinson
Opposition
A run of four successive defeats, and just three wins in 10 games, led to the sacking of Hull manager Shota Arveladze at the end of September, with former Tiger Liam Rosenior stepping into the top job early last month.
In his three games in charge so far, Rosenior - who spent five seasons in East Yorkshire as a player between 2010 and 2015, and had started the 2022/23 campaign in interim charge of Derby County - has overseen a draw, a defeat and a win, and the 38-year-old will have benefited from the chance to work with his new squad during the month-long World Cup-enforced break.
Hull sit just two places off the bottom three in 20th with 21 games played, and though they are unbeaten in their last four games on the road, they have the worst goal difference in the league (-14).
Stats Buzz
Watford haven’t faced Hull City since the 2016/17 Premier League campaign. Both home sides won their games that season, with the Hornets taking the three points in a 1-0 victory at Vicarage Road under Walter Mazzarri.
The Hornets will be looking to complete back-to-back home wins over the Tigers for only the second time in their history, last achieving the feat between 1979 and 1990.
Watford have won six of their 11 games since the appointment of Head Coach Slaven Bilić in September, conceding just two in their last six games.
For an extensive statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Hull City In Numbers.
Team News
In his pre-match press conference, Watford Head Coach Slaven Bilić revealed that Jeremy Ngakia, Tom Dele-Bashiru and Craig Cathcart are all fit and ready for the visit of Hull.
Striker Rey Manaj has a chance of being involved, though the game may come too soon, while defender Kortney Hause and forward Samuel Kalu are nearing returns.
Bilić shared positive news on injured duo Tom Cleverley and Imrân Louza - who are expected to be back in full training soon after the New Year - while Dan Gosling is progressing well following his serious injury sustained against Bristol City last month.
For the full Watford team news, click HERE.
Hull will be without forward Óscar Estupiñán, who continues to serve his suspension for a red card in the game against Millwall on November 5. Ozan Tufan could feature for the Tigers, with the Turkish midfielder having made nine appearances for Watford in all competitions last season. Goalkeeper Nathan Baxter is available after injury.
What Are They Saying?
Slaven Bilić, Watford Head Coach:
“We had time to work on everything, went to Spain for just under a week and then came back here for a couple of weeks. It was a good break for us and now we are ready for the restart of the Championship.
“They’re [Hull] a big team with big ambitions. They were in the Premier League and have very ambitious owners, good players and a recent change in manager. They play good football and this is a ‘first game’. It’s a big game for us.
“They changed the way they play, they play possession football and from what I’ve seen they’re very good at that. They take chances, take risks and lose the ball but they frustrate with their possession. You can stop them from creating chances but it’s not easy to stop them from keeping the ball, they’re good at that and can make you nervous. We want to win the game but it will be difficult.”
Liam Rosenior, Hull City Manager:
“We’re in a really good place. It’s been surreal with the World Cup going on and going to Turkey. I’ve enjoyed it [the break] and I’ve got to know the players really well. There have been some really bright signs of the players understanding how I want to play.
“They’ve [Watford] got some top players and a top manager. We know it’s going to be difficult, but I want the players to enjoy these challenges. I believe we can get three points, but we need to make sure we’re consistent throughout the season.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 12
Drawn: 15
Lost: 17Last Six:
April 2017: Hull City 2-0 Watford (Premier League)
October 2016: Watford 1-0 Hull City (Premier League)
April 2013: Hull City 0-1 Watford (Championship)
December 2012: Watford 1-2 Hull City (Championship)
April 2012: Watford 1-1 Hull City (Championship)
October 2011: Hull City 3-2 Watford (Championship)Golden Flashback
Watford reduced Hull to their sixth straight Premier League defeat the last time the teams met at Vicarage Road, with Michael Dawson’s late own goal securing a narrow 1-0 win for the Hornets in October 2016.
Walter Mazzarri’s hosts dominated proceedings throughout - with Younes Kaboul and Roberto Pereyra hitting the woodwork in the first half - and though the game appeared to be heading for a draw, Hull captain Dawson deflected in Daryl Janmaat’s cross on 82 minutes to swing the game in Watford’s favour, who went up to seventh in the table as a result.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Hull City, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and club legend Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing encounter.
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Slaven Bilić is treating Sunday’s (December 11, 3pm KO) home clash with Hull City as a “first game” of the season having worked with his players over the last month during the FIFA World Cup break, and sees the Tigers as a team that can “frustrate” with their possession-based style of play.
With a week in Spain working on fitness before a further fortnight of tactical work at the London Colney training ground, and two friendlies in between, Bilić has had the chance to instil his philosophy and methods on the squad, and reflects positively on a month of hard work while welcoming players back from injury.
“We were looking forward to this break for a few reasons,” Bilić began. “I didn’t come in June, I came later, so I didn’t have time to get to know the players better and work on tactics so that was nice, and we also had so many games and with a tiny squad due to injuries. The players were tired and needed a rest physically and mentally.
“We had time to work on everything, went to Spain for just under a week and then came back here for a couple of weeks. It was a good break for us and now we are ready for the restart of the Championship.”
Their efforts over the break will be put to the test at Vicarage Road on Sunday when the Tigers visit under new manager Liam Rosenior. Hornets Head Coach Bilić feels a strong start to the second half of the season is vital, and he has spent a few weeks studying Hull’s style of play.
“First games are always important, the way you start,” continued the 54-year-old. “It shows how hard you’ve worked in pre-season or whatever break you have.
“They’re a big team with big ambitions. They were in the Premier League and have very ambitious owners, good players and a recent change in manager. They play good football and this is a ‘first game’. It’s a big game for us.
“They changed the way they play, they play possession football and from what I’ve seen they’re very good at that. They take chances, take risks and lose the ball but they frustrate with their possession. You can stop them from creating chances but it’s not easy to stop them from keeping the ball, they’re good at that and can make you nervous. We want to win the game but it will be difficult.”
Taking to the home dugout alongside Bilić for the first time at Vicarage Road, new Assistant Coach Julian Dicks was praised by his former West Ham United teammate upon his arrival at the club.
“Jules is and was a part of my life in England, as a player when I went to West Ham he was my roommate,” Bilić continued. “This is my third job in England and he was with me at West Ham and West Brom. He brings that Britishness, which is good to have, and he’s a top man.”
Although not eligible to feature this weekend or until the January transfer window opens, midfielder Ismaël Koné was mentioned in the press conference conducted on Friday morning (December 9), following confirmation of the 20-year-old’s move from Major League Soccer outfit CF Montréal earlier this week. Watching the Canada international prior to the World Cup and in Qatar as Koné faced Morocco, Belgium and Bilić’s nation Croatia, the Head Coach is excited by the new recruit.
“I heard that many clubs wanted him, he was part of the World Cup and is a player that is definitely for the future,” explained Bilić. “Hopefully he will also help us in the short-term. He’s made a huge improvement in his career, six months ago he made his professional debut.
“I watched him against Belgium and Croatia, and we watched clips before that. It’s great for the club, he’s coming in January but the boy is changing continents, we’re going to assess him and I’m sure he’ll help us this season.”
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João Pedro and Grace Garrad have won November’s Player of the Month and Stake Goal of the Month awards respectively, following a fan vote conducted on the official Watford FC app.
Brazilian starlet João Pedro has secured his third POTM gong of the campaign having won in August and October, impressing again with a scintillating performance in the Hornets’ 2-1 away win at Cardiff, before he scored both goals in a 2-0 victory at home to Reading a week later.
Such displays didn’t go unnoticed by Watford supporters at the time, with João Pedro finishing third and second in polls for the Man of the Match prizes against the Bluebirds and the Royals respectively, earning 24.1% and 32% shares of the votes.
The 21-year-old also started the narrow defeat at home to Coventry early on in the month, and came off the bench to help the Golden Boys sign off for the month-long break with a valuable point away at Bristol City.
Taking home the November award, João Pedro earned over half the POTM votes, with Golden Girls Garrad, Poppy Wilson and Gemma Davison in second, third and fourth respectively.
Having been João Pedro’s closest challenger for the POTM prize, young defender Garrad has laid claim to the latest Stake Goal of the Month award, thanks to her dramatic winner against AFC Wimbledon in the FAWNL Cup.
Damon Lathrope’s charges were heading for penalties against the Dons at Carshalton Athletic’s War Memorial Sports Ground when Garrad launched a shot into the top corner, booking the Hornets’ place in round two and creating bedlam in the stands and away dugout.
The 19-year-old, who joined Watford on a dual-sign agreement from West Ham United in August, reflected on her second goal at senior level following the full-time whistle, having paved the way for a cup run that continues against Hashtag United on Saturday December 17 (6pm KO).
She said: “I don’t have words to describe it! As soon as Gem [Davison] set it to me I saw the lights and went for it; I was always going to shoot from there.
“It was one of those that left my boot and I knew it was going in. I didn’t know where to run! Everyone from the bench was coming over; it was unbelievable.”
Accumulating over 50% of the vote, Garrad saw off close competition from POTM winner João Pedro (second goal v Reading) in the Stake GOTM ranks, while Davison (v Billericay Town) and Flo Fyfe (v Fulham) finished third and fourth respectively.
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Slaven Bilic hopes both Tom Cleverley and Imran Louza are on course to return to action at the start of February.
Ahead of Watford’s return to competitive action on Sunday in the Sky Bet Championship against Hull City (December 11, 3pm KO), Head Coach Slaven Bilić provided an update on his squad going into the Christmas period.
Following three weeks of training at both their camp in Spain and the London Colney training ground, Bilić has players back and available for selection at the weekend.
Jeremy Ngakia has made just one appearance so far this term due to two injuries, last featuring in September’s defeat to Blackburn Rovers, but has been in full training for several weeks and played in friendlies against Blackpool and Arsenal during the break. The right-back, alongside Tom Dele-Bashiru and Craig Cathcart, is fit and ready for the Tigers clash.
Bilić shared positive news on injured duo Tom Cleverley and Imrân Louza, who sustained long-term achilles and ankle injuries respectively earlier this season. Both midfielders travelled with the squad to Spain and are making progress in their recovery.
“It was important for them to feel close and part of the squad [in Spain],” explained the Head Coach. “They are improving, they are not in plaster or the boots and are active and working in the gym, some are already on the pitch.
“Cleverley and Louza should be back in full training in January, early February hopefully, if things go to plan. We will have a massive boost, they are a couple of big players, very important on and off the pitch.”
Defender Kortney Hause isn’t fully recovered from a knee injury suffered before the World Cup break, but Bilić informed the media that the centre-back is nearing a return.
“Kortney Hause is improving, still not exactly good but is improving so he may be back also,” said Bilić.
Striker Rey Manaj suffered a hamstring injury at the end of August and returned to full training in Spain in November. The Albania international has a chance of being involved on Sunday, but the game may come too soon.
Picking up an ankle injury against Wigan Athletic in October and playing through pain leading up to the break in fixtures, Samuel Kalu has been recovering over the last month. The Nigerian forward needs more time before a return to action.
Longer-term absentee Dan Gosling is in his third week of recovery post-operation following a serious achilles injury against Bristol City in November. The midfielder is following the relevant rehabilitation protocol.
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The Hornets Shop will host a signing session with two members of the Watford FC first-team on Tuesday (December 13)!
Forwards Yáser Asprilla and João Pedro will be in-store for pictures and signings during the afternoon, giving supporters a chance to meet some of their favourite players.
The session will take place from 4-5pm GMT at the Vicarage Road Hornets Shop; we advise supporters to arrive early and wrap up warm in case of large queues.
We ask that any supporters requiring special access contact disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or chris.hall@watfordfc.com (Chris Hall, Supporter Liaison Officer) in advance of the signing session, to help ensure these needs are met on the day.
Please note that the players attending the signing session are subject to change.
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Head coach Slaven Bilic wouldn’t be drawn on Ismaila Sarr’s involvement in Sunday’s game with Hull City at Vicarage Road.
Former Watford defender Terry Mancini reflects on his rise through the youth ranks and five years in the Hornets first-team after a chance meeting with the current squad during their training camp in Spain last month…
Terry Mancini felt a sting of nostalgia when, as he sat in the La Finca Resort restaurant in Algorfa, Spain, the current Watford first-team squad entered the hotel to check in for a week’s training camp during the World Cup break.
The former Golden Boy, who began his career at Vicarage Road before enjoying two successful decades in the game with the likes of Arsenal, Queens Park Rangers and Leyton Orient, was at the same hotel by complete coincidence, and was spotted 60 years on from his time with the Hornets by long-serving club photographer Alan Cozzi.
Reflecting on his formative years playing under Ron Burgess, Bill McGarry and Ken Furphy, Mancini’s fondest memories in a Watford shirt came in the youth side of the early 1960s, including an unforgettable tour to the Netherlands that kickstarted his career.
“Watford was where I started,” the former defender reminisced. “I started in the youth team and enjoyed it immensely, I loved playing the games. I travelled everywhere by train and bus and used to train on Tuesday and Thursday nights in the youth team. I was delighted, I would get home at midnight and loved playing the game.
“At the end of my last season as a youth player we played in a tournament in Amsterdam, which Real Madrid played in as well! I was billeted in and won the chance to travel around in an American car which at the time wasn’t common, and an amazing experience.
“The following day we were driving into the first game, and I was in a great big Cadillac while everyone else rode in on their bikes. I wound the window down and waved at the goalkeeper as we drove past! I was always very lucky, I fell on my feet wherever I went.”
Thanks to some of Mancini’s luck, as well as plenty of hard work and talent, the underdogs pulled off an upset in Amsterdam, beating Los Blancos and Ajax in the process.
“We won the tournament, which was a big surprise - we were just making up the numbers,” continued Mancini. “I played full-back, but after the first game the centre-back got injured so I was moved there and did quite well, and I stayed there for my whole career.
“Watford staged a dinner for us when we returned, and Ron Burgess pulled me aside and told me he’d like to sign me as a pro. I had to ask my mum first!”
Going on to play 76 times over five seasons at Vicarage Road, Mancini played alongside Watford legends including Vincent McNeice, Duncan Welbourne and close friend Pat Jennings.
“Pat Jennings is my oldest mate in football, he came to Watford at 17 and was straight in the first-team,” Mancini said. “It was unheard of, especially back then. He only had one season with us before Bill Nicks signed him for Spurs.
“Watford had a centre-half playing for them then, a very good player and a nice guy called Vince McNeice, a great player. He deserved to play in a higher league than the third division, but didn’t put his foot in like you were supposed to in those days.
“I ended up getting a free transfer from Watford in 1966, and when you were a free agent the FA would send your information around the world to clubs. I ended up getting a phone call from Matthew Crowe, who had managed Norwich. He called from South Africa, asking to sign me for two years.”
Mancini’s career took many interesting and memorable turns, seeing out his contract at Port Elizabeth City and returning to London to join Leyton Orient, where he made over 150 appearances. Staying in the capital for a decade with Arsenal and QPR, before heading to the Los Angeles Aztecs, Mancini became a Republic of Ireland international in strange circumstances.
“I didn’t realise I qualified for Ireland through my father, who died when I was young,” explained the now 80-year-old. “I was born in Camden Town so I thought I could only play for England!
“I was selected in the Ireland squad for a Sunday game against Poland, and played the day before against Wolverhampton Wanderers. We flew over on Saturday evening, played an international game the following afternoon and I was straight in to start at centre-half!
“The national anthems played in Dublin, and I turned to Don Givens and said, ‘Their anthem is going on forever’, to which Don replied, ‘That’s ours!’
“We played Brazil at the Maracanã Stadium. They beat us 2-1, Pelé didn’t score but I scored our goal.
“A few years later I played against him twice in America. He came to LA, and we beat the Cosmos 3-1 at the LA Coliseum and I scored again! I ran past him and said, ‘Where were you then?’, but I didn’t think he heard.
“We played them three weeks later in New York and they beat us 5-2, and as he turned out of the box after scoring a hat-trick he looked at me and said, ‘Where were you then?!’”
Remaining in football as a coach at Fulham for a few years, Mancini left the game in the 1980s, returning to full-time work in the family pub in west London and later working in travel. He now leads golf events with former players around the world, including in Algorfa, their flagship location. He still keeps a fond eye out for his former clubs, and visited Vicarage Road alongside Jennings, who he still keeps in regular touch with today.
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Following the month-long hiatus due to the ongoing FIFA World Cup, Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Sunday’s Sky Bet Championship fixture against Hull City (December 11, 3pm KO), with Slaven Bilić’s men looking to kickstart the festive period with a bang.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ERBy Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
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There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
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Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There continues to be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - now into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
The FA, Premier League, EFL & WSL recently released a joint statement reiterating their zero-tolerance stance on the use of pyrotechnics at football stadiums. Click HERE for further details.
Use of the ‘G-word’
Here at Watford FC, we regard ourselves as ‘The Original Family Club’. While it’s a pleasant tag to use, it’s a statement deliberately made to invite scrutiny and measure of our work to be as inclusive a club as possible.
While we certainly would not want to dampen anyone’s enthusiasm during a game, and we encourage you to be noisy in your support of the team, we’d like to remind everyone that use of the ‘G-word’ in chants is both contrary to our image and deeply offensive. It would also be classed as a hate crime in the eyes of the law and as such, could result in arrest and ejection from Vicarage Road.
Everyone, regardless of their background or beliefs, should feel truly welcome to be part of or associated with our club, so please help us ensure Vicarage Road remains free of racial abuse.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, 2m x 1m) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Hull City, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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The wait for the return of Sky Bet Championship action is almost over, with the month-long hiatus due to the ongoing FIFA World Cup coming to an end this Sunday (December 11, 3pm KO), when Hull City visit Vicarage Road.
As the countdown to kick-off continues, we pick out five former Hornets who also represented the East-Yorkshire outfit during their playing days…
Brian Garvey
A sturdy defensive half-back who helped Watford reach the Second Division for the first time and made a substitute appearance in the 1969/70 FA Cup semi-finals, Brian Garvey kickstarted his playing career at hometown club Hull City in the early 1950s.
With his father having played rugby league for Hull FC in the 1920s, Garvey joined the Tigers on apprentice terms in 1953, before turning professional five years later. After making over 250 appearances in black and amber Garvey left for then Division Three side Watford in 1965, going on to serve in the Hornets’ backline until the turn of the new decade.
While at Vicarage Road Garvey played a key role in sealing promotion to the Second Division in 1968/69, and with 201 games under his belt he departed for Colchester United where he played a part in their famous FA Cup victory over Leeds United in 1971.
Dennis Booth
A trusted companion of Graham Taylor, midfielder Dennis Booth was lured to Vicarage Road from Lincoln City by the great man soon after the pair had steered the Imps to a top-10 finish in Division Three, a year after their Fourth-Division triumph.
Booth featured prominently as Watford secured successive promotions to the Second Division, and having contributed two goals in 117 appearances he moved North-East after three seasons, where he again helped inspire a progression through the divisions.
After playing league football for nearly two decades, and having figured prominently in five promotions and just one relegation, Booth was elevated to assistant manager at Hull in 1985, and he later reunited with GT as a coach at Aston Villa.
Steve Terry
Centre-half Steve Terry came through the ranks at Watford in the early 1980s alongside the likes of Kenny Jackett and Nigel Callaghan, making his debut in a 5-0 defeat at the hands of Sunderland aged just 17. Despite that tricky introduction to the first-team, he would go on to establish himself as a key man under Graham Taylor, enjoying much of the club’s success and featuring in the 1984 FA Cup final.
Having made over 200 appearances in yellow – including three in the UEFA Cup – the Clapton-born man left for Hull in the summer of 1988, as part of Eddie Gray’s squad rebuilding exercise. Two years and 69 games later Terry signed terms at Northampton Town, before closing out a successful career in non-league.
Richard Jobson
Richard Jobson was merely a teenager with a dream when Watford boss Graham Taylor was first made aware of his burgeoning potential, the latter ultimately offering him the opportunity to swap non-league Burton Albion for a shot at the First Division in the autumn of 1982.
After leaving behind a civil engineering degree he was partway through - that he had been balancing with his part-time playing commitments - the jump up to the big time didn’t appear to faze defender Jobson, and after making his debut against Reading in December he went on to amass 13 league appearances as the Hornets finished second in the top-tier.
With first-team opportunities increasingly hard to come by the Hull-born man left for his hometown in February 1985, helping the Tigers secure immediate promotion from the Third Division under Brian Horton. Five years and over 200 appearances in the North East preceded high-profile stints at Oldham Athletic and Leeds United, before Jobson briefly returned to The Vic on loan in 2000 in between stints at Southend, Manchester City, Tranmere and Rochdale at the tail end of his career.
Joshua King
Norway international forward Joshua King was starting to make waves at Premier League giants Manchester United when he linked up with Hull City on a temporary basis in the second half of the 2011/12 season, after joining the Red Devils as a 16-year-old.
The now 30-year-old had already shown flashes of his potential during stints at Preston North End and Borussia Mönchengladbach, before playing an important supporting role for Nick Barmby’s Tigers with one goal in 18 Championship games.
After another loan at Blackburn - that was eventually made permanent - and spells at AFC Bournemouth and Everton, King joined the Hornets in the summer of 2021. After five goals in 32 games in the Premier League - including a hat-trick at Goodison Park - King left for Fenerbahçe ahead of the current campaign.
SEO ImageVoting is now open for the November Player of the Month and Stake Goal of the Month awards, with skilful finishes and outstanding individual performances aplenty from the Men’s and Women’s sides!
This season voting for the awards is taking place on the official Watford FC app, available to download on iOS and Android.
Polling closes at 12noon on Saturday (December 10), with the winners of both prizes to be announced across Watford’s social channels, website and app in due course.
Four Hornets Up For POTM Gong
Following four wins in November, there were several key performers to choose from in both of Watford’s first-team squads, with the nominees whittled down to four for this month’s Player of the Month accolade.
Starting with experienced forward Gemma Davison, the 35-year-old has excelled in front of goal and provided important assists in November. Earning a second nomination in as many months, the former England international assisted Grace Garrad’s late winner against AFC Wimbledon before finding the target herself in a 7-1 hammering of Fulham at Grosvenor Vale. Despite defeat to Billericay Town a week later, Davison assisted Annie Rossiter and scored again, firing home a free-kick in the second half.
Garrad is also in a rich vein of form for the Golden Girls and earns her first nomination for the Player of the Month award. The West Ham dual-sign defender fired in a 120th-minute winner from centre-half in November’s first game, before putting in a solid display at home to Fulham in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup back in her usual left-back position.
João Pedro earns a spot in the vote for his scintillating performances in attack for the Men’s side prior to the World Cup break. Involved throughout the Hornets’ 2-1 away win at Cardiff, the Brazilian scored both goals in an impressive victory at home to Reading a week later, dispatching a penalty and firing in a second-half volley with complete composure.
Another creative attacking player with an eye for goal, Poppy Wilson completes the shortlist for November having finished third in last month’s vote. Already adding to her account in December with a goal against Crawley Wasps last Sunday, Wilson netted twice in the first half against Fulham in November, drilling a Flo Fyfe cross home and heading in powerfully for her second, providing for Fyfe’s goal in between.
You can vote for your favourite below:
Four Sumptuous Strikes Up For Stake GOTM Prize
November played host to some expert finishing, making it a tough choice for this month’s Stake Goal of the Month award.
Kicking off the month with a bang, Garrad is up for both awards in November thanks to her 35-yard rocket in the 120th minute against AFC Wimbledon. With the FAWNL Cup tie destined for penalties Garrad launched a shot into the top corner, booking the Hornets’ place in round two and creating bedlam in the stands and away dugout.
Also nominated for the best goal award is João Pedro, for his second of two strikes against Reading. With Royals goalkeeper Dean Bouzanis parrying Ismaïla Sarr’s cross in the direction of the 21-year-old, João Pedro twisted his body to catch the ball sweetly on the half-volley to put the result beyond doubt in the Sky Bet Championship clash.
Fyfe’s first goal against Fulham has won a spot in the nominations for November, making the score 2-0 at the Vale in the FA Cup. Fyfe latched onto a Wilson pass and composed herself, lofting over Cottagers goalkeeper Holly Cowan into the top corner.
Closing out the vote is Davison for her free-kick against Billericay on November 20. Although the final result wasn’t to be desired, the former Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur attacker showed excellent skill to drill the set-piece into the corner, her second free-kick goal of the season.
You can vote for your favourite below:
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Watford have confirmed former Liverpool and West Ham defender Julian Dicks is Slaven Bilic's new assistant coach.
To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
To be honest, in the rolling maul of a pre-match media scrum, there was only a passing interest in the visitors.
All the fascination, ahead of Chelsea’s opening Champions League group match against Maccabi Tel Aviv, was concentrated on the Blues’ worst start to the season for nearly 30 years and the pressure building on manager José Mourinho.
The fact that Maccabi coach Slaviša Jokanović was a former Chelsea player barely seemed to merit a footnote, nor that he had won promotion to the Premier League with Watford four months earlier, let alone his achievement in reaching the main Champions League draw on away goals in the play-offs against Swiss dark horses Basel.
Politely, Jokanović went through the formalities and turned to leave the press room at Stamford Bridge.
As he did so, he looked across at yours truly, seemed to recognise a friendly face in the room and wandered over to shoot the breeze.
We spoke briefly before Slav’s Tel Aviv players laced their boots for training, and as we parted I told him: “As a journalist, congratulations on your promotion last season and for reaching the Champions League this year. And as a Watford fan, thank you.”
Jokanović took his medicine stoically with a routine 4-0 defeat the following night, but his place in the history books and affections of Hornets fans is safe. The Watford team who held their nerve on the run-in to promotion in 2015 took us on an unforgettable joyride, and he conducted the orchestra superbly.
Six months before the ‘Orns took the chequered flag on that white-knuckle ride at Brighton, and a town piled down the High Street to celebrate with the players when other results went their way, Jokanović had looked to be on thin ice after four consecutive defeats.
But he rebooted with a 5-0 romp at 10-man Fulham, and the race to the chequered flag was as enjoyable as any sprint down the home straight in this parish.
“The Championship is a crazy competition,” reflected Jokanović after a mad season in which the lead changed hands no fewer than 32 times at the top of the table – the last of them, sadly, in the 91st minute of the final game against Sheffield Wednesday.
That does not, however, remove any gloss from the breathless excitement of that helter-skelter run-in.
Personal favourites include an excitable celebration behind the wheel after Troy Deeney’s winner in the seven-goal thriller at Bolton (I was on the homeward retreat from covering West Brom v West Ham in the FA Cup); a father-and-son birthday night out in Nottingham for the 3-1 win at Forest; Craig Cathcart’s acrobatic volley against Birmingham (noisily acknowledged in the press box at Stoke); Adlène Guedioura’s eye-of-the-needle pass and Odion Ighalo’s finish at Derby on Good Friday; and Ighalo’s trademark ‘scoop’ and left-foot rocket against Middlesbrough.
That win to knock Boro off the No.1 spot on Easter Monday was the day hope turned to almost tangible belief that Jokanović was going to complete Watford’s journey to the promised land.
After Graham Taylor and Aidy Boothroyd, he was only the third manager (or Head Coach) to lead the Hornets through the skylight. The day he returns to WD18 as a visiting manager, the queue to buy him a pint will stretch halfway down Vicarage Road. Quite right, too.
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Watford FC confirms the appointment of Julian Dicks as Assistant Coach.
The former West Ham and Liverpool defender joined Slaven Bilić’s backroom team late last week having coached under the Croatian for both the Hammers and West Bromwich Albion.
Known for his tough tackling and set-piece expertise as a player, Dicks began his professional career with Birmingham City before switching to West Ham in 1988.
During two spells for the Irons the left-back racked up more than 300 appearances, winning the club’s Player of the Season award a remarkable four times.
Sandwiched between his stints in East London, Dicks earned a big-money move to Liverpool in 1993, spending one season at Anfield before returning to West Ham.
Finishing his playing career with Canvey Island, the former England Under-21 and B international moved into management with Wivenhoe Town, Grays Athletic, West Ham Ladies and Heybridge Swifts.
Bilić took his former West Ham teammate back to Upton Park in 2015, where he served as part of the coaching team until 2017, before reuniting with the Croatian at West Brom for an 18-month spell in 2019.
Having recently departed his role as Technical Director at Carolina Velocity, Dicks joins up with Bilić once more in the Sky Bet Championship with Watford.
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Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are back with a catch up on all Watford related news during the International Break & also preview The Hornets upcoming match against Hull City.Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On Season 2, Episode 26 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on "The Ambassador" Helen "Wardie" Ward's landmark 151 Watford goals, the last two of which were scored in a 6-0 win against Crawley Wasps this week in the Vitality FA Cup. Plus: Canadian midfielder Ismael Kone signs for Watford FC. And: Watford's sojourn in Spain. Also: Watford FC men's players past and present at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar. Finally: The countdown to Watford v Hull at The Vic is on.
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Episode publish date: December 7, 2022.
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Only 10 of this season's 32 FA Cup Third Round ties will take place at 3pm on Saturday afternoon.
Watford will receive an estimated £178,500 in FIFA payments for Ismaila Sarr’s participation in the 2022 World Cup Finals.
The referee in charge of the game when Watford last secured promotion to the Premier League is set to be in the middle when the Hornets resume their Championship campaign after the World Cup break at home to Hull City on Sunday.
Workmanlike is a word frequently associated with Ken Furphy’s Watford side that won the Division Three title in 1969 to elevate the club to the second tier for the first time in its history – with the exception of one player.
Watford this evening confirmed the signing of 20-year-old Canadian international midfielder Ismael Kone on a four-and-a-half-year deal.
Watford travel to Reading in the FA Cup Thurd round on Saturday January 7, with the game kicking off at 12.30pm.
The head coach of Watford Women praised “excellent pro” Helen Ward after she reached another scoring milestone to help her side ease past Crawley Wasps 6-0 to reach the third round of the Women’s FA Cup.
Watford could officially announce the signing of Canadian international midfielder Ismael Kone as early as tomorrow.
Watford’s Ismaila Sarr and his Senegal teammates went out of the World Cup as they were beaten 3-0 by England.
Following the rescheduling of the Golden Girls’ Vitality Women’s FA Cup third round tie with Crawley Wasps for this weekend [Sunday December 4, 1pm KO] after last Sunday’s postponement, Head Coach Damon Lathrope is encouraged by the hard work of his players in the two weeks since their last game and expects a committed performance at Grosvenor Vale.Lathrope’s charges came up short last time out against Billericay Town in their first home loss of the season, but with the prior defeat to Portsmouth sparking an impressive run of results earlier in the season, he is confident his players can improve upon their performance at the Vale.
“It’s been good because it’s given us an opportunity to work on the training field,” said Lathrope.
“We've had a couple of really good weeks of training, but we’re itching for a game now. The game being called off last week wasn’t ideal but we go into it this weekend really ready for it.“It’s an opportunity for us to have a positive reaction; last time off the back of defeat we had a very positive spell and that’s what we have to replicate.
“We’ve got a very good group with lots of characters, and they know this league and these fixtures are not going to be easy, so they’re eager to put things right this weekend.”
Crawley, also from the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division, have already faced the Hornets this term, with goals from Alli Palisch, Poppy Wilson, Gemma Davison and Ellie Head completing a comprehensive 4-0 Watford win away from home. Improving on their fortunes since and completing an 8-1 win over Chichester City in their last game, Lathrope and his coaching staff are under no illusions that this will be an easy game.“There’s been a lot of change at Crawley so I think it’ll be a different challenge and they’ve picked up some really good results lately,” Lathrope noted. “By no means do we think it’ll be easy.
“It was tough last time, they made it hard for us and tried to condense the space for us to work in but we handled it very well. It was a zippy pitch which helped us, and we ended up with a really positive result. They’ve gotten stronger and probably know a bit more about us but I think you’ll see a really positive performance from the group.”
As the FIFA World Cup continues, Watford’s men aren’t back in action until Sunday December 11, but the Golden Girls provide a perfect opportunity to support the Hornets and enjoy entertaining women’s football. Lathrope has been delighted with the backing of the Watford faithful this term, and urges as many as possible to see the team this weekend.“It’s nice for people to get their live football fix and we really appreciate the support that we get,” Lathrope smiled.
“If people sample it and come down they see it’s a really enjoyable environment to be in, and it would be lovely to see as many people supporting us as possible.”
Watch Now SEO ImageWatford’s Under-18s will face Lincoln City away from home in the third round of the FA Youth Cup, with the game taking place on Friday December 16 at 7pm.Visiting the Imps at the LNER Stadium, the Young Hornets were drawn against the same opposition in the 2020/21 fourth round, winning 3-2 after extra-time.
Ticket Prices * **Adults:** £5
- Concessions: £3 (ages 65+, 18-21 and Under-18)
Watford season ticket holders will receive a £2 discount on tickets for the game when purchased from Lincoln City’s ticket office on the night.
Streaming information for the fixture will be confirmed in due course.
Watch Now SEO ImageWatford have been drawn way to Lincoln City in the third round of the FA Youth Cup on Friday December 16 at 7pm.
When Ismaïla Sarr tucked away his penalty for Senegal to help beat Ecuador and progress to the knockout phase in the World Cup, memories came flooding back for one genial Northern Irishman sitting at home in Belfast.Now 58, Gerry Armstrong was the first Watford player to score at a World Cup Finals when he scored the only goal as Northern Ireland memorably beat hosts Spain 1-0 to win their group in 1982.
The Northern Irish went out in the next phase, but Armstrong scored three in total during the finals and headed back to Hertfordshire assured of his place in Hornet history.
Sarr has now joined him, but Armstrong will always possess both that first, and also the honour of being the scorer of Watford’s first top-flight goal when they beat Everton at Vicarage Road just a few weeks later.It was an unforgettable spell for Armstrong, who had joined Watford from Tottenham in November 1980.
“If you look at the year-and-a-half before the 1982 World Cup Finals, I was on a great run of form in a Watford team that was going for promotion to the old First Division,” he said.
“I joined at the same time as Pat Rice and Les Taylor in 1980. Watford were pretty low down in the table when I joined them midway through the season, but I think the three of us joined at the perfect time as we got to know the other players, the routine, what Graham expected from you and what sort of manager he was.
“So the rest of that season was a learning curve for us. Then before the next season, Graham said to us ‘We want promotion this season. We’re going for it’.“I remember our first league game was away to Newcastle, and I got booked in the first few minutes because Graham had got me that fired up!
“But we won that day at Newcastle and went on a great run where we won seven of our first 10 league games. And that coincided with me playing the final World Cup qualifying games for Northern Ireland.
“We’d lost to Portugal in qualifying, and we had to beat them in Belfast, which we did and I scored the only goal. Then we drew with Scotland when we should have beaten them, so we had to beat Israel in our last game. I scored a left-foot volley and we won 1-0 to qualify us for the World Cup.
“So I was in good form for club and country in that run of games.”However, injury interrupted Armstrong’s run in the Watford side.
He continued: “In the January I pulled a muscle and I was out injured, and then when I came back after a few weeks the team was flying and I must have been a sub for about six games in a row.
“I wasn’t getting much game time so I was actually training on my own, doing work on my own where I lived in St. Albans. I’d go and do five or six-mile runs to get myself primed. I really pushed myself as I wanted to make sure I was fit for Watford but also for the World Cup.
“Then in April we had a run of league games, and Billy Bingham wanted to pick me for a Northern Ireland friendly. Graham said no, he said he needed me for a game away at Crystal Palace. It was a Tuesday night at Selhurst Park and Graham said he couldn’t let me go for the friendly with Northern Ireland.“I was fine with that because it was more important that I played for Watford and we got promotion than playing in an international friendly match.
“So I played at Palace, and I actually scored one and got an assist, and we won 3-0.
“After the game that Tuesday night I remember Graham coming over to me, patting me on the back and saying well done. He said: “Oh, by the way, there’s a flight booked for you in the morning so you can go over for the friendly. You’re not going to start, but you’ll be on the bench for Northern Ireland.”
“That meant so much to me, and it was a big surprise too. It meant I got to see the lads and also I hadn’t missed a game in about five years for Northern Ireland.“That was typical Graham Taylor. He was different class.”
Only a few weeks later Watford secured promotion to the top-flight of English football for the first time, and Armstrong flew to Spain with his Northern Ireland teammates where they exceeded all expectations, including that unforgettable victory against Spain.
To read Andrew French's full exclusive interview with Gerry Armstrong for the Watford Observer, click HERE.
Watch Now SEO ImageJeremy Ngakia has every reason to feel he’s due a bit of better luck after only playing 73 minutes this season due to injury.
Watford Women’s FAWNL Cup third round fixture against Hashtag United, originally scheduled to be at home this Sunday [December 4, 2pm KO], will now be played away from home at Parkside on Saturday December 17 [6pm KO].With the Hornets’ Vitality Women’s FA Cup round three fixture against Crawley Wasps postponed on November 27 and subsequently recheduled for this weekend, the Golden Girls’ meeting with Hashtag United could no longer take place on that date.
The men’s World Cup final will take place on Sunday December 18, resulting in a Saturday fixture for Damon Lathrope’s side to avoid a clash.
The originally scheduled league game against Ipswich Town for that weekend will be rearranged, with more information to be provided in due course.
Watch Now SEO ImageBen Manga will arrive at Watford’s London Colney training ground next week to become Technical Director and head up player recruitment
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Yianni Goulandris.
The 16-year-old, who joined the Hornets in 2022, is a first-year scholar who is currently recovering from an long-term injury. With his agility and low-centre of gravity, Goulandris will be hoping to make his mark on Charlie Daniels' Under-18 side.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’m a number 10 and I like to play in the pockets. I’m a very technical player, so I like to combine with my attackers and get into spaces with quick combinations. I enjoy one-v-ones, as well. Although I’m not similar to him in terms of playing style, I’m trying to take aspects of Mason Mount’s off-the-ball game. He works hard and presses, which is really key. I’m similar in playing style to Bernardo Silva or Philippe Coutinho.
Your footballing idol?
Growing up my favourite player was always Frank Lampard, because I’m a Chelsea fan and he was always scoring goals from midfield. Now I would say I look up to players like Mason Mount and Eden Hazard.
Biggest influence?
I would say my older cousin - he was the one who got me into football when I was younger. He is also the reason I support Chelsea. We have a garage, and every Christmas we would just ask for goals, footballs and equipment so we could play in there for hours together.
Most talented teammate?
From the first-year scholars, I would say Michael Adu-Poku. He is really quick and he always affects the game, causing problems for the opposition. He runs in behind, mixes with his teammates and is quite unselfish. From the second-years, I really like Hamzat Balogun. I think he is really technical and skilful for a right-back. He can do both sides of the game; attacking and defending.
Favourite football memory?
The news that I was getting my scholarship at Watford. I remember being nervous going into it, because I was signed quite late on. When Richard [Johnson] told me I was getting a scholarship I remember I couldn’t stop smiling. I was just really happy. I was with my dad at the time, and then I called my mum and my grandma, and everyone was really happy.
Your aims for the future?
When I get back from injury, I want to become a starter for the Under-18s and cement my place. Maybe next year I can start to push on by playing for the Under-21s or continuing my progression with the Under-18s. I just want to progress.
Best advice you’ve received?
My dad has always said you have to do something to be remembered out on the pitch. That could be affecting the game, never hiding, or taking your man on - whatever it is, you have to give it your all every time you are on the pitch.
Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I would be involved in business as an entrepreneur. Maybe I’d get involved in the business side of football, as an agent or something like that. I’m very interested in business.
How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
*Pace: 81 - I’m not the quickest, but I’m not slow either.
Shooting: 84 - It’s the one thing I try to improve on all the time. I stay behind after training and do extra shooting.
Passing: 87 - It’s one of my strengths as a creative player.
Dribbling: 85 - It’s another one of my strengths. Close control dribbling is something I’m quite good at.
Defending: 55 - I do want to improve on this, winning the ball back in good areas.
Physicality: 57 - I’m more of a technical player, but I’m working to get stronger in the gym.
OVERALL: 83*
Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Pepperoni pizza
Favourite song: Tiny Dancer by Elton John
Favourite boots: Nike Mercurials in black
Favourite TV show: Money Heist
Favourite kit: This season’s Watford blue away kit
More From This Series
Getting To Know: Prince Sikiru
Getting To Know: Gabriel Ortelli
Getting To Know: Alfie King
Getting To Know: Joshua Mullins
Getting To Know: Albert Eames
Getting To Know: Michael Adu-Poku
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Gerry Armstrong was the first Watford player to score at a World Cup Finals, 40 years before Ismaila Sarr repeated the feat this week
Ismaila Sarr scored a penalty to help Senegal beat Ecuador 2-1 and set up a meeting with England in the World Cup.
Ismaïla Sarr played an integral role for Senegal as they progressed to the round of 16 following a 2-1 victory over Ecuador, confirming a second-place finish in Group A at the 2022 World Cup.
The Watford winger notched his first goal of the tournament via the penalty spot, having won the spot-kick himself shortly before half-time.
Exhibiting incredible composure in the high-pressured situation, Sarr rolled the ball into the bottom right-hand corner with the Ecuador goalkeeper rooted to the spot.
His crucial goal makes Sarr the first active Watford player to have scored at the World Cup since Gerry Armstrong for Northern Ireland in the 1982 edition of the tournament.
Despite setting Senegal on their way to a victory that would send them through to the knockout stages for only the second time, Ecuador returned with their own attacking prowess after the break.
The South American outfit equalised through Brighton & Hove Albion’s Moisés Caicedo in the 67th minute, but they wouldn’t be level for long.
Senegal retook the lead just three minutes later through the towering Kalidou Koulibaly, who placed the ball past a stranded Hernán Galíndez in goal for Ecuador.
A determined and persistent performance followed as the African side held on to their slender lead and secured a place in the knockout phase, 20 years after they last progressed past the group stages in the 2002 World Cup.
The result means Sarr will face the team that tops Group B, which could be England, Iran, USA or Wales.
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Watford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
Next to take on the questions is 24-year-old forward Flo Fyfe, who joined the Hornets in the summer of 2021.
Best mate: Dré Georgiou and Megan Chandler
Can I name two people? They’ve both got great banter and I get on with them really well.
Last to buy dinner: Dré Georgiou
She’ll get upset about that! She never buys anyone a drink when we’re out.
Worst dressed: Adekite Fatuga-Dada
She thinks she’s really cool and asks for us to turn up in our own clothes at home games so she obviously thinks she dresses better than everyone!
Dressing room DJ: Anne Meiwald
It’s either me or Meiwald. The music’s good, I like to do rap and R&B but she’s more out there. I’m charty, she’s ABBA.
Always late for training: Francesca Ali
It’s always ‘work’ or ‘traffic’. I don’t believe it.
First on the dance floor: Flo Fyfe
That one’s me. I’m not a good dancer but you just go with it.
Most likely to disgrace themselves at the Christmas party: Anne Meiwald
She’s not made it to the end of any nights out we’ve been on!
Best at FIFA: Annie Rossiter
Annie’s got too much time on her hands so I’ll go with her!
Teacher’s pet: Annie Rossiter
Always talking to the coaches! Trying way too hard.
Best future manager: Helen Ward
I think she’d be tough but fair, says it how it is.
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Watford closed out their week-long training camp in Algorfa with a packed day of playing and travelling on the agenda.
With fellow Sky Bet Championship side Blackpool the Hornets’ opponents in a friendly at the Pinatar Arena around half-an-hour away from the La Finca Resort in Spain where the Golden Boys were staying, breakfast was combined with a pre-match meal at 10.15am local time, with pasta and meats part of the selection.
Packing bags and checking out of the resort, a half-hour trip to Murcia’s Pinatar Arena followed for Watford’s 1.30pm game. Arriving as the sun was at its highest point and feeling the heat, both sides agreed to breaks during the game to ensure the highest quality of match.
Tom Dele-Bashiru played his first full 90 minutes since pre-season, Jeremy Ngakia featured for the entire first half having been out through injury since September, and Ben Hamer occupied the sticks for the first time as a Watford player.
The game finished 1-1 with Keinan Davis on the scoresheet for the Hornets in the first half, and Head Coach Slaven Bilić was pleased with the intensity of the friendly encounter.
“It was a good session,” Bilić began. “A competitive game, as competitive as it could have been.”
“We had a few players back like Jeremy, Tom and Ben, who hasn’t played since he’s been here, it’s the first time I could see them. No injuries, thank God! Now we’ll go back home, one day off and start again.”
Eating a post-match lunch with Poland’s World Cup win over Saudi Arabia playing in the background, it was back on the road soon after, as the squad returned to Alicante Airport to check in baggage.
The two-and-a-half hour flight back to England went smoothly, and as phones switched off airplane mode news of Argentina’s win over Mexico became the buzz in the group, with arguments around who out of Lionel Messi’s nation and Brazil would win the World Cup the hot topic amongst Joseph Hungbo, Keinan Davis and João Pedro.
Reflecting on a week’s hard work, Bilić is hoping to build on the progress his side have made upon their return to England.
“The whole week was good,” continued the Head Coach. “The weather was great and top facilities. We had very good sessions and good energy, exactly what we wanted and so it was a good game today and we’re exactly where we want to be.
“We had to work on the basics, in terms of physicals. We wanted to reach some targets and didn’t spend a lot of time here but it was good, and we have two weeks more to work. We are in a good way and it’s very positive for the club and around the club. If nothing happens with regards to injuries, we are ready for the restart.
“In Spain we have done more physical stuff, and now we’re going to add more intensity. We have that base, and we have to get more intensity, detail and tactics. It’s all going according to plan.”
More From Spain
Spain Diary: Day Five
Spain Diary: Day Four
Spain Diary: Day Three
Spain Diary: Day Two
Spain Diary: Day One
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From Troy Deeney to Tommy Barnett, Cliff Holton to Ross Jenkins, Watford have been blessed with some great goalscorers but one man remains above all others.
Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust have teamed up with Watford Borough Council as part of their ‘Welcoming Spaces’ initiative to open Meriden Community Centre to support members of the community facing hardship in the cost of living emergency.
All are welcome at Meriden Community Centre, as they are invited to come and spend some time enjoying a hot drink and some company whilst saving on their bills. With the centre still in full operation with programmes and external hirers, the days and times specifically set aside are Wednesdays from 10am–1.30pm and Tuesdays from 5.30pm–7.30pm.
Meriden Community Centre has been run and managed since 2012, relaunching in 2016 after nearly £2million of investment, led by the Trust who orchestrated the funding from several organisations. These organisations were Sport England, Watford Borough Council, The FA and Premier League Facilities Fund delivered by the Football Foundation, Watford Community Housing, Watford Football Club as well as the Trust itself.
This is part of a Watford Borough Council initiative that has seen a series of warm and safe ‘Welcoming Spaces’ opening across the town. The ‘Welcoming Spaces’ will give people the chance to come together, stay warm, enjoy some company and perhaps a cup of tea and a biscuit. As the cost of living emergency deepens, many residents will be forced to make difficult financial decisions and, in the worse cases, some will be forced to decide if they can afford to heat their homes.
Elected Mayor Peter Taylor said: “This winter is set to be a difficult one for many people. That is why we wanted to create relaxed, warm, and welcoming places where people can meet and save money on their heating bills. Watford’s Welcoming Spaces are safe and open to all – no matter your situation. You can visit as often as you like and will always be met by a friendly face.
“We hope to extend our network so you never need to travel too far, so do keep an eye on our website for updates on new locations. If you’re a business or organisation interested in joining, please do get in touch with us for details.”
All ‘Welcoming Spaces’ can receive funding through the Watford Community Fund and will also link into the wider network of Warm Spaces across Hertfordshire – contact community@watford.gov.uk for details of how to set up a space and apply for funding.
For a full list of current ‘Welcoming Spaces’, visit www.watford.gov.uk/welcomingspaces. To keep up-to-date with all things Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust, follow us on social media – Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube. Just search @WFCTrust or you can visit us on our website at www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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Watford full-back James Morris reflected on a positive and productive training camp in Spain during the World Cup-enforced break.
During the week-long tour to Algorfa, the Hornets were put through their paces in preparation for the resumption of the Sky Bet Championship campaign.
After a 1-1 stalemate against Blackpool to conclude the Mediterranean trip, Morris chewed over the constructive experience.
“It was great; I really enjoyed it and it was a great week,” Morris began.
“It was a tough week getting the legs going after a week off, but it felt good to be back out there and, in the end, [when we played Blackpool] it was a good performance.
“We would’ve liked to have won but I thought we played quite well, which was the main thing. It was tough but I felt we dealt with their threat quite well.”
Looking ahead, the 21-year-old - who made his league debut for Watford against Swansea City back in October - is eager to get the season back underway ahead of the fixture against Hull City (Sunday December 11, 3pm KO).
Morris said: “It was good to build up the fitness to get ready for the Championship games coming. It was really enjoyable.
“The boys were great in training, on and off the pitch. Overall, it was a great experience.
“Just like the week in Spain, we need to keep working hard and then hopefully we will be in a good position and the best condition when the match comes.”
More From Spain
Spain Diary: Day Six
Spain Diary: Day Five
Spain Diary: Day Four
Spain Diary: Day Three
Spain Diary: Day Two
Spain Diary: Day One
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Watford Women’s Vitality Women’s FA Cup second-round tie at home to Crawley Wasps will now take place this Sunday [December 4, 1pm].
The game was [postponed on its original date] of Sunday November 27 due to a waterlogged pitch at Grosvenor Vale, with the winner going on to face [Crystal Palace] in round three of the competition.
Tickets remain valid from the previously scheduled fixture, with refunds available for supporters who can’t attend by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or by calling 01923 223023.
Information on the new date of our FAWNL Cup third round tie against Hashtag United, originally scheduled for this Sunday, will be confirmed in due course.
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Watford FC, together with our Community, Sports & Education Trust, held the second ‘Ask For Watford’ event at the club’s Vicarage Road Stadium last week.
The first event in 2021 focused on the safety of women in and around the town of Watford, as well as at our matches. For the second event, focus turned to another important subject for women and a panel of guests discussed all aspects of the Menopause and the impact this has on individuals, relationships, work and home life.
The panel of guests were:
- Clare Searle - Local GP with expertise in the Menopause
- Diane Danzebrink - Menopause Support
- Councillor Jennifer Pattinson - Watford Borough Council
- Martin Weatherilt - Local resident with personal insight into the Menopause impact
The panel gave powerful accounts of their own personal experiences of the Menopause with candour, warmth and humour where appropriate and also discussed how families and friends can play a key role in providing support at home. The panel also talked about how businesses can support employees who are going through different stages of the Menopause, before answering questions from an audience of around 150 guests.
Watford Council is also in the process of becoming a Menopause-friendly town as part of its recent election manifesto and the panel also discussed their plans, which both the club and Trust will continue to support.
“We’d like to publicly thank Clare, Diane, Jenny and Martin for their inspirational words and contributions to the evening,” said Dave Messenger, the club’s EDI (Equality, Diversity and Inclusion) Lead. “We look forward to continuing the conversation, working with the panel. As demand for the event was huge, we’re already planning to host this event again in the New Year and will share details in due course.”
Menopause Support is a not-for-profit community interest company and the home of the national #MakeMenopauseMatter campaign, both founded by panel member Diane Danzebrink.
If you have any concerns or would like advice about the Menopause, please click HERE.
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Former West Ham and Liverpool defender Julian Dicks will link up again with Slaven Bilic at Watford this week.
Watford FC Women have been drawn away to Crystal Palace in the third round of the Vitality Women's FA Cup.
The Golden Girls must beat Crawley Wasps to progress to face the Eagles, with the fixture postponed on Sunday November 27 due to a waterlogged pitch.
If the Hornets beat the Wasps, the next round will take place on Sunday December 11.
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Watford have been drawn against Reading at the Select Car Leasing Stadium in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup.
The fixture is set to take place across the weekend of Friday January 6 to Monday January 9 2023.
Ticket information will be available to supporters in due course.
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Have you ever wondered what Vicarage Road Stadium looks like behind the scenes?
As part of the ongoing 100-year stadium anniversary celebrations, Hornets supporters are being given the rare and one-off opportunity to take a guided tour of the areas you don’t usually see!
The 90-minute tour will take in the changing rooms, tunnel, dugouts, board room, media conference room and more in a unique offering that will only be available for a short period of time.
Stadium tour dates will be as follows:
Friday December 9, 2022, 4pm
Thursday December 15, 2022, 4pm
Thursday December 22, 2022, 10.30am
Friday December 30, 2022, 10.30am
There will be a limited pool of 25 places available per date, meaning 100 supporters will be able to join the Vic 100 stadium tour.
Entry will be priced at £19.22 (adult), £14 (65 & Over), £10 (18 & Under) and £5 (10 & Under).
Tickets will be on sale from 12noon on Thursday December 1 so ensure you don’t miss out by visiting tickets.watfordfc.com or phoning the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office on 01923 223023 to book your place.
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Announcing our “Deceased Watford Player Of The Month” for November You may not have heard of him, but he was an international Hall Of Famer… You can read about him here. Thanks for listening to Hornet Heaven. Olly & Colin.
The Hornets enjoyed a week-long training camp in Algorfa, Spain, preparing for the return of the Sky Bet Championship after the World Cup-enforced break.
Below are a selection of photos from a productive week on the Mediterranean coast.
Departing The UK
Training In The Sun
Giro De España
A Game Of Golf
Friendly Match Against Blackpool
Back On Home Soil
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Young Watford forward Tobi Adeyemo has joined non-league Hitchin Town on a work experience loan until December 25.
Could Watford be drawn against one of the very few teams they've never played in tonight's FA Cup Third Round draw?
Watford FC Academy forward Tobi Adeyemo has joined Hitchin Town on loan.
The 17-year-old, who has featured for Omer Riza's Under-21 side on a number of occasions this term, signs for the Southern League Premier Division Central side until December 25 on work experience.
Notably, Adeyemo scored against Chelsea during a closely fought contest in the FA Youth Cup last campaign.
Good luck, Tobi!
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The Football Association failed to get an independent decision overturned which found allegations Imran Louza spat at an opponent were unproven.
Watford’s men’s and women’s sides are in the hat for this evening’s FA Cup third round draws.
The Golden Boys will enter the competition in round three again this season, with the draw taking place live on BBC Two tonight [November 28] between 7 and 7.30pm GMT, as well as on the Emirates FA Cup’s official social channels.
The matches are set to be played from Friday January 6 to Monday January 9, and Slaven Bilić’s side are ball number 40 for the draw at Anfield.
Taking place at the same time as the men’s draw, the third round of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup will be drawn live on TalkSPORT 2.
After the postponement of Watford’s second round tie with Crawley Wasps on Sunday [November 27], the Golden Girls share ball number 14 with their league rivals, with the game soon to be rescheduled.
The third round sees Championship sides enter the competition, with the draw separated between northern and southern clubs.
Ticket information for our third round ties will be available in the coming days, after our opponents are confirmed.
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Following a 9am pitch inspection, Sunday afternoon’s Vitality Women’s FA Cup second round tie with Crawley Wasps (November 27) has been postponed due to a waterlogged pitch at Grosvenor Vale.
Information on the game’s new date will be available in due course, with tickets bought for the original game remaining valid for the rescheduled fixture.
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Some of our listeners have been wondering whether the story about Watford captain Johnny Meadows (in Series 19 Episode 2) was true or made up. It was true. We’ve written up a short factual account of it here. Separately, we’ve also found another interesting true story (that we thought about writing an episode around) that […]
Watford rounded off their week in the Spanish sun with a 1-1 draw against Blackpool in a friendly
The Watford squad’s final full day in Spain was a fruitful one (Friday November 25), as they continued to build fitness, spend time together and prepare for the second half of the season at Algorfa’s La Finca Resort.
A session in the gym kickstarted the day for many Hornets, just a five minute walk from the main hotel. The extensive gym allowed players to do weight training, endurance and other means of exercise, but with the afternoon’s intense session on the pitch in mind.
Iran’s entertaining yet late win over Wales kicked off at 11am local time, watched first in the lobby before players headed in for lunch as the match heated up at the back end of the second half.
It was one of a few World Cup games the team would have their eye on, as teammate Ismaïla Sarr faced Qatar in the second match of the day, playing 74 minutes as the Lions of Teranga eliminated the hosts with a 3-1 win at the Al-Thumama Stadium.
With Christian Kabasele, Tom Cleverley and William Troost-Ekong filming World Cup-themed content for the club’s official YouTube channel after lunch, it wasn’t long before the squad headed out for their final session down the road, hopping on bicycles and cycling up the inclining street to the pitch.
A fast-paced warm-up kicked off the session, followed by a tense passing game in which two teams had to complete 10 passes in a rondo quicker than each other. The orange bibs won out in the end, but it was not without light-hearted scrutiny from non-bib players.
Goalkeepers Daniel Bachmann, Maduka Okoye and Ben Hamer participated in separate training with their coaches, put through their paces in a test of reflexes as they faced five shots each in quick succession from close range.
Gathered in the bar and lobby area for England’s game against the United States, the Golden Boys watched the Three Lions’ attempt to win back-to-back games come up short in Qatar, ending in a goalless draw, before turning in for an early night with a busy day ahead on Saturday.
More From Spain
Spain Diary: Day Four
Spain Diary: Day Three
Spain Diary: Day Two
Spain Diary: Day One
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Senegal’s hopes of progressing to the knockout stages of the 2022 World Cup were boosted by a hard-fought 3-1 win over hosts Qatar on Friday (November 25), with Hornets hero Ismaïla Sarr featuring for 74 minutes of his side’s second Group A outing.
After impressing in the Teranga Lions’ 2-0 defeat at the hands of the Netherlands four days earlier, Sarr - winning his 50th cap - was named in the starting XI once again, and showed flashes of his potential from the off at the Al Thumama Stadium in Doha.
Having gone close at the near post within the game’s first four minutes, Sarr then latched onto a raking long ball from goalkeeper Edouard Mendy on the half hour, though he couldn’t quite get the better of Qatar stopper Meshaal Barsham.
After escaping punishment for a challenge on Akram Afif in the Senegal box 11 minutes before half-time, Sarr was soon celebrating the match’s opening goal, when his teammate Boulaye Dia capitalised on a defensive error to make it 1-0.
Watford’s number 23 then had a hand in the African champions’ second after the break, winning the corner that opened the door for former Bristol City striker Famara Diedhiou to head home in the 48th minute.
After being replaced by Sheffield United star Iliman Ndiaye 16 minutes from the end, Sarr cheered on his teammates as Mohammed Muntari pulled one back for Qatar, before Bamba Dieng restored the two-goal cushion shortly after.
With their campaign up and running with the win, Senegal sit third in the Group A table following a 1-1 draw in the other game between Netherlands and Ecuador. The latter are next up for Sarr and his side on Tuesday (November 29, 3pm KO GMT), with a place in the knockout stages still firmly up for grabs.
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The Golden Girls are back in action this Sunday (November 27, KO 1pm) at Grosvenor Vale as they welcome fellow FA National League South Premier side Crawley Wasps in the second round of the Vitality Women’s FA Cup.
Hoping to bounce back from their first home defeat at Grosvenor Vale at the hands of Billericay Town last weekend, the team will be hoping to take the next step in the hunt for silverware in just their second outing in the competition this season.
Last weekend’s second-half rally will give Head Coach Damon Lathrope plenty of hope ahead of Sunday’s game as his side came close to recovering the three-goal deficit that faced the team at the interval in that game.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting our new home for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
We remind fans planning to attend that Sunday’s game is at the slightly earlier time of 1pm.
Please note: parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather; parking is available on site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas; we do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
- Adults - £5
- Concessions (U16, 65+, Disability) - £3
- Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
On-the-day sales for adults & concessions will see the prices increase by £2, so we highly recommend booking in advance if possible.
The £1 price will remain unchanged on matchday, with you just having to show proof of your Season Card to gain entry.
The Match
Having tasted defeat for the first time at home and only the second time this season, the Golden Girls are looking to bounce back from a disappointing result. Coming up against fellow FA Women’s National League Southern Premier side Crawley Wasps, this won’t be an easy game.
The sides faced up just six weeks ago, as the Hornets travelled down to Horsham in mid-October, running out 4-0 winners against their visitors. Since the meeting, the fortunes of Crawley have been mixed, picking up one point from a possible nine in league action, whilst winning their three cup matches to date, the latest of which being an emphatic 8-1 win over Chichester City Women in the Sussex Women’s Challenge Cup last weekend.
Watford, on the other hand, have played just four games since that meeting, picking up three wins and one defeat, with one of each coming in league action. Last time out in this competition just a fortnight ago, the Golden Girls ran out convincing winners against Fulham.
Both sides go into the game knowing of the rewards that would come to them, with an opportunity to draw a team from the Championship in the next round, and both sides will be looking to build momentum ahead of a return to league action before we break for the holidays.
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Tom Cleverley feels a week away from the training ground has aided his recovery from injury, joining the Hornets squad on their training retreat to Algorfa, Spain.
Alongside fellow sidelined players Kortney Hause, Imrân Louza and Samuel Kalu the Watford skipper is rehabilitating from an achilles injury, and is progressing well while enjoying the FIFA World Cup with his teammates.
“It’s been good out here, very good so far in fact,” Cleverley began. “We’re just over halfway through the week and the lads have really bought into the spirit of getting the most out of a week like this.
“Us injured lads - the likes of me, Imrân, Kortney, Samuel - are really grateful to the gaffer for offering us the chance to come out here with the team and feel really included.
“With any kind of rehab, wherever you’re at along that road, I’ve always thought a change of scenery can have a very positive effect on your outlook in terms of getting back - even if you’re generally confident.
“Our group has been working hard at both ends of the day and, like the other boys, we’ve been able to catch plenty of the World Cup.”
Cleverley has had time to catch most of the games in the tournament in Qatar, with a couple of games catching the attention of other members of the group, especially in Group F.
“We had a bit of a laugh when Morocco v Croatia came up the other day because we’ve got Imrân here, who would have started for Morocco, and the manager who of course is a legend of the Croatian national team,” explained the midfielder. “Perhaps it was good that one was a draw!”
The former England international’s head is ruling over his heart when it comes to his predictions for the winter tournament, but he is pleased to have seen the Three Lions start well against Iran.
With international giants Brazil and Argentina the favourites to win it, even after the latter’s shock defeat to Saudi Arabia, Cleverley could also see Portugal going far.
“Brazil have got an impressive squad,” the skipper said. “I think Argentina are far better than what we saw against Saudi Arabia. And elsewhere in Europe, you just can’t rule out Portugal because they do tournament football so well.
“I think one of the South American sides will make the final. My heart tells me England to win it, though, and you can’t feel anything different once you’ve had the privilege of representing your country.
“I was really happy to see us go to four at the back against Iran. In the games building up to the World Cup, we had only three players joining in attacks. Now it means we’ve got four or five players joining in, plus the attacking full-backs. Maybe the manager has identified the real strengths of the squad and is prepared to play to them this time.
“That’s the big question for me; whether he’ll stick with that against tougher opposition. I think 4-3-3 suits us best. The States will be a much bigger test, then Tuesday will be very much like a Premier League game against Wales.”
Due to the date of his achilles surgery Dan Gosling was unable to join the squad in Spain, and is at home recovering with Cleverley regularly in touch. The close friends, both keen to get back in action as soon as possible, will be back together next week at the training ground to rehabilitate together.
“I’ve been video calling with him, not just to talk about the World Cup but to see how he’s doing after his operation,” said Cleverley. “He’s my closest mate in the squad, and with this injury I’ve had a very similar journey to the one he’s got ahead of him now.
“He was too close to his op to get out here with us, as he can’t really get around far right now. But I’m keeping him in the loop and I know he’s in touch with other lads as well.
“When we’re back, I’ll be able to work with him on rehab along with a couple of the other guys, and hopefully that’ll be a bit of a boost for us both.”
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In light of the recent Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, David Harrison writes about an early-1960s favourite, whose one golden season almost propelled Watford to promotion and featured a goal for the ages.
We regularly hear about finding oneself in the right place at the wrong time or, occasionally, the wrong place at the right time. But every now and then the stars align and we find ourselves precisely where we’d like to be, at the critical moment. So it was for me on the afternoon of Saturday, February 8, 1964.
I was approaching my 11th birthday and still finding my way around Vicarage Road. For younger readers, these were days when the vast majority of supporters at The Vic opted to stand rather than sit, and not only stand, but stand pretty much wherever they liked.
Under the tutelage of my dad, I had graduated from the old Main Stand (where he’d started me off, until deemed tall enough to stand) to the Vicarage Road End, where he could meet up with mates, unencumbered by an annoying child.
For the 1963/64 season, Bill McGarry built a team capable of launching a credible push for promotion to Division Two, while I had grown sufficiently to stand behind the goal and enjoy watching them.
They were pretty good to watch, too. Pat Jennings quickly became a superb keeper, destined for the very top. The fearsome Duncan Welbourne arrived during that season and became a defensive stalwart for the next decade. George Harris was a free-scoring winger as well, but the jewel in McGarry’s crown was the magnificent Charlie Livesey.
After a slow start (two goals in his first 18 Watford appearances) Charlie burst into life under the guidance of the new manager.
He soon became hugely popular with a Vicarage Road crowd desperate for a charismatic figurehead, following the inexplicable departure of Cliff Holton early in the 1961/62 season.
Big Cliff’s goalscoring exploits will never be repeated, but Charlie was probably the superior all-round footballer. The latter’s popularity may have been enhanced by the fact he was something of a flawed figure.
Profiles of Charlie invariably included references to him having been ‘a bit of a tearaway’ in his early years. In fact, there were suggestions of an early ‘brush with the law,’ while he was widely heralded as a player of considerable natural ability, but one who had struggled to deliver on that promise.
Signed from Gillingham at the age of 23, Charlie carried a distinct whiff of under-achievement. He’d played alongside Jimmy Greaves at Chelsea, but his career was already heading downhill.
First physical impressions weren’t great either. While Cliff had been big, powerful, athletic and imposing, Charlie was just big. Too big.
His partnership with the mercurial Dai Ward was no such thing. They managed 33 goals between them in 1962/63, to which Charlie’s contribution was three. But during the following summer, everything changed.
McGarry was a disciplinarian manager, standing no nonsense from anyone. Remarkably that included Charlie, to whom the new man found the key, in spectacular fashion.
Excess baggage was rapidly shed, leaving startled fans confronted by an adult version of Chelsea’s ‘Boy Wonder’. The Ward/Livesey partnership was turned on its head. Charlie scored seven in the first six games, and by October Ward had gone.
Scoring continued unabated but even better was the style he brought to a functional side, constructed in the image of a pragmatic manager.
Returning to that February Saturday in 1964, I was wedged at the bottom of the Vic Road terrace, up against the railings and right behind the goal. I was thereby granted a bird’s eye view of what remains one of the finest Watford goals I’ve seen.
The visual recollection remains surprisingly vivid, but some context is worthwhile. Oldham arrived that day as credible promotion rivals. They were in fourth place, two points behind the Hornets, and the matchday programme issued a rallying cry for supporters to ‘go to town with that Watford roar!’
The visitors wore distinctive shirts, with a broad blue central band but otherwise white. They left a lasting visual impression for some reason.
But this was Charlie’s day. He picked up the ball around halfway and simply ran clean through the Oldham defence, spurning various passing opportunities before crashing a drive past helpless keeper John Bollands. Even Holton would have struggled to match a goal like that, and it happened directly in front of me.
McGarry’s side lost at Luton on the last day, falling agonisingly short of promotion, but Charlie, on occasions almost single-handedly, had dragged a modest side to within touching distance of the Promised Land.
It was Charlie’s season, and it was unforgettable. But that goal against Oldham provides the enduring memory.
More From This Series
Home Ground Heroes: Cliff Holton
Home Ground Heroes: Tony Collins
Home Ground Heroes: William ‘Taffy’ Davies
Home Ground Heroes: Tommy Barnett
Home Ground Heroes: Fred Pagnam
Home Ground Heroes: Eddie Mummery
Home Ground Heroes: Neil McBain
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Watford are set to face fellow Championship side Blackpool in a friendly on Saturday in Spain.
Dan Gosling faces a long spell out after rupturing his Achilles, and he looks back on what happened as well as ahead to his rehab.
Watford club captain Tom Cleverley has set himself the target of being available for selection again from February 1.
Watford fan Kate Holmes lives in Qatar and has tickets for 25 World Cup matches and is aiming to visit all eight stadiums.
Big centre forwards were one of the hallmarks of Watford’s golden era under Graham Taylor. George Reilly and Mark Falco were among those who followed but the first was Ross Jenkins.
Wales manager Robert Page would love to be able to pick the phone up to his old boss at Watford, Graham Taylor
The season finale is now available. You can listen to the new episode below or download it as an MP3 here. FALLING IN LOVE (S19 E4) In Autumn 2022, residents of Hornet Heaven reveal what made them fall in love with Watford FC. (34 minutes) https://audioboom.com/posts/8199699-falling-in-love-s19-e4
Senegal lost their opening World Cup game against Holland, but how did Watford forward Ismaila Sarr get on?
Warford captain Tom Cleverley was capped 13 times by England, and he describes what life will be life for the players at the World Cup.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are back to bring you some International football themed content during this World Cup break. Ben & Mike must come up with a Watford XI based on players that have represented their country whilst playing for Watford and they can only choose one player per nation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The 3rd of our 4 episodes in 4 days is out now. You can listen to the new episode below or download it as an MP3 here. MOVING ON (S19 E3) In 1922, Watford FC’s move to a new stadium provides a much-needed lift. (21 minutes) https://audioboom.com/posts/8199698-moving-on-s19-e3
We’re releasing 4 episodes in 4 days. Episode 2 of Series 19 is now available. You can listen to the new episode below or download it as an MP3 here. LAMPER’S INFERNO (S19 E2) In 2018, a new arrival takes a circuitous route to Hornet Heaven. (36 minutes) https://audioboom.com/posts/8199681-lamper-s-inferno-s19-e2
The 19th series of Hornet Heaven has begun. You can listen to the first episode below or download it as an MP3 here. A GOOD IMPRESSION (S19 E1) In November 2022, a recent arrival in Hornet Heaven turns out to have an unusual talent. (22 minutes) https://audioboom.com/posts/8199326-a-good-impression-s19-e1
Interim General Manager Laura Dyer has enjoyed a busy but fruitful start to life in her new role, taking up the GM job two months ago with Watford Women looking to achieve promotion from the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division.
Dyer, also Assistant Coach to Damon Lathrope, now oversees off-pitch operations of the women’s side alongside her on-pitch duties, and is looking to “build on the foundations” set by predecessors, including last season’s GM Amber Wildgust.
Explaining her day-to-day responsibilities, Dyer said she is looking to grow the presence of the team in the community and from a commercial standpoint.
“I’ve really enjoyed it,” Dyer began. “I came in around mid-September, and seeing how they’ve progressed and the results we’ve been getting, it’s been great to pick up the role and try to build on the foundations that have been set. I help as much as I can to make sure the support off the pitch is as good as what I can give on the pitch.
“It’s about matchday logistics; whether it’s home or away I’m making sure the squad knows what they’re doing and everything is in place. We’re starting to build partnerships and working with local schools as well. Myself, Helen [Ward] and Damon [Lathrope] have been in for assemblies and showing what Watford Women are all about, doing football sessions and presentations.
“We’ve now got a partnership with Pixellot, to help record our games and live-stream away games.”
Having recently served as joint-Head Coach alongside Armand Kavaja at the back end of Watford’s Barclays Championship campaign, Dyer has taken up several vital roles in her time at the club, and is looking forward to growing as a coach and manager this term. A big part of her success is her family too, who hold a special place in her heart as she continues her football journey.
“I originally started with the Trust [Watford FC Community, Sports and Education Trust] in January 2017 as the Girls and Women Development Officer,” explained Dyer. “My role with Watford FC Women didn’t start until the year after, but during that first year with the Trust it was about building that relationship with Watford FC Women and making sure there was a pathway.
“I then became Development Team Assistant, and at the end of the season became Head Coach for a number of seasons. Last season I stepped up as assistant for the first team, went on to become joint-Head Coach in March [2022], and I’ve recently stepped back to Assistant Coach for the first team.
“It’s been a massive learning experience, I’ve been given challenges I wouldn’t normally be given, especially within the senior set-up.
“It’s a sense of pride for my family too. A big part of that was my grandad, but sadly in May 2020 he passed away. Every Sunday I’d give him a call and tell him how the game went. He was there when we won the County Cup, and saw me lift my first trophy as manager. It’s about making sure what I’m doing is making him and my family proud.”
Watford are currently second in the table, five points off first-placed Oxford United with two games in hand, and maintain a 100 per cent record at new ground Grosvenor Vale, where they have achieved comprehensive victories over the likes of Plymouth Argyle [5-1] and Fulham [7-1]. Dyer has been pleased with what she’s seen from the dugout, and believes the Golden Girls have momentum to continue their rich vein of form going into a busy run of home fixtures.
“It’s been superb,” continued Dyer. “At the start of pre-season we [the coaches] sat down and went through what we wanted to achieve and how, and it’s been a fantastic start. The players have really kicked on and grown together, there’s a nice togetherness in the group which gets the best out of players.
“The girls are giving everything they can, and we want to make sure we’re stepping up to the challenge and achieving our goal, which is to get promoted to the Championship.”
Working closely with the players in training and communicating daily to keep morale high, Dyer, with the help of Lathrope and fellow Assistant Coach Matt Bevans, has ensured that the mood is positive on and off the pitch.
“I think I’ve built up a good rapport with the squad. The relationships I’ve built with the players, I’m a supportive person and make sure I have the best interests of the player at heart,” Dyer said.
“The coaching staff are unbelievable. We’ve got a really good connection as staff and we all know what we want and need to do to ensure the girls are performing on the pitch. Myself and Damon have got a really good working relationship, and he’ll support me with the off-pitch stuff as much as I’ll support him with the on-pitch stuff.”
Promotion back to the Championship requires the Hornets to win their regional division and the subsequent play-off against the winners of the Northern Division. With Watford still competing in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup and FAWNL Cup, the sky is the limit for Dyer and the squad.
“I said it at the end of last season, we want to get back up to the Championship and that’s something that will always stick in the back of my mind,” added the General Manager.
“Off the pitch it’s about building on the fanbase we have because the supporters have been superb, they’re always with us, flying the flag and that’s what we want to continue to happen. We want to grow the fanbase here, make sure fans are enjoying the games here and cheering us all the way until we reach our goal.”
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Dré Georgiou senses a positive mood in the Watford camp ahead of the Golden Girls’ first-ever competitive clash with Billericay Town on Sunday (November 20, 2pm KO).
The Hornets midfielder has thrived so far in the FA Women’s National League Southern Premier Division, most recently notching an assist for Poppy Wilson in last weekend’s 7-1 cup win over Fulham at Grosvenor Vale.
With goals and assists aplenty to her name this term, Georgiou can feel a growing team spirit in the dressing room, with Head Coach Damon Lathrope’s philosophy matching that of the squad.
“We’re really enjoying it on and off the pitch,” Georgiou smiled. “We’re bonding as a team and like the way the gaffer wants to play, we’re all understanding it now. It’s all clicking, so now it’s about smashing the rest of the season!”
A high turnover of players at the start of the campaign hasn’t affected Watford, with six summer recruits starting in last Sunday’s victory. Many are already familiar to 26-year-old Georgiou, who crossed paths with a few of her current teammates at previous points in her career.
She continued: “It’s always nice having new people in the door. Not many players are still here from last season but the girls that have come in are doing well, we’re starting to gel as a team and it’s nice to have them on board.
“I’ve played with a few of them already. In women’s football you know most people already; I played with Bianca [Baptiste] for many years, and there are a few others as well. It’s nice to have them here.”
Returning to league action after nearly a month in Vitality Women’s FA Cup and FAWNL Cup competition, Georgiou is excited to make up ground with two games in hand on league rivals Oxford United, who sit five points ahead on top spot.
“I’m really excited,” added Georgiou. “It’s nice having cup games, but being at home in the league is the icing on the cake. For some reason we keep scoring loads of goals at home, so hopefully that’s the case again this weekend.”
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Just short of a month on from their last league outing away at London Bees, Sunday sees Watford welcome an in-form Billericay Town side to Grosvenor Vale for the sides’ first league meeting (November 20, 2pm KO).
Last weekend the Hornets won comfortably in their Vitality Women’s FA Cup first-round tie against Fulham, a game which has kickstarted a run of four home games on the bounce.
Head Coach Damon Lathrope’s side have worked hard to establish their new home as a fortress, conceding just four goals and scoring 27 in only five games at The Vale to date.
Having gone top of the table with a 4-0 away win at Crawley Wasps way back in early October, the Golden Girls now find themselves back chasing Oxford United who have a five-point cushion over the Hornets. Sunday is the first step in the hunt for Lathrope’s charges, having played two games fewer than the team at the top.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting our new home for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Please note: Parking on the grass area within the ground has been restricted due to the weather. Parking is available on-site for staff, players, officials and disabled supporters. There is street parking in the surrounding areas. We do ask that if you are travelling to the game by car and park in the local area, please be respectful of the neighbours.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram at @WatfordFCWomen.
Tickets
Tickets can be purchased in advance at the following prices:
Adults - £5
Concession (U16, 65+, Disability) - £3
Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
On-the-day sales for Adults & Concessions will see the prices increase by £2, so we highly recommend booking in advance if possible.
The £1 price will remain unchanged on matchday, with you just having to show proof of your season card to gain entry.
The Match
The Golden Girls head into Sunday’s game on the back of an impressive win in their first outing in this season’s Vitality Women’s FA Cup, with braces for Poppy Wilson, Flo Fyfe and Bianca Baptiste, the latter making the most significant step in her return from injury to date, scoring in fine fashion having joined the action midway through the second period.
These goals were complemented by a fine run and finish from Gemma Davison, who calmly slotted past the keeper to claim her fourth goal of the season, completing a 7-1 rout of the Cottagers.
Following an impressive display in front of goal, Lathrope will be hoping for more of the same as his team welcome their visitors from Essex.
Billericay Town come to Grosvenor Vale in their own fine vein of form. They currently sit fifth in the table, in what has been a strong start to their first season in the league. Their recent form, like Watford’s, comes off the back of an away defeat to Portsmouth.
Billericay have been free-scoring in recent weeks, finding the back of the net on 24 occasions in just their last three games alone, with their winning streak stretching to six games, during which they have conceded just twice and scored more than 30 times.
The two teams haven’t faced off competitively before but have featured in several friendly matches over the years, with the most recent game being an end-of-season match at Vicarage Road back in 2021. The Golden Girls will be heading into the game hoping to keep up their fine form in front of goal, while maintaining solidity at the other end, in what should be an exciting clash from the first whistle.
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Today (Saturday November 19) marks International Men’s Day, and this month is Men’s Mental Health Month, so what better day to highlight and promote awareness of the services and activities available to males experiencing poor mental wellbeing?
Statistics shared by Movember show that every minute, somewhere in the world, a man dies by suicide. That’s 90 sons, husbands, brothers and fathers for every 90-minute game during the Football World Cup. By the full-time whistle of the final, and 64th match, over 5,760 males will have died by suicide.
In the UK, the situation is dire. Three out of four suicides are by men and around 13 men take their life every day. The rate of registered suicides in England and Wales has risen to pre-pandemic levels, with more than 5,500 in 2021. This is why it is so important we work together to call full-time on male suicide.
Movember have been supported by a host of global stars to put together a campaign video that can be viewed below.
Today, Watford FC’s Training Ground is playing host to a Movember event, organised in partnership with Watford FC’s Community Sports and Education Trust. Among the Trust’s partners at Minds United, Herts Mind Network, St Albans City FC and The Josh Hanson Trust, today’s activities will be attended by participants from the Trust’s health programmes Shape Up, Shape Up Together and Man On.
Shape Up is an adult weight management project encouraging behaviour change and sustainable weight loss. Part of the Shape Up family, Shape Up Together has similar outcomes designed specifically for those with a diagnosed mental health illness or learning disability. For anyone wanting to access this programme contact shapeup@watfordfc.com
Man On is a wellbeing session, using physical activity and workshops to support local men aged 18 to 65 years old. With weekly sessions in Watford and St Albans, and a third starting in Three Rivers in January, we’d encourage anyone who feels this session could help. Please contact taylor.morrison@watfordfc.com
The event on International Men’s Day is a celebration of the services available, a chance to promote awareness of a vitally important subject, as well as a fundraiser for global charity Movember.
Movember exist to stop men dying too young by tackling some of the most complex health issues facing men today – mental health, suicide, prostate cancer and testicular cancer. What started as a single-minded fundraising and awareness campaign in 2003 has evolved into a multi-faceted health organisation with programmes accessed by millions worldwide. For more information and to donate, click HERE.
To keep up to date with all things Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust, search @WFCTrust on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Twitter, and YouTube - or visit www.watfordfccsetrust.com.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Academy at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a number of minibus drivers, to work as part of its professional driving team, on an ad-hoc basis.
We have numerous young players who receive their schooling within Hertfordshire and the surrounding areas, alongside their football education. You will play a key role in providing transport for the players either to or from training and designated pick-up points or from their educational provider, along a designated route. In addition, there is the possibility for weekend work, driving teams to away fixtures to various venues across the country.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford and London Colney or the surrounding areas, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- D1 Minibus Licence or completed MiDAS course
- Knowledge and understanding of safeguarding for children – be willing to complete an online safeguarding workshop
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & safeguarding
All shortlisted candidates will need to complete a driver assessment as part of the interview process.
This role will have contact with children. Therefore, it will be required by law to have a DBS Enhanced Criminal Record Check with children’s barred list check.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Minibus Driver
Salary/Rate of Pay: £9.50 per hour
Location: Watford FC Training Ground, London Colney and surrounding areas
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: Successful candidates meeting essential requirements will be offered an interview as they apply
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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In light of the recent Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
First featured in last season’s matchday programme, David Harrison writes about a man who scored 48 goals to spearhead Watford’s first Football League promotion in 1959/60, including two hat-tricks at The Vic on consecutive days.
I was six when my father decided the time was right for his son to make a first visit to Vicarage Road, thereby subjecting the young boy to 63 years (and counting) of following this wonderful football club.
It was November 1959 and the opponents, in the old Division Four, were Darlington. The game resulted in a routine 2-1 home win, with the only noteworthy aspect being that Cliff Holton failed to score, a rare occurrence that season.
Inevitably though, should Cliff draw a blank, his partner-in-crime Dennis Uphill would, and such was the case on this occasion, with Uphill scoring both goals. This didn’t happen often. Big Cliff made 53 appearances that season and scored an extraordinary 48 goals. Of those 53 games, he scored in well over half of them. To be fair to the admirable Uphill, he also notched a remarkable 36 goals.
I would almost certainly have fallen head over heels for the club had Cliff been there or not, but his presence negated any possibility of rejection. Cliff was truly charismatic, in the days before footballers would routinely be described in that way.
He embodied key attributes of the most effective Watford strikers I’ve seen. He had the style and class of Livesey, the brute strength of Endean, the selfishness of Jennings, the attacking verve of Luther, the predatory eye of Johnston, the crowd-rousing ability of Mooney and a brutal approach from the penalty spot now forever associated with Troy.
Cliff was tall, elegant, good-looking, eloquent and, by all accounts, dominated the dressing room by sheer force of personality. His arrival at the club, in October 1958, had not been without the odd hiccup. Despite huge excitement locally he failed to hit the ground running, and struggled to justify the record fee (reputedly £10,000) paid to Arsenal for his services.
He scored five goals in his first 15 games and had managed 10 in 35 appearances by the end of that 1958/59 season.
Remarkably, Cliff himself remained convinced centre-half was his best position, but soon after the start of the following season he proved himself gloriously wrong, at which point things fell spectacularly into place. With a weak manager only nominally in charge, Cliff stepped up to assume control of the playing side and everything changed.
A slow start, with one win and only two goals from the first five games, gave no indication of what was about to unfold. But the goals soon flowed and by New Year over 31,000 fans were squeezing into The Vic to see Watford become the first Division Four club ever to beat a top-flight side in the FA Cup.
That was Birmingham City, beaten 2-1 in a game featuring what many believed to be Cliff’s finest goal for the club, a stunning half-volley struck on the turn. Southampton were the next big cup scalp, and the run only ended in the fifth round when an injury-hit Watford, reduced to nine fit men, went down 3-2 in front of 40,000 at Sheffield United. By then it was apparent that Watford were a Division Four club in name only, but work still needed to be done to clinch the club’s first-ever Football League promotion.
League fixtures at that time saw games played on Good Friday, Saturday and Easter Monday. With points still badly needed, Cliff scored a Vicarage Road hat-trick on the Friday afternoon against Chester, and then repeated the feat 24 hours later against Gateshead. The club, let alone star-struck six-year-olds, had seen nothing like it.
Promotion was celebrated with a 2-2 draw against Walsall under the Vicarage Road lights. Many of the 20,000 crowd poured onto the pitch at the end of a special night, roaring: “We Want Cliff!”
Things in Division Three the following season were predictably tougher, but the club still claimed a top-four finish, with Cliff chipping in with another 34 goals. But all good things come to an end and, through an inexplicable boardroom decision, Cliff was allowed to join Northampton for a ludicrous £7,000. Almost inevitably Cliff scored a hat-trick on his Cobblers debut and continued to haunt Watford.
He returned, by then wearing the colours of Crystal Palace, to record yet another hat-trick. Eventually Cliff re-joined Watford for a final cameo in the summer of 1965, but the magic had gone.
John Barnes would be the finest player I’ve seen represent the club, but for a bona-fide club legend and a true Home Ground Hero, you’d struggle to beat Big Cliff.
More From This Series
Home Ground Heroes: Tony Collins
Home Ground Heroes: William ‘Taffy’ Davies
Home Ground Heroes: Tommy Barnett
Home Ground Heroes: Fred Pagnam
Home Ground Heroes: Eddie Mummery
Home Ground Heroes: Neil McBain
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Watford midfielder JJ McKiernan has enjoyed a thrilling and productive loan spell at Eastleigh so far this campaign, developing as a footballer both on and off the pitch.
The energetic and creative Northern Irishman has featured 18 times in the National League – the fifth-tier of English football – scoring twice and winning the Man of the Match award on three occasions.
Having joined the Spitfires in the summer after linking up with the Watford first-team for the pre-season tour to Austria, McKiernan - still only 20 years old - has thrived in his new footballing environment at the Silverlake Stadium, with his temporary side just two points off the play-offs.
“The season has been great so far, I can’t complain,” McKiernan began. “We have been playing well and we were undefeated at home up until the last home game.
“I’ve been really enjoying the football and it’s been great to get the games in, and hopefully it will be good for my career going forward.
“I’m a local lad to Eastleigh because I’m from Southampton originally, and I knew a lot about Eastleigh before coming here. It’s been great playing for them; the ground, the place, the club, the way it is run – it has been brilliant.
“The coaching staff have been fantastic. There is a lot of experience behind the coaching staff, they have been really good with me, helping me develop. I’m really happy with how everything has gone and how it’s going. To play in the FA Cup as well, one of the biggest competitions in English football, has been really good.
“There are some big clubs in the National League, like Notts County, Wrexham, Chesterfield – they are massive clubs. We’re in and around it which is brilliant. It has been a really good insight to progress my career. It’s the perfect club I could’ve come to.”
Reflecting on the past few months at Eastleigh, McKiernan believes he has developed and matured from his experience in the senior game.
He said: “I have learnt a lot. I didn’t quite realise before I arrived how much I would learn, especially on the in-game side. There have been things I’ve done in games that I’ve realised I shouldn’t do again. Those are things that you don’t learn as much in academy football.
“Off the pitch has been brilliant as well. All the lads have been really good with me. There is a lot of experience in the changing room from guys who played in the Championship, League One and League Two, and ultimately I want to get to those sorts of levels, if not higher. That is what I’m aiming for, so it’s good to have the squad around me that I can learn from.
“For me, one of the big differences [between senior football and academy football] is the quick turnaround between games. You are literally playing for three points, and it’s something you don’t have in academy football.
“The Under-21s is all about your own development, learning parts of the game and being ready for the first-team. Whereas going out on loan you get stuck in, and you are there to win three points. You have to win by any means necessary.
“I have learnt a lot and I’m hoping I’ll keep on learning, and hopefully see what happens in the future.”
Having contributed with goal involvements from the middle of the park, McKiernan has flourished with his creative licence earning accolades for his output.
He said: “Eastleigh only give out the Man of the Match award at home, and just before the final whistle you’ll hear an announcement on who is that day’s winner. When you hear your name called out - and you have your mates in the crowd with your family - it’s an amazing feeling.
“The times I’ve won the award I heard the announcement once, and you do give it a little chuckle, but the other time I didn’t even hear it because we were hanging onto a 1-0 lead. It was so tense up until the final whistle.”
Focusing on Watford, McKiernan explained that he has been in regular contact with key staff members while out on loan at Eastleigh, with Academy Director Richard Johnson and Head of Technical Development Jimmy Gilligan attending in-person to watch him play.
He continued: “I’ve been in contact and had conversations with Richard, Jimmy, Omer [Riza, Under-21 Lead Coach] and Richard Shaw [Under-21 Assistant Coach]. Everyone keeps tabs on me, even a few of the players! Everyone keeps in touch which is good, so you feel a part of it still.
“We played Woking a few weeks ago and Richard [Johnson] and Jimmy [Gilligan] did come down to the game, and we had a nice chat after the match about what they thought I did well – some development bits. They all keep in touch and they all see the goals, the assists and the Man of the Matches. Every time something happens, they are quick to congratulate.”
Following his experience during the Austrian first-team pre-season tour and his success at Eastleigh, McKiernan is hoping to build his momentum and continue to develop heading into the winter period.
He said: “It has gone really quickly - Austria feels like it was the other day. I had a really good pre-season and managed to play in a few matches with the first-team, including against Panathinaikos out in Austria which was an amazing experience. To then come to Eastleigh and with how well it has gone, I couldn’t have asked for more from this first part of the season.”
Eastleigh photo credits: Ricky Hart/Tom Mulholland
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Ismaïla Sarr will be flying the Watford flag at the 2022 World Cup over the next month, as he represents Senegal on football’s biggest stage.
Facing the Netherlands (Monday November 21, 4pm KO GMT), hosts Qatar (Friday November 25, 1pm KO GMT) and Ecuador (Tuesday November 29, 3pm KO GMT) in Group A for Senegal’s third-ever World Cup, Sarr is preparing for another international tournament 10 months on from the Terangas Lions’ Africa Cup of Nations triumph.
The Hornets winger learned last Friday (November 11) that he would be part of Aliou Cissé’s 26-man squad, and will don his country’s colours at a second consecutive World Cup following his involvement in the 2018 tournament in Russia.
“I’m very happy to be part of the national team once again,” Sarr smiled. “I can’t wait until the World Cup. Playing in the World Cup is the dream of every player, so I’m very happy.
“I was very happy when I got the message, I was at home and received an email from the federation in advance that I was going to the World Cup so the feeling was positive, a lot of happiness!
“This is my second World Cup. I am very happy to be part of this squad going to Qatar because I want to play in every single competition. I think we have a very good squad and a squad that is ready to go to the World Cup and do the best we can.”
Looking to advance from the group stage for the second time in Senegal’s history, Sarr is determined to emulate the 2002 quarter-finalists who upset world champions France - a team that included his current Head Coach - in that tournament’s opening game.
The Lions missed out on the round of 16 by the smallest of margins four years ago, finishing level with second-placed Japan on points, goal difference and goals scored only to be eliminated due to more yellow cards than their Group H rivals.
Reflecting on Senegal sides from years gone by, Sarr uses the past as motivation to create new memories in Qatar.
“It’s a good group full of good countries with many good players,” Sarr admitted. “But Senegal is a good team with many good players and we need to go and try to do better than last time, and go through.
“I can’t remember the 2002 World Cup but I have seen many videos. It’s good to watch videos of previous players who have represented the national team and see how the previous generation did. It was a very good team but also in a very good group. Now we have to try to do better, to show the new generation. I remember that team beat France, so we need to try to do something like that.
“We’re going there to try and make history, not only for us but for the whole generation. We have to go there and try our best, and let’s see.”
Buoyed by their success at AFCON earlier this year, Senegal have considerable momentum going into the tournament. Sarr hopes the foundations have been laid for success, but doesn’t want to rely on past triumphs.
“We went to AFCON and played well, and managed to win,” Sarr smiled. “We need to carry this on, but now we are going to the World Cup and we need to be focused on that. We need to use that as a stimulus for the World Cup.”
Coming off the bench in Watford’s final league game against Bristol City before the break, Sarr left for Qatar with well wishes from teammates and coaching staff. The 24-year-old felt the love from the club, and is motivated to perform at club and international level.
“Everyone at the club has been supportive,” Sarr smiled. “The Head Coach kept telling me that I need to work hard to get a place in the World Cup. What I am doing is working hard for Watford and Senegal.”
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While excitement builds ahead of the 2022 World Cup kick-off on Sunday (November 20), several Hornets have been busy making their mark on the international stage in a series of friendly clashes.
Winger Ken Sema was rewarded for his impressive start to the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season - during which he has scored three goals and claimed four assists in 21 league appearances - with a return to the Sweden fold.
The 29-year-old made his first appearance for Janne Andersson’s team since 2021 in Wednesday’s 2-1 win over Mexico in Spain (November 16), coming on as an 82nd-minute replacement for Ludwig Augustinsson.
Goals from Marcus Rohdén and Mattias Svanberg powered Sweden to victory against Mexico - who are set to feature in Group C at the World Cup - and Sema and the Sweden side will be hoping to build on their strong display against Algeria on Saturday (November 19, 7.30pm KO GMT).
Elswhere, Sema’s Watford teammate Francisco Sierralta played 89 minutes of Chile’s narrow 1-0 defeat to Poland in Warsaw, also on Wednesday (November 16).
The 25-year-old started in central defence, and was replaced by Colorado Rapids forward Diego Rubio late on as Krzysztof Piątek’s second-half strike ultimately won the game for the hosts, who will face off against Mexico in World Cup Group C.
Sierralta and Chile will look to bounce back from defeat on Sunday (November 20, 12.30pm KO GMT), when they travel to Bratislava to take on Slovakia.
Fellow Watford defender William Troost-Ekong captained Nigeria in their tough away clash against Portugal on Thursday (November 17), with Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes scoring twice for the hosts on the way to a 4-0 win.
Golden Boys shot-stopper Maduka Okoye was on the bench for the Super Eagles in Lisbon as they fell to the 2016 European champions, who are due to get their World Cup campaign underway against Ghana in Group H on Thursday (November 24).
The World Cup countdown is almost over for Ismaïla Sarr and Senegal, with the Lions of Teranga set to kick off against the Netherlands in Group A on Monday (November 21, 4pm GMT).
The following group match sees the current Africa Cup of Nations holders face off against the tournament hosts Qatar (Friday November 25, 1pm KO GMT), with Sarr’s final group match coming against Ecuador (Tuesday November 29, 3pm KO GMT).
The knockout stages commence on December 3, but exact dates should Senegal qualify are yet to be confirmed. Sarr will face an opponent from Group B if Senegal progress to the next round, which could include either England or Wales.
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The Hornets Shop at Vicarage Road Stadium and the Watford FC store in the Atria Centre will be closed on Tuesday November 22 for the funeral of our colleague, Paul Stallard.
A lifelong supporter of Watford, Paul had a career within the club spanning nearly 25 years. He started as a ball boy in the late 1960s, and went on to become a scout during the 1990s and into the early 2000s before spending the past nine years working in our retail department.
Throughout Paul’s time at the club he made a long-lasting impression on everyone he met, and he truly embodied what it was to be part of the family of Watford FC staff.
Thank you in advance for your understanding.
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Over the decades, many Watford players have featured for their national teams on the biggest stage of them all, the FIFA World Cup.
Ahead of this year’s edition of the tournament, which begins on Sunday (November 20), we take a look back at some of the Hornets’ players to have made their mark on the competition.
John McClelland
A legendary Watford centre-half, who played over 230 times in yellow, John McClelland enjoyed the privilege of going to two World Cups with his country Northern Ireland during the 1980s. His first appearance came during the 1982 World Cup in Spain, where McClelland helped his side top the opening group stage, which included a famous 1-0 victory over the hosts.
After qualifying for the second round of the group phase, Northern Ireland just missed out to France, who would eventually finish fourth in the tournament. Despite the exit, defensive general McClelland featured in every minute of every match, helping his side keep two clean sheets and record their second-best finish at the tournament.
McClelland would also travel to Mexico for the 1986 World Cup, and despite not making an appearance while at the tournament, the ex-Hornet would be made captain of his national side following the conclusion of the competition while still with Watford.
John Barnes
One of the most gifted players to have graced The Vic over its 100-year history, John Barnes spent six years in yellow. During that time, he made 31 appearances for England’s national team - the joint-most for an active Watford player, alongside Kenny Jackett for Wales.
The dynamic winger was called up to the 1986 World Cup in Mexico by then-England manager Bobby Robson. Despite featuring regularly throughout the qualification stages for the tournament, and scoring twice, he only made one appearance at the finals.
Barnes did get his opportunity off the bench against Argentina in the quarter-finals, and provided an assist during his 16-minute cameo for Gary Lineker, although England crashed out following two Diego Maradona goals notched earlier – including the infamous ‘Hand of God’ goal.
After departing the Hornets for Liverpool, Barnes received another call-up to the 1990 World Cup and played five times as the Three Lions reached the semi-finals in Italy.
Rob Page
Ex-Watford captain and Player of the Season Rob Page will lead Wales to their first World Cup since 1958 as manager this winter. A natural leader, the former defender led the Hornets to two consecutive promotions, rising to the top-flight and becoming a favourite with the supporters.
While at The Vic, Page made 21 appearances for the Dragons and would go on to take charge of his nation’s footballing side in 2020. He has already guided his side to a place at the delayed 2020 European Championships, where they progressed from the group but were defeated by eventual semi-finalists Denmark.
Wales finished second in their qualification group for the 2022 World Cup, against nations such as Belgium and the Czech Republic. Page’s side would beat Ukraine 1-0 to secure their place in the tournament.
Gerry Armstrong
Another hugely-influential Northern Ireland international, Gerry Armstrong featured for the Hornets between 1980 and 1983, making the trip to the Spanish World Cup in 1982. As mentioned previously, alongside McClelland, Armstrong helped his national side record a famous victory over the hosts, with the gifted finisher scoring the decisive goal.
It meant that a few years later, when Armstrong called time on his Watford career and moved to Real Mallorca in Spain, the forward received a notable reception from opposition supporters.
In the 1982 tournament, Armstrong scored three times against Spain, Honduras and France. His goalscoring record ranks the former Watford player second in Northern Ireland’s top scorers list at World Cups, and he is also joint-eighth for appearances at the tournament for his country.
Jay DeMerit
A cult hero for Watford and the United States, central defender Jay DeMerit rose from relative non-league obscurity to play a major part for both sides. A hugely committed member of the Hornets’ squad during his six-year stay at the club, DeMerit featured just under 200 times.
While a Watford player, DeMerit received attention from his national team and was first called up to the squad in 2007. After earning his initial cap and securing a regular place in the side, the American made Bob Bradley’s squad for the 2010 South Africa World Cup in a group that included England.
DeMerit enjoyed a successful tournament, progressing to the round of 16 before being knocked out by Ghana in extra-time.
Honourable Mentions
Ismaïla Sarr – The current Watford winger will be playing for Senegal in the 2022 World Cup in his second tournament, having featured for his country four years prior.
Valon Behrami – With nearly 50 appearances in yellow between 2015 and 2017, the midfielder became the first man to play for Switzerland at four consecutive World Cup finals tournaments – 2006, 2010, 2014 and 2018.
Pierre Issa – Made 15 league appearances for the Hornets during the 2001/02 season, and was called up to South Africa’s squad for the 2002 World Cup.
Nicolas Nkoulou – Although he was restricted to a handful of Watford appearances during the 2021/22 top-flight campaign, the defender has received a call-up by Cameroon for the 2022 World Cup.
Miguel Layún – Featured at the 2014 World Cup for Mexico before moving to Watford in the January transfer window in 2015. He would make 19 international appearances during his career at Vicarage Road.
Odion Ighalo – A year after departing Watford, the striker represented Nigeria at the 2018 World Cup alongside current Hornet William Troost-Ekong.
Nordin Amrabat – Made 31 appearances in yellow between 2016 and 2018, and would be called up to the Moroccan squad for the 2018 World Cup.
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Following the huge success of last year’s campaign we are delighted to once again be running the ‘Christmas 2022 Toy Drive’ in conjunction with the Watford Community, Sports and Education Trust.
We were completely overwhelmed by the generosity of our supporters last time out, as we were in 2020. Thank you to everyone who donated. We were able to reach a huge number of children whose families were experiencing economic hardship and allow them to receive a present on Christmas Day.
This year, we are asking once again for donations of new or unused gifts only, and please could we ask that they are left unwrapped (this will be done by the club when gifts have been allocated to children). The drop off points for donations will be at the main Watford FC reception on Stadium Way, and at the two Watford FC stores at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
Please could we ask that all donations are received by Monday December 12.
We also invite you to contact us with details of those who you know who would welcome a Christmas gift for their young ones this year. Please email toydrive@watfordfc.com with the name of the parent or guardian of the household you’d like to receive a gift, the name(s) of the children and their postal address and contact number. The deadline for us to receive gift requests is Monday December 5.
Please see below a list of suggestions for suitable gifts for children of different ages:
- 0-4 years: teddy bears, soft toys, baby clothes, stacking blocks, cot mobiles, bath toys, action figures, dolls.
- 4-8 years: action figures, puzzles, dressing-up costumes, age-suitable DVDs, colouring sets, arts and crafts, story books, Lego.
- 8-12 years: school sets, stationery, board games, gloves, puzzles, t-shirts, scarves, sports equipment.
- 12-16 years: headphones, reference books, hair accessories, bedroom accessories, fashion accessories, portable speakers, nightwear, novels.
Thank you in advance. We’ve no doubt that our supporters will once again show the family club spirit instilled in us over the years, and you’ll do what you can to provide those facing particular difficulties this year with a Happy Christmas.
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Former Watford head coach Rob Edwards has become only the second man to manage both Watford and Luton Town
The Sky Bet Championship season has come to a one-month halt with the 2022 World Cup kicking off on Sunday (November 20), leaving Watford with a few weeks to rest, recover and prepare for the restart on December 11 against Hull City at Vicarage Road (3pm KO).
As the Hornets sit fourth in the table, we take a look back at how the campaign has unfolded so far…
August
Watford faced Sheffield United in their opening match, the only fixture from gameweek one to take place in August.
With other sides kicking off on Saturday July 30, a floodlit Vicarage Road played host to an exciting and competitive clash on Monday night in front of the Sky Sports cameras.
Winning 1-0 thanks to a well-worked João Pedro goal, assisted by former Hornet Emmanuel Dennis, the Golden Boys secured their first three points of the season, with Daniel Bachmann earning praise for an excellent display in goal to prevent the likes of Daniel Jebbison, Iliman Ndiaye and John Egan from converting chances.
As the fixture computer placed Watford anywhere but a Saturday, the Golden Boys then took on West Bromwich Albion under the lights at the Hawthorns on Monday August 8. The 1-1 draw provided a single standout moment that will live long in the memory of the travelling supporters in the West Midlands, as Ismaïla Sarr lofted in an outrageous strike from his own half to open his account for 2022/23.
Up next was another promotion hopeful on a Friday night, as Vincent Kompany’s new-look Burnley side came to town. As the two relegated Premier League sides battled in the midfield, it would be club captain Tom Cleverley who popped up with the decider on the stroke of half-time, sliding in to convert Ken Sema’s pass from the byline.
Watford legend and former captain Troy Deeney, now at Birmingham City, played against his former club for the first time in his career in a midweek draw at St Andrew’s, before the Hornets picked up another point on the road against Preston North End.
Eliminated from the Carabao Cup by MK Dons in midweek, the Golden Boys were unlucky not to bounce back against Queens Park Rangers in the first 3pm kick-off at Vicarage Road, with Edo Kayembe’s late equaliser ruled out in a difficult afternoon that ended 3-2 to the west-Londoners.
The end of August marked Watford’s Vicarage Road centenary, as Middlesbrough travelled south for an enticing affair.
With celebrations of the stadium’s most historic players and moments before and during the game, the hosts donned their black-and-white third strip - similar to that of the club’s kit 100 years ago - in a dramatic victory, with Vakoun Bayo scoring in added time to etch another Vicarage Road memory into the history books.
September
September didn’t bear the same fruit as the month prior, with back-to-back away games against Rotherham and Blackburn Rovers ending in a draw and defeat. The first international break followed after a point at home to Sunderland, during which current Head Coach Slaven Bilić arrived in Hertfordshire.
October
In a game lauded by the new Hornets boss as a “dream start”, Watford put four past Stoke City away from home, with goals from Sarr, Sema, Bayo and Keinan Davis, which displayed attacking threat, intensity and a clean sheet at the other end for Bachmann and his backline.
A 99th-minute goal from Oliver Ntcham condemned Watford to defeat when Swansea visited Vicarage Road on Wednesday October 5, with the Hornets leaving Blackpool pointless that weekend after a 3-1 loss, but the Golden Boys bounced back against Norwich City courtesy of Imrân Louza and Davis’ first-half goals.
Tom Bradshaw’s half-hour hat-trick sealed another away loss to Millwall, but a derby clash with Luton Town at Vicarage Road provided the perfect opportunity to turn fortunes around, and the Hornets did so in scintillating fashion.
Dominating their rivals for 90 minutes in an electric atmosphere, goals from Davis, William Troost-Ekong, João Pedro and Sarr completed a 4-0 rout of the Hatters, 25 years on from the Hornets’ victory by the same margin at Kenilworth Road.
November
Buoyed by the derby demolition, Watford took that form on the road in subsequent visits to Wigan Athletic and Cardiff City either side of the new month, winning 1-0 and 2-1 respectively in controlling performances.
A narrow 1-0 defeat to an in-form Coventry City wasn’t the ideal result after three consecutive wins, but the Hornets immediately returned to winning ways at home to Reading through a João Pedro brace, before a hard-fought point away at Bristol City ensured that Bilić’s side remain in the play-off places with the break upon us.
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Watford players decide which of their Golden Girls teammates are most likely to be in various situations, from party poopers to late arrivers…
First to take on the questions is 19-year-old midfielder Melis Mehmet, who joined the Hornets in the summer of 2022.
Best mate: Georgie Ferguson
I’ve known Georgie for years, so it’d be rude if I didn’t pick her!
Last to buy dinner: Francesca Ali
She’s a bit slow to get her purse out when we’re all out together.
Worst dressed: Alli Palisch
Adekite Fatuga-Dada turns up in some interesting stuff, but I usually quite like it! I’ll say Alli - she likes sliders, and I’ve seen her turn up in dirty trainers, which isn’t for me!
Dressing room DJ: Flo Fyfe
Flo’s a really good DJ. It’s always upbeat stuff, which sets the mood well.
Teacher’s pet: Annie Rossiter
She’s always the first to turn up to training, and she puts in lots of extra hours. It’s all good stuff, to be fair!
Always late for training: Adekite Fatuga-Dada
Ade’s always turning up halfway through meetings - you’ll often see her head peeking through the door.
First on the dance floor: Flo Fyfe
Flo would be the first up there, dancing to her own music.
Most likely to disgrace themselves at the Christmas party: Francesca Ali
I could see her embarrassing herself at a big party, singing and dancing.
Best at FIFA: Annie Rossiter
I know Annie plays Fortnite, so I’d imagine she’s probably pretty good at FIFA as well.
Best future manager: Helen Ward
She’s got all the experience, so I think she’d be a great manager.
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People who have played or manager both Watford and Luton are few in number. Rob Edwards has just been added to the list?
To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
On a grey March morning in 2005, the phone rang at home and retired Fleet Street legend Jack Steggles had a tip to impart.
A few days earlier, Ray Lewington had been relieved of his duties as manager at Vicarage Road, and all lines of enquiry about his successor had gone up dead ends – until now.
“I’m told the next manager of Watford is a chap called Adrian Boothroyd,” said Steggles, who was a familiar face in the press box on the Hornets beat in Graham Taylor’s heyday. “Do you know him?”
Your correspondent stroked his chin, scratched his head and finally conceded defeat. Nope, I had never heard of him. No offence, Aidy. It is fair to say that, 14 months down the line, Boothroyd had left the shadows of anonymity behind and made a name for himself at Vicarage Road.
In recent times, Watford have become masters of plucking managers or head coaches who had been operating in obscurity - as far away as Russia, Georgia, Spain, Italy or Israel - and turning them into household names.
But Boothroyd’s appointment turned out to be a good one. He would become only the second man, after Taylor, to lead the Hornets through the skylight into the top flight.
His first two games in charge, at Burnley and Plymouth, ended in defeat, and for his third - at home to Leeds - he introduced himself in the dugout wearing neither collar-and-tie nor tracksuit, but three-quarter length training bottoms. Oh, dear. First impressions were not great, but they were misleading.
Boothroyd chiselled out crucial away wins at Rotherham and Stoke to keep relegation at bay, but our first meeting, by chance, was not until Elton John’s concert at The Vic over the summer. I bumped into him backstage and wished him luck in the hope he would have a few bob to dabble in the transfer market.
Before the night was out, Elton had announced on stage that the £1.3 million proceeds from his gig would be handed to Boothroyd for new players and told the audience: “Let’s get behind the new manager.”
Famously, at an early team meeting in pre-season, Boothroyd arranged the chairs in the configuration of a team coach and told his startled players: “This bus is heading for the Premier League - who’s coming with me?”
Happily for Watford fans, they were all aboard. Boothroyd took the Hornets on a joyride to promotion. By the time Leeds had been swept aside 3-0 in the play-off final at the Millennium Stadium, his stock had risen stratospherically, and the fans left Cardiff chanting a refrain about Aidy Boothroyd being a football genius. Some of them undoubtedly believed it; perhaps Boothroyd himself believed it, too.
Watford’s stopover in the top-flight was only one season, their inexorable fate cushioned to a large degree by a run to the FA Cup semi-finals, but Boothroyd would have to wait more than a decade for another job in football’s higher altitude - as England’s Under-21 coach.
Unfairly pigeon-holed as a long-ball merchant, he left that job in 2021. I watched Boothroyd’s Young Lions three times, and they didn’t hoof it aimlessly down the middle or the channels once.
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Goalkeeper Alfie Marriott is confident he and his Watford Under-21 teammates can use Tuesday evening’s Hertfordshire Senior Challenge Cup victory over Hertford Town as a springboard for success, following a somewhat difficult start to the 2022/23 season.
With first-year scholars having played key roles in the Young Hornets’ efforts so far this term, Omer Riza’s side have suffered some tough results, yet their latest outing yielded a welcome 1-0 scoreline, that marked their first clean sheet of the campaign.
Damani Hunter’s first-half goal sealed the Golden Boys’ progression to the quarter-finals of the county cup competition, and Marriott was buoyed by both the result and the performance of his team at Hertingfordbury Park.
And, after suffering from a string of niggly injuries off the back of a successful loan spell at Kings Langley FC during 2021/22, the 18-year-old is looking to help his team pick up a good run of form in the coming weeks and months.
“We know that recently results haven’t been going our way, but I think that after tonight we can push on now,” Marriott said. “For me as well – I’ve had a few little knocks and then recently I’ve had a problem with my finger – but I think we’re all buoyed by this result and want to play more games.
“Throughout the team, all the lads were class and played their part. The way we pressed and forced them into certain areas of the pitch was good – we talked about keeping them out wide and stopping them coming inside, and I think the fact I only had two or three proper saves to make says it all.
“It was a big pitch, and I think that played to our advantage because it meant we could get the ball out wide to some of our key players. We knew we had a good chance of winning if we could get the likes of Adrian [Blake] and Damani [Hunter] involved, and that’s what happened.”
Conversations between Lead Coach Riza and his charges before the game involved the AstroTurf pitch in Hertford, that Marriott believes Watford adapted well to throughout defence, midfield and attack.
Victory has set up a last-eight tie with Combined Counties Premier Division North side London Lions in January, and though Marriott admits the team would love to be the first Watford side to lift the Herts Senior Cup since 2003/04, he insists they are fully focused on building on their winning momentum back in Premier League Cup action against Middlesbrough on Saturday (November 19).
He added: “AstroTurf is very fast, so we knew it was going to be a quick game. We talked about making sure our touch was on point, and I think everyone reacted to the conditions brilliantly.
“As a goalkeeper the surface makes a difference, as well. You can be a bit more confident about the ball not bobbling, and play a bit deeper knowing it will run to you, and that was a challenge I enjoyed.
“It’s a good win, and of course there are always thoughts about continuing to progress in the competition. We’re just going to take it game-by-game though, and hopefully this can be the start of a decent run.”
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Nigel Callaghan’s ability to cross a football with consistent precision is arguably without equal in Watford’s history.
Watford centre-half William Troost-Ekong believes he has thrived since the arrival of Head Coach Slaven Bilić, having featured in every fixture he has been available for under the tutelage of the Croatian boss.
Lining up as the Hornets’ skipper on six of those occasions, including most recently against Bristol City in the final match before the World Cup-induced break, the Nigeria international - currently away with the Super Eagles - believes Bilić has been a major factor in his upturn of form.
Diving into this current campaign, and with the defender’s eyes firmly on returning back to the top-flight, the 29-year-old has enjoyed rising to the challenge of the second-tier under the Head Coach.
Troost-Ekong began: “I’ve been working very hard, and it was a difficult time for some months, but the first game I felt happy with my performance [this season] was the Sunderland game.
“After that, I had a small injury and then when I came back it was nice to get a chance straight away with Bilić. I’m just trying to repay him now.
“I think that the most important thing is that the team are more settled now, including myself, and with that calmness it’s easier to perform. I’m happy with how things are going, but we always have to keep doing the same thing. Now the biggest thing for us is to not get complacent.”
Watford’s number five further explained the qualities that Bilić brings to the squad, and how he and the team have benefited as a whole from his arrival.
“The first thing that comes to mind when I think of him is experience,” Troost-Ekong said. “Working with him for seven weeks or so - we’ve all seen that - and it’s what we needed.
“He doesn’t try to do anything over the top or re-invent football, he knows what works for him and looks at the team to try and put everyone in a position to perform. There’s a lot of confidence coming with results, everyone believes in him and his playing style, and we can see the benefits when it works.
“We’ve had glimpses of form but not enough all the time, and those glimpses are turning into spells. I’m very confident in the group of players we have here, and I think the players really like working with the Head Coach. The most important thing is to stay in the mix, and get results even when we’re not playing well.”
To adapt to Bilić’s approach the defender has had to adjust his own playing style, which he believes is not only making himself stronger, but the team as well.
“He talks to me a lot; he knows exactly how he wants us to play,” Troost-Ekong continued. “He wants us to carry the ball, pass it more, take on responsibility.
“Everyone has their own style and ideas, but he’s very much about trying to dominate the striker and being confident on the ball. He gives us licence to play, which we are reaping the benefits from. He’s very keen on that, and it’s something we have to adapt to, but it’s worthwhile.
“It took a bit of getting used to but we’re now all accustomed to it. When we receive the ball, the midfielders and attackers do very well to create space and give us an angle.
“The most frustrating thing as a defender is if you haven’t got the next pass you have to take a risk that shouldn’t be taken. The boys are doing very well to move into those positions, so that when we’re on the ball we have a pick of three passes, which makes it a lot easier. There’s a good balance of good movement and we’re willing to take the ball and make passes.”
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The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next to take on the questions is highly-rated goalkeeper Gabriel Ortelli.
The 16-year-old, who joined the Hornets in 2019, is a first-year scholar who features regularly for Charlie Daniels’ Under-18s side, while having also made the occasional step-up to the Under-21s.
How would you describe your playing style?
I like to think of myself as a modern goalkeeper. I have quite a high starting position, playing like a sweeper goalkeeper. I like to use my feet a lot and get involved a bit more.
Your footballing idol?
I admire Manuel Neuer and how he likes to play. I love his arrogance and confidence on the ball - it’s something that I look up to. Growing up I watched him at the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, and he is someone who I use to help me.
Biggest influence?
I’d say my dad. He has taken me to every game and every session. He has supported me the whole way, and has allowed me to develop as a player and as a person.
Most talented teammate?
Michael Adu-Poku is so fast and strong. It helps as a goalkeeper when you know you have him on your team because he is such a great outlet. If you’re ever in trouble you can just boot it up to him, and he will most likely win the one-on-one duel. He is one of the best players I have played with so far.
Favourite football memory?
As an Under-15 I played against Liverpool, and I saved a penalty which allowed us to go on and win the game. It was 5-4 and it could’ve gone either way, but I remember that really well. It is certainly my highlight so far playing for Watford.
Your aims for the future?
I want to be a consistent starter for the Under-18s, especially with the FA Youth Cup coming up. I watched Chelsea come to Vicarage Road last season in the competition, and I want to get involved. Hopefully, I can train or get involved with the first-team as well.
Best advice you’ve received?
During lockdown in 2020, we had a question-and-answer session with Dan Bachmann, Ben Foster and all the goalkeepers. One of the questions I asked was about overcoming mistakes. They both gave great answers about how mistakes are a part of football, and that it’s about learning from them. I have taken that advice on because we are all human.
Your job if you weren’t a footballer?
I’m studying A Level history alongside my football, so something down the history route. I really like modern history, so something to do with civil rights or the Second World War.
How would you rate yourself on FIFA?
*Diving: 85 - I think I’m quite agile and powerful, so I’m able to move around the goal quickly. I’m a bit of a showboater, so if I can make it look better, that’s a bonus!
Handling: 83 - We work hard on that in training.
Kicking: 84 - Your distribution has to be on point nowadays.
Reflexes: 86 - This is my best stat because of my agility.
Speed: 70 - I wouldn’t say I’m known for my speed.
Positioning: 87 - I like playing high and not too far from the centre-backs.
OVERALL: 85*
Quick-Fire Favourites
Favourite meal: Lasagne
Favourite song: One Kiss by Dua Lipa
Favourite boots: Gold and black Nike Mercurials
Favourite TV show: Prison Break
Favourite kit: Last season’s Watford third kit
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It has been a busy few weeks for the Hornets’ Under-18s side, who have recently faced off against Peterborough United in the Professional Development League and Luton Town in the cup equivalent.
Versus the Posh (November 12) the Young Hornets fell to a 3-1 defeat, while against the Hatters (November 5) they fought back from two goals down to secure a 2-2 draw.
Beginning by focusing on the clash against Peterborough, Under-18s Head Coach Charlie Daniels felt his side were unlucky to miss out, with the loss only their first misstep in six matches.
“There wasn’t much in the match against Peterborough,” Daniels said. “We had a couple of really good chances in the first half that we should’ve taken, but unfortunately, we didn’t.
“Then the game became stale and there wasn’t much between the sides. We tried to break them down, and we were on top for the majority of the match, and unfortunately a couple of mistakes cost us. When you are on top and dominating the game it’s crucial that you concentrate and not make mistakes that allow the opposition back into the game.
“We are heading in the right direction I believe, and I’m really happy with the players’ work ethic and their desire to want to improve. I try and drum that into them every single day. At this age you have to want to improve, and if you don’t improve then unfortunately other players, not only in this Academy, will.”
Under-16s prospect Harry Amass was on the scoresheet against the Posh, intercepting the ball off his opposite full-back before neatly nestling his strike into the far corner.
Daniels has been delighted with the progress made by some of the squad members from Watford’s younger age groups, including Amass, Tom Georgiou and Leo Ramirez-Espain, who have all received chances in recent matches.
“I have been really pleased with the players making that step up, and that’s why they have been given the opportunity,” he said.
“They have been doing well with the Under-16s and performing, and then when they come and train with us they have shown their qualities and their desire to be able to make that step up. They have shown Armand [Kavaja, Under-18s Assistant Coach] and I, and they have done really well.”
Elsewhere, up against local opponents Luton Town, Daniels’ side produced a fight back either side of the interval as Tobi Adeyemo and Adrian Blake etched their names onto the scoresheet to earn a valuable point.
During the energetic encounter, the Under-18s boss was particularly impressed with the Hornets’ opening goal converted by Adeyemo, as his side worked an intricate passing move to allow the striker a clear opening.
“It was exactly like a local derby – it was full and frantic during the first half-an-hour,” he continued.
“Luton got the better of us during the first 40 minutes, which was why they were two goals up, but we made a change in formation after their second goal and it seemed to help us as we gained a lot more control in the game. We grew into it and we got the game back to 2-2. We were unlucky not to end up winning in the end.
“From a team perspective, our first goal was really expectational. We built out from the back, just like you would do in a training session. After neat build-up between the goalkeeper, the defenders and then the midfielders, the ball got to Adrian Blake in a pocket of space, and then he fed in Tobi Adeyemo who scored at the near post.
“For me and the whole team that was really pleasing to score that type of goal. It’s everything that you work on day in and out. They’re the fundamentals and the principals of the way we want to play, so to see that come out in that goal was really pleasing for me.”
The Under-18s Head Coach was also keen to point out the character and desire on display from his side to secure a draw after going two goals down.
“It was a really good test, and not often have we been 2-0 down and having to chase the game,” Daniels said.
“It was really pleasing to see their character and the way they dealt with adversity. It’s not going to be the first time, so it was great to show that they can do it and to get that reward of getting a draw.
“They were disappointed about the first 40 minutes and being two goals down, but for the rest of the game they can be proud of how they saw the match, challenged the result and went full steam ahead rather than just allowing the other team to roll them over.”
Daniels also explained how he and his staff educated the Young Hornets on the rivalry between Watford and the Hatters before the match.
“We showed them a video of the history between Watford and Luton Town, and what it means to the supporters and the club,” Daniels added.
“We wanted to show them that if they want to be first-team players for Watford, then they have to understand the history of the club and what it means to Watford. The video showed ex-players scoring and what it meant to them, and then it went through to the Head Coach now, Slaven Bilić, and then the supporters who explained what the game meant to them.
“They knew exactly what they were going into, and we made sure they were fully prepared. That might have been a part of the comeback, but for me it was just to show them what it means to have that shirt on and what you are representing.”
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Former Watford captain Robert Page will manage Wales at the upcoming World Cup finals, and shares his thoughts and hopes
On Season 2, Episode 25 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore predicts Watford's destination at season's end.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: November 15, 2022.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Bristol City 0, Watford 0: https://bit.ly/3E36irF
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Watford forward Ismaila Sarr looks ahead to the 2022 World Cup finals and his hopes and ambitions with Senegal.
Ben Aiton is joined by Adam Leventhal to discuss The Hornets moving up to 4th in the Championship with a point away at Bristol City. They also speak about Watford's plans during the world cup break, US investment, Ban Manga & January Transfer window. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Supporters’ group Women of Watford FC (WOW) and Watford FC have won the Football Supporters’ Association’s Supporter Engagement award for 2022, in recognition of their hard work in promoting female football supporters, and making Vicarage Road a safer place for women on a matchday.
Launched in June 2021 by Hornets supporter Kate Lewers, the group aim to encourage and promote a more diverse fanbase, and to inspire and empower future generations of female fans.
WOW regularly attend home and away fixtures, travelling together to ensure safety in numbers, and provide a voice for female supporters on social media. They also appeared on BBC One’s Football Focus last season.
Golden Boys defender Christian Kabasele became an ambassador for the group, meeting members at Vicarage Road as part of the club’s International Women’s Day celebrations in March.
WOW were recognised for their efforts at the FSA Awards ceremony on Monday November 14, held at the Nobu Hotel, London Portman Square, with Blackpool, Bristol City Women and Doncaster Rovers having also been nominated.
Their achievement was applauded by several familiar faces on social media, with television and radio presenter - and Watford supporter - Kelly Somers congratulating the group, as well as supporter media pages, Watford Women captain Helen Ward and fan groups from clubs across the United Kingdom.
To find out more or get involved, you can find Women of Watford FC on Twitter, Instagram and Facebook.
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Only a little more than 18 months after being formed, Women of Watford were handed a prestigious award last night
Five Watford players will be involved in international friendly matches this week, and their teammate Ismaila Sarr has met up with the Senegal squad
Any Watford fan who was at Wembley Stadium on Monday, May 31, 1999 will not need reminding what a wonderful day it was. Nick Wright’s stunning overhead kick, Allan Smart’s emotional celebrations and the never-to-be-forgotten scenes as the Hornets clinched promotion to the Premier League for the first time in their history by beating Bolton Wanderers 2-0 in the Play-Off Final. It was the culmination of one journey, but for one young football fan it was the first step on a road that has led to the World Cup.
He managed Croatia and played for his country - here Watford head coach Slaven Bilic looks ahead to their World Cup 2022 hopes
Watford Women continued their impressive scoring form to ease into the second round of the Women’s FA Cup with a 7-1 thrashing of Fulham at Grosvenor Vale.
1- We’d been driving for half an hour before I remembered that the tickets were still pinned to my noticeboard. The reaction of the car’s two passengers was more sanguine than my own… patience from Paul, indifference from Daughter 2 who is getting used to such displays of incompetence. The last time Something Like This […]
Slaven Bilic paid a sincere tribute to Dan Gosling after he sustained what appeared to be a serious Achilles tendon injury
On Season 2, Episode 24 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore on Watford's 0-0 draw against Bristol City at Ashton Gate in the Championship. Analysis of the match. Also: Slaven Bilic and the direction Watford are traveling in: an evaluation of Watford at the World Cup break.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: November 12, 2022.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Bristol City 0, Watford 0: https://bit.ly/3E36irF
FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
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One point, two goal attempts off target and a bad injury to Dan Gosling as Watford drew 0-0 at Bristol City.
The last game before the World Cup was a pretty awful goalless draw where Watford didn't have a single on-target goal attempt
Joao Pedro should have his sights set on the 2026 World Cup Finals according to Watford head coach Slaven Bilic.
William Troost-Ekong says he and the Watford defenders have settled into the way that Slaven Bilic wants them to play.
Watford boss Slaven Bilic comes up against Nigel Pearson tomorrow, one of his predecessors at Vicarage Road
With a World Cup only days away and having been named in the Senegal squad, will Ismaila Sarr play for Watford at Bristol City tomorrow?
Watford defender Christian Kabasele has been presented with the Community Champion award by the Professional Footballers’ Association.
Nominated by the club’s Community, Sports and Education Trust, the 31-year-old has played a key role in community projects and continues to be a fantastic advocate for inclusivity and highlighting football’s powerful role in eradicating inequality.
During the previous campaign, the Belgium international was announced as an ambassador for the Women of Watford supporters’ group, taking part in an open discussion with founder members.
Kabasele also supports important anti-racism campaigns. He took part in a virtual call with the Premier League Kicks programme to discuss the fight against racism, and while personal commitments meant he couldn’t attend the Show Racism the Red Card live event, he was on hand to take part in an interview with the press on the subject.
Even though the 2021/22 season had concluded, in the summer Kabasele made time to support Premier League Primary Stars at the national finals held at Vicarage Road. The centre-back met with Watford’s teams, other staff and guests, as well as taking part in the event.
A proactive member of the Watford community, Kabasele has participated in the Christmas lights switch-on, a virtual matchday mascot question and answer session, and an all-squad Junior Hornets coaching day at the London Colney training ground.
The Hornets hero was presented with his award during a summer holiday session organised by the Trust, at Westfield Academy.
On the special PFA prize, Kabasele said: “For me, getting involved is really important because I was a kid like them. I remember when I saw a football player at that age - I was going crazy. To be able to give back to the community after what I have received from football is the normal thing to do.
“We are lucky people in life because we don’t have problems as many do right now. We need to give our time and money to the community and make sure we can show the supporters that we still care about them, even if we are in a lucky position in life.
“I think the Trust’s work is amazing. I had the chance to enter my son on one of the courses last year and we can see how dedicated everyone is to helping the community. If I can keep helping them, then I will try to do my best.”
The Trust’s Community Director Rob Smith added: “Christian shares our family and community values, and continues to showcase that time and time again. We are lucky to have him and thank him for his ongoing support.
“While he is a humble guy that of course does not do it for recognition, we are pleased to be able to show our gratitude through this PFA award.”
For more information on the Trust’s fantastic work, click HERE.
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Kortney Hause made his full Watford debut in the 1-1 draw at Rotherham, and said it was a decent team performance, but it can get much better
After another away draw, this one against Rotherham, Jon and Mike are joined by Stu Hutchinson to chat about the game and the recently closed transfer window. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mike Duffy and Tom Wicks from Golden Pages Fanzine talk about yesterday's 1-1 draw away at Rotherham United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1- As every travelling fan is aware, the real litmus test of an away stadium is the approach taken to bottle top policing at kiosks. The removal of bottle tops from purchased bottles of water or pop is aggravating, but par for the course. If it’s done with a half-apology then it’s shrug-offable. The red […]
For the second successive game Watford trailed inside five minutes. After the draw at Rotherham head coach Rob Edwards reflected on what went wrong.
On Season 2, Episode 10 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Rotherham 1, Watford 1 in the EFL Championship at the New York Stadium (played on September 3, 2022.) Plus: Rob Edwards. And: Kortney Hause. Also: Deserve's Got Nothing To Do With It In The Championship. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: September 3, 2022.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Rotherham 1, Watford 1: https://bit.ly/3B9WDzq
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Rob Edwards was frustrated with a sluggish start against Rotherham United which saw the Hornets go a goal down in the opening exchanges before eventually equalising through Vakoun Bayo in a 1-1 draw at the New York Stadium.
In the fourth successive away draw of the campaign, Watford had opportunities to take the lead but were ultimately unable to make them count against a well-drilled Rotherham side.
The Head Coach felt Watford could have done more to control the encounter in the early stages and it’s something they will have to improve on.
“I’m feeling frustrated,” Edwards began. “The first 20 minutes weren’t good enough today and we’ve talked about that in the dressing room. We started too slow and the goal was obviously not good enough. I don’t think we competed well enough during the first 20 minutes.
“They’re good at what they do, they’re direct, they do well when battling for second balls. They get the ball in the box and we allowed them to win too many second balls, to create havoc with long throws and make us defend, and we couldn’t quite get a hold of the game in the first 20 to 25 minutes.
“We began to grow into it and get control and fight our way in - we scored a fantastic equaliser and then huffed and puffed. We had a couple of big chances and hit the woodwork, but then after around 70 minutes we kept going, but couldn’t quite work the goalkeeper enough.
“We conceded after four minutes on Tuesday and early again today. It’s not good enough and it’s something we’ve got to improve on.”
Edwards was pleased with the contribution from his attacking talent against the Millers, with João Pedro, Bayo, Yáser Asprilla and substitute Keinan Davis linking up throughout the fixture.
As injured players begin to return to the squad and others gain match fitness, the Head Coach recognises that the pool of talent will only continue to strengthen.
He said: “I’m delighted to have Keinan [Davis] back amongst it. I think he looked sharp, and he’ll continue to get better. He’s going to help us, no doubt about it. João Pedro has had moments of quality and he worked incredibly hard for all of us.
“Bayo got his goal and I thought Yáser [Asprilla] did very well again. He’s such a young player and continues to improve and impress. While we get bodies back it’ll allow us to look after him a bit more.
“We’re asking a lot of him at the moment because it’s been a really intense period of games, and we’ve been asking a lot of a young 18-year-old who has just come into the country and to settle into Championship football - I think he’s done unbelievably well. Having some players back to help us will only make us stronger.”
With no midweek fixture, Edwards believes the rest will be beneficial for his squad heading into next weekend’s home match against Reading (September 10, 3pm KO).
“We need a bit of a rest and a couple of days to recover and recuperate,” he added. “We’ve got a few who are feeling knocks, so we’re trying hard to get everyone back as quickly as possible.
“We need to keep improving, and now the transfer window has closed we can really get back to work with the group we know we’re going to have now for the next few months.”
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Hornets centre-half Kortney Hause was disappointed not to earn more against Rotherham United, after playing out a 1-1 draw on the road at the New York Stadium.
The Millers came out of the blocks faster than Watford and notched an early opener through Richard Wood, before Vakoun Bayo produced a magnificent finish to equalise.
Having recently joined from Aston Villa, Hause was making his first Watford start after a cameo from the bench on Tuesday night against Middlesbrough (August 30). The defender was pleased to be involved this afternoon, although he felt a win was for the taking.
“It was great to be out there today and I’m grateful for Watford, who have given me the opportunity to play at this level at a great, big club,” Hause said.
“I’m thankful for the club who have given me backing and the confidence to play. As a footballer, you always want to start games and it has been a while since I started. To be given the opportunity makes you hungry to do well and I played decent. It’s now about building on that and contributing to the team and racking up some points.
“We are disappointed we didn’t get the win today. We had opportunities and chances and we limited them. It’s a frustrating afternoon because we haven’t been able to grab those three points.”
It was a slow start to proceedings for the Hornets, which Hause believes contributed to a demanding and tough afternoon. The 27-year-old knew what to expect from a well-drilled Rotherham side and will be taking positives from the challenge.
He said: “It wasn’t the greatest of starts. We spoke about it before the game in the changing room and it was unfortunate really. It’s something we have to focus on, that opening 15 minutes, we have to be at the races and ready to compete. I’m sure that’s something we will work on in the coming weeks.
“We got exactly what we expected from Rotherham today. They compete, they are hungry, and they want it. They did really well today, and we have to try and stand up to that and out-compete them with the quality we have. We did it in spells, but it wasn’t good enough. We have another game next weekend and hopefully we can put it right then.”
On a personal note, Hause was delighted to earn his first 90 minutes since January and has enjoyed adjusting to his new surroundings at Vicarage Road.
“The Championship is physically demanding and a team like Rotherham put the ball in the channel, so you have to sprint, twist and turn, but that’s what I’m capable of doing,” Hause added.
“I’ve been out for quite a while now but I’m sure I’ll keep going from strength to strength. We have more days to recover over the next week [without a midweek fixture], and then we will get back to it and training.
“It’s been a positive start – the club, staff and players have been great with me. I’ve just had my head down, working to contribute to the team and the club. The more days I am out on the training pitch and playing in matches, the more it feels like I can go from strength to strength.
“I just want to continue to improve and never stop improving until I get to the level where I am playing at a high standard every week for Watford.”
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Watford head coach Rob Edwards said the way his side started the game made him 'very frustrated and angry'
It was two points dropped for Watford as they came from behind to draw 1-1 at Rotherham but dominated the second half
Watford came from behind to draw 1-1 at Rotherham but they dominated the second half and will know they should have won
Watford FC confirms forward Dapo Mebude has joined Belgian side KV Oostende on a permanent deal for an undisclosed fee, with the club retaining a sell-on clause as part of the agreement.
The 21-year-old linked up with the Hornets last summer after departing Scottish giants Rangers, and he made 32 appearances in all competitions on-loan at then League One AFC Wimbledon in 2021/22, scoring twice.
Having featured for Watford in pre-season under Head Coach Rob Edwards, Mebude will now pursue the next stage of his promising career in the Jupiler Pro League, with his new side currently sitting 13th in the table.
We wish Dapo all the best for the future.
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Match Info
- Rotherham United v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- New York Stadium
- Saturday September 3, 3pm BST
- Black & white centenary third kit
Officials
- Referee: Leigh Doughty
- Assistants: Paul Hodskinson & Mark Dwyer
- Fourth Official: Andy Woolmer
Opposition
Rotherham sealed promotion to the Championship for the fourth time in nine seasons with a second-place finish in League One last term, and Paul Warne’s charges have started the fresh campaign strongly.
The Millers – who are hoping to quell a reputation for yo-yoing between the second and third tiers – tasted defeat for only the first time in 2022/23 as recently as Wednesday (August 31), when they went down 3-0 at Sunderland.
Currently 12th in the table – and having a game in hand on the majority of teams in the division – Rotherham will be quietly confident of bouncing back and upsetting the odds against the Hornets.
Key Stats
- The Hornets have won their last five league games against Rotherham by an aggregate score of 12-1.
- Rotherham are winless in eight league encounters against Watford, since winning home and away against the Hornets in 2002/03.
- Watford have completed the league double against the Millers in the last two seasons they’ve met in English football (2014/15 and 2020/21), scoring at least twice in all four matches.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Rotherham United In Numbers.
Team News
Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards prepares his squad for the trip north accepting he’ll have to make a late call over the readiness of some of his players.
Ken Sema left the field nursing a groin against Middlesbrough last time out, but Craig Cathcart and Keinan Davis are both in contention.
For full Watford team news, click HERE.
Grant Hall and Cohen Bramall are doubts for Rotherham.
What Are They Saying?
Rob Edwards, Watford Head Coach:
“Rotherham have had a good start, and they’re going to provide another difficult test. They mix things up well, and from having looked at them I know they play a good brand of effective football.
“Paul [Warne]’s done a very good job and he’s built up a great connection with the club. I came across him once when I was the first-team coach at Wolves so I’m looking forward to seeing him again, but hopefully it’ll be me who’s the happier of the two of us!”
Paul Warne, Rotherham United manager:
“We’re playing against a very good team at the weekend, there’s no disputing that.
“Watford have been playing really well, they’ve battered teams on chances and have a real threat. It will be a really big game for us.
“We just want a good performance and if we were to get it, it would go down as a big one.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 14
Drawn: 7
Lost: 6
Last Six:
March 2021: Rotherham United 1-4 Watford (Championship)
December 2020: Watford 2-0 Rotherham United (Championship)
February 2015: Watford 3-0 Rotherham United (Championship)
August 2014: Rotherham United 0-2 Watford (Championship)
April 2005: Rotherham United 0-1 Watford (Championship)
November 2004: Watford 0-0 Rotherham United (Championship)
Golden Flashback
Francisco Sierralta scored his first Watford goal to set the tone for a comfortable 4-1 win for the Hornets the last time the teams met in South Yorkshire.
Ismaïla Sarr, Ken Sema and Dan Gosling also got on the scoresheet, as Xisco Muñoz’s men took another step towards promotion to the Premier League in the 2020/21 season.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Rotherham United v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing clash.
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In a week when so much attention has been on other players in the team, Watford head coach Rob Edwards had words of praise for Edo Kayembe.
Head Coach Rob Edwards has urged his players to build on the momentum gained from Tuesday night’s dramatic victory over Middlesbrough, as Watford seek a first win on the road this season away at Rotherham United (September 3, 3pm KO).
Vakoun Bayo’s late strike earned a memorable three points for the Hornets on the 100-year anniversary of the first match at Vicarage Road, but with the dust barely settled after that clash attention has already shifted to Saturday’s trip to South Yorkshire.
Three away games so far in 2022/23 have yielded three draws, and though an unbeaten record isn’t something to turn your nose up at Edwards is clear he is itching to claim a first triumph on his travels with the club.
“It’d be great to get a win away from home,” the 39-year-old said. “We’ve had three tough games so far – I think we were all happy with the point at West Brom, but we felt we maybe should’ve at least got one win from the Birmingham and Preston games.
“The mood’s understandably been good after the win on Tuesday. There’s nothing like a last-minute winner, and when something like that goes in your favour you have to enjoy it.
“We’re aware it was only one game and we’ve moved on to the next one swiftly, but there’s definitely positivity in the camp and we’re all looking forward to getting back out on the grass again.”
The closing of the transfer window on Thursday evening served as a boost to Edwards and his squad, with the limit on further incomings and outgoings providing a degree of stability as the club targets immediate promotion back to the Premier League.
João Pedro and Ismaïla Sarr in particular were subject to plenty of transfer speculation throughout the summer, and Edwards reiterated his delight at the pair’s attitude while also acknowledging that retaining their services will be a big benefit on the pitch.
He said: “I’m delighted to have kept João and Isma, obviously. I stressed after the game on Tuesday that they’ve both been amazing during a difficult period, and I can’t speak highly enough of them.
“Whether it’s on the grass, in the office, in the canteen or whatever, you would never know that anything’s been going on. They’ve been great. We’ve all seen their commitment on the pitch, and their quality is always going to help the rest of the team.”
With a number of players still to return to the fold after injury issues, and with the squad now able to fully settle, Edwards is confident the Golden Boys will continue improving going forward.
The Watford boss also reserved a special mention for full-back Jeremy Ngakia, who is closing in on his first minutes of the campaign after a back complaint.
He said: “It’s been a challenging first month, with the amount of games and the transfer window, but I think we’ve come through it pretty well. We’re not where I want us to be at the moment, but I know, and the fans know, that we can get better, and we will.
“Jeremy’s one of the players we’re looking forward to welcoming back at some point soon, and he’s been out on the grass in the last couple of days. I’m confident he can come in and play a big part for us this season, and we’re all excited to see what he can do.”
Finally, Edwards pointed to the challenge posed by next opponents Rotherham, who have tasted just one defeat in six second-tier matches so far this term under boss Paul Warne.
Despite Watford’s lofty ambitions Edwards knows another tricky game lies in store at the New York Stadium, but he insisted he and his team are more than up for the challenge.
He added: “Rotherham have had a good start, and they’re going to provide another difficult test. They mix things up well, and from having looked at them I know they play a good brand of effective football.
“Paul’s done a very good job and he’s built up a great connection with the club. I came across him once when I was the first-team coach at Wolves so I’m looking forward to seeing him again, but hopefully it’ll be me who’s the happier of the two of us!”
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Having not been fully fit and then suffering illness, striker Keinan Davis has had a good week and is in contention to be involved at Rotherham tomorrow.
Two more Watford matches in October have been selected for live domestic TV broadcast by Sky Sports.
Forward Ignacio Pussetto has joined Italian side Sampdoria on a season-long loan deal with an option to buy, Watford FC confirms.
The Argentine made nine appearances for the Hornets after arriving from Udinese in January 2020, but spent the majority of the last two campaigns back at the Dacia Arena.
He will now pursue the next stage of his career with Sampdoria, who finished 15th - three places below Udinese - in last season’s Serie A league table.
Good luck, Ignacio!
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Watford head coach Rob Edwards is happy he has the options he needs on the right side of his squad
The transfer window closed last night with both Ismaila Sarr and Joao Pedro still at Watford, and head coach Rob Edwards is delighted.
Watford’s Sky Bet Championship matches at home to Norwich City and away at Millwall in October have been selected for live broadcast by Sky Sports.
The dates for both clashes will remain the same, though the Norwich fixture (Saturday October 15) is now set to kick-off at the later time of 7.45pm, while the trip to The Den (Wednesday October 19) is scheduled for 8pm.
These two Sky picks for next month have been chosen in addition to the away game at Stoke City, with that fixture having been moved to 12noon on Sunday October 2 as announced in late August.
Due to Sky Sports broadcast, Hive Live video coverage of the Stoke, Norwich and Millwall games will only be accessible to supporters in countries where the game isn’t being televised.
A list of exempt territories will be revealed in due course ahead of each clash, while Hive Live audio commentary will be available to all domestic and overseas supporters.
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Leigh Doughty is set to be the man in the middle as Watford aim to build on their last-gasp win against Middlesbrough when they visit Rotherham United tomorrow.
Head Coach Rob Edwards prepares his squad for the trip north to face Rotherham United in the Sky Bet Championship accepting he’ll have to make a late call over the readiness of some of his players.
“There’s a few knocks around from Tuesday night; the usual bumps and bruises but perhaps affecting more players than we’d like,” he explained.
“Ken [Sema] is among those,” confirmed Edwards of the Swede who left the field nursing a groin strain during the last-gasp win over Middlesbrough.
“He’s not the only one fighting to be fit for Saturday but I’m not going to name names any further.”
One player who will be in contention is Craig Cathcart, after being patched up having sustained a gash over his eyebrow following a collision with a Boro forward’s outstretched arm.
Added the Watford boss: “Keinan Davis will be in contention, which is very positive news for us.”
And that could also be true of Jeremy Ngakia. Sidelined with a back complaint, he’s working hard to be fit and available as soon as possible.
Although training outside and occasionally with the squad, patience is the watch-word when it comes to Imrân Louza’s return. “He’s doing well but we’re not prepared to push that progress too hard,” said Edwards, as the Moroccan midfielder continues to progress well with his rehab plan after summer knee surgery.
The weekend comes to soon for club captain Tom Cleverley although it’s hoped he’ll join in training during next week.
Samuel Kalu is also nearing a return to full training, having done only light work outside so far after his hamstring strain.
The longer-term absentees include midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru, who’s working hard to come back from knee ligament damage, but the news isn’t so bright for striker Rey Manaj.
Explained Edwards: “Rey’s going to be missing for a while, I’m afraid. We had his hamstring scanned and we’re going to scan again to further assess before we decide the next steps for him - but it’s a medium-term absence at least.”
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Adalberto Peñaranda’s Watford FC contract has been terminated by mutual consent, the club confirms.
The Venezuela international had been on the Hornets’ books since February 2016 and scored two goals in four appearances across all competitions, with both of his strikes coming in the Carabao Cup.
The latest of six separate loan spells away from Vicarage Road saw Peñaranda spend the 2021/22 season at Las Palmas, where he featured 18 times in the Spanish second-tier.
Watford FC thanks Adalberto for his service, and wishes him well for his next opportunity.
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Venezuelan international Adalberto Penaranda leaves Watford after six years, having made just three appearances
Forward Ignacio Pussetto has joined Italian side Sampdoria on a season-long loan deal with an option to buy, Watford FC confirms.
The Argentine made nine appearances for the Hornets after arriving from Udinese in January 2020, but spent the majority of the last two campaigns back at the Stadio Friuli.
He will now pursue the next stage of his career with Sampdoria, who finished 15th - three places below Udinese - in last season’s Serie A league table.
Good luck, Ignacio!
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Ignacio Pussetto has joined Serie A side Sampdoria on loan for the season, with the Italian club having the option to buy
Watford's young striker Depo Mebude is to join Belgian sided Oostende on a permanent deal
After returning to winning ways with a mid-week victory against Middlesbrough, the Hornets now turn their attention to an away clash against Rotherham United on Saturday (September 3, 3pm KO).
Ahead of another important encounter in the Sky Bet Championship, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the fixture...
Previous Meetings
The Hornets have won their last five league games against Rotherham by an aggregate score of 12-1.
Rotherham are winless in eight league encounters against Watford, since winning home and away against the Hornets in 2002/03.
Watford have completed the league double against the Millers in the last two seasons they’ve met in English football (2014/15 and 2020/21), scoring at least twice in all four matches.
The Millers have lost their last three home league games against the Golden Boys, more defeats than in their previous eight such games combined.
Recent Form
Watford have drawn their opening three away league games for the first time since 1970/71. The Hornets last drew their first four away league games of a season in 1923/24.
Rotherham lost for the only time in the second-tier this season last time out against Sunderland. They last lost consecutive Championship games in April 2021.
Rob Edwards’ Hornets have lost just once in the league so far this season (W3 D3), while they’re looking to win consecutive games in the same Championship season for the first time since April 2021.
The Millers could win three consecutive home games in the Championship for the first time since January 2016.
Opposition Stat Attack
Chiedozie Ogbene and Richard Wood top the rankings for goals scored at the Millers (3). Ogbene has also had the most shots on target in the squad (6).
Daniel Barlaser has four assists, the highest at Rotherham, and he also has the most crosses (26), passes attempted (248) and interceptions (10).
Defensively, Wood has the highest number of clearances (16), Grant Hall has the most blocks (5) and Cameron Humphreys has the most tackles attempted (14).
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The Hornet Fun Fantasy League is back for the 2022/23 season!
Every season supporters have the chance to enter a unique Fantasy League.
Just pick eight of the Football League’s 92 teams at the start of the campaign, then relax and track your entry in the matchday programmes throughout the season.
Every player is allocated 24 points to pick their eight teams, with each league club allocated a points value between one and eight.
To find out more about getting involved, and to be in with a chance of winning a trophy and emulating 2021/22 champion Kevin Scally, click HERE!
This season’s deadline for the Fun Fantasy League has been extended to Thursday September 8.
To submit your entry email programme@watfordfc.com, making sure you put the words ‘Fantasy League Entry’ in the subject line. Entries will only be accepted by email.
Include in your email the following information:
- Name
- Home postal address
- Contact email address
- Contact telephone number
- Provide your date of birth. If under 18, please include an adult contact name and number
- None of this information will be used for any other purpose
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Striker Joao Pedro has said in a tweet from Watford that he is "fully committed to the club"
The Watford Museum is currently the host of ‘100 Years At The Vic’, an exclusive exhibition based on the history and memories of Vicarage Road over a century of activity.
Co-curated by Tom Broderick and Neil Dunham, founders of the Watford Gold website, and supported by Museum Curator Sarah Priestley, the exhibition displays a century of history comprising of match-worn shirts, priceless pieces of the stadium through the years, a replica model of The Vic in the 1980s and much more besides.
With fantastic items on display from the museum’s own collection, other supporters and the club have also got involved to lend their memorabilia in tribute to the wonderful legacy of The Vic.
Priestley is delighted to be holding the exhibition, which is open until September 24, especially as a Hornets supporter.
“There are so many beautiful items in the exhibition,” said Priestley. “We have a relationship that stretches back a long way with Watford Football Club, and we help to collect items on their behalf.
“It means that we have the most amazing collection of Watford memorabilia as it is, but this exhibition is very special because of the centenary anniversary and what’s great is that we have also been lent items by supporters for this exhibition as well as from the club.
“The club have been really supportive in helping us source these items and they have helped to fund this exhibition. The exhibition was curated by two Watford supporters, and throughout this process we have had people sharing their memories and stories and getting in contact.
“It’s very special for us to be involved because I’m a Watford fan and I have a Season Ticket. For me to feel a part of my club’s history and to share it with other supporters and fans groups such as the Proud Hornets and the Jewish Supporters’ Group is great. There have been so many people involved which really sums up Watford as a town and a football club.”
Co-curators Broderick and Dunham are delighted with the ever-evolving display, giving supporters a close-up and detailed look at iconic items of Watford memorabilia.
Dunham said: “It’s been fantastic to have been involved with this exhibition, and I have spoken to a lot of supporters who I wouldn’t have spoken to otherwise. Everyone who we have asked to lend us items has been brilliant, and we still have people bringing things to add to the collection and for us to display. It’s been a complete pleasure.
“I have collected Watford memorabilia since the 1980s when my brother used to work at the club. He used to bring home items that maybe he shouldn’t have, but they would have ended up disregarded.
“At the exhibition we have lots of match-worn shirts on display, including a 1970s shirt, a John Barnes shirt, a Peter Kennedy shirt and two replicas of the 1922 and 1947 seasons. We have a shirt from every 25 years represented, including João Pedro’s match-worn shirt from the first match of the season against Sheffield United.”
Broderick added: “We decided to put the exhibition together because we wanted to explore the 100th anniversary in detail. We really wanted to put on an exhibition which explored everything from 1922 to 2022 and all the highs and lows.
“We have some great items here such as stadium artifacts, including lettering from the top of the old Rookery Stand, floodlights and a model recreation of Vicarage Road in the 1980s.”
On the incredible model on display as part of the exhibition, Broderick created it from scratch using paper and cardboard during the pandemic-enforced lockdowns.
The passion project has resulted in a faithful reaction of Vicarage Road during the glory years of the 1980s, and it is a standout item on display.
“The model has a personal connection to me because it’s something I built, and it was a lockdown project not long after Covid had started and everyone had a bit of free time on their hands,” said Broderick.
“It had been a long-term ambition to build a model of the stadium as it looked in the early 1980s, which was just before the Graham Taylor Stand was built. It’s a fairly faithful representation of what supporters will remember from the time.
“It’s made from cardboard, large sheets of greyboard cardboard which have been cut and glued together. The floodlights are made from matchsticks and kebab sticks. It did need to be designed using specialised software to get the shapes right, because some parts of the stadium have really unique geometry that we wanted to faithfully recreate. It was a bit of trial and error, and brute force when holding things down while the glue was setting.
“What we wanted to do was provide cues so those memories could be triggered, and so they could get those strong recollections from the times they have spent in the stadium with their friends and families during important moments of their lives.”
The team behind the exhibition have been delighted to see the reactions from supporters both young and old, with many attending to learn about The Vic’s history for the very first time.
Dunham added: “I have been here four or five times since the exhibition has been open, and there have always been people here and it’s particularly busy on matchdays.
“It’s bringing back a lot of memories for people which is fantastic, especially items like the Watford Observer clock which looked down on us throughout the glory years. Although it doesn’t sound like a football piece of memorabilia, it is something we all remember from that period under Graham Taylor and Ken Furphy.”
Priestley continued: “It brings back so many memories and it’s been fantastic to see the variety of ages attending. We have had really young supporters who can only just walk, all the way up to older fans whose memories go back to when Watford were wearing blue and white.
“It’s fantastic for all ages because you will see your football ground and learn about the history. It’s really fun and lovely to hear about all the memories and chat to people.”
The ‘100 Years At The Vic’ exhibition is open at the Watford Museum until Saturday, September 24. The museum is open Thursday to Saturday, 10am to 5pm.
For more information on the Watford Museum and the exhibition, click HERE.
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Tom Dele-Bashiru is staying positive throughout his recovery process following an unfortunate knee injury, as the midfielder looks forward to returning to on-field action and helping the Hornets with their Premier League push.
The 22-year-old picked up the LCL (Lateral Collateral Ligament) problem in training ahead of Watford’s home clash against Burnley last month, putting paid to his immediate hopes of adding to his five appearances in yellow after a positive season on-loan at Reading last term.
Knee issues are nothing new for Dele-Bashiru, with the former Manchester City man having previously injured his Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) against the Royals, keeping him out for the majority of the 2020/21 campaign.
Dele-Bashiru clarified that the most recent problem is completely unrelated to the one he previously suffered, while explaining he is making good progress on the comeback trail.
“I’ve done my LCL so I’m out for about six to eight weeks,” he said. “The timeframe for recovery from this kind of injury is usually two to three months, but I don’t want to rush anything because it’s important I stay fit when I come back.
“It’s the outside ligament, so I’m struggling to get full extension and the stability isn’t quite there. It’s not a complete rupture, it’s a partial tear, so hopefully it’ll grow back by itself.
“It was just an innocuous one in training. It came at a frustrating time because I thought I was doing well and I was in and around it, but I’m working hard to get back as soon as I can and I’ll work to get in the team when I’m back.
“It’s the other knee this time. I’m happy it’s not the same one because I don’t have to think about the other ligaments that I’d damaged before, and I’m using the experience of that injury to help me this time.”
Having come through such a serious injury to make 39 appearances for Reading in all competitions in 2021/22, Dele-Bashiru is confident he can return even stronger at Watford this time around.
And with the knowledge and know-how of injury recovery behind him, he is clear he is mentally in a good place to shake off this most recent setback.
The Nigeria youth international said: “That ACL injury was the toughest period of my life, so I feel that any injury after that isn’t really going to affect me. I’m just doing everything I can to stay positive.
“It’s frustrating, but it’s not the end of the world. The good thing about the Championship is that there are so many games, so I know there’s still time for me to come back and make a real difference to the team this season.”
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We can officially confirm that there have been changes to the Golden Girls’ fixture list, with a couple of games impacted.
With Helen Ward and Morgan Rogers being called up by Wales, the away matches against Portsmouth (Wednesday August 31) and Ipswich Town (Sunday September 4) were postponed.
The fixture against Pompey has been rescheduled for Tuesday September 13, as the Hornets make a midweek trip to the South Coast.
Our encounter with Ipswich has been re-arranged and will be played just before Christmas, with Damon Lathrope’s side looking to finish 2022 in style on Sunday December 18.
The full fixture list as it stands can be found here.
Please note that all fixtures are subject to change. Any subsequent changes will be communicated here on watfordfc.com and on social media.
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Former Tottenham and England international Danny Rose has left Watford after his contract was cancelled
Watford FC and Danny Rose have agreed a mutual cancellation of the defender’s contract with both parties in agreement that their futures will head in different directions.
The Hornets thank Danny - who featured nine times last season in addition to the seven games on loan he played in 2008/09 - for his service and wish him well for his next opportunity.
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It's transfer deadline day in England - the last chance to sign players before the window shuts at 11pm. Follow our live blog throughout the day and night.
1- The thing is, it isn’t like anywhere else. Other places… homes, schools, where you work… might have similar long standing but nowhere has this permanence in significance and role. None of it looks like it did when I first came in 1980, not even the now-more-green-than-brown stuff in the middle. There are no longer […]
Vakoun Bayo scores a 93rd minute winner to ensure Watford seal the 3 points on the 100 year anniversary of Vicarage Road. The lads also talk about some of their memorable moments at The Vic over the years! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
It looked in real time, and on replays, like Mario Gaspar had set up Vakoun Bayo's winner with a miscued shot - a Twitter video has revealed otherwise
Following Tuesday night’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Middlesbrough, Watford’s attention has quickly shifted to Saturday’s trip north to face Rotherham United at the New York Stadium (September 3, 3pm KO).
With Rob Edwards’ men looking to strengthen their position towards the top of the 2022/23 league table, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.45pm BST.
- This game is included in £25 monthly and £140 seasonal (early bird rate until August 31, increases to £170 from September 1) Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Striker Vakoun Bayo's first goal for Watford secured a last-gasp win on the night the club celebrated 100 years at Vicarage Road
The Hornets fought back from a goal down against Middlesbrough to win 2-1 as Vakoun Bayo converted the decisive strike in stoppage time on the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first match at Vicarage Road.
Below is an impressive selection of photos showcasing some of the best bits from what was a thrilling night in the history of the club and The Vic.
Pre-Match Celebrations To Mark The Vic's 100-Year Anniversary
Black And White Stripes
Sarr Equalises For The Hornets In The First Half
Watford Legends Speak At Half-Time
Bayo Scores A Stoppage-Time Winner
Post-Match Celebrations
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On Season 2, Episode 9 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford 2, Middlesbrough 1 in the EFL Championship at Vicarage Road (played on Aug. 30, 2022.) Watford overcome a Vic 100 hangover and exude confidence and character for a dramatic late win courtesy of Vakoun Bayo against Middlesbrough at The Vic. Plus: Watford FC Women roll on at Bridgwater United, making it two wins from two. And: Some Watford FC fans are apparently without logic or perspective on Rob Edwards. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: August 30, 2022.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Watford 2, Middlesbrough 1: https://bit.ly/3pWWNUn
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
After an intense period of transfer speculation, João Pedro and Ismaïla Sarr stole the headlines once more but this time for their stand-out contributions to Watford’s 2-1 win over Middlesbrough.
João Pedro was heavily involved in both goals, earning the Sky Sports Man of the Match award, while Sarr combined with the Brazilian to score an important first-half equaliser that Head Coach Rob Edwards described afterwards as ‘sublime’.
“It [the Sarr goal] was excellent,” enthused Edwards. “It’s two very good players at the top of their game in that moment.
“It was everything you want from players with that kind of ability – the way they moved, the pass of the ball to Isma’s correct foot, the touch, the shot, the finish – it was very, very good.”
Both players have been linked with moves away from Vicarage Road during recent weeks, but Edwards insists they’ve maintained an excellent level of professionalism throughout.
Asked specifically about João Pedro, he said: “I thought he was excellent but we’ve never been able to question his commitment in any of these games.
“With all the speculation, he’s never once come in and sulked or moaned and it’s the same for Isma. They’ve been brilliant through a really difficult period for them.
“They’re young men and they performed brilliantly tonight again for this football club and it’s been a big part of us getting the three points.”
Facing several questions in his post-match press conference about the final two days of the transfer window, Edwards simply stated: “Time will tell.
“There’s been a lot of genuine interest because they’re good players and we’ll see how the next couple of days pan out, but I’m confident that by the close of the window we’ll be in a good place.
“They were great tonight and you could see their commitment to the football club. They’re with us, you could see them celebrating afterwards and in the changing room. I’m confident that they’re in a good place when they’re here at this football club but time will tell in the next couple of days.”
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Defender Craig Cathcart was pleased with the Hornets’ reaction to going behind against Middlesbrough, as they scored a late goal in the dying stages to win 2-1 yesterday evening (Tuesday August 30).
Rob Edwards’ side exhibited impressive mental fortitude to fight back from behind in spectacular style as Vakoun Bayo’s stoppage-time winner put the icing on the cake of the Vic 100 celebrations.
The Northern Irish centre-half, who took the armband in place of the absent Tom Cleverley, believes Watford’s resilience and personality played a huge role in overcoming the early set-back, eventually earning the victory.
“We got the last-minute goal and everyone is buzzing in the dressing room,” said Cathcart.
“It’s the best way to win sometimes. We knew it’d be a tough match, Middlesbrough started really well and got the early goal, but we showed good character and managed to get the win.
“You want to start on the front foot and that’s what we wanted to do, but obviously they got the early goal. We showed a really good reaction, in the first half I think we were on the front foot and we tried to make things happen, and I think overall we tried to put our stamp on the game.”
In front of the defender were in-form forwards João Pedro and Ismaïla Sarr. The duo combined for Watford’s first-half equaliser and Cathcart noticed their influential impact on proceedings.
“I think every team would be reliant on them two with the quality they have, to be fair,” he added.
“We’re obviously working on things and it takes time. Once the window shuts, we can settle and we’ll know the players we have. We’re building something here and we need to get the momentum going, especially at home with the fans behind us.
“I’m sure it’s off-putting if you’re involved in [transfer speculation], but it’s part of the game. It’s something you deal with throughout you career, so we’re used to it. Once the window does shut, we’ll be able to get our heads fully focused on the challenge of getting promoted.”
Despite the significant victory, Cathcart is refusing to get ahead of himself with a protracted second-tier campaign ahead of the team.
He explained: “Year after year teams that have a good run after Christmas are up there at the end, so as long as you’re in amongst it around Christmas you can stick at it and if you have a good run later you’ve got a good chance of getting promoted.
“The Championship is a physical game every week. It’s something we need to be ready for, and I think the newer lads are learning that. Every game’s tough and it’s one of those things – you’re going to get knocks and bumps, you’ve just got to get on with it.”
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With so much celebration of 100 years at Vicarage Road, Middlesbrough boss Chris Wilder wondered if the final outcome was written in the stars
Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Tuesday’s Vic 100 Matchday against Middlesbrough (August 30, 8pm KO BST), with Rob Edwards’ men looking to bounce back from defeat against Queens Park Rangers.
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
The Middlesbrough match marks the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first game at Vicarage Road, and the club will be celebrating the centenary throughout the evening. There is a spectacular pyrotechnic display scheduled for before kick-off, so please be at your seats by 7.45pm to ensure you don’t miss out.
Searches & Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - continuing into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, two metres x one metre) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Middlesbrough, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Vakoun Bayo scored his first Watford goal with the stoppage-time winner against Middlesbrough, and head coach Rob Edwards was delighted for him.
Hornets Head Coach Rob Edwards was delighted his side secured three points with a dramatic 2-1 victory against Middlesbrough.
On the centenary anniversary of Watford’s first match at Vicarage Road, Ismaïla Sarr equalised after an early Boro header put the visitors into the lead. It left Vakoun Bayo to take the headlines, scoring his first goal for the club in second-half added time.
Edwards believes his side showed impressive fighting spirit to come back from behind and earn the victory.
“It was a really special occasion tonight and I feel very privileged and honoured to be involved and be a part of this club,” Edwards began.
“I’m really pleased for everyone connected to the club because it was a big night. I’m pleased that we were able to win it and in the fashion that we did in the end it sends everyone home happier.
“It was obvious that we didn’t start well, maybe it was the emotion of the night, but it was a disappointing goal to concede, and it probably knocked us for five minutes or so. Then we grew into it, and we started to show what I’ve always wanted - good character, quality, energy and tenacity which I was really pleased with.
“To get the equaliser was great timing and I think we should have got a second, and half-time almost came at the wrong time. After the break, we couldn’t take the same shape and Dan Bachmann, as he has done this season, made a fantastic save and we defended well on the line.
“Maybe we earned a bit of luck, but I’m really pleased for Bayo. He works incredibly hard and had a good chance before with his header, but he made up for it and it was a really nice feeling.”
The boss recognised that Middlesbrough were a threat, and knows the Hornets will need to keep improving and maintain momentum with a lot of the season remaining.
Edwards explained: “We knew Middlesbrough’s qualities and how they attack, especially down the sides with their outside centre-backs and the pace with their wing-backs. We had to be really at it defensively and there were a few moments where they were getting to the side, cutting the ball back and we were having to block shots on the edge of the box.
“Tracking back is a huge part of our defensive game and it’s a non-negotiable and something that we have to have. It comes more naturally to some than others and it’s something we’ll continue to work on. It’s something I’ve spoken about a lot.
“Maybe it got a bit open during the middle of the second half, but that was when both teams started to tire a bit and mistakes happen. However, we kept at it, kept them out and we managed to find that all-important winner.”
Following Bayo’s late strike, Edwards was pleased to see the striker get off the mark in a Watford shirt, with the Head Coach impressed with the Ivorian’s work rate.
In addition, the boss was really happy to continue to see the positive impact that João Pedro and Ismaïla Sarr have on the Hornets, after the duo combined for the opener.
“I thought they were all excellent tonight,” he continued. “It’s great for Bayo to get the winner. It would’ve been playing on Bayo’s mind [not scoring] because he had a few chances in other games, including the header a minute or two before he scored. Maybe it was playing in his mind as he moved back onside for the goal.
“In the end, no-one cares who gets the winner, but I am pleased for him because he’s a great lad and he works really hard for the team, and strikers want goals and he’s got one tonight.
“As for João Pedro and Sarr, we’ve never had to question their commitment. They’ve never sulked or moaned. They’ve both been brilliant, through a difficult period for them. They’re young men and they’ve both played a huge part in earning us three points tonight.”
With the Hornets heading north to face Rotherham United this weekend (Saturday September 3, 3pm KO), Edwards will be hoping to maintain the momentum gained from the special evening.
“We’re not the finished article right now,” he added. “We’ve had an incredibly difficult month with a lot of games and stuff going on. We’ve had to adapt, we have lost a lot of players to injury and a lot of senior players are not quite ready yet. In a few weeks, I expect to get people back and we will be in a better place.
“To get the points that we’ve got after seven games is pretty respectable considering everything that has gone on. We weren’t at our best tonight and Middlesbrough are a very good team, but we found a way to win. We haven’t hit the heights I want to consistently, but I think in a few weeks’ time we’ll be better.”
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On the evening Watford celebrated 100 years at Vicarage Road the team gave us a special moment with a last minute winner. Jon, Jason, Mike and DCW discuss. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Match-winner Vakoun Bayo couldn’t hide his delight after notching a dramatic stoppage-time winner to earn Watford a 2-1 win over Middlesbrough and cap the Vic 100 celebrations in style.
The Hornets were forced to come from behind after Rodrigo Muniz put the visitors in front early on under the lights, but Ismaïla Sarr’s clever finish in the 24th minute ensured the scores were level at the break.
Both teams had chances in a hard-fought second 45, and just when it looked like Watford’s latest Vicarage Road clash was going to end in a draw - as the club’s first had back in 1922 - substitute Bayo latched onto Mario Gaspar’s deflected shot to strike and seal the points.
After jubilant celebrations throughout the stadium, the Ivory Coast international expressed his delight at opening his Golden Boys account, and promised there is much more to come from him in the coming weeks and months.
Bayo said: “I can’t describe my feelings right now! I was so, so happy because it was my first goal for the club, but also to help the team get the win on such a special night.
“It was a really difficult game against a good Middlesbrough side, and Rob [Edwards, Head Coach] told me it was my time when I was about to come on. I knew I needed to do something, and I’m so glad I was able to.
“I’m excited to be able to show my quality now going forward, and I hope there are many more goals to come. Of course my main objective is always to help the team.”
Brazilian star João Pedro marked a brilliant individual performance with an assist for Sarr’s first-half goal, increasing his tally for total goal contributions to four for the 2022/23 campaign.
The 20-year-old stressed his appreciation for the support of the 20,000 fans in attendance, and echoed Bayo’s delight at the team’s Hollywood finish.
“It was a fantastic game,” João Pedro added. “It was an important night for the fans, for the players and for the staff. We knew it, and there is no better feeling than to win the game at the last second.
“The fans have always supported me ever since I came here as a child basically, and I feel their backing every day. I feel very loved and all I can do is keep trying to contribute as much as I can on the pitch.”
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Will they stay or will they go? Ismaila Sarr and Joao Pedro continue to attraction attention - will they be Watford players on Friday?
Watford snatched a dramatic injury-time victory to celebrate their centenary at Vicarage Road with three points after coming from behind to beat Middlesbrough 2-1, prompting jubilant scenes.
Watford host Middlesbrough as the Hornets celebrate the 100th anniversary of playing at Vicarage Road
Everyone at Watford Football Club is saddened to learn of the passing of Cyril (Sammy) Chung, aged 90.
A pioneering presence in the English game, Sammy Chung was just the second Anglo-Chinese player (after Frank Soo) to appear in league football when he debuted for Reading in 1954.
He arrived at Vicarage Road via Norwich City in summer 1957, and went on to be an integral and versatile part of the team which won Watford’s first promotion in the 1959/60 season - appearing at left-half regularly alongside team-mate Vince McNeice, who also died recently.
Chung’s eight years with Watford were very successful and encompassed him playing in a variety of positions - most notably across the half-back line but also in attack as well when duty called.
By 1962, at the age of just 30 and testament to not only his playing versatility but his eye for the game in general, he’d been appointed player-coach by manager Bill McGarry, and the pair solidified their manager-trainer relationship after Chung’s final league football at Vicarage Road in 1965.
As assistant to McGarry, Chung helped guide Ipswich Town into the top-flight in 1967/68, a feat which earned the pair a move to Wolverhampton Wanderers.
UEFA Cup runners-up to Tottenham Hotspur in 1972, Wolves would lift the Football League Cup in 1974. Chung succeeded McGarry as manager in summer 1976 after the club’s relegation from Division One, and he oversaw an instant return with a Division Two title-winning campaign.
Chung’s coaching experiences included overseas roles in Sweden (in between the Ipswich and Wolves appointments), the UAE and Barbados - such was the reputation he’d established.
At one time profiled as the oldest manager in professional football when at Doncaster Rovers in the mid-1990s, Chung kept involved in the game long past official retirement age.
He died on Sunday at a nursing home in Shropshire, the family confirmed to Watford FC.
He’ll be best remembered by Watford supporters for his on-field dedication and skill across more than 240 appearances, the bulk of which in Football League Division Three after that historic first promotion in 1960.
A minute’s applause in memory of Chung, Tommy Carpenter and Vince McNeice will be held before kick-off for tonight’s Middlesbrough match (August 30, 8pm KO).
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As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we’re taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
In this edition, James Garrett takes a look back at a dramatic winner and a familiar face in the opposition dugout...
Having just survived from relegation from the second-tier in 1994, there was a little more hope at the start of the 1994/95 season with a more settled side, bolstered by the permanent signings of Tommy Mooney and Colin Foster, as well as a then club record fee paid for Millwall striker Jamie Moralee.
It wasn’t until this fourth league match though that the Hornets got their first league win of the season against a highly fancied Wolves team.
On a special evening, Graham Taylor returned to Vicarage Road as a manager for the first time since leaving the club in 1987, having taken over the Molineux hotseat in March.
This Tuesday night match was put back 15 minutes to allow Wolves fans to enter the stadium because of a problem on the M1, creating an issue for Watford boss Glenn Roeder as his team had already completed their warm-ups when they were told of the late start.
A swift decision was made by Roeder for the team to each tell a joke in the confines of the dressing room to pass the time and keep spirits up.
Whatever jokes were told, it definitely helped as Watford started brilliantly. An early goal helped the cause when Colin Foster, who had stayed up front from a set-piece, pounced on Tommy Mooney’s turn and flick over a defender before drilling the ball into the net.
With Craig Ramage and Andy Hessenthaler starting to control the game in the middle of the pitch, Mooney hit the bar in the second half with Ramage’s follow-up shot well saved by Mike Stowell.
Out of nowhere really, Neil Emblem scored a close-range header from a well-worked Wolves corner with five minutes left to equalise. However hard to take, the Hornets still managed to get forward and pile on some pressure while time was running out.
In the 88th minute, a Gary Porter corner was headed clear from the Wolves area and was met with great composure by 20-year-old Richard Johnson, whose first touch on the half-volley led him to ghost past a challenge before he simply thumped the ball into the top corner of the net from 20 yards.
It was a glorious moment and the Vicarage Road Stand (the home end at the time, remember) erupted!
For the Australian midfielder this was something special as he had been told off by his manager for shooting from too far out in the previous match at Swindon.
It was the birth of “shooooot” cries in future matches whenever ‘Johnno’ had the ball outside the area. He directly followed this up in the next match when he volleyed into the net via a deflection as Watford drew with Middlesbrough.
Despite this being a breakthrough season for the Watford midfielder, it wasn’t until the 97-99 seasons when we saw the best of his shooting and some truly outrageous strikes from distance.
Referees would often ask why the home fans were booing him, meaning he had to point out they were merely crying out for him to shoot!
The Wolves win marked an important moment for the team, who has some really good spells during the season and ended up finishing an impressive seventh, just outside the play-offs.
Not bad for a side who narrowly avoided the drop the previous campaign. Wolves did end up in the play-offs that season, which was GT’s only full term in charge of the club.
After defeat on his first trip back to the club where he was so loved, Graham was very gracious and accepted that a point would have been very harsh on Watford.
Even during those celebrations in the home end, we also felt that slight guilt in sending GT home unhappy.
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Last Minute Club: Britos Secures Point Against Liverpool (2017)
Last Minute Club: Craig Dawson’s Overhead Kick (2020)
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A football pioneer and another of the mainstays of Watford’s historic Division Four promotion-winning side of 1960 has died.
Match Info
- Watford v Middlesbrough
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Tuesday August 30, 8pm BST
- Black & white centenary third kit, grey goalkeeper kit
Officials
- Referee: Chris Kavanagh
- Assistants: Dan Cook & Nick Hopton
- Fourth Official: Sunny Gill
Vic 100 Matchday
The Middlesbrough match marks the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first game at Vicarage Road, and the club will be celebrating the centenary throughout the evening. There is a spectacular pyrotechnic display scheduled for before kick-off, so please be at your seats by 7.45pm to ensure you don’t miss out.
Minute’s Applause
The club will be holding a minute’s applause before kick-off against Middlesbrough, in memory of former players Sammy Chung, Vince McNeice and Tommy Carpenter who recently passed away.
Opposition
Middlesbrough - among the favourites for promotion in this season’s Sky Bet Championship - endured a somewhat tough start to proceedings with no wins in their opening five games.
Their fortunes changed last time out with a 2-1 home victory against Swansea City, and with such winning momentum the four-time second-tier champions will be looking to further advance their current 18th-place position with a result at The Vic.
In Chris Wilder Boro have a manager who has experienced plenty of success at this level - having taken Sheffield United to the Premier League four years ago - while the addition of the likes of Zack Steffen, Alex Mowatt and Marcus Forss to their ranks this summer signals the quality they possess.
Key Stats
- Watford are unbeaten in nine league matches against Middlesbrough (W5 D4) since losing 2-1 back in October 2012 under Gianfranco Zola.
- Middlesbrough haven’t scored in any of their last four away league visits to Watford (D1 L3) since a Scott McDonald winning goal in a 2-1 win in October 2012.
- Watford have lost none of their last 13 Championship matches on a Tuesday (W9 D4) since a 2-1 away defeat to Birmingham City in November 2014.
Team News
Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards confirmed Rey Manaj will be missing for a few weeks after being forced to come off with a hamstring problem against Queens Park Rangers last time out.
The Boro game comes too soon for Tom Cleverley, Imrân Louza, Samuel Kalu, Jeremy Ngakia and Keinan Davis, and Tom Dele-Bashiru remains out injured as well. Recent arrival Kortney Hause is in contention to make his debut, though.
Middlesbrough are unable to call upon Chuba Akpom, who is ruled out with a knee injury, while Duncan Watmore is a doubt after picking up an injury at the weekend.
What Are They Saying?
Rob Edwards, Watford Head Coach:
“Middlesbrough are a really well-oiled, well coached team. Chris Wilder is a vastly experienced coach, and he’s had huge success so he certainly knows what it takes at this level.
“They’ve got a clear identity, and some brilliant players with a great mix of youth and experience. It’s no doubt going to be a tough game, but I’m sure they’ll be expecting the same and it’s our job to make it as hard as possible for them.
“We’re all looking forward to this one because of the special occasion. I’m very proud to be involved in it, and I’m sure us and the fans will be able to bounce off each other. The players will obviously be aware of the significance of the night, but I want them focused on the game itself because it’s going to be tough.”
Chris Wilder, Middlesbrough manager:
“I should imagine an immediate return to the Premier League is the No.1 objective for Watford. They’re not a building side in transformation - they’re a team expected to go straight back up with a new Head Coach in place and some outstanding players at their disposal.
“When you’re up against that you have to produce one of your best performances of the season, and we’re certainly going to have to do that.
“You always want to be party-poopers as an away team. Watford are a club with a rich history, and we’ll have to overcome all those things that will be happening on the night.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 17
Drawn: 9
Lost: 14
Last Six:
April 2021: Middlesbrough 1-1 Watford (Championship)
September 2020: Watford 1-0 Middlesbrough (Championship)
January 2017: Watford 0-0 Middlesbrough (Premier League)
October 2016: Middlesbrough 0-1 Watford (Premier League)
April 2015: Watford 2-0 Middlesbrough (Championship)
October 2014: Middlesbrough 1-1 Watford (Championship)
Golden Flashback
A flashback to the 2010/11 season, when former Boro academy player Danny Graham opened the scoring after just 17 seconds to put Watford on course for a 3-1 victory.
The afternoon wouldn’t get any better for the away side as Jordan Mutch doubled the scoreline and Graham made it three - all before 20 minutes. Highlights of the match begin just under 15 minutes into the video above.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Middlesbrough, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing clash.
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A host of former players and a special light show set to music before kick-off will help mark Watford's 100 years of playing at Vicarage Road
On August 30, 1922 a crowd of 8,618 people watched on as Colonel Charles Healey of Benskins kick a ball from the Main Stand onto the pitch. Vicarage Road was officially the new home of Watford FC.
Tonight’s Sky Bet Championship clash against Middlesbrough marks the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first ever game at Vicarage Road Stadium, when the club played out a 0-0 draw with Millwall on August 30, 1922.
To mark the centenary milestone the Hornets will be celebrating the occasion throughout this evening, with a spectacular pyrotechnic display and a parade of former players among the plans. Fans are asked to be in their seats for 7.45pm, ahead of the 8pm kick-off.
Among the festivities there will be plenty of reflections on highlights and standout moments from throughout the 100 years, including that maiden match at The Vic which kickstarted a significant chapter in the club’s history.
Vicarage Road Stadium was built by Benskins Brewery, who had purchased the former gravel pit for Watford FC from the local council just after the First World War. The club, having played at Cassio Road since the early 1890s, moved in at the start of the 1922/23 campaign, with Millwall becoming the first visitors after the club had beaten Queens Park Rangers 2-1 on the road four days earlier. The ground was officially opened by Col. Charles Healey, of Benskins Brewery.
Though Watford were led by Harry Kent, and the likes of Skilly Williams, Fred Pagnam and Eddie Mummery all featured for Watford on the pitch in front of 8,618 supporters, the game itself somewhat failed to live up to the hype as neither side was able to break the deadlock.
The day’s official programme, priced at two pence, did provide some key information about the new Vicarage Road home, including that the area of the ground was “about six-and-a-half acres and the total accommodation 33,000.”
Back then The Vic consisted of two small covered stands and several terraces. One of these stands, the Union Stand, had been brought from Cassio Road. About a decade later, the Union Stand got replaced by a new stand, the Shrodells Stand, before further redevelopments in later decades.
A note in the programme’s foreword also thanked Benskins for their investment, and pointed towards a positive future for the club and its supporters. It read: “The magnificent enclosure, which is being opened today, is entirely due to the way in which Messrs. Benskins have so generously come forward and ensured the Watford Football Club a ground and accommodation beyond reproach. It is now up to the Watford football public to see that the confidence of Messrs. Benskins has not been misplaced, and stick to the club through all weathers.”
After being held by the Lions, Watford were made to wait for a first home win at Vicarage Road until September 30, 1922, when a goal from John Wilkinson and a Pagnam hat-trick sealed a 4-0 triumph over Exeter City. The club would go on to record a 10th-place finish in the Third Division South that season, making plenty of Vicarage Road memories along the way.
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All at Watford FC were saddened to hear of former defender Vincent McNeice’s recent death, aged 83.
Very much part of the success of the first Watford team ever to win promotion for our club in 1959/60, McNeice was one of those names supporters would rattle off as they proudly named the most common XI to feature during a breakthrough year at Vicarage Road.
Born in Cricklewood, Middlesex, on October 25, 1938, he made the first of 231 league appearances for Watford in the 1957/58 campaign, having joined from Brentford in March 1957.
Debuting on December 7 of that year in a 5-4 win over Exeter City, McNeice was a mainstay at centre-back for the rest of the season. In fact, he would end up only playing league football for just the one club – and the last of those appearances at the age of 25.
But there’s no doubting he’ll be best remembered for the campaign which saw Ron Burgess’s team - decked out in old gold shirts for the first time in the club’s history - finish fourth and achieve promotion from the recently-created Division Four into Division Three come May 1960.
Cliff Holton broke the club’s goalscoring record for a single season and there were other maybe more notable names around him going forward, but McNeice’s solidity in defence played an understated but vital role.
Appearing 135 times in the four seasons following Watford’s promotion, McNeice’s calming influence in defence allowed the club to be looking more up than down in third-tier football.
His final game in the Football League didn’t spell the end of his career in the game; playing for Bexley United, Hillingdon Borough, and Canadian sides Montreal Concordia and Hamilton Primos.
All this preceded a move to Copenhagen to take up coaching roles at Danish sides Aalborg BK and AGF Aarhus after firstly BK 1903 – whose chairman paid as warm a tribute as we will be on Tuesday evening* to McNeice’s tireless work in the pursuit of football excellence.
*VR100 match v Middlesbrough, 8pm KO – please take your seats by 7.45pm to ensure you don’t miss some special centenary celebrations. We will also be holding a minute’s applause before kick-off in memory of Vince McNeice and Tommy Carpenter.
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Goalkeeper Tommy Carpenter died last week at the grand age of 97, we were saddened to learn.
Watford’s oldest living former player until his recent passing, he celebrated his 96th birthday last year in fine style, with a fun-filled video chat with Troy Deeney (which you can watch below) where he reckoned he could second-guess the striker’s penalty destination.
Signed initially on amateur forms from Wembley in 1946, he was awarded a professional contract just before his debut in the 1950/51 campaign – as understudy to long-serving and popular gloveman Geoff Morton.
Carpenter’s four Watford appearances that season were to be his only games in league football, and injury curtailed his non-league goalkeeping not long afterwards.
A minute’s applause in memory of Tommy Carpenter and Vince McNeice will be held before kick-off for tomorrow’s Middlesbrough match. Please take your seats by 7.45pm (kick-off 8pm) to ensure you don’t miss some special VR100 centenary celebrations.
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Watford head coach Rob Edwards wants to see a reaction from his side against Middlesbrough tomorrow, but also thinks a reality check is important
Premier League referee Chris Kavanagh is set to take charge of Watford’s televised clash with Middlesbrough tomorrow evening when the Hornets will celebrate their centenary at Vicarage Road.
Watford had to show grit and determination to leave Fairfax Park with all three points following a 2-0 victory over Bridgwater United, according to Head Coach Damon Lathrope.
Goals in either half from Helen Ward and Francesca Ali sealed the triumph, with the winner marking a first goal in yellow for the latter.
Lathrope enjoyed watching the Golden Girls show fight against a side that kept more clean sheets than any other team in the FA Women’s National League Southern Division last season, and can see even more potential from his team moving forward.
“This is not an easy place to come, they conceded seven goals all season here last year so by no means did we think it would be easy,” Lathrope began.
“They’ll be up there come the end of the season and today we had to show the other side to our game, how much character we have, digging in and sticking together because we came under a bit of pressure and we know we’ve got the quality in our team to go and win the game.
“I’m really pleased, but we know there’s more in us.”
Praising Ward after her second goal in two games, Lathrope noted the dominance of the Hornets in the first 45, and how they reacted to an improved Bridgwater second half.
“I thought we totally controlled the first half - they had one shot from 30 yards that hit the bar but we were very comfortable,” the 32-year-old continued.
“They came out in the second half on the front foot and we had to show resilience, which we’re going to need in abundance this year. It was a really pleasing display, Helen was prolific again. She’ll be delighted, all the team are really happy with what they’ve done today.”
As was the case in Watford’s dramatic 3-2 win over Gillingham last week, all five substitutes played a key role in the win, with squad depth a focal point for Lathrope and his coaching staff.
He feels that, with the team bonding and plans falling into place in training, his group are improving week-by-week.
“We’ve made no secret in saying to the group that it’s not just about the 11, it’s about the 16, and we’re very strong as a 22-player squad,” Lathrope smiled.
“There are players who aren’t even on the bench that will play their part and the last two games emphasise that massively, the subs have come on and won us the game. Today, five subs come on and make a huge impact to ensure we get the result and the clean sheet.
“We’re still in that phase of the season where people might be riding the wave, but when you get a month, six weeks into the season, things start changing. Without a shadow of a doubt we know there’s a lot more to come from the group - they train so well, their application is excellent and sooner or later it’s going to really click on the pitch.”
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New loan signing Kortney Hause is in contention to start against Middlesbrough; no change with regard to Sarr and Joao Pedro situation
Rob Edwards has urged his players to provide a quick response to Saturday’s QPR defeat ahead of Tuesday night’s visit of Middlesbrough (August 30, 8pm KO), with the Head Coach itching for a performance and a result to cap the planned Vic 100 celebrations.
The Hornets suffered their first league defeat of the season at home to the Rs last time out, with a lively encounter ending in favour of the opposition despite goals from Ken Sema and João Pedro highlighting some positive attacking play.
With a quick turnaround before the next match Edwards explained that work back at the training ground has continued in earnest over the bank holiday, and he is confident from what he has seen and heard that the team can deliver a performance for the fans to be proud of.
The Boro clash coincides with the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first match at Vicarage Road - with a host of celebrations and festivities planned throughout the evening - and Edwards is hoping he and his players can add to the smiles in the stadium.
“We were in on Sunday for a recovery session, and those that didn’t get as many minutes trained,” the 39-year-old said. “Today we’ve had a good meeting, looking ahead to Middlesbrough but also having a bit of a review of Saturday.
“The message has been clear - there are areas we know we need to improve, but there wasn’t loads and loads wrong against QPR. The players are clear with what they need to do and they’re focused on getting it right.
“We need to look ahead now to another big challenge against Middlesbrough on Tuesday night, because the games are coming thick and fast. We’re all looking forward to this one because of the special occasion.
“I’m very proud to be involved in it, and I’m sure us and the fans will be able to bounce off each other. The players will obviously be aware of the significance of the night, but I want them focused on the game itself because it’s going to be a tough game.”
Middlesbrough have endured a somewhat challenging start to the 2022/23 league season, with Chris Wilder’s men currently sitting in 18th place having secured their first victory of the season against Swansea City on Saturday.
But with that winning momentum, and a manager rated highly by Edwards, the Watford boss is clear that the four-time second-tier champions pose plenty of threats on the pitch.
Edwards said: “Middlesbrough are a really well-oiled, well coached team. Chris Wilder is a vastly experienced coach, and he’s had huge success so he certainly knows what it takes at this level.
“They’ve got a clear identity, and some brilliant players with a great mix of youth and experience. It’s no doubt going to be a tough game, but I’m sure they’ll be expecting the same and it’s our job to make it as hard as possible for them.”
Finally, Edwards provided an update on some of the players currently out injured, with Rey Manaj set for a spell on the sidelines after limping off with a hamstring problem against QPR.
“Rey will be missing on Tuesday,” he added. “He had to come off on Saturday and he’s probably going to be out for a number of weeks now, which is a shame.
“There isn’t much change with most of the other guys. It’s a bit too soon for Tom Cleverley, Imrân Louza, Samuel Kalu and Jeremy Ngakia, and Tom Dele-Bashiru remains out as well.
“Keinan Davis and Kortney Hause haven’t featured properly yet, but they’re getting there. This game will probably come too soon for Keinan after his illness, but Kortney is in contention.
“Regardless of the injuries we’ll be able to pick a strong, competitive squad, and I’m really looking forward to seeing what they produce.”
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It was a real team performance as the Golden Girls beat Bridgwater United 2-0 on Sunday (August 28). Centre-back Megan Chandler was understandably pleased with the result.
“Bridgwater made it hard, they pressed us in the second half and asked us questions,” she told watfordfc.com. “We ground out the result and if you want to be a winning team, you have do the stuff off the ball, the dirty stuff that teams sometimes don’t like doing.
“I thought we did that really well today. We’re now going home after a long journey and a long weekend happy.”
Over the course of the season, results will have to be earned in different ways. There’ll certainly be more free-flowing displays in 2022/23, but sometimes efforts like this, with a clean sheet, can be even sweeter.
“It has always been a difficult place to come,” said Chandler. “I think that it showed how hard the team worked to grind out the result, in the end we deserved to get another goal.
“There were a lot of positives even though it wasn’t necessarily how we wanted to play. It showed that we have another side to our game to bring if things aren’t going to plan.
“We always want to keep a clean sheet every week. You never know how the game is going to pan out, but today we were defensively very solid. We didn’t ever look uncomfortable in and out of possession at the back, so for the defence it was a very good day.
“We kept them in front of us rather than them going in behind, so that’s another huge positive for us as a defensive unit and the team in general. Sometimes that was something that we struggled with last season, so to start off positive in that area is good.”
Having made her 50th appearance against Gillingham on the opening day, Meg now has other milestones in her sights!
“Oh my gosh, it feels like it!” she exclaimed when asked about being part of the furniture. “It’s a huge honour, it’s nice to be at a club where I guess it’s home, Watford’s a great club and hopefully 50 more.
“People come and go, but we’ve never had a bad egg. The environment has always been fantastic since I’ve been here and that’s why people want to stay for the long term. I think that’s what makes the club very special and sets us apart from others.”
There’ll now be a bit of a break for the team, with the next confirmed game against Norwich City on September 11. The hard work certainly won’t be stopping anytime soon though.
“We’ve been working extremely hard in training, there’s not one session where we slack off, the girls have been fantastic,” revealed Chandler. “The intensity is like wow! It’s hard work, but we wouldn’t have it any other way.
“It’s a chance for us to re-group. There are obviously girls who unfortunately couldn’t come today and girls that have not stepped on the pitch here even though they’ve travelled.
“For them, it’s another chance to prove themselves. We’re one big group here and moving forward I think that’s going to stand us in good stead.”
Last Chance For Season Tickets!
With Season Tickets remaining on sale until the end of August, there’s still time for you to get yours!
Damon Lathrope’s side have enjoyed a fine start to the season, as the Golden Girls bid to win promotion back to the Barclays Women’s Championship.
All information regarding our fantastic value deals and on how to buy can be found here.
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Midfielder Francesca Ali was more focused on Watford getting a positive result at Bridgwater United than scoring, but couldn’t hide her delight at netting a first goal for the Hornets.
Ali, signed in 2020 and into her third season in Hertfordshire, has established herself as a hardworking, creative midfielder for the Golden Girls, and enjoyed a competitive battle at Fairfax Park that ended 2-0 in Watford’s favour.
“It was a tough one,” Ali began. “It’s always going to be tough coming here, having an overnight stay and we were a bit sluggish to start with, but we grinded and got the result!”
Ali felt the quality of the squad was key to the victory in Somerset, acknowledging that opposition teams will be wary of their threat having spent last season in the second-tier.
“We’ve just come down from the Championship, it’s no secret that we’ve got a really strong squad,” the 29-year-old continued. “Every team that comes up against us is going to dig deep and put in a solid performance against us. We’ve got to keep our composure and stay focused, and the girls did really well.”
A close-range finish - after Helen Ward’s early opener - gave Damon Lathrope’s side breathing room for the final few minutes. Ali credited the Head Coach and Assistant Matt Bevans for pushing her to get into attacking areas more often.
Ali added: “At the end of the day, the main thing is that we won. It was a really intense game, but to get the second goal was really nice.
“I’ve forgotten how long it’s been! I’m into my third season at Watford so it’s about time I scored. Damon and Matt have made it no secret that they want their No.8s to get in the box and they’ve been going on about it, so to get a goal was really nice.”
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Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Tuesday’s Vic 100 Matchday against Middlesbrough (August 30, 8pm KO BST), with Rob Edwards’ men looking to bounce back from defeat against Queens Park Rangers.
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
The Middlesbrough match marks the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first game at Vicarage Road, and the club will be celebrating the centenary throughout the evening. There is a spectacular pyrotechnic display scheduled for before kick-off, so please be at your seats by 7.45pm to ensure you don’t miss out.
Searches & Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - continuing into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, two metres x one metre) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Middlesbrough, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Tickets for Watford Women's home fixtures against Norwich City (Sunday September 11, 2pm KO) and Cheltenham Town (Sunday September 18, 2pm KO) will go on sale to supporters at 10am on Monday August 29.
Please note that the fixtures against Portsmouth and Ipswich Town will not take place on the original dates of Wednesday August 31 and Sunday September 4. An announcement regarding those games will be made in due course.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is now available online as well as in-person and over the phone.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Get Your Season Tickets!
Season Tickets for the 2022/23 campaign remain available until the end of August!
Click HERE to get yours.
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QPR manager Michael Beale praises decision to rule out Edo Kayembe volley and heaps praise on Chair and Willock after win over Watford.
Mike, Jason and Jordi convene after Watford's 3-2 loss to QPR to pick the bones out of the match and assess what is not quite working for Rob Edwards' side on the pitch at the moment, and there's discussion of the many off pitch issues too as the squad continues to exist in a state of flux ahead of the window shutting next week. There's also a chat with Adam Leventhal for the latest on the status of Joao Pedro and Ismalia Sarr, plus we hear from Xisco Munoz after Adam caught up with him exclusively for The Athletic last week. AND with the 100 years of Vicarage Road celebrations about to kick into full gear on Tuesday at the match v Middlesbrough, we hear from Geoff Wicken about the new book he has written to celebrate this landmark date in Watford's history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Striker Keinan Davis has had his bid to reach peak fitness hampered after being ill for the whole of last week
1- Hassane Kamara, then. Whoever he is. Sold by Watford to Udinese for £16 million, loaned back for the season. That’s, like, a fiddle isn’t it? “How do they keep getting away with this?”. We’re getting away with whatever we’re getting away with because we’re not breaking any rules, self-evidently. Else, given the brazen chutzpah […]
On Season 2, Episode 8 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford 2, QPR 3 in the EFL Championship at Vicarage Road (played on Aug. 27, 2022.) Watford lack depth, discipline, defence and decision making skills when it counts the most. Plus: Other reasons why Watford FC lost against a QPR side with less quality. Also: A referee named Luton Town. And: Transfer concerns, the critical Vic 100 match at The Vic against Middlesbrough and the mentality required. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: August 27, 2022.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Watford 2, QPR 3: https://bit.ly/3wApZUJ
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Hornets Head Coach Rob Edwards was disappointed with the defeat to Queens Park Rangers on Saturday, with his side narrowly missing out to the visitors 3-2 at Vicarage Road.
In Watford’s first defeat in the Sky Bet Championship this campaign, Rangers struck three times and were able to secure the victory despite Ken Sema and João Pedro’s replies.
Edwards was frustrated with how the game developed, and believes the Hornets will need to be more ruthless in front of goal when in the ascendancy in the future.
“I’m disappointed with the final result,” Edwards began. “We lost a game of football, we lost at home, and we conceded three goals, so there is a lot of disappointment there.
“Right now, I feel frustrated because I thought we had control in large periods of the game, especially when we got back to 2-2. We started the second half well on the front foot and we got the equaliser, but then we stopped doing what was getting us success.
“We went a bit safe and didn’t take the risks that were necessary. QPR banked up, got men behind the ball, which they are well within their rights to do, and they defended well, and we didn’t break that down well enough or test their goalkeeper enough.
“We didn’t, as a team, defend the transition well enough today either. We have to improve, us and myself, in those moments. We have to make sure that when we are on top in games that we are ruthless.”
Despite the result, Edwards felt there were positives in Watford’s attacking efforts and in particular the intelligence to find space in-behind QPR’s defence.
He continued: “We started to recognise where the space was, which was outside and behind them. If you make a straight run then you’ll probably be offside, so we had to start timing our runs better and angling our runs.
“That’s exactly what we did with our first goal. It was well worked and well executed because we recognised where the space was. João Pedro’s pace and Ken Sema’s run [created the first] goal.
“Their third goal happened, and we had a little bit of a wobble, and you could feel it and sense it. We needed to recover, and we did somewhat because we ended up pushing and scored that offside goal, but here we are now.”
The boss believes that the return of João Pedro and Ismaïla Sarr aided the team in the offensive third against the Hoops, but with many players still on the sidelines due to injury, it may take time to see a full-strength side on the pitch.
“It was great to have Ismaïla Sarr and João Pedro in the team for us because when they are fit, they are big threats for us,” Edwards added. “You saw their quality at times today, but as a team, we need to do both sides of the game well.
“It has been difficult, because there has been lots of speculation and we have been changing the team a lot for various reasons. There have been some challenges.
“I don’t think you will see the best of us for a few more weeks, because we haven’t been able to get some of the new players on the pitch yet and people need to settle in. We will get better in the coming weeks.”
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Defender Christian Kabasele reflected on the contrasting fortunes at either end of the pitch during Watford’s 3-2 defeat to Queens Park Rangers, and insisted the team must find the right balance between scoring and conceding goals.
The Hornets twice came from behind to level the clash through Ken Sema and João Pedro strikes either side of the break, after Ilias Chair and Chris Willock had made it 1-0 and then 2-1 to the Hoops.
Substitute Albert Adomah earned the spoils for the visitors with a close-range goal 20 minutes from time, and though Edo Kayembe thought he had rescued a point with a 25-yard effort late on it was ultimately ruled out for offside against Ismaïla Sarr.
While Kabasele was pleased with Watford’s attacking play in response to being put on the back foot he acknowledged improvement is needed defensively, albeit that the Rs were particularly clinical at Vicarage Road.
“There’s a lot of disappointment in the dressing room because we weren’t able to bounce back following defeat in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday,” the 31-year-old said. “We showed some character, but I don’t think we got the balance right.
“In our previous games we hadn’t conceded many goals, but also hadn’t scored many. Today we got two - and thought we had a third - but we let QPR in too many times.
“The first goal is quite lucky from their point of view as it deflected off Francisco [Sierralta], but the other two were similar in that they were both in the box. They were very clinical, but we should have done better.
“We played four at the back today and I think we adapted well in the first half - we just weren’t able to take advantage of our strong moments in the game. QPR made the most of their chances, and that’s what we need to do going forward.”
On Kayembe’s disallowed effort, Kabasele - who wore the captain’s armband for the match - said he had spoken to referee Keith Stroud about the decision following the full-time whistle.
And having tasted defeat for the first time in the Sky Bet Championship this term, the Belgian is determined to help his side deliver a win for the supporters back at home on Vic 100 Matchday against Middlesbrough this Tuesday (August 30, 8pm KO).
He added: “I haven’t seen the footage back yet but I spoke to the referee after the match and he said Ismaïla was offside, because he was active when the cross came in. You have to accept it and move on - at the end of the day we didn’t do enough to get anything out of the game.
“Tuesday is going to be a big night, and we want to win the game. There’s a lot to look forward to with the Vic 100 celebrations, but most importantly we don’t want to disappoint the fans three times in a row. We’ll make sure we’re ready.”
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Watford suffered their first league defeat of the season and head coach Rob Edwards was not happy with the way the goals went in.
The pre-game optimism brought about by the return of Ismaila Sarr and Joao Pedro disappeared in a poor defensive display as Watford saw their unbeaten start to the season as Queens Park Rangers claimed a 3-2 victory at Vicarage Road.
Watford suffer their first league defeat of the season as they are punished for errors by QPR
Dozens of Watford fans have been queuing outside the Hornets Shop this lunchtime waiting to get their hands on signed copy of a new book marking the club’s centenary at Vicarage Road.
It's a different way of operating to many, but Watford head coach Rob Edwards is happy to be influencing every transfer, both in and out of the club
Head coach Rob Edwards explains why being able to change formation and shape can help Watford this season
Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Saturday’s fixture against Queens Park Rangers (August 27, 3pm KO BST), with Rob Edwards’ men looking to extend their unbeaten start to the Sky Bet Championship campaign.
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - continuing into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, two metres x one metre) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v QPR, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Match Info
- Watford v Queens Park Rangers
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Saturday August 27, 3pm BST
Officials
- Referee: Keith Stroud
- Assistants: Sam Lewis and Akil Howson
- Fourth Official: Lee Venamore
Opposition
Rangers have had a mixed start to the 2022/23 campaign, enjoying some impressive highs but suffering some lows. Following an opening-day defeat to Blackburn, QPR beat Middlesbrough and drew with Sunderland after a last-gasp equaliser from goalkeeper Seny Dieng.
Despite the momentum, the visitors are winless in two games and currently find themselves in the bottom half of the league table. Head Coach Michael Beale will be hoping for a reaction against the Hornets.
Key Stats
- Rob Edwards’ Hornets are unbeaten in five league games this season, with Watford last starting a league season with six unbeaten games in 2000/01 under then manager Graham Taylor.
- Only one other side in the Sky Bet Championship has conceded fewer goals and kept more clean sheets so far this season than Watford.
- Queens Park Rangers have picked up just eight points in their last 12 away league matches, and since February no side has lost more games in the second-tier.
For the full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Queens Park Rangers In Numbers.
Team News
A late decision will be made on the availability of both Ismaïla Sarr and João Pedro ahead of the match.
Sarr has been back in training this week after recovering from hamstring stiffness, while João Pedro is aiming for a return after missing the Preston North End and MK Dons clashes with a calf strain.
Fellow forward Keinan Davis continues to suffer with illness, and Tom Cleverley (calf) remains on the comeback trail.
For more information on Watford’s team news, click HERE.
Jake Clarke-Salter, Taylor Richards and Luke Amos remain out for QPR.
What Are They Saying?
Rob Edwards, Watford Head Coach:
“QPR are a well-coached team doing things a little bit differently. They make changes in games and they have lots of technical and individual players that can make a difference by themselves or in quick combinations.
“They will provide a really stern test for us and one we are looking forward to because we have lots of those things as well. It should make for an exciting game.
“Michael Beale is a young guy, but very experienced. I’ve not come across him yet, but I’m looking forward to meeting him properly tomorrow. I’m well aware of his recent past. When you have worked with someone like Steven Gerrard there is always going to be a bit more of a furore about you. He is an extremely well thought of coach in the world of football.”
Michael Beale, QPR Head Coach:
“They are a good team, athletic, they have a huge amount of experience from the Premier League specifically and there aren’t many bigger challenges than this Saturday, but we are looking forward to it.
“It’s a local derby and it’s important that we show our fans that we are fully committed and up for the game.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 33
Drawn: 31
Lost: 51
Last Six:
February 2021: Watford 1-2 QPR (Championship)
November 2020: QPR 1-1 Watford (Championship)
February 2019: QPR 0-1 Watford (FA Cup)
April 2014: QPR 2-1 Watford (Championship)
December 2013: Watford 0-0 QPR (Championship)
April 2011: Watford 0-2 QPR (Championship)
Golden Flashback
A flashback to the 2009/10 season, the scene of Lloyd Doyley’s iconic and long-awaited first goal for Watford.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v QPR, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing clash.
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Rob Edwards expects a ‘positive reaction’ from Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup defeat to MK Dons, as Watford prepare to welcome Queens Park Rangers to Vicarage Road on Saturday afternoon (August 27, 3pm KO).
Edwards, disappointed by what he saw in the cup tie, seeks to repay the supporters’ faith and give them a more enjoyable performance to watch. The Golden Boys, unbeaten so far in this league campaign, take on the Rs having won their first two Sky Bet Championship games at The Vic 1-0.
“We’re all winners, and it hurt us,” Edwards admitted. “The players know I expect a reaction and the performance wasn’t good enough for our standards, and the stuff we spoke about after the game and the next day will be enough. I know there will be a positive reaction. You can never guarantee a win, but I’m sure there will be a reaction.
“The fans always play a major role but it’s down to us to get them going and engage them which is something we didn’t do in midweek, and that was one of the disappointments, we want to excite the fans.
“There are times where it’s going to be tough and we’ll need them, and they’ve shown this season that they can have a real influence in these games and play a big part in getting us over the line.”
QPR are under new management, with former Rangers and Aston Villa first-team coach Michael Beale having been appointed ahead of the new season.
Edwards has been impressed by Beale’s impact so far at Loftus Road, is looking forward to meeting him and is wary of the threat his side poses this weekend.
“Michael Beale is a young guy, but very experienced,” continued Edwards. “I’ve not come across him yet, but I’m looking forward to meeting him properly tomorrow. I’m well aware of his recent past. When you have worked with someone like Steven Gerrard there is always going to be a bit more of a furore about you. He is an extremely well thought of coach in the world of football.
“QPR are a well-coached team doing things a little bit differently. They make changes in games and they have lots of technical and individual players that can make a difference by themselves or in quick combinations.
“They will provide a really stern test for us and one we are looking forward to, because we have lots of those things as well. It should make for an exciting game.”
Reflecting on the opening five league games and his start to life at Watford so far, Edwards has admired the tenacity and flexibility of the group. While encouraged by their progress, he is even more excited by what’s to come from the squad moving forward.
“It’s been a challenging first month or so,” Edwards reflected. “We have had to change and adapt at times to certain situations, and that’s the most pleasing thing, players have shown they can adapt, they’re very coachable and have been able to play different ways and get results.
“The most encouraging thing for me is there’s more to come, and that starts against QPR on Saturday.”
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In football, sometimes there are days when everything just clicks. For Danny Webber, August 26, 2002 was one of these days.
On a heady afternoon at Vicarage Road, the striker scored once and set up three as the Hornets romped to 5-2 victory against Coventry City. It was a complete performance as the 20-year-old controlled the ball with his chest and laid one off for Stephen Glass to open the scoring before dropping deep and playing an incisive through ball to Tommy Smith for the second.
He finished the third himself in emphatic style before setting up the fourth – perhaps fortunately – by deflecting a Paul Robinson cross into Allan Nielsen’s path.
“You know you’ve had a good game when the final whistle comes but you feel like you could go on for another hour or so, because you’re not out of breath or anything but you’ve been on a cloud,” he said.
“That’s how it felt when I was playing in that era, and I was happy with that particular performance. It does rank high up, because I was enjoying my football so much at the time. There are other times when you put in good displays but you’re maybe not enjoying it, but I was enjoying my football so much in that period.
“I enjoyed playing up front with Tommy Smith because we were on the same wavelength, and people were saying that two small strikers can’t play up front together, but we just had a really nice understanding. Glassy was brilliant too.”
The young forward was on loan from Manchester United at the time and, with the Sky Sports cameras broadcasting the fixture live, perhaps he played out of his skin to make a case for breaking into Sir Alex Ferguson’s side back at Old Trafford?
“I had a lot to prove to myself, more than trying to get in the Man United team,” he said. “I just wanted to prove I could play first-team football consistently and I could put in the level of performances I was putting in for the youth teams against big men who want to smash through you.”
He certainly could play, and this display proved it. There were several goals to choose from, but Webber’s was the pick of the bunch as he showed Premiership class to leave Calum Davenport on his backside with a Cruyff turn before curling an early effort past goalkeeper Morten Hyldgaard.
“As far as a spectacle, it was probably one of my best goals,” he said. “The Cruyff turn in the box and then the shot, it was more instinctive than anything. In the corner of my eye I saw the centre-half slide, so I knew I’d done him. The skill happened so quickly so it was just making sure you place it out of the keeper’s range.
“If I’d taken another touch the keeper would probably have had a better position, so it was all about hitting it early. Funnily enough I was at a barbecue with Calum Davenport a couple of weeks later because I was friends with one of the Coventry lads and everyone at the barbecue just hammered him all day!”
Webber picked up the prize for Display of the Season at the end of the campaign, making the journey back down from Manchester to receive the award in person.
“I remember I picked up the award at the Hilton Metropol, which is where we had the End of Season Awards that year,” he explained.
“I’d already gone back to Man United, but I came back and received the award, and I think those performances at that time are a big part of why I came back to Watford permanently. That particular performance did stand out and still does stand out as one of my best in the yellow shirt.”
The striker struggled with injuries during his spells with the Hornets but it was displays like this which showed what he was capable of on his day.
Unfortunately, Webber’s most prolific season at the club was immediately followed by his departure for pastures north as he signed for Sheffield United after hitting 15 goals in 2004/05.
“I scored nine goals in my first seven games, I was flying and then I dislocated my shoulder. I came back after an operation and started scoring again but at that point I was told I needed to leave the club,” he said.
“Ray [Lewington] didn’t want me to go but he said it was out of his hands. At the time I didn’t really have the opportunity to show the fans my appreciation like you do now with social media. I reflect on my time at Watford with fondness, I would have liked to have left in a different light, but it was a great platform and a great place for me to learn my craft.
“I have immense fondness for everybody at Watford, the fans were amazing with me and really gave me a platform. The club as well is just a really warm club, and I think that’s why Man United have sent a lot of people to Watford over the years, because it’s been a similar outcome for a lot of players. I loved my time there and I’m glad to have shared my journey with the Watford fans.”
More In This Series
- Smith v Preston (2008)
- Anya v Barnsley (2013)
- Cleverley v Nottingham Forest (2009)
- Graham v Norwich (2010)
- Shittu v Reading (2007)
- Byrne v Middlesbrough (1991)
- Miller v Wycombe Wanderers (1997)
- Kennedy v Luton Town (1997)
- Palmer v Bournemouth (1998)
- Guedioura v Cardiff City (2014)
- Deeney v Stoke (2015)
- Doyley v QPR (2009)
- Slater v Rotherham (1997)
- Ighalo v Brentford (2015)
- Johnson v Bristol City (1998)
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Watford are back in action this weekend, as the Golden Girls look to make it consecutive wins to begin the campaign, after the 3-2 success against Gillingham at Grosvenor Vale last time out.
It’s an away encounter this time around, as Damon Lathrope’s side make the trip to Somerset to take on Bridgwater United on Sunday (August 28 – 2pm KO).
The Hornets will be going into this one with a spring in their step but know it won’t be easy versus a Bridgwater side that finished fourth in this division last season.
The Ground
Sunday’s match-up will be held at Fairfax Park, the home of Bridgwater United Women and the men’s team. Covered seating and standing is available.
For our supporters who are driving to the game, the postcode for the ground is TA6 4TZ. If travelling by train, the stadium is not too far from Bridgwater station, being an approximate 10-15 minute walk.
Tickets
Bridgwater are not selling tickets in advance for this fixture, so everything will be pay on the day. At the time of writing, no information regarding the matchday prices has been made available.
Last season’s prices were £8 Adults, £5 Concessions, £3 Under 16s, although we can’t guarantee this hasn’t changed for 2022/23.
Keep an eye out on Bridgwater United Women’s social media accounts, where more information might be posted closer to matchday.
The Match
The two teams last met back in October 2020, when Sunday’s opposition were known as Yeovil United. It was a 1-1 draw that day as Katie O’Leary’s penalty was responded to by Jenna Markham’s strike.
A club with an impressive history, especially when competing as Yeovil Town, they’ll now be looking to make an impact under the Bridgwater United identity.
It was a disappointing start to the new season for The Robins, as they were defeated 2-0 away at Oxford United on the opening day, goals from Naomi Cole and Riva Casley sealing victory for the hosts.
Bridgwater did have a pretty impressive record on their own patch in 2021/22, winning nine of their 13 league games and only conceding seven goals in the process. They’ll be hoping that home comforts can kick start things this weekend.
The Golden Girls will go into this one full of confidence though as they aim to prevent that from happening. Having shown plenty of positive signs in the victory over Gillingham, the team will be hopeful of continuing where they left off.
Poppy Wilson impressed after coming on as a substitute in that game. Should she feature, the ex-Bridgwater player will be keen to show her talents this weekend against her former club.
Season Ticket Deadline Approaching!
While the Hornets are on the road this weekend, it won't be long until Watford will be back at home, facing Norwich City on September 11 at Wealdstone FC.
That cup match is included in the cost of your Season Ticket - which remain on sale until the end of August.
For more information on our fantastic value deals and how to purchase, please go to the following link.
We look forward to seeing you again soon!
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Rob Edwards could have Joao Pedro and Ismaila Sarr available to him for the game against QPR tomorrow, but loan-signing Kortney Hause needs time
The first weekend of October TV selections have been confirmed by the EFL, and it sees our away game at Stoke City on the move.
Originally scheduled for Saturday October 1, the trip to the Bet365 Stadium will now take place on Sunday October 2, 12noon kick-off live on Sky Sports.
Due to the Sky Sports broadcast, Hive Live video coverage will only be accessible to supporters in countries where the game isn’t being televised. A list of exempt territories will be revealed in due course ahead of the clash, while Hive Live audio commentary will be available to all domestic and overseas supporters.
Other October television selections will be announced in due course – and the EFL have already indicated this won’t be the last of our Sky picks for the month.
In addition, the club confirms that four midweek fixtures - previously scheduled in for Tuesday nights - will take place on the corresponding Wednesdays.
The correct dates are now listed below:
Swansea City (H) – Wednesday October 5, 7.45pm KO
Millwall (A) – Wednesday October 19, 7.45pm KO
Cardiff City (A) – Wednesday November 2, 7.45pm KO
Cardiff City (H) – Wednesday April 19, 7.45pm KO
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A late decision will be made on the availability of both Ismaïla Sarr and João Pedro for the Hornets’ Sky Bet Championship clash at home to Queens Park Rangers on Saturday (August 27, 3pm KO).
Sarr - who has been absent since the 1-0 victory over Burnley earlier this month - has been back in training this week after recovering from hamstring stiffness, while João Pedro is aiming for a return after missing the Preston and MK Dons clashes with a calf strain.
Fellow forward Keinan Davis continues to suffer with illness and won’t be involved against QPR.
Meanwhile, the club is exercising caution with regard to Tom Cleverley’s return to training after his calf injury, though the club captain is making good progress with his rehab.
Defender Jeremy Ngakia missed the last two games with a minor back complaint, though the injury is not expected to keep him out long-term.
Elsewhere, Imrân Louza is back to completing solo work outside following a knee injury sustained at the back end of last season, Samuel Kalu (hamstring) is close to returning to full training, and Tom Dele-Bashiru remains out with a knee ligament problem.
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Keith Stroud is set to take charge of Watford’s Championship clash with Queens Park Rangers at Vicarage Road tomorrow.
The Hornets are back at The Vic to face Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 27, 3pm KO) in the Sky Bet Championship.
Ahead of the approaching fixture, we take a look back at five of the best matches between Watford and the Hoops over the years.
Watford 4-1 Queens Park Rangers – December 1, 1981
During a break from an impressive second-tier league season, Watford headed into the League Cup with a spring in their step to face QPR. Having beaten Grimsby Town and Lincoln City in the previous rounds, Watford got underway quickly as Les Taylor notched a brace and Luther Blissett got a goal.
Gerry Armstrong came off the bench to make it four and secure an important victory in the fourth round. Unfortunately, Graham Taylor’s Hornets would be knocked out of the competition in the next phase against Ipswich Town in a narrow 2-1 defeat.
Although, the league form would more than suffice for the cup disappointment as the Golden Boys clinched promotion to the top-flight.
Watford 2-1 Queens Park Rangers – September 12, 1998
The Hornets had suffered for over a decade against the Hoops and had lost six matches in seven against the London-based opposition. It meant that it would come as welcome relief when Keith Millen got the opening goal within the first 10 minutes.
Although a Rangers revival followed at the start of the second half, Allan Smart would recover Watford’s lead late in the day to secure three points and their first victory over QPR in 13 years.
The Hornets would go on to get promotion to the Premier League through the play-offs in dramatic style, after beating Birmingham City and Bolton Wanderers.
Watford 3-0 Queens Park Rangers – August 9, 2004
Into the new century, Watford began the 2004/05 second-tier season beaten by Preston North End, and as attention turned to the Hoops at home, manager Ray Lewington was hoping to impress the attending Hornets faithful.
Striker Danny Webber would get the first and the second, playing a neat one-two with the post for the latter. Bruce Dyer would ensure three points would be heading to the Hornets, diving in at the far post to force the ball past the QPR goalkeeper in the final stages.
Webber would maintain his impressive goalscoring form into the rest of August and September as he notched nine goals in seven matches, but his goals couldn’t keep the Golden Boys on track for long as they finished 18th at the end of the season.
Watford 3-0 Queens Park Rangers – November 22, 2008
After a poor start to the campaign, Watford headed into the match against the Hoops having lost five matches in their last six. Following the dismissal of Aidy Boothroyd, Malky Mackay made a return to Vicarage Road as caretaker manager.
The match against QPR was his first home game in charge, and Mackay enjoyed a dream start. Lee Williamson, Tommy Smith and Darren Ward led the way as the Hornets went three goals up before half-time, effectively wrapping the match up.
The victory would move Watford out of the relegation places and kick-start a revival, as the Hornets never lost more than two fixtures consecutively that season following the encounter.
Watford 3-1 Queens Park Rangers – December 7, 2009
The last time the Hornets beat QPR at The Vic came in 2009 when the world would take note of Lloyd Doyley’s first goal for Watford. Despite Rangers notching the first, Doyley’s equaliser has written its own place in Hornets folklore.
On his 269th Watford appearance Doyley finally scored for Watford, diving in at the back post and finishing like he was an experienced poacher.
Don Cowie and Tom Cleverley would secure the victory, but everyone remembers the match for the mesmeric moment when Doyley scored at The Vic.
For more information on that famous day, click HERE.
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To celebrate the 100th birthday of Vicarage Road this month, we’ve released a short episode. You can listen below or download it as an MP3 here. VICARAGE ROAD CENTENARY SPECIAL On August 30th 2022, in Hornet Heaven, two former Watford players reflect on the club’s 100 years at Vicarage Road. (8 minutes)
As the centenary celebrations at Vicarage Road begin to ramp up ahead of August 30 - the 100th anniversary of the Hornets’ first match at The Vic - Watford FC is delighted to announce the publication of ‘100 Years at Vicarage Road’ by Geoff Wicken.
Taking an in-depth look at the glorious history found within The Vic, the book focuses on photos, player stories and supporter memories from a century of stadium evolution.
With each chapter centring on and detailing an individual decade, and a foreword from Honorary Life-President Sir Elton John, the book is a must-have for Watford fanatics interested in the story of their beloved home.
On the book, author and historian Wicken said: “It’s been two years in the making, and I’m delighted with how it looks. It’s heavier than I was expecting though! I particularly enjoyed researching and choosing the photographs, which should prompt memories for supporters of all ages.
“I was also keen to include fans’ own recollections, and the book includes lots of superb stories that supporters have contributed. I very much look forward to people reading it, and I’m sure everyone will enjoy it.”
Wicken will be joined by Hornets legends Luther Blissett, Tommy Smith and Tom Cleverley at The Hornets Shop at Vicarage Road from 12noon-1pm ahead of the Queens Park Rangers match on Saturday August 27, to sign copies of the book.
100 Years at Vicarage Road is available from Saturday August 27, and you can purchase your own copy online from The Hornets Shop and in the club’s official stores at the Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
The book is priced at £20.22, with £1 from all purchases donated to the Watford FC Community, Sports & Education Trust.
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To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
Pride of place on Brendan Rodgers’ desk has always gone to a framed £5 note to commemorate George Best.
It makes a handy paperweight as well as a reminder of Best’s mesmerising gifts as a player: Quick, exquisite skill, extraordinary balance, clinical and – in an era of unforgiving tackles – impossibly brave.
Rodgers told me about his favourite desktop accessory shortly after his appointment, unknown to most people beyond football’s inner circle, as Watford manager in late 2008.
That limited-edition Best fiver followed him to Reading, Swansea, Liverpool and beyond as his coaching career unfurled.
“George Best always looms large over everything in Northern Irish football,” said Rodgers. “Sadly, I never got to meet him, but he’s a legend and when he died, they produced £5 notes with him on them as a tribute.
“I’ve got one of them on my desk because it’s important to know where your roots are and what you aspire to be.”
After agreeing to take his first steps in management at Watford, one of the first text messages he received was from former Manchester United captain and now leading TV pundit Roy Keane – who was then in charge of Sunderland.
It read simply: “Welcome to Hell.”
Rodgers said: “I’m not really in favour of being fast-tracked. I think you need to do your badges and put your time in, to learn and develop, but when you do take the plunge, your name won’t save you for long if you’re no good at it.
“My dear old friend Tommy Burns, the Celtic legend, once told me that when the curtains go back and the spotlight is shining on you, nothing can prepare you for that.
“One of the biggest influences behind me coming to Watford was their history of giving young people a chance and turning them into big players or managers. Not all clubs are brave enough to do that, but Watford gave guys like Aidy Boothroyd a chance and reaped the rewards.”
In the eyes of this observer, Rodgers’ Liverpool team of 2014 was the most exciting never to win the title, perhaps even better than Bobby Robson’s Ipswich side pipped by Aston Villa in 1981 and Jurgen Klopp’s class of 2019 at Anfield.
When Luis Suarez, Raheem Sterling and Daniel Sturridge were leading the plunder of 101 goals that season, it was worlds apart from the timid 1-1 draw against Doncaster that launched his career in senior management at Vicarage Road just six years earlier.
In fairness, Rodgers arrived in this parish wedded to the 4-3-3 doctrine of his mentor Jose Mourinho as part of Chelsea’s coaching fraternity.
And if truth be told, for a couple of months the jury was out on Rodgers at The Vic. But he switched to a 4-4-2 shape for an FA Cup tie against Crystal Palace, Watford won 4-3 and he never looked back.
If the conjecture which preceded Rodgers’ exit from WD18 after only seven months was a source of regret for club and the departing manager himself, let’s not forget the £200,000 transfer deal he set up for his successor Malky Mackay.
Rodgers’ parting gift to Watford was striker Danny Graham. All is forgiven.
More From This Series
The Boss Files: Beppe Sannino
The Boss Files: Steve Harrison
The Boss Files: Glenn Roeder
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An exciting opportunity has become available at Watford Football Club. We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated individual to join our Retail team.
You will be required to work in the club shops, at Vicarage Road Stadium, Atria Watford shopping centre, and the retail kiosks located inside the stadium.
You will be expected to provide an excellent shopping environment for all customers, to communicate clearly and positively, to deliver outstanding customer service, to assist with the online store and warehouse operations, and to maintain daily procedures including stock loss, deliveries, and the stock room.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must:
- Have previous retail or customer service experience
- Be able to work as part of a sales team
- Have outstanding customer service and communication skills
- Have an understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI and Safeguarding
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Retail Sales Assistant
Salary: £21,500pa
Location: Vicarage Road Stadium, Atria Watford
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Friday September 9 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Watford's seventh-youngest debutant of all time, Adrian Blake, wants Tuesday's appearance to be the first of many
After a disappointing mid-week cup tie, Watford will be hoping to return to form when they face Queens Park Rangers at Vicarage Road this Saturday (August 27, 3pm KO) .
Ahead of what promises to be an intriguing encounter, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the fixture...
Previous Meetings
The Hornets are winless in five league games against Queens Park Rangers, since a 3-1 win in December 2010 that ended QPR’s 19-match unbeaten start to that season.
On their last league visit to The Vic in February 2021 QPR won 2-1, last winning consecutive away games against the Hornets in the 1986/87 and 1987/88 campaigns.
Watford have lost two of their last three home league games in the second-tier against QPR, having lost only one of the prior nine encounters.
QPR have conceded the first goal in each of the last three league meetings with Watford, although have ended up earning seven points from a possible nine across those clashes.
Recent Form
Rob Edwards’ Hornets are unbeaten in five league games this season, with Watford last starting a league season with six unbeaten games in 2000/01 under then manager Graham Taylor.
Only one other side in the Sky Bet Championship have conceded fewer goals and kept more clean sheets so far this season than Watford.
Queens Park Rangers have picked up just eight points in their last 12 away league matches, and since February no side has lost more games in the second-tier.
The Golden Boys have won each of their last 11 Championship games at Vicarage Road, scoring 22 goals and conceding just once since the QPR encounter in February 2021.
Opposition Stat Attack
Chris Willock tops the rankings for goals at the Hoops with two strikes. Meanwhile, Ilias Chair has assisted his teammates three times – the highest in the squad.
The Moroccan leads the way for passes in the opposition half (142), crosses attempted (30) and dribbles attempted (12).
Defensively, Sam Field is top for tackles attempted (18) and blocks (7).
Elsewhere, Rob Dickie is first for interceptions (11), fouls won (7) and passes attempted (301).
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Following Tuesday night’s Carabao Cup tie with MK Dons, Watford’s attention has quickly shifted back to the Sky Bet Championship ahead of the visit of west-Londoners Queens Park Rangers on Saturday (August 27, 3pm KO).
With Rob Edwards’ men looking to extend their unbeaten start to the 2022/23 league season, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass (available in all international territories except Russia). Coverage starts at approximately 2.45pm BST.
- This game is included in £25 monthly and £140 seasonal (early bird rate until August 31) Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Whether it’s a promotion celebration, a classic game, a memorable goal or something more personal, Vicarage Road holds a special place in the hearts of Watford fans for countless reasons. Some of those recollections are featured in a new book telling the story of the club’s 100 years at the stadium that will be launched on Saturday.
An exciting opportunity has become available at Watford Football Club. We are seeking to recruit a highly motivated individual to join our Retail team.
You will be required to work in the club shops, at Vicarage Road Stadium, Atria Watford shopping centre, and the retail kiosks located inside the stadium.
You will be expected to provide an excellent shopping environment for all customers, to communicate clearly and positively, to deliver outstanding customer service, to assist with the online store and warehouse operations, and to maintain daily procedures including stock loss, deliveries, and the stock room.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must:
- Have previous retail or customer service experience
- Be able to work as part of a sales team
- Have outstanding customer service and communication skills
- Have an understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI and Safeguarding
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Retail Sales Assistant
Salary: £21,500pa
Location: Vicarage Road Stadium, Atria Watford
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, Friday September 9 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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It’s a busy week at The Hornets Shop, with multiple events taking place ahead of the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first match at Vicarage Road (August 30).
To begin, the Vicarage Road store will host a signing session with new signing Kortney Hause, Maduka Okoye and Dan Gosling this Thursday (August 25).
The trio will be in-store for pictures and signings during the afternoon, from 2-3pm. We advise supporters to arrive early in case of large queues.
Later on during the week, Watford FC historian and author Geoff Wicken will be joined by Hornets' legends Luther Blissett, Tommy Smith and Tom Cleverley at the shop from 12noon-1pm ahead of the Queens Park Rangers match on Saturday August 27, to sign Vic 100 book purchases. The book takes an in-depth look at the glorious history found within The Vic.
In addition, the Centenary Ale is available now to purchase in the Stadium and Hornets Shop following the announcement of the collaboration with Tring Brewery.
The club is also delighted to be partnering with Puddingstone Distillery to create a limited edition bottling of Campfire London Dry Gin to celebrate the centenary, which will be available in the Shop and Stadium from August 26.
Due to the rarity and exclusivity of the gin, The Hornets Shop will only have a limited supply of bottles.
On the partnership, Puddingstone Distillery said: “We are delighted to announce a very special Hertfordshire-based collaboration between Puddingstone Distillery, the home of Campfire Gin, and Watford Football Club, the home of the Hornets.
“Vicarage Road has been the home of Watford FC since 1922. During 100 years at The Vic, the club has experienced countless historic events and memorable moments which are celebrated with the release of this special centenary collector’s edition gin.
“This limited edition bottling of Campfire London Dry Gin is brought to you by the multi award-winning, Hertfordshire based Puddingstone Distillery, whose founders once lived within earshot of the cheering crowds of Vicarage Road.”
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Kortney Hause is pleased to have reunited with Head Coach Rob Edwards at Watford, after the former Wolves defender joined the club on-loan from Aston Villa for the 2022/23 campaign.
Having worked closely with Hause at youth level at Molineux, Edwards spoke to the Hornets’ latest arrival about life at Vicarage Road, with the 27-year-old encouraged by the strength of the squad and the club’s eagerness to clinch the deal.
The London-born centre-half is back south following eight years in the Midlands, and is relishing the challenge of Sky Bet Championship football this season.
“I’m happy to be here, it’s a big club in the Championship and I’m expecting us to be up there throughout the whole season,” Hause began. “It’s somewhere I want to be, I’m originally from down south so I’m closer to my family and friends. Being at a club like Watford is a good thing for me at this moment in my career.
“Watford have been after me for the last few transfer windows. They’ve shown they want me, and it’s good to go where you’re wanted, so coming to Watford had loads of pros.
“I spoke to Rob beforehand. Everyone knows what Rob’s like - he’s a good guy, a bubbly guy and a Head Coach you want to play for. I had a chat to him prior to signing, and I’ve worked with him before so I know what he’s about. It was a no-brainer, really.
“He brings a real enthusiasm to his work which you need every day. He’s a young Head Coach, and being a young Head Coach you want to prove yourself. He brings that determination to do well, which is what I’m all about, so it’s a good match.”
Edwards isn’t the only familiar face to Hause at The Vic. Fellow Villa loanee Keinan Davis, a close friend of the England youth international, joined the club earlier this month. Knowing the striker’s quality and the strength of the entire squad, Hause has clear ambitions for his time at Watford.
“Before I signed I looked at the team. My mate Keinan, he was one of the reasons why I wanted to come as well,” smiled Hause. “We get on really well, and he’s a great player.
“The other boys as well, we’ve got a good squad here that can do something this season if we stay consistent in every game, compete and be at our best.”
A left-footed defender capable of dominating in the air and dealing with attackers in one-on-one battles, Hause feels he can be a vocal presence on the pitch and use his top-flight experience to aid the team’s push for promotion.
“I bring leadership, a desire to keep the ball out of the net, clean sheets and I want to score some goals at the other end of the pitch as well,” Hause added. “I want to lead by example.
“Watford’s one of the bigger clubs in the Championship so you’re going to have to have the ball more often than not, so building up with a left footer and right footer on either side helps in terms of build-up.”
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The new black and white Watford kit, first unveiled by Sir Elton John, is now available for fans to buy
Helen Ward and Morgan Rogers have been called up by Wales for their upcoming September qualifiers.
Ward, who is Wales’ record goalscorer, earned her 100th cap back in April, and she’ll be looking to add to both of those numbers at a crucial time for her country.
Morgan, who made her move to Watford permanent this summer, has earned several call-ups to the squad recently, and the former youth international will be hoping to make her debut with the seniors.
It’ll be a hugely important week for the Welsh, as a place in the play-offs for the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup is on the line.
With two games to go Wales are currently in the play-off position, sitting in second on 16 points. Slovenia are just behind them on 14 points, while Greece are then a point further back.
The upcoming international window will see Gemma Grainger’s side play both of the other nations in contention, with a trip to Greece first up on September 2.
While you can’t rule anything out in football, factoring in remaining fixtures and head-to-head records, there’s a high probability that second place will come down to Wales and Slovenia, who meet in the final round of fixtures.
The latest update earlier this month revealed that a record 7,000+ tickets had been sold for that huge match in Cardiff on September 6, for what could be a winner takes all fixture.
All at Watford FC would like to congratulate Helen and Morgan on their call-ups and wish them and the rest of the squad the very best of luck.
Photo Credit: FA Wales
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It’s a busy week at The Hornets Shop, with multiple events taking place ahead of the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first match at Vicarage Road (August 30).
To begin, the Vicarage Road store will host a signing session with three Watford players - to be announced in due course - this Thursday (August 25).
The trio will be in-store for pictures and signings during the afternoon, from 2-3pm. We advise supporters to arrive early in case of large queues.
Later on during the week, Watford FC historian and author Geoff Wicken will be joined by Hornets' legends Luther Blissett, Tommy Smith and Tom Cleverley at the shop from 12noon-1pm ahead of the Queens Park Rangers match on Saturday August 27, to sign Vic 100 book purchases. The book takes an in-depth look at the glorious history found within The Vic.
In addition, the Centenary Ale is available now to purchase in the Stadium and Hornets Shop following the announcement of the collaboration with Tring Brewery.
The club is also delighted to be partnering with Puddingstone Distillery to create a limited edition bottling of Campfire London Dry Gin to celebrate the centenary, which will be available in the Shop and Stadium from August 26.
Due to the rarity and exclusivity of the gin, The Hornets Shop will only have a limited supply of bottles.
On the partnership, Puddingstone Distillery said: “We are delighted to announce a very special Hertfordshire-based collaboration between Puddingstone Distillery, the home of Campfire Gin, and Watford Football Club, the home of the Hornets.
“Vicarage Road has been the home of Watford FC since 1922. During 100 years at The Vic, the club has experienced countless historic events and memorable moments which are celebrated with the release of this special centenary collector’s edition gin.
“This limited edition bottling of Campfire London Dry Gin is brought to you by the multi award-winning, Hertfordshire based Puddingstone Distillery, whose founders once lived within earshot of the cheering crowds of Vicarage Road.”
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Rob Edwards made no excuses for a performance that “was not good enough”, as Watford exited the Carabao Cup with a 2-0 defeat to MK Dons.
Matthew Dennis and Darragh Burns notched the decisive goals for the visitors in either half at Vicarage Road, with no reply from Edwards’ side despite an improved second-half display.
Clarifying that the fault lies with the Head Coach, Edwards felt it was an “opportunity missed” under the lights against the League One side.
“I take a lot of disappointment home with me tonight, and frustration. I’m disappointed with the result and performance,” admitted Edwards. “I picked a team tonight that I thought could win the game, and would win the game, and it was an opportunity missed. I take full responsibility for that, I made the changes and picked the team, and tonight we weren’t good enough.
“We don’t want to feel like that again. The feeling in the dressing room was not nice, we weren’t good enough without the ball and weren’t good enough with the ball, and we’re going to make sure we’re better come Saturday. We’re going to give this crowd something to shout about.”
Adrian Blake made his professional debut on the night, playing for little under 20 minutes and creating several chances in a bright cameo from the bench. Edwards is keen to give minutes to deserving youngsters, and saw promising signs from the 17-year-old winger’s senior bow.
“I was pleased with Blakey,” Edwards smiled. “I thought he showed some really good personality, some confidence, a little bit of swagger, so I’m pleased for him, he’s a talented young player.
“Tonight was an opportunity to see different players and make some changes, and giving Blakey that opportunity gives us a chance to see him in this kind of environment which is a good thing.”
Queens Park Rangers are next up for the Golden Boys back in the Sky Bet Championship, with a desire to put this result and performance behind the team as soon as possible.
“There will be changes to the team and I hope we can get a similar performance to what we’ve seen so far in the league,” added the 39-year-old. “Clearly we need to improve from tonight so I want there to be a reaction, and I know there will be.”
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Exciting youngster Adrian Blake said the Hornets’ 2-0 Carabao Cup defeat to MK Dons represented a night he will never forget, despite the disappointing result under the lights at Vicarage Road.
The Academy product – who has been part of the Watford set-up since 2013 – stepped off the bench to make his senior bow in the 73rd minute, becoming the seventh-youngest debutant in the club’s history aged 17 years and 39 days.
With the team already two goals down some bright touches and confident attacking play from Blake did spearhead the Golden Boys’ best spell of the clash, as they searched for a route back into the game late on.
And though their efforts ultimately came up short, individually the teenager was pleased with a performance that oozed confidence and excited the near-9,000 fans in attendance.
“I’m obviously gutted we didn’t get the result tonight, but on the plus side I’m delighted to have made my first professional appearance,” said Blake.
“Rob [Edwards] just told me to go out there and express myself, and to not be nervous, so I just went out there with nothing to lose and tried to make something happen.
“I wasn’t sure where I’d be in terms of the record books but it was just a fantastic feeling, and I had family and friends in the ground watching on which was great. I’ve got to thank all of them for helping me on my journey so far, and hopefully there’ll be plenty more to come.”
Having impressed in the Under-18 and Under-23 ranks last season, Blake – still a second-year scholar – featured on the first-team bench for May’s 0-0 draw at home to Everton in the Premier League.
Now more familiar with the senior set-up and with his first appearance under his belt, he is clear he is hungry for more opportunities and is on a mission to continue impressing Head Coach Edwards.
Blake added: “I’m a lot more familiar with all of the first-team players and staff now, and I feel I know how they like to play. They were all very supportive and congratulated me after the game, which was nice.
“This is just the start though, and hopefully there will be many more nights like this to come. It was the biggest crowd I’ve ever played in front of, but hopefully that’s not the case for long!”
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Watford FC’s new centenary third kit for the 2022/23 campaign is on sale in-store and online now!
The black & white striped shirt, created by the club’s official technical partner Kelme, takes inspiration from the first kit the Hornets wore at Vicarage Road in 1922.
Specially designed with a focus on the 100th anniversary of the club’s first match at Vicarage Road - coming up on August 30 - the shirt evokes memories of those formative years at The Vic when the club were affectionately known as the Brewers.
The shirt is a modern take on a kit from a century prior, with a button-up placket and collar. Like the home and away, the shirt also features fitted under-arm panels, ribbed cuff detailing and ‘Vicarage Road 100 Years’ in script embroidery across the back neck.
The third kit is available to purchase now at shop.watfordfc.com, and in the club’s official stores at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
Due to the postal strike, The Hornets Shop will be offering next-day delivery at standard delivery prices on any orders placed on Wednesday August 24 ONLY. Click and collect is also available.
Get Yours Now!
Get your brand-new 2022/23 third kit to celebrate Watford’s 100-year anniversary at Vicarage Road right now from shop.watfordfc.com or from our official club stores at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
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Five 19-year-olds in the starting XI added to the joy of MK Dons boss Liam Manning after beating Watford in the Carabao Cup.
Proud to have made his Watford debut despite a disappointing result, Mattie Pollock felt the Hornets were deservedly beaten by MK Dons in the Carabao Cup second round, and called on the team to move on from the game and focus on the Sky Bet Championship campaign.
With Matthew Dennis and Darragh Burns goals condemning Rob Edwards’ side to elimination in a 2-0 defeat, Pollock stressed that the team needs to improve on the performance displayed in midweek.
“It’s a disappointing game,” Pollock began. “We wanted to win and they outdid us in most aspects of the game, which isn’t good enough from ourselves. We’ve got to be better.
“From a personal point of view, it’s taken a long time to finally wear the Watford kit and step out on the pitch, so for me and my family it’s a proud moment, but it wasn’t good enough.”
Signed from Grimsby Town last summer, Pollock spent last year on loan at League One side Cheltenham Town, and hasn’t had an opportunity to play in front of the Vicarage Road faithful until now.
Even so, the defender felt the fans’ support during his spell with the Robins, and hopes his debut is the first of many appearances to come in a Watford shirt.
“Since joining Watford the fans have been excellent, even when I was out on loan people were still watching me, and I’ve never been a part of something so special,” the 20-year-old continued.
“For me, it’s a proud moment, probably the proudest I’ve had for Watford. Tonight wasn’t a great night, but from a personal point of view I’m buzzing and I want to kick on and play as many games as I can. It’s a big task but I’m ready to give everything I can and step on the pitch and make things right.”
With Queens Park Rangers next in the calendar back in the league (Saturday August 27, 3pm KO), Pollock highlighted that preparing for that Vicarage Road encounter is now the priority.
“It’s an eye-opener,” Pollock admitted. “We’ve got to play every game as it is - just because it’s the cup we can’t change anything. We were second best to most things and the tempo wasn’t really there.
“But there’s no point dwelling on it, we’ve got to shake ourselves down and be ready for the next game.”
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Head coach Rob Edwards will be giving his players some "considered feedback" today after last night's Carabao Cup defeat
On Season 2, Episode 7 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford 0, MK Dons 2 in the Carabao Cup (played on Aug. 23, 2022.) A pitiful performance by Watford who got outclassed by third-from-bottom League One side MK Dons. Plus: Watford FC Women get off to a winning start against Gillingham, 3-2. And: Watford FC, financial sensitivity and critical questions. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms. YOU ORNS! Twitter Spaces (Watford-MK Dons): https://bit.ly/3AGf6Du
Episode publish date: August 23, 2022.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Preston 0, Watford 0: https://bit.ly/3QZGYb6
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Rob Edwards made no excuses for a performance that “was not good enough”, as Watford exited the Carabao Cup with a 2-0 defeat to MK Dons.
Matthew Dennis and Darragh Burns notched the decisive goals for the visitors in either half at Vicarage Road, with no reply from Edwards’ side despite an improved second-half display.
Clarifying that the fault lies with the Head Coach, Edwards felt it was an “opportunity missed” under the lights against the League One side.
“I take a lot of disappointment home with me tonight, and frustration. I’m disappointed with the result and performance,” admitted Edwards. “I picked a team tonight that I thought could win the game, and would win the game, and it was an opportunity missed. I take full responsibility for that, I made the changes and picked the team, and tonight we weren’t good enough.
“We don’t want to feel like that again. The feeling in the dressing room was not nice, we weren’t good enough without the ball and weren’t good enough with the ball, and we’re going to make sure we’re better come Saturday. We’re going to give this crowd something to shout about.”
Adrian Blake made his professional debut on the night, playing for little under 20 minutes and creating several chances in a bright cameo from the bench. Edwards is keen to give minutes to deserving youngsters, and saw promising signs from the 17-year-old winger’s senior bow.
“I was pleased with Blakey,” Edwards smiled. “I thought he showed some really good personality, some confidence, a little bit of swagger, so I’m pleased for him, he’s a talented young player.
“Tonight was an opportunity to see different players and make some changes, and giving Blakey that opportunity gives us a chance to see him in this kind of environment which is a good thing.”
Queens Park Rangers are next up for the Golden Boys back in the Sky Bet Championship, with a desire to put this result and performance behind the team as soon as possible.
“There will be changes to the team and I hope we can get a similar performance to what we’ve seen so far in the league,” added the 39-year-old. “Clearly we need to improve from tonight so I want there to be a reaction, and I know there will be.”
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Watford’s poor record in the Carabao Cup of recent seasons continued tonight as they were beaten 2-0 by MK Dons at Vicarage Road in the first ever meeting between the two clubs.
Watford play their first cup tie of the season as they entertain MK Dons in the Carabao Cup
It’s a busy week at The Hornets Shop, with multiple events taking place ahead of the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s first match at Vicarage Road (August 30).
To begin, the Vicarage Road store will host a signing session with three Watford players - to be announced in due course - this Thursday (August 25).
The trio will be in-store for pictures and signings during the afternoon, from 2-3pm. We advise supporters to arrive early in case of large queues.
Later on during the week, Watford FC historian and author Geoff Wicken will be joined by a Hornets legend at the shop from 11am-12noon ahead of the Queens Park Rangers match on Saturday August 27, to sign Vic 100 book purchases. The book takes an in-depth look at the glorious history found within The Vic.
In addition, the Centenary Ale is available now to purchase in the Stadium and Hornets Shop following the announcement of the collaboration with Tring Brewery.
The club is also delighted to be partnering with Puddingstone Distillery to create a limited edition bottling of Campfire London Dry Gin to celebrate the centenary, which will soon be available in the Shop and Stadium from the date of the QPR match, August 27.
Due to the rarity and exclusivity of the gin, The Hornets Shop will only have a limited supply of bottles.
On the partnership, Puddingstone Distillery said: “We are delighted to announce a very special Hertfordshire-based collaboration between Puddingstone Distillery, the home of Campfire Gin, and Watford Football Club, the home of the Hornets.
“Vicarage Road has been the home of Watford FC since 1922. During 100 years at The Vic, the club has experienced countless historic events and memorable moments which are celebrated with the release of this special centenary collector’s edition gin.
“This limited edition bottling of Campfire London Dry Gin is brought to you by the multi award-winning, Hertfordshire based Puddingstone Distillery, whose founders once lived within earshot of the cheering crowds of Vicarage Road.”
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Under-21 Lead Coach Omer Riza admits the start of the season has been challenging following difficult defeats to Wigan Athletic and Hull City, but he believes there are positives to be taken from a tough period.
The 42-year-old knew that with a fledgling squad it was inevitable that more experienced sides would hold an advantage, with opponents further along their development paths.
Despite 5-0 losses at both Wigan and Hull so far in 2022/23, Riza doesn’t shirk the challenge presented and believes that this test will be important for his squad’s long-term progress, both technically and mentally.
“It has been a really challenging start to the season, and it will be really challenging for the team this year because we’re a really young squad,” Riza began.
“We had five or six first-year scholars involved against Hull City, who themselves had three or four players who had been in and around their first-team squad. That’s a challenging prospect for our players. They’re up against physical pressure and technicality.
“It will be tough and challenging, but looking at it from a positive point of view, if the team stay with it, remain positive working in training every day, it can only be beneficial to them. These are high-pressured, stressful games for our players, and over time they will start to get used to that environment.
“It’s about us trying to help them overcome this through our coaching, and by preparing them so they can deal with this adversity. We can go into the matches with a different mentality, and although we might not win all the time we can take wins in our development, deal with the physicality and different technical abilities.”
A new season presents brand-new scholars hoping to make a mark in yellow during the years to come.
With some of the first-year scholars having made the step up to the Under-21s already, Riza has been pleased with their attitude and is looking forward to following their growth over the coming months.
“It’s been really good for [the first-year scholars] to come up to the Under-21s,” he said. “Michael Adu-Poku (pictured), Jack Taylor, Alfie King and some of the second-year scholars like George Abbott have all been involved and we have been impressed.
“They have never stopped working hard, and we just need to make sure we stay at those levels even when the results aren’t going our way. Our next step will be game management, and working towards improvement. If we see that against really strong opposition, that will be seen as a success in their development.
“It will be a challenge for the players and us as coaches. For me, I woke up this morning raring to go because this is a challenge for me, and it’s something different which will be good for my own development as a coach. It’s definitely a challenge we aren’t shirking, and we will work hard going into each game with a positive mental attitude.”
This evening (Tuesday August 23), ahead of the Carabao Cup clash against MK Dons, a few Academy players have been promoted to the first-team to further their experience. Riza knows that this will be invaluable to the group and their progression as individuals.
“It’s brilliant for the Academy, and it’s brilliant for the players involved,” Riza continued. “These players are still young players within an Under-21 group, so it’s great they’re getting a chance to show what they can do at senior level.
“These boys are all getting the opportunity and it’s excellent. Just to be around the match and gain that experience from a senior matchday, that will be key to their development and when they step back into the Under-21s group.”
Next for Riza’s Under-21s are West Bromwich Albion in the Premier League Cup (Thursday September 1, 1pm), an important competition for the Academy boss.
Riza is aware of the challenge that lies ahead of his players, but is excited to see them continue to grow by focusing on the long-term vision rather than the short-term goal.
He said: “The results within the Under-21s are not important. What is important for everyone is confidence. It’s about finding the right balance to aid development, because winning breeds confidence. Of course, we want to win, but it’s not important for where we are.
“It has been difficult for the players because they want to win. They want to be competitive and win games, and when you lose it can affect your confidence. We let them know that they have to be better, but at the same time we have to help them improve as individuals and that’s what we are here for.
“They have to keep on that path, working hard in training, because that is what is really important – the day-to-day work. I will keep approaching this with a positive attitude and I will make sure that I don’t give the players an opportunity to start doubting themselves. We will keep working hard.”
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Vicarage Road has been home to Watford FC for 100 years. The first match took place on August 30, 1922 when Watford played Millwall.
Bianca Baptiste ensured her Watford debut would be one to remember in Sunday’s 3-2 win over Gillingham, with the mazy forward scoring a vital goal on the stroke of half-time to bring the sides level at 2-2.
Goals from Helen Ward and Andria Georgiou, alongside Baptiste’s strike, ensured victory in the first game at Grosvenor Vale, Watford Women’s new home for the 2022/23 campaign.
Baptiste, prolific in previous National League Southern Division seasons with former sides Crystal Palace and Tottenham Hotspur, was pleased to open her account with the Golden Girls.
“We’re over the moon,” she smiled. “It’s been absolutely amazing to play on this pitch in front of the fans. It’s been incredible.
“I’m very happy with my goal and especially with the team around me, they know exactly how I play and it proved today with the second goal.”
One of five summer signings to start the game and eight to play a part in the victory, the Hornets’ new number eight could tell the team’s hard work in pre-season was paying off. The aim is to build on their first positive result, with sights set on a trip to Bridgwater United this Sunday (August 28, 2pm KO).
“It’s a credit to the girls, and those who came on and did a job,” Baptiste added. “You couldn’t tell the difference from those who came off. We work hard together and bring the best out of each other.
“Bridgwater’s going to be a tough game, they’re a good side. As long as we work together the way we did today I’m sure we’ll come out with a result.”
Georgiou echoed her fellow goalscorer’s sentiments post-match, seeing a cohesive unit under Head Coach Damon Lathrope. The midfielder highlighted Watford’s resilience to bounce back from going behind in the first half as a sign of their quality.
“We know this league’s not easy, and we know coming down [from the Championship] teams are going to want to beat us,” said Georgiou. “We’re aiming for promotion and often we’re going to go into half-time down, so I’m pleased the team came through and got the win.
“We’re going to have many chances this season and it’s important to make sure we finish them. Hopefully as the season goes on we finish them more, but we’re pleased to come away with the three points.”
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Udinese have signed Watford’s Hassane Kamara for a significant undisclosed fee, although the defender will remain on loan at Vicarage Road for the remainder of the 2022/23 season.
Last year’s ‘Player of the Season’, Kamara has made 22 appearances for the Golden Boys – four of which at the start of the current campaign.
Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury said of the deal: “This further protects the club at a time when balancing financial wellbeing and retaining a squad to compete at the top end of the Championship are our top priorities.
“Taking Rob’s guidance, we’ll review our options at the end of this season once divisional status is confirmed.”
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Hornets player of the season joins Udinese for £16m but returns to Vicarage Road on loan
Watford head coach Rob Edwards discusses the club's new loan signing from Aston Villa, Kortney Hause
Having jumped into committed tackles, made vital clearances and nearly scored a goal of his own at the other end, Watford’s 0-0 draw with Preston North End was far from a quiet afternoon for Francisco Sierralta.
The defender was pleased his side could extend their unbeaten run to five in the Sky Bet Championship, a start to the season that was last achieved under Graham Taylor in the 2000/01 campaign, and was satisfied with a point, but felt the team could have gone on to collect all three at Deepdale.
“It was a difficult game but it was 0-0, so it’s positive that we didn’t concede, we’re unbeaten,” remarked the Chilean. “Of course we know that we need to get three points in these kinds of situations, so what we have to do is keep pushing and keep working.
“We are happy because we’re working very well, we’re focused on each game. Sometimes it’s better to lose one game and win the others rather than draw two, but it’s good because we’re working together as a team and haven’t lost a single game. We now need to focus on the next one.”
Sierralta has played every game under Head Coach Rob Edwards this season, proving his capabilities in a defensive three and four. Following on from a successful time in the Championship at Watford in the 2020/21 season, the centre-back feels the team are adapting well and displaying cohesion on the pitch.
“I feel good, we’ve played three at the back and played with four for one game as well because we need to adapt to do what Rob wants,” Sierralta continued.
“It’s good because we’re working all together as a team, we always try to improve our defensive phase and transition together, and not to concede too many chances. We did well because we didn’t concede any goals, but hopefully next time the ball goes in!”
Consecutive away games this week are followed by three home games to close out August, against Queens Park Rangers (August 27, 3pm KO), Middlesbrough (August 30, 8pm KO) and a Carabao Cup game up next against MK Dons (August 23, 7.45pm KO). Relishing a return to home comforts, Sierralta stressed the importance of the vocal Hornets support.
“It’s good after two games away to go back home,” explained the 25-year-old. “We didn’t lose but after these points we dropped, we need to get the points at home.
“It’s very important, they’re always behind us and you can see in the games we won at home, it’s because of the atmosphere they created. The reality is that they have to stay with us and know that from the pitch we can hear them and they make a difference.”
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In a world where football rumours has become an industry, Ismaila Sarr is still a Watford player - and he's not causing the club any problems
Having jumped into committed tackles, made vital clearances and nearly scored a goal of his own at the other end, Watford’s 0-0 draw with Preston North End was far from a quiet afternoon for Francisco Sierralta.
The defender was pleased his side could extend their unbeaten run to five in the Sky Bet Championship, a start to the season that was last achieved under Graham Taylor in the 2000/01 campaign, and was satisfied with a point, but felt the team could have gone on to collect all three at Deepdale.
“It was a difficult game but it was 0-0, so it’s positive that we didn’t concede, we’re unbeaten,” remarked the Chilean. “Of course we know that we need to get three points in these kinds of situations, so what we have to do is keep pushing and keep working.
“We are happy because we’re working very well, we’re focused on each game. Sometimes it’s better to lose one game and win the others rather than draw two, but it’s good because we’re working together as a team and haven’t lost a single game. We now need to focus on the next one.”
Sierralta has played every game under Head Coach Rob Edwards this season, proving his capabilities in a defensive three and four. Following on from a successful time in the Championship at Watford in the 2020/21 season, the centre-back feels the team are adapting well and displaying cohesion on the pitch.
“I feel good, we’ve played three at the back and played with four for one game as well because we need to adapt to do what Rob wants,” Sierralta continued.
“It’s good because we’re working all together as a team, we always try to improve our defensive phase and transition together, and not to concede too many chances. We did well because we didn’t concede any goals, but hopefully next time the ball goes in!”
Consecutive away games this week are followed by three home games to close out August, against Queens Park Rangers (August 27, 3pm KO), Middlesbrough (August 30, 8pm KO) and a Carabao Cup game up next against MK Dons (August 23, 7.45pm KO). Relishing a return to home comforts, Sierralta stressed the importance of the vocal Hornets support.
“It’s good after two games away to go back home,” explained the 25-year-old. “We didn’t lose but after these points we dropped, we need to get the points at home.
“It’s very important, they’re always behind us and you can see in the games we won at home, it’s because of the atmosphere they created. The reality is that they have to stay with us and know that from the pitch we can hear them and they make a difference.”
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Head coach Damon Lathrope felt there were “lots of positives and lots to work on” after Watford Women started their new season with a 3-2 victory over Gillingham at their new Grosvenor Vale home.
Assistant Head Coach Richie Kyle anticipates a competitive Carabao Cup second-round tie with MK Dons on Tuesday night (7.45pm KO), and expects players entering the matchday squad to step up to the mark at Vicarage Road.
Praising the attitude shown in training ahead of the cup fixture, there is a desire from Kyle to treat the game with the same importance as the five Sky Bet Championship matches that have taken place so far this season, which have seen the Hornets go unbeaten and pick up nine points.
“They’re in good spirits,” Kyle began. “They look sharp and it was a really good session today [Monday]. They’re looking forward to the game.
“We’ve got to treat every game the same, it’s just as important as a league game as far as I’m concerned and you’ve got to make sure your preparation is right. A lot of work has gone into this particular fixture, and we’ve got to make sure the lads know their roles and responsibilities.
“Some people need a bit of a rest, it’s been a full-on start to the season, but also it’s an opportunity for some players as well. Competition for places is good, we’re really comfortable to bring in whoever comes in and we trust them to do a job.
“I think it’s important that everyone feels a part of it, that’s a big thing. We want a good group that all think they add value to the squad, and we trust whoever it is to come in and do well.”
A return to home comforts following back-to-back away games excites the 38-year-old, who highlighted the efforts of the supporters at Preston North End, Birmingham City and West Bromwich Albion.
Kyle, Head Coach Rob Edwards and the rest of the coaching staff have studied their opposition in depth, and understand the threat posed by Liam Manning’s side. Continuing that unbeaten start is part of Kyle and Watford’s focus going into the tie, also.
“I don’t know Liam personally but you can see they’ve got a style and identity to what they do,” Kyle continued. “We’ve watched their last few games and I was impressed with how they play. You can see they’re a well-coached team and they have good players.
“It’ll be a tough test for us. They’re coming to our place, a Championship club - it’s an opportunity to impress and take them away from their league. All-in-all it’s set to be a great game.
“The fans have been great. I was saying it to Rob, especially in those away games, they’re big journeys and the recent one at Preston, I know the journey being from up north!
“We really appreciate the support they give us. They were incredible at West Brom, Birmingham and Preston, and we’re really looking forward to coming home now and hopefully we can get a decent crowd, and really build on the momentum they’ve given us.”
Joseph Hungbo has also felt the love from the Watford faithful, despite never playing in front of a full crowd at The Vic.
Growing as a player and a person out on-loan at Ross County in Scotland last term, the winger is going into the next game with confidence after a packed pre-season.
“I can’t wait!” Hungbo smiled. “It doesn’t feel like I haven’t [played in front of a full crowd] because I’ve felt like the fans have had my back since day one, but it’s definitely going to be nice to be out there in front of the fans.
“My mindset is to enjoy it. You’ve got to play freely - that’s how you get the best out of anyone so that’s my mentality going into it - enjoy the atmosphere at The Vic and see where it takes me.
“It’s been tough, training day in day out with great players, and I feel like every day I’m getting better and learning, so hopefully I can take that into tomorrow and the season.”
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Watford’s 2022/23 Carabao Cup campaign kicks off on Tuesday evening (August 23, 7.45pm KO), with Rob Edwards’ men looking to build on their fine start to the league season and ultimately eclipse their run to the third-round last term.
The Hornets’ first opponents of this year’s competition - in the second round - are League One heavyweights MK Dons, with the match at Vicarage Road marking the first competitive meeting between the sides.
Find out below how you can follow the clash under the lights on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic & International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 7.30pm BST with a £2.50 match audio pass, £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- Only audio commentary can be streamed from Carabao Cup matches to domestic and overseas supporters, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match. Overseas supporters who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Tickets for Watford’s trip to Blackburn Rovers in the Sky Bet Championship on Tuesday September 13 (7.45pm KO) will go on sale to supporters in Away Group A at 12noon on Wednesday August 24.
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone at 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Wednesday August 24 * Away Group B
12noon, Thursday August 25 * Away Group C
12noon, Friday August 26 * Away Group D
12noon, Monday August 29 * Away Group E*
12noon, Tuesday August 30 * General Sale
12noon, Wednesday August 31
*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Blackburn Rovers will finish at 12noon on Tuesday September 13. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Ticket Prices
We’ve agreed a reciprocal pricing arrangement with Blackburn Rovers, meaning supporters following the Golden Boys to Ewood Park will pay the following:
- Adult: £20
- 65 & Over: £10
- 18-23 Year Olds: £10
- Under 18: £5
Coach Travel
Coaches for our trip to Blackburn Rovers will depart from Occupation Road at 12pm. All coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination. As this journey is using the M1 northbound there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 12.45pm.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocation specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area will be available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for this match.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
The front row at pitch level (row one) will be available for visiting supporters who are wheelchair users and unable to transfer to a stand seat, and wheelchair users who are able to transfer to a stand seat. The front row is step-free and has easy access to seats and accessible toilets. Please note that this is at perimeter level and the area is exposed to the elements.
Ambulant supporters can choose to sit anywhere in the visitors section subject to safety. Ambulant supporters who have difficulty using the stairs to the upper tier should notify the stewards at the turnstile or accessible entrance if lift access is required. To ensure appropriate seating/location ambulant supporters should specify any requirements at the time of purchasing e.g. step-free access.
Blind/partially-sighted supporters who rely on match commentary can pre-book a headset on a first-come, first-served basis by contacting 01254 508172, 48 hours prior to the day of the game.
Accessible parking is available at the ground on a first-come, first-served basis. Supporters are advised to pre-book matchday parking at the ground in advance to guarantee a space. A permit is required to access Car Park B behind the away end stand. A blue badge is not sufficient to gain entry. The cost is £10. Please phone 01253 508283 for information and bookings.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Friday September 9, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking. We will arrange for replacement tickets to be available for collection from Ewood Park.
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Watford have completed the signing of Kortney Hause on a season-long loan from Aston Villa.
Defender Kortney Hause has signed for Watford FC on a season-long loan deal from Aston Villa, the club confirms.
The 27-year-old is the latest player to join Head Coach Rob Edwards’ squad as the team bids for an immediate return to the Premier League, and arrives with a wealth of experience at all levels of the English Football League pyramid - including a previous promotion to the top-flight.
Having spent time with West Ham United and Birmingham City in his youth, Hause rose through the ranks at Wycombe Wanderers, and made his professional debut for the Chairboys against Crewe Alexandra in the FA Cup in November 2012.
After impressing in Buckinghamshire Hause earned a move to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2014, where he accumulated 80 first-team appearances during a five-year spell that also included temporary stints at Gillingham and Aston Villa.
Hause featured 12 times for the Villans during the 2018/19 season - including as a late substitute in the 2-1 Championship play-off final triumph against Derby County at Wembley - before making the move permanent that summer. Since then, the London-born star has taken his tally of games in claret and blue to 55 in all competitions.
Internationally, Hause was part of the England Under-21 side that won the Toulon Tournament in 2016, having made his debut for the Young Lions at that level against the USA a year earlier.
He will wear the number 30 shirt during his time in Hertfordshire.
Welcome to Watford, Kortney!
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Dean Whitestone is set to take charge of Watford’s first ever meeting with MK Dons in the second round of the Carabao Cup tomorrow.
When Richard Johnson describes a goal as the best he’s ever scored, that’s really saying something. The Australian schemer had a rocket of a right foot, a left one to match, and the majority of his 22 goals for the club came from distance with style.
On a bright Saturday afternoon in August 1998, Johnson hit two stunners in a 4-1 rout at Bristol City and describes the first, an eighth-minute volley from 30 yards following a cleared cross, as his all-time favourite.
“I always get asked what my favourite goal ever was, and I would say that would have to be it,” he said. “I just caught it so sweetly and it flew off the foot and caught the keeper unawares. With the pace of it, he couldn’t tip it over, and he made it look even better because he knocked it onto the bar and he fell in the net as well!”
It was pretty much the first time the midfielder had kicked a competitive ball that season following a thigh strain, and it almost looked like a release of frustration from having missed the opening weeks.
“It was just good to be back out on the pitch,” he recalled. “I think Gibbo crossed it from the right and it got headed out from just inside the box. It just all went in slow motion for me, the ball sort of floated and I thought I’ll just have a crack and I couldn’t have caught it any better.”
There wouldn’t be another goal for 50 minutes, but Johnson remembers the Hornets being relatively comfortable in the match between two newly-promoted teams. When Watford finally got their two-goal cushion, they would have it taken away and re-restored within minutes. Darren Yates tapped in to make it 2-0 and Søren Anderson then pulled one back for the Robins before once again the ball fell to Johnson within range.
“That was from a corner, I remember Micah just laid it off for me,” he said. “I just try to hit it as hard as I can and where they go, sometimes they’re in Row Z, sometimes the back of the net. But I caught that sweetly as well and the keeper had no chance. It stayed about a foot off the ground until it bounced just before the line, if I can remember rightly.
“The relationship we had as a midfield was incredible. Micah especially, he had so much skill, he used to say he had the guile, and I had the power. He was good to play with, we understood each other’s game and it worked really well. Most of the teams we played against had three in midfield, so Graham would say ‘That’s it, it’s you two, you’ve got to mark one-and-a-half each!’”
Johnson certainly had his shooting boots on in Somerset – bright green ones, in fact.
He said: “I had a new pair of boots on as well that day! They were Lotto. I’d been approached by them at the start of the season to see if I’d wear the boots and they were straight out of the box that day, they hadn’t been worn. You had to be some player if you wanted to wear coloured boots, it just wasn’t the done thing in our day. Plus if I’d have worn white boots my dad from Australia would have been on the phone straight away saying ‘What are you doing?!’”
Alon Hazan finished a counter-attack to round off the scoring and Watford had thumped Bristol City, rubbing salt in the wound after pipping the Robins to the Division Two title just a few months prior. The triumphs were made sweeter as a section of City supporters had prematurely declared themselves champions before Watford’s late leapfrog, and Johnson was well aware how much this one meant to the Hornets faithful.
“You feel it with every game, but especially from the previous game when they had the banner up saying ‘Champions’. There was always a bit of needle there,” he said. “The support at Bristol City was always pretty good so we knew it was going to be a good crowd, but to go and win 4-1, we probably didn’t expect that before the game. I remember the fans were jumping around and going nuts, so it was a good day for them and for us.”
It would turn out to be contrasting seasons for the two sides, as Bristol City fell immediately back down to the third tier while Watford earned back-to-back promotions via the play-offs.
“You never know how a season’s going to go completely but obviously winning the championship the season before we were confident anyway,” said Johnson. “There were a couple of additions to the team, it was just a progression, a roll on if you like. When you get promoted into any league you’re just looking for stability really, but to get a double promotion with the season we had was just incredible.
“We were a unit, a good team, a great bunch of players. Probably not the most talented individually when you look at some of the other sides in the division, but we knew how to grind out results. I owe Graham Taylor a great deal for that period in my career, because he showed faith in me when he came back and before that I’d sort of played a bit part, but Graham saw something in me and I had a run in the team.”
More In This Series
- Smith v Preston (2008)
- Anya v Barnsley (2013)
- Cleverley v Nottingham Forest (2009)
- Graham v Norwich (2010)
- Shittu v Reading (2007)
- Byrne v Middlesbrough (1991)
- Miller v Wycombe Wanderers (1997)
- Kennedy v Luton Town (1997)
- Palmer v Bournemouth (1998)
- Guedioura v Cardiff City (2014)
- Deeney v Stoke (2015)
- Doyley v QPR (2009)
- Slater v Rotherham (1997)
- Ighalo v Brentford (2015)
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A 3-2 opening-day win over Gillingham provided Watford Women Head Coach Damon Lathrope with plenty to be satisfied with at new home Grosvenor Vale, but he is aware there are plenty of areas to build on in the coming weeks.
Helen Ward’s opening goal set the tone for a lively afternoon against the Gills, with Bianca Baptiste scoring a second to equalise following a quick-fire double from the visitors. Andria Georgiou’s header decided it with 15 minutes left to play, completing an exciting comeback with 330 supporters in attendance.
Getting off to a good start was vital for Lathrope, who felt his side could have won in more comprehensive fashion but showed spirit and maturity to maintain their work-rate for the full 90 minutes.
“The first one always feels more important than the rest,” Lathrope remarked. “You go in off of a clean slate, with no league standings for the first game of the season, and you could see that in the first half.
“We know Gillingham aren’t a bad side, we knew they would be high energy and hard to beat, but we’ve said to the group throughout pre-season that we’ll grind teams down, and we expect that the longer the game goes on the stronger we’ll become.
“I would have liked it to have been wrapped up a little earlier than it was, but overall we’ll take that, with lots of positives and lots to work on.”
As are the rules in the FA Women’s National League, five substitutes are allowed in each matchday squad, with all five able to be used throughout the game. Having grown in depth this summer, the Head Coach felt the game outlined the importance of the squad.
“It emphasises the importance of the whole group,” continued the 32-year-old. “The five players that came on all made an impact and ensured we won the game. It’s team first always, and we need to stick together.
“All of the new players are gelling really well, and it’s only going to get better. It’s tough when you have a bit of an overhaul, but we felt like it was needed and the group is in a really good place.”
Grateful for the fans’ committed support at The Vale, Lathrope hopes the enthralling encounter will ensure a consistent attendance at future home games, with the Golden Girls making a fine start to what could be a memorable campaign.
“There were 330 in here for the first game of the season on a nice hot day, and now we want them to come back,” Lathrope added. “It’s a 3-2 game with lots of opportunities, so I’d like to think they’ve gone home happy!
“We want to be an exciting team with lots of the ball, and I think we showed that today and got what we deserved.”
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Multiple Hornets have been furthering their development over the last few weeks, as they settle at their temporary clubs around the country and across the continent.
JJ McKiernan has enjoyed a successful start to life at National League side Eastleigh, having already started all four matches for the Spitfires in midfield, and earned a Man of the Match award.
View this post on Instagram A post shared by JJWatford defender Francisco Sierralta was pleased with a third clean sheet of the season at Preston on Saturday.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are joined by Watford FC twitter spaces host Charlie Zazzera to discuss Watford's trip to Deepdale that saw the Hornets pick up another point on the road, which moves them up to 2nd place in the table. They also speak about the news that broke after the game, that Watford have agreed to sell Ismaila Sarr to Aston Villa for £25m. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1- It often strikes me curious that “what the fans think” is treated as something that can be concisely summed up, or even represented as is too often implied both by interviewers and interviewees. One glance at social media confirms that there are almost as many distinct opinions as there are supporters, any suggestion of […]
On Season 2, Episode 6 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Preston 0, Watford 0 in the English Championship (played on Aug. 20, 2022.) Daniel Bachmann stands tall against a relentless Preston, while finishing continues to be a Watford bugaboo. Yet there are many upsides, including being in second place and remaining unbeaten in the Championship after five games. Plus: Watford FC Women get their season started against Gillingham and Ismaila Sarr is Aston Villa bound. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: August 21, 2022.
The YOU ORNS! Ten Minute Take (on YOU ORNS! YouTube Channel) Preston 0, Watford 0: https://bit.ly/3QZGYb6
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
An eventful week in the world of Watford was ended with another point on the road and another clean sheet, although the game at Deepdale was arguably less interesting than off-field developments… Mike and Jon got together shortly after the final whistle to discuss the Preston stalemate, with praise for a clutch of Hornets, and persisting question marks over others. In discussing the squad situation, the boys try to get their heads round the situation with transfers; attempting to find a bit of balance during what feels like a tumultuous time. This is life as a Watford fan. It’s never dull. This is From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Having jumped into committed tackles, made vital clearances and nearly scored a goal of his own at the other end, Watford’s 0-0 draw with Preston North End was far from a quiet afternoon for Francisco Sierralta.
The defender was pleased his side could extend their unbeaten run to five in the Sky Bet Championship, a start to the season that was last achieved under Graham Taylor in the 2000/01 campaign, and was satisfied with a point, but felt the team could have gone on to collect all three at Deepdale.
“It was a difficult game but it was 0-0, so it’s positive that we didn’t concede, we’re unbeaten,” remarked the Chilean. “Of course we know that we need to get three points in these kinds of situations, so what we have to do is keep pushing and keep working.
“We are happy because we’re working very well, we’re focused on each game. Sometimes it’s better to lose one game and win the others rather than draw two, but it’s good because we’re working together as a team and haven’t lost a single game. We now need to focus on the next one.”
Sierralta has played every game under Head Coach Rob Edwards this season, proving his capabilities in a defensive three and four. Following on from a successful time in the Championship at Watford in the 2020/21 season, the centre-back feels the team are adapting well and displaying cohesion on the pitch.
“I feel good, we’ve played three at the back and played with four for one game as well because we need to adapt to do what Rob wants,” Sierralta continued.
“It’s good because we’re working all together as a team, we always try to improve our defensive phase and transition together, and not to concede too many chances. We did well because we didn’t concede any goals, but hopefully next time the ball goes in!”
Consecutive away games this week are followed by three home games to close out August, against Queens Park Rangers (August 27, 3pm KO), Middlesbrough (August 30, 8pm KO) and a Carabao Cup game up next against MK Dons (August 23, 7.45pm KO). Relishing a return to home comforts, Sierralta stressed the importance of the vocal Hornets support.
“It’s good after two games away to go back home,” explained the 25-year-old. “We didn’t lose but after these points we dropped, we need to get the points at home.
“It’s very important, they’re always behind us and you can see in the games we won at home, it’s because of the atmosphere they created. The reality is that they have to stay with us and know that from the pitch we can hear them and they make a difference.”
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Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards was pleased to extend the Hornets’ unbeaten run to five matches, after a goalless draw with Preston North End at Deepdale.
Both teams had chances to break the deadlock despite the scoreline, with Rey Manaj and Vakoun Bayo coming closest for Watford. The boss was impressed with his side’s performance, and felt there were a lot of positives to take from the encounter.
“Both teams created some good opportunities, and how the game was 0-0 I’m not quite sure,” Edwards began.
“[Daniel] Bachmann made some great saves again, and I thought we performed well all over the pitch. It’s a difficult place to come, and we were unlucky not to win.
“There were many things that pleased me today. It’s been quite a difficult week for various reasons, so to come away with a point and a positive performance is a good reward.
“We have had a couple of difficult away games, so first of all getting a couple of points at difficult places has pleased me. If you look at the game today as a whole, the control we showed at times was really good.
“I thought there was good cohesion with the ball. I would like us to speed it up a little bit and ask a few questions sooner, especially with two strikers on the pitch today.
“But I’m really pleased with the bravery of the players and the decision making, because Preston are set and ready to pounce on any kind of mistakes. Overall, I’m happy.”
Going into the match against the Lilywhites Edwards made two changes, with João Pedro replaced by Manaj due to injury and Hassane Kamara returning to the starting side.
The Welshman was particularly happy with how the Hornets adapted to that situation, with certain changes being enforced late on in the week.
Edwards continued: “We had to make a couple of changes and we were unlucky yesterday with João Pedro just feeling his calf from the Birmingham game. He was uncomfortable with his calf, and he had it scanned and he wasn’t right for the match.
“Ismaïla Sarr trained yesterday and was meant to play today, but between us and him we weren’t fully confident, even though he travelled up here wanting to play.
“We had to make a couple of changes - one yesterday and one this morning. That’s something that really pleased me - the adaptability of the players.
“That’s what the squad is about. We are going to have to make changes because we have 46 matches. There will be injuries and suspensions, so you have to come together because we are all in it together as a group.”
With the match concluding a point-a-piece, the result ensured that the Golden Boys have now avoided defeat in their opening five league games for the first time since 2000/01 under Graham Taylor. Edwards praised the exceptional away support in Lancashire, and was satisfied that they didn’t go home empty-handed.
“If you can’t win, then you don’t want to lose,” he added. “We want to win because we are winners in the dressing room, the players are winners. If you don’t win, you have to make sure you don’t lose, and that is five times we have done that now which is a good record.
“A big thank you to the travelling support because they were incredible again. It was great to go over to them, because they can see the effort and commitment. They saw that we created some chances and that we could’ve won on another day.”
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Head coach Rob Edwards reflects on the 0-0 draw at Preston - missed chances, good goalkeeping and why Pedro and Sarr were missing
Watford's fifth league game of the season brings them to Deepdale to face Preston North End - the first of many trips to the north west this season Watford: Bachmann; Kabasele, Sierralta, Cathcart, Kamara; Choudhury, Kayambe, Asprilla; Bayo, Manaj, Sema. Subs: Okoye; Gaspar, Troost-Ekong, Gosling, Pollock, Hungbo, Forde
After yesterday’s announcement confirming our latest seven signings, we can now officially reveal the squad numbers that the players will be wearing in 2022/23.
Of those who have signed up for another season with Watford, a few have opted to change their number this time around.
Georgie Ferguson has taken the number one shirt, while Francesca Ali, Gemma Davison and Andria Georgiou have moved up to numbers six, nine and 15 respectively.
Morgan Rogers, who has now joined on a permanent deal, will wear 14.
It’s been an incredibly busy summer at the club, with 14 also being the number of signings that have been made this off-season.
Bianca Baptiste was the first to join and she’ll have eight on the back of her shirt. Annie Rossiter, who scored against the Golden Girls last season, will be Watford’s number seven.
All but one number from 1-25 has been filled, with only 12 currently remaining vacant. The full list can be found below.
Squad Numbers
1 - Georgie Ferguson (GK)
2 - Nicola Gibson
3 - Emily Wallace
4 - Ylenia Priest
5 - Anne Meiwald
6 - Francesca Ali
7 - Annie Rossiter
8 - Bianca Baptiste
9 - Gemma Davison
10 - Helen Ward (C)
11 - Adekite Fatuga-Dada
13 - Jacqueline-Anne Goldsmid (GK)
14 - Morgan Rogers
15 - Andria Georgiou
16 - Melis Mehmet
17 - Megan Chandler
18 - Poppy Wilson
19 - Allison Palisch
20 - Scarlett Williams
21 - Flo Fyfe
22 - Jade Bradley
23 - Kalani Peart
24 - Lois Edwards
25 - Grace Garrad
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Match Info
- Preston North End v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- Deepdale
- Saturday August 20, 3pm BST
Officials
- Referee: Darren Bond
- Assistants: Richard Wild and Jonathan Hunt
- Fourth Official: Simon Mather
Opposition
Preston North End have made an unbeaten start to the campaign and are still yet to concede in the league, but with only one goal scored the Lilywhites will be hoping to notch more against the Hornets.
Manager Ryan Lowe was impressed by their performance last time out against Rotherham United, but he will be hoping to find that all-important winner this Saturday.
Key Stats
- Watford have won their last two league games against Preston, but have never won three in a row versus the Lilywhites.
- The Hornets have only lost three of their last 23 Championship games, with all their defeats coming away from Vicarage Road.
- Preston have only lost two of their 18 home league matches against Watford, although they lost their most recent game against them at Deepdale in February 2021, losing 1-0.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Preston North End In Numbers.
Team News
Head Coach Rob Edwards confirmed ahead of the trip to Deepdale that Club Captain Tom Cleverley will be out for “a couple of weeks” with a calf injury.
Ismaïla Sarr missed Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Birmingham City through a minor hamstring complaint, but has returned to the training pitch and may be in contention.
Elsewhere, Imrân Louza continues to make progress in his recovery from a knee injury, Samuel Kalu is also on the comeback trail and midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru is continuing rehabiliation for a knee ligament injury.
For Preston North End, Álvaro Fernández will be unavailable once again as he continues his recovery from an ankle injury.
Sean Maguire has returned to training, but this game will likely come too soon for him. Bambo Diaby also remains sidelined, with the defender expected to return to training next week.
What Are They Saying?
Rob Edwards, Watford Head Coach:
“They’re [Preston] very well coached. They’ve had four clean sheets which indicates they’re very difficult to break down, but not only that, they’ve got a distinct way of playing, and some good footballers as well.
“I went to watch them last week and I liked them. They’ve got characters in there, resilience and all of those things you’d expect from a Championship team, but they’ve got a good way about them as well. It’s going to be a really tough game.”
Ryan Lowe, Preston Manager:
“I’m massively looking forward to it. When those teams are coming down from the Premier League you always look at them teams and think, ‘okay when do we play them?’.
“I think Rob [Edwards] will be looking to see the back of the transfer window because he’s got some quality players in there.
“But these are the games you want to be in the Championship for, playing the likes of Watford, Burnley, Norwich – the teams that have been in the Premier League for a year or a couple of years, so we’re really looking forward to it and hopefully it’ll be an exciting game.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 13
Drawn: 13
Lost: 18
Last Six:
- February 2021: Preston North End 0-1 Watford (Championship)
- November 2020: Watford 4-1 Preston North End (Championship)
- August 2015: Preston North End 1-0 Watford (League Cup)
- May 2011: Preston North End 3-1 Watford (Championship)
- February 2011: Watford 2-2 Preston North End (Championship)
- April 2010: Preston North End 1-1 Watford (Championship)
Golden Flashback
A five-goal thriller saw Watford secure three points back in 2020 at Vicarage Road, winning 4-1 in the second-tier.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Preston North End v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing clash.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Grounds Maintenance department at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a gardener who will be responsible for the management, state and maintenance of all lawns, car park and ornamental surfaces at the training ground.
The role will be based on a 40-hour week which will include evening and weekend hours, and will be located at our training ground facilities based in London Colney. However, there may be a requirement at times to work at our Vicarage Road Stadium.
The successful candidate will be primarily responsible for carrying out the following duties:
- Day to day cultivation and maintenance of gardens and formal areas. Maintenance is to include but not limited to the following: pruning, weeding, planting, mowing, fertilising, spraying.
- Identify and control weeds, pests, and diseases.
- Driving work-related vehicles such as utility buggies and tractors.
- To assist the Head Groundsman with managing lawn renovation duties in off-season.
- Monitor and execute the need for irrigation.
- Ensure all car park and pathway surfaces are safe to use prior to each use during periods of inclement weather.
- Perform regular walks of site analysing work done and to plan future work.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Good general knowledge of horticulture.
- Hold PA1 & PA2 NPTC pesticide certificates.
- A member of the Institute of Groundsmanship or be prepared to become a member.
- First Aid in the workplace qualification or equivalent.
- Appropriate knowledge of fertiliser application to lawns, shrubs and plants.
- Experience of working in an outdoor environment and using powered equipment and machinery.
- Demonstrate ability to effectively manage multiple priorities and tasks.
- Excellent customer service, good interpersonal, communication and team management skills.
- Willing to work unsociable hours which will include evenings and weekends, and have a flexible approach to tasks and the ability to work to tight deadlines.
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
- Full, clean UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Gardener
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Earlier this week, the CEO of the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Maheta Molango visited Watford’s London Colney training ground to present winger Ismaïla Sarr with a special award to recognise his Africa Cup of Nations success with Senegal earlier this year.
Having returned from injury for the knockout stages of the tournament in Cameroon, the 24-year-old played a crucial role en route to the showpiece finale, notching a goal and an assist over the quarter and semi-final stages.
Sarr would go on to play 70 minutes from the right-flank as Senegal won the AFCON final against Egypt on penalties, after the clash had finished 0-0 after extra-time.
On the prize, the Hornets player said: “Thank you to the PFA for this award. Winning the AFCON was a very special moment for me and my family, and I am very grateful to the PFA for recognising this.”
Molango expressed his delight at Sarr’s achievement, adding: “We wish Ismaïla our sincere congratulations on his title as African champions, we are very proud to have you as a PFA member.
“On behalf of the PFA we would like to acknowledge your outstanding contribution to football, and in this case to your country Senegal.
“As the Premier League & EFL are very diverse and international competitions, we felt as the PFA that it was very important to acknowledge the importance of the Africa Cup of Nations for a lot of our members.”
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The waiting is almost over. Watford’s season begins this Sunday as the Golden Girls host Gillingham Women at Wealdstone FC (August 21, 2pm KO).
It’s been a busy summer at the club, with plenty of new additions to go alongside the regular faces that have signed new contracts.
With promotion back to the Barclays Women’s Championship the aim, Damon Lathrope’s side will be looking to get off to the perfect start at Grosvenor Vale.
Fan Guide
If you’re visiting our new home for the first time, we’ve put together a helpful Fan Guide which will hopefully answer any questions you might have.
Should you want to know something that hasn’t been covered, you can contact us on Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram.
Tickets
You can still get your Season Tickets for the 2022/23 season. With a minimum of 12 games included and some fantastic value offers in place, it makes a great option. You can read all the information and find out how to buy here.
If you would rather purchase individual tickets for this match, you can still watch some enthralling football at a great price.
These can be purchased in advance at the following prices: Adults - £5 | Concession (U16, 65+, Disability) - £3 | Watford Men’s/Wealdstone ST Holders - £1
On the day sales for Adults & Concessions will see the prices increase by £2, so we highly recommend booking in advance if possible.
The £1 price will remain unchanged on matchday, with you just having to show proof of your season card to gain entry.
The Match
The Golden Girls have started well in previous campaigns of the FA WNL Southern Premier Division, winning the last three opening games. Sunday will be the first time Watford have started with a home match since 2018, when Cardiff City were defeated 5-2.
There’s probably a good chance that you’ll be seeing a new face or two in the starting line-up against Gillingham. At the time of writing, the following signings have been confirmed: Bianca Baptiste, Annie Rossiter, Nicola Gibson, Emily Wallace, Melis Mehmet, Morgan Rogers, Scarlett Williams, Jade Bradley, Lois Edwards, Grace Garrad, Jacqueline-Anne Goldsmid, Allison Palisch, Kalani Peart and Poppy Wilson.
While not a new arrival to the club, there will be a different face in charge of the team, as Damon Lathrope takes the reigns as Head Coach.
His first game will be against the Gills, who will be hoping to build on last season’s sixth-place finish. We took an in-depth look into our opponents earlier this summer, which you can read here.
It was an entertaining encounter when the two sides last met, with Watford narrowly triumphing 3-2 at Rochester United back in October 2020. Expect entertainment again this weekend, too.
Whether you’re a regular watcher of the Golden Girls or have maybe been inspired this summer to come along for the first time, we look forward to seeing and welcoming you on Sunday!
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Watford FC Women are delighted to announce the addition of seven new players to their squad ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
The Hornets are pleased to confirm Jade Bradley, Lois Edwards, Grace Garrad, Jacqueline-Anne Goldsmid, Allison Palisch, Kalani Peart and Poppy Wilson have all signed on, with the new season kicking off this Sunday at home to Gillingham (August 21, 2pm KO).
Formerly of AFC Bournemouth, Portsmouth, Queens Park Rangers and Reading, Bradley captained Pompey for over a year, memorably scoring in the 2019 Hampshire Cup final. A strong, experienced midfielder, Bradley provides impressive passing range and leadership to the Golden Girls.
Following a successful campaign with Crawley Wasps last term, full-back Edwards joins the Hornets, providing versatility and a clever eye for a pass. Edwards made her competitive debut for Crawley in January, and has played regularly in midfield, adding to attacking numbers with powerful runs into the box.
Defender Garrad arrives on a dual-sign agreement from West Ham United. The technical centre-back, capable of playing on the left and in midfield, is comfortable with the ball at her feet and strong in the tackle.
Goalkeeper Goldsmid was a regular starter for Crawley Wasps at this level in 2021/22, possessing quick reflexes and quality in one-on-one situations. Goldsmid has played alongside fellow new signings Nicola Gibson and Edwards already, and helped the Wasps reach the FA Women’s National League Cup semi-finals last season.
A Republic of Ireland international with experience playing in the Netherlands with PEC Zwolle, Icelandic side Selfoss and in the United States, Palisch most recently plied her trade with London City Lionesses in the Championship. Palisch, who played under maiden name Murphy in previous seasons, is a highly-rated, energetic midfielder.
Attacking midfielder Wilson, 23, was a regular for fellow FA National League Southern Division side Bridgwater United last season prior to an ankle injury, and is fully recovered and ready for action. A former Bristol City and London City Lionesses player in the WSL and Championship, Wilson made her first-team debut at WSL Cup level aged just 16, bringing experience beyond her years to the squad.
Athletic defender Peart signs from Ashford Town having also played for Millwall Lionesses and Arsenal. The 23-year-old centre-half is comfortable with carrying the ball forward and distributing from the backline.
Welcome, girls!
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The Watford head coach had no qualms about giving Yaser Asprilla his full debut against Birmingham City but has cautioned against expecting too much, too soon as the teenager continues to adapt to life in a new country.
The countdown is well underway to the 100th anniversary of Watford FC’s first match at Vicarage Road, on August 30.
Ahead of the fast-approaching milestone, The Hornets Shop is delighted to release a bespoke range of merchandise and clothing to mark the centenary.
From special edition jackets and memorabilia to footballs and mugs, the 100 Years Collection celebrates the important landmark with a unique twist.
The centenary range is available now HERE and in the club shops at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
100 Years Collection
Check out the new 100 Years Collection HERE, celebrating a century at The Vic!
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Darren Bond is set to take charge of Watford’s trip to fellow unbeaten Championship side Preston North End tomorrow.
Watford have not received a second bid from Newcastle United for Joao Pedro, the Watford Observer understands.
Head Coach Rob Edwards is anticipating a tough test against fellow unbeaten side Preston North End in the Sky Bet Championship, ahead of Watford’s trip to Deepdale on Saturday (August 20, 3pm KO).
Ryan Lowe’s Lilywhites are yet to concede a goal in league competition and sit in seventh place going into the fifth game of the season. Edwards was in attendance at a recent Preston fixture, and knows all about the strengths of the Hornets’ upcoming opponents.
“They’re very well coached,” Edwards said. “They’ve had four clean sheets which indicates they’re very difficult to break down, but not only that, they’ve got a distinct way of playing, and some good footballers as well.
“I went to watch them last week and I liked them. They’ve got characters in there, resilience and all of those things you’d expect from a Championship team, but they’ve got a good way about them as well. It’s going to be a really tough game.”
Reflecting on the opening four games, the Welshman is satisfied with the start to the campaign, after the Golden Boys picked up two 1-0 wins at home and two 1-1 draws on their travels. Edwards knows there is more to come from his side, and sees a driven group on and off the pitch.
“I’m pleased with the fact that we’ve had a couple of home wins, a couple of clean sheets, and we’ve shown moments in game one and game four of control, and there was a good performance level,” explained Edwards.
“In the game against West Brom especially, we had to show a lot of fight and resilience, and showed when we’re not at our best we can get a point at a very difficult place, and Burnley there was a bit of both.
“We’re showing different sides to our game, which is what we’re going to need, and I know there’s more to come from the group because we’re still learning and growing together, and working extremely hard every day with a commitment to getting better.”
Rey Manaj got the decisive touch to score Watford’s equaliser against Birmingham City on Tuesday night, netting his first goal for the club. Edwards has already seen an improvement in the Hornets’ attacking movement and chance creation, and is excited to see further progress.
“We know there are goals in the team, so it’s down to me and all the guys to make sure we’re creating chances and getting in good positions to score goals,” the 39-year-old continued. “That’s an area we still need to work on. There was an improvement on Tuesday night in terms of getting the ball into dangerous areas, and we know we’ve got goalscorers.”
Yáser Asprilla made his first start in the same game, turning heads with his energy and creativity in midfield. Displaying maturity beyond his 18 years, his boss waxed lyrical about the young Colombian.
Edwards added: “He proved himself against Burnley when he came on. In that game they were starting to press, and we went down to 10 men, so I worked out very quickly that we could trust him. I knew that before, I knew from training and pre-season but it was great to be able to see it in front of 20,000 people under difficult circumstances.
“On Tuesday night he showed loads of quality, character and a belief. He’s still trying to learn the language and there are lots of things going on - he thought it was a 3pm kick-off, bless him! He was so excited that he couldn’t wait for the game.
“He’s a brilliant young lad and we’re really excited about where he can go. I do have to stress that we need to be patient and manage him properly. Expectations are high and it’s important we don’t put too much pressure on him because he’s a young player in a new country dealing with a lot of change. It's important we get behind him and support him, but allow him to grow and flourish in his natural way.”
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Watford resume their second-tier campaign with a trip to Deepdale this weekend to face Preston North End (Saturday August 20, 3pm KO).
Ahead of what promises to be a tantalising encounter, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the fixture...
Previous Meetings
Watford have won their last two league games against Preston, but have never won three in a row versus the Lilywhites.
Preston have only lost two of their 18 home league matches against Watford, although they lost their most recent game against them at Deepdale in February 2021, losing 1-0.
When both sides last met during the 2020/21 Championship campaign, the Lilywhites lost home and away to Watford. It was just the second time they have lost back-to-back league games against the Hornets, also doing so in August 1974.
Just one of the last 11 league meetings between the two sides has seen the away team win. This came in the most recent clash, with the Hornets winning 1-0 in February 2021 through a João Pedro spot-kick.
Preston have never failed to score against Watford in consecutive league contests.
Recent Form
Since Preston manager Ryan Lowe’s first league game in charge in December 2021, the Lilywhites have only lost two of their 15 home league games.
Watford have only lost three of their last 23 Championship games, with all their defeats coming away from Vicarage Road.
Preston’s four league games this season have seen just one goal so far, with North End having three goalless draws and a 1-0 victory. They’ve never kept a clean sheet in each of their opening five league games before.
Should the Golden Boys avoid defeat, this will be the first time since 2000/01 under Graham Taylor that the Hornets haven’t lost any of their opening five league games.
Opposition Stat Attack
With only one goalscorer this season, Brad Potts tops Preston’s rankings for strikes and Robbie Brady for assists.
Striker Troy Parrott has had the most shots on target (7), while defender Liam Lindsay has failed to hit the target six times – the highest in the squad.
Andrew Hughes has attempted the most passes for the Lilywhites (224), while Brady tops the standings for passes in the opposition half (128).
Defensively, Brady has also attempted the most tackles (12), while Lindsay tops clearances (20) and blocks (7).
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The Hornets are on the road once again, this time journeying up to Deepdale to face Preston North End (Saturday August 20, 3pm KO) in the Sky Bet Championship.
Ahead of the approaching encounter, we take a look back at five of the best matches between Watford and the Lilywhites.
Watford 3-2 Preston North End – August 24, 1974
A match full of flair, intensity and attacking football - when Watford and Preston met in August 1974, goals were guaranteed. The Lilywhites were under the stewardship of player-manager and World Cup winner Sir Bobby Charlton, while the Hornets were managed by Mike Keen.
After a draw with Colchester United in the opening game of the season, Watford were hoping to begin their home campaign with a victory. It started well as Keen’s Hornets romped to a three-goal lead, with Dennis Bond notching a brace and Pat Morrissey heading home.
Mike Elwiss was able to reduce the arrears for the visitors on the stroke of half-time, while Mel Holden scored the last goal in a brilliant match between the two sides.
Watford 3-1 Preston North End – January 17, 1998
In the third-tier, Graham Taylor’s Watford were flying-high as they entered the new year. Peter Kennedy, who was joined by Jason Lee up-front, opened the scoring for the Hornets before the 20-minute mark.
An impressive display set-up the second as Richard Johnson, Kennedy, Lee and Micah Hyde all got involved, with the latter concluding the move at the far post. A shellshocked Preston team were two goals down within 30 minutes.
The travelling side did eventually get back to their feet and put GT’s team under an immense amount of pressure, earning a goal back soon after. With the momentum firmly with Preston, against the run of play, Kennedy made it three to the relief of the supporters at The Vic.
With the victory secured, Watford would go on to finish the season as champions and win promotion to the First Division.
Watford 2-0 Preston North End – February 14, 2004
Valentine’s Day 2004 saw the Hornets and the Lilywhites go head-to-head in the second-tier. Watford had struggled during the winter period, only winning once since December, but manager Ray Lewington was determined to stop the rot.
Eighteen-year-old Hameur Bouazza scored on his full debut for the club to put the Hornets into the ascendancy on the cusp of half-time. A stubborn and astute Watford defence were able to hold off the Lilywhites for long enough to snatch a second.
Paul Devlin’s late strike secured the Golden Boys’ first victory of 2004, keeping just a second clean sheet in two months.
Watford 2-0 Preston North End – November 7, 2009
Having only lost four games since the start of the season, the Hornets had made a decent start to the 2009/10 campaign, occupying the mid-table positions.
When the whistle blew for kick-off at Vicarage Road, Watford started brightly and turned the pressure up on the opposition immediately. It would lead to the opener within the first 10 minutes from Heiðar Helguson, who was back on-loan with the Golden Boys.
The Player of the Season that campaign and current Watford captain Tom Cleverley would double the lead going into the break, and due to an impressive goalkeeping performance from Hornet Scott Loach, that’s how the match would conclude.
Watford 4-1 Preston North End – November 28, 2020
In the second-most recent meeting between the sides, Watford put four past Preston at The Vic in an impressive display of attacking intent.
Domingos Quina was first to etch his name onto the scoresheet, powering Ismaïla Sarr’s cross past goalkeeper Declan Rudd on the volley. After a quiet end to the first half, the Hornets fired back into action after the interval, scoring two in 10 minutes through Troy Deeney and Nathaniel Chalobah.
Despite a Tom Barkhuizen consolation strike, João Pedro secured the victory by notching the fourth and moving Watford up to third place in the second-tier table, making it 19 points from a possible 21 at Vicarage Road.
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Rey Manaj now officially has his first Watford goal after the EFL confirmed that he did score Watford’s equaliser in the 1-1 draw at Birmingham City on Tuesday night.
The English Football League (EFL) has launched its new Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) strategy ‘Together’, which aims to make the league and its clubs more reflective and representative of the communities in which they serve.
‘Together’ perfectly compliments our own ‘Watford Welcomes’ and ‘We Campaign’ strategies, and our ongoing commitment to maintain the Advanced Level of the Premier League Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Standard (PLEDIS), which the club received in January 2021.
Providing a framework for the EDI work of the EFL and its 72 clubs for the next five years, the headline objectives of the strategy are:
- Ensure the workforce is representative and reflective of the communities its clubs represent
- Improve the diversity of supporters attending EFL matches
- Continue to challenge discrimination and behaviour both in stands and across social
- Establish a path for continual EDI development for clubs
- Improve the understanding of EDI across the game
Working collaboratively is a key theme of the Together strategy and several of the partners that will help delivery over the next five years were present at a launch event at Charlton Athletic, including, Kick it Out, the Professional Footballers Association, Women in Football, Level Playing Field, Pride Sports, Fans For Diversity and club representatives from Watford, Blackburn Rovers, Bradford City, Charlton Athletic and others.
Speaking at the launch, David McArdle, the EFL’s Head of Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, said: “While football has made strides, it continues to face challenges that are reflected across society, and with over 20 million attending EFL matches each season and millions more watching around the world, the league will use its platform to challenge unwelcome behaviours and promote inclusive practices, to help drive change on the pitch, in club offices, in the stands and within the communities which clubs call home.
“Our aim is to provide everyone with the same opportunity to succeed across the EFL, but we cannot do it alone, so we look forward to working collaboratively with clubs and equality partners to improve our game, together.”
Dave Messenger, EDI Lead at Watford FC, added: “Our ‘Watford Welcomes’ and ‘We Campaign’ initiatives bring our historic family club ethos together with our ongoing work towards ‘PLEDIS’. We’re proud to have been at the forefront of football’s drive to be fully inclusive since Graham Taylor and Elton John joined forces to put Watford FC on the map as the original family and community club, and we’re delighted to offer our full support to the EFL’s ‘Together’ strategy.”
Together branding appears on the sleeve badges of all EFL shirts in the opening weekends of the season, and will do for the remainder of the 2022/23 campaign.
You can download a full copy of the ‘Together’ strategy HERE.
You can access Watford FC’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion statement and strategy HERE.
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While the dust continues to settle after Watford’s 1-1 draw at Birmingham City on Tuesday night, preparations for the Hornets’ next clash away against Preston North End (Saturday August 20, 3pm KO BST) are already well underway.
With Rob Edwards’ men looking to extend their unbeaten start to the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture is affected by the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 2.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This fixture has been selected by international broadcasters for live coverage, meaning we are unable to show video footage of the match in countries in which the game is being televised. Supporters in these countries who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
EFL Broadcast Exempt
- Supporters in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories (see list below) will be able to video stream the match on Hive Live. This match will be included in monthly and seasonal subscriptions, or individual match passes, all of which can be purchased HERE.
- The exempt territories for this fixture are: Afghanistan, Albania, American Samoa, Andorra, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Cook Islands, East Timor, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Fed States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Gibraltar, Guam, Indonesia, Israel, Italy, Kiribati, Laos, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macau, Maldives, Malta, Marshall Islands, Monaco, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, Niue, Norfolk Islands, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Pitcairn Islands, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Samoa, Solomon Islands, South Korea, South Tyrol, Spain, Sri Lanka, St Pierre & Miquelon, Switzerland, Tahiti, Taiwan, Thailand, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, US Virgin Islands, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna, Western Samoa.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Rob Edwards confirmed ahead of the trip to Preston North End (Saturday August 20, 3pm KO) that Club Captain Tom Cleverley will be out for “a couple of weeks” with a calf injury.
The midfielder was substituted due to injury at half-time in the 1-0 win over Burnley last week, in which he scored the winner.
“He’s in a good place, we think it might be a couple of weeks,” said Edwards. “What we want to do is make sure we get this one right so he’s not coming back and fighting through any kind of pain, and then having to come out again. We think a couple of weeks should settle that area down and he’ll be back with the group.
“It’s one where we’ve all had to sit down and make sure we get it right, so he’s not in and out. When you start playing through some pain you can’t give your best, and we want him to give that.”
Ismaïla Sarr missed Tuesday night’s 1-1 draw with Birmingham City through a minor hamstring complaint, but has returned to the training pitch and may be in contention for the next game at Deepdale.
“He trained in part of the session yesterday which is good,” the Head Coach continued. “So we’ll keep assessing him all the way up until Saturday’s game.”
Elsewhere, Imrân Louza continues to make progress in his recovery from a knee injury sustained at the back end of last season.
Nigerian forward Samuel Kalu is also on the comeback trail, with midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru continuing rehabiliation for a knee ligament injury suffered earlier this month, that will see him out for “two or three months”.
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Rob Edwards has confirmed Watford have not received a bid for Ismaila Sarr while the offer that came in from Newcastle United “was not anywhere near the level that we’d expect”.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy were back with the latest instalment of VOTV to chat about the 1-1 draw away to Birmingham City. The lads also got their teeth stuck into the ever-growing topic of Joao Pedro ahead of his rumored move to Newcastle United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
1- As we’ve discussed before, it doesn’t necessarily pay to think about things too much. Any Norwich fan would be forgiven for wondering what they’re striving for, what with their last four top flight seasons ending in relegation and the margins for error for promoted clubs getting narrower with every heavily monied takeover in the top […]
He may be only 18 and making his first start English football but Yaser Asprilla’s performance was one of the more impressive during Watford’s 1-1 draw at Birmingham City last night.
Watford FC is delighted to confirm that Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Andria Georgiou and Gemma Davison have put pen to paper on new contracts with the Golden Girls ahead of the 2022/23 season.
Georgiou and Davison have committed to representing the Hornets in the upcoming FA Women’s National League Southern Division having signed on last season, with Fatuga-Dada looking to build on her historic Hornets career at senior level, which began as an 18-year-old in 2015.
Now 25, the creative forward is one of the longest-serving players at the club having joined through the Watford Community Sports & Education Trust as a youngster. Fatuga-Dada made her debut against Doncaster Rovers Belles in August 2015 and has never looked back, making over 100 appearances and becoming an indispensable member of the squad at WSL2 and National League level. She also helped the Hornets to Championship promotion in the curtailed 2019/20 and 2020/21 seasons.
Known for her playmaking abilities but possessing an eye for goal, Fatuga-Dada’s experience at Watford and in the National League stand her in good stead for the upcoming season, as she embarks upon another exciting campaign in yellow.
Georgiou has also signed on for Damon Lathrope’s side, and like Fatuga-Dada, possesses considerable experience at this level despite being only 26. The former Coventry United, London Bees, West Ham United and Crystal Palace midfielder, who joined in March, enjoyed a dream debut for the Golden Girls, playing 90 minutes in a 1-0 win over London City Lionesses at Vicarage Road.
Capped 16 times by England and a WSL, FA Cup and League Cup winner, Davison will spend another season at Watford following her arrival in March.
The experienced attacker, formerly of English giants Chelsea, Tottenham, Arsenal, Liverpool and others, returned to where it all began as a youth player earlier this year. Davison also made her debut in the London City victory, and scored her first Watford goal against Crystal Palace.
The Hornets can also confirm that defender Ryah Vyse has left the club. Vyse made 45 appearances in yellow after her move from Tottenham Hotspur and played a vital role in the Golden Girls’ promotion to the Championship in 2021.
We wish Ryah all the best for the future.
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Watford FC Community, Sports and Education Trust’s foundation degree in Football Development & Coaching still has places available for aspiring students, with clearing open ahead of the fresh academic year.
Launched during the pandemic in 2020, the degree is a two-year programme that combines academic study with practical work-based learning, in partnership with Middlesex University.
The course was developed to enable students to learn about a variety of football-based roles including coaching, community development and sports science. Throughout their studies they also have access to opportunities to gain real-life industry experience in these roles, massively increasing their employability prospects upon graduation.
Studies will take place either with the Trust at Vicarage Road or at the community hub in Harrow Weald, with one day a week at Middlesex University. Students will benefit from the partnership with Middlesex by gaining access to all the support and services the university has to offer, while being taught by industry professionals who work or have worked in the field.
Foundation degrees are a great choice for people who want to gain practical experience alongside their degree, and who perhaps don’t see themselves studying via the traditional route.
After your two-year foundation degree, you have the option to either continue a year of studies with Middlesex University to top-up to a BA (Hons) degree, or go straight into employment, often in roles attained through student placements.
After setting up and recruiting a new course during the pandemic, the Trust is extremely proud to have recently seen the first cohort of graduates complete the programme, many of whom have chosen to continue their studies and top-up to a full degree.
Now entering its third year, the degree has grown consistently in both development and popularity. There are still a limited number of places available for 2022 entry, and it’s not too late to apply!
We are hosting an open day at Vicarage Road, including a stadium tour, at 11am on Thursday September 1. If you would like to book a place on the open day or contact the programme leader to register your interest in the course, please get in touch with Laura Figg HERE, or visit the website HERE.
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It’s an exciting time at the moment with the beginning of the new campaign now only a few days away.
In the final part of our series looking at our opponents for 2022/23, we give you an insight into Oxford United, Plymouth Argyle, and Portsmouth. You can still look back on Part One and Part Two.
Oxford United Women
Nickname: U’s
Manager: Liam Gilbert
Ground: Court Place Farm
Last Meeting
Watford 2-1 Oxford United – Sep 27, 2020
The Golden Girls triumphed in an early-season contest between two of the FA WNL Southern Division’s best teams, coming from a goal behind to earn all three points at home.
Molly Peters had given the visitors an early lead, but first-half strikes from Sarah Wiltshire and Helen Ward would be enough to turn the game around.
It would be Oxford’s only defeat in 2020/21 before the curtailment, with a potential fascinating title race between the two sides being thwarted by the pandemic.
2022/2023 Fixtures
Oxford United v Watford (02/10/2022)
Watford v Oxford United (19/03/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 2nd
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Second Round
FA WNL Cup: Quarter-Final
Top Scorer: Beth Lumsden (27)
Recent History
Until last season, the recent trajectory of Watford and Oxford United had been very similar, both competing in the same league from 2014 to 2020/21, and usually finishing within a couple of places of each other.
They were awarded a licence for the newly formed FA WSL 2 and finished ninth in the inaugural 2014 season. The U’s improved to finish sixth the following campaign, but that was as good as it would get, with the team usually ending up between eighth and 10th.
Having not earned a licence after the restructuring of the women’s game ahead of 2018/19, Oxford would then play in the FA WNL Southern Division, where they’ve since excelled as one of the league’s strongest outfits, finishing no lower than fourth so far.
After looking particularly strong in the curtailed 2020/21 campaign, they followed that up last year with another second-place finish. Finishing ahead of Southampton FC Women was always likely to be difficult, but United certainly showed their qualities, taking points off the Saints in both encounters. Remarkably, the draw between the two was the only time the U’s dropped points at home all season.
Although there’s since been a key departure or two as we’ll touch upon next, they’ll certainly fancy their chances of competing towards the top end again, especially if they can improve their away form.
Squad Look
Last season’s top scorer Beth Lumsden has left the club this summer, making the move up to the Barclays Women’s Championship with Southampton.
United have retained the majority of the dozen players who featured in 25+ matches in the previous campaign though, with Emily Wallace being the only other departure – the full-back joining the Golden Girls.
Daisy McLachlan has shown her capabilities in front of goal at this level before, and it certainly wouldn’t be a surprise to see her improve on her tally of 10 from last time around.
New Additions
While there’s no doubt that Lumsden will be a big miss, the U’s have managed to recruit well so far this summer in other positions. Naomi Cole and Leah Burridge both bring plenty of experience at this level and higher, strengthening the midfield.
There have also been additions to the backline. Shelly Provan has joined after winning the title with Southampton last year, while ex Portsmouth player Jaime Gotch has also made the move from the South Coast.
They’ve been active in the last week or so, adding a couple of more players, including the return of Taome Oliver for a third spell with the club.
Plymouth Argyle Women
Nickname: Pilgrims
Manager: Ryan Perks
Ground: Manadon Football Development Centre
Last Meeting
Watford 8-0 Plymouth Argyle – Nov 1, 2020
This game was very much in a weird situation, with both teams knowing beforehand that they then wouldn’t be playing for more than a month, due to a lockdown coming into place shortly after this match.
Watford headed into that break in style, securing a comfortable victory with six different players on the scoresheet.
Adekite Fatuga-Dada and Alysha Stojko-Down both netted a brace, while Sarah Wiltshire, Megan Chandler, Katie O’Leary and Rosie Kmita were the others who netted.
2022/2023 Fixtures
Watford v Plymouth Argyle (09/10/2022)
Plymouth Argyle v Watford (02/04/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 10th
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Fourth Round
FA WNL Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Natasha Knapman (15)
Recent History
After being relegated from this level in 2015/16, Argyle to this day will still be scratching their heads at how they didn’t return at the first attempt. Somehow a record of 18-0-2 with a goal difference of +85 wasn’t enough, with a thrilling 5-4 loss to eventual winners Chichester City proving crucial.
It would be very much second time the charm as they stormed to the title the following year, going unbeaten for the whole season.
After winning promotion, they competed towards the top end in the Southern Division, finishing sixth in 2018/19 and in fourth place when the 2019/20 season was curtailed. No Watford fans will be forgetting that 5-4 win at Home Park in a hurry, with both teams putting on a fantastic display.
With several departures, the next season was a real struggle, as the team lost all seven games before the pandemic intervened again. It appeared relegation would be on the cards in 2021/22, but a brilliant run of four consecutive wins in February/March helped ensure that Argyle would be playing in the third tier for a fifth straight campaign.
Squad Look
Plymouth recently released their squad numbers for the upcoming season and there are a few notable players that have departed. Beth Ireland has left after earning a scholarship in America, while last season’s top scorer Natasha Knapman is no longer involved.
They’ll also have to do without the services of talented young shot-stopper Poppy Soper, with the keeper joining Charlton Athletic this summer, after the end of her dual-sign agreement with Chelsea. The long serving centre-back Katie Middleton, who also donned the gloves on the odd occasion, retired this summer.
As you would expect though with their location, there hasn’t been too much turnover with the squad. A couple of notable key players staying on include Zoe Cunningham, who was nominated for the FA WNL’s Players’ Player of the Season award last campaign, and former England international Jemma Rose.
New Additions
There was certainly a lot for Plymouth fans to get excited about towards the end of July, with Argyle announcing five new signings in the space of three days!
Kaitlyn Morgan-Hemmens was the first to be officially announced, with former Swindon Town player Anna Barnes following her shortly after.
Sam Cox was signing number three of the summer, and then Argyle announced another double signing the next day, as Scarlett McMahon and Rose Mason-White both joined the club.
Portsmouth Women
Nickname: Pompey
Manager: Jay Sadler
Ground: Westleigh Park
Last Meeting
Portsmouth 2-0 (AET) Watford – Aug 25, 2019
The two teams were facing off in Hampshire on consecutive Sundays, with Portsmouth getting their revenge in the Determining Round after the Golden Girls had won the league fixture a week prior.
Watford had won 2-0 that day and that result would switch around here, although it would require an extra 30 minutes. Tamsin De Bunsen struck to break the deadlock early in extra-time, with Rebecca Bath then adding a second.
2022/23 Fixtures
Portsmouth v Watford (31/08/22)
Watford v Portsmouth (22/02/23)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 7th
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Third Round
FA WNL Plate: Quarter-Final
Top Scorer: Shannon Albuery (30)
Recent History
Few teams will know the Southern Division like Portsmouth, with Pompey now coming up to a consecutive spell of a decade in the league.
Things might have been very different back in 2014/15. After winning the title they played Sheffield FC in the promotion play-off, but a dramatic stoppage-time goal saw them defeated by a single goal margin.
After that their performances have been fairly consistent, finishing around that top half/mid table area. While usually better than the teams below them, they’ve not had quite enough to make that extra push towards the top end.
There have been encouraging signs that might change. They were third in 2020/21 when the season was curtailed, and although they would end up seventh last year, some of their performances against the top three showed their capabilities.
Manager Jay Sadler has gone full-time over the summer, taking on extra responsibilities, while the team will now be training three nights a week.
Squad Look
A quick look at the stats from last season shows that the majority of goal contributions came from three players. Shannon Albuery and Cherelle Khassel were both prolific scorers, while Tamsin De Bunsen was very much the provider.
With the trio having departed the club this summer, it’s an area where Portsmouth are going to need someone to step up and replace them. Other regulars such as Hayley Bridge, Freya Jones and Jaime Gotch have also moved on.
On the flip side, they have managed to retain several key personnel, with the likes of Danielle Lane, Danielle Rowe, Hannah Haughton and Ava Rowbotham all signing new deals. Evie Gane, who dual-signed with Watford in January, has also agreed to stay on the South Coast.
New Additions
With a few notable players moving on to pastures new, it’s no surprise that Portsmouth have been busy in terms of recruitment.
The strategy has certainly been to focus on younger players, with several joining after previously playing in the WSL Academy League, including a quartet from Reading.
Sophie Quirk has arrived from Charlton Athletic where she featured in a number of Championship games, while ex-Hornet Anaisa Harney has signed on a permanent contract after her loan spell at the end of the previous campaign.
Season Tickets Still On Sale!
You can watch the Golden Girls against all 11 of our opponents (+ cup fixtures) with a Season Ticket for the 2022/23 campaign!
It’s still possible to get yours until the end of August and some fantastic value deals are in place.
For more information on the offers and how to buy, click here.
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixtures against Reading (Saturday September 10, 3pm KO) and Sunderland (Saturday September 17, 3pm KO) will go on sale to fans in Home Group A at 12noon on Monday (August 15).
Tickets will be available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday August 15 * Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday August 16 * Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday August 17 * Home Group D
12noon, Thursday August 18 * General Sale*
12noon, Friday August 19
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Tickets Prices - Reading
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £15
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £15
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £33
- 65 & Over: £21
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £23
- Full-Time Student: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Ticket Prices - Sunderland
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £17
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £17
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £38
- 65 & Over: £23
- Full-Time Student: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £40
- 65 & Over: £25
- Full-Time Student: £22
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Following alterations to our online ticketing process, tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
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Rob Edwards insists Joao Pedro is “fully focused” on playing for Watford as reports linking him with a move to Newcastle United continue.
On Season 2, Episode 4 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Birmingham 1, Watford 1 in the English Championship (played on Aug. 16, 2022.) Watford dominate but fail to defeat ex-Watford man Troy Deeney and Birmingham at St. Andrews. Plus: The transfer market and Ismaila Sarr, and an imperative to keep Joao Pedro for at least one more season at The Vic. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: August 16, 2022.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Rob Edwards believes Watford are “in a really good place” amid claims linking Ismaila Sarr with a move to Crystal Palace.
Club Captain Tom Cleverley and forward Ismaïla Sarr both miss tonight’s game against Birmingham City through injury.
Cleverley’s discomfort continued in the days after he had to leave the field following Friday night’s winning goal against Burnley, and the club’s medical team are now awaiting the results of a scan to assess his condition.
Sarr, meanwhile, was left out as a precaution given a minor hamstring complaint. He’s expected to train fully later this week ahead of Saturday’s clash away at Preston North End (August 20, 3pm KO).
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Birmingham City v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing clash.
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Head Coach Rob Edwards insisted his side’s 1-1 draw with Birmingham City marked another step in the right direction, as Rey Manaj stepped off the bench to earn Watford a share of the spoils at a rain-soaked St Andrew’s.
The Blues went ahead against the run of play when teenager George Hall finished off a slick move initiated by Troy Deeney in the 19th minute, but Manaj hit back just past the hour by guiding Ken Sema’s shot past John Ruddy.
Having come from behind for the first time in the 2022/23 season Edwards was pleased with his players’ desire to extend their unbeaten start to four games, particularly as injuries and suspension had forced three changes to his starting XI.
“We wanted to win the game, and we know we still have a lot to improve on, but a point away from home is something we can be proud of tonight,” said the 39-year-old. “I was proud of the way the players showed bravery and good control throughout, and there was great spirit and unity out there as well.
“When we lost the ball we tried to sprint and win it back quickly, and I thought we went forward well when we tried to attack. I thought we created some good chances against a really well-organised Birmingham team, and though we made mistakes and got knocked back at times, you could see we were trying to do the right things.
“The changes were enforced obviously, but I think the guys that came in - [Vakoun] Bayo, Yáser [Asprilla] and Kaba [Christian Kabasele] - did well. We got the goal when Rey [Manaj] came on and we needed him tonight, but there were good performances all over the pitch.
“I thought Yáser showed real character on his first start. He looks about nine years old and that he shouldn’t be on the pitch, but wow he’s got ability! He’s got fight about him as well, and we’re looking forward to seeing him develop.”
While there were eye-catching performances from current Hornets, the match saw Watford reunited with former skippers John Eustace and Deeney - now Birmingham Head Coach and captain respectively.
Edwards was impressed by the reception the travelling fans gave the duo during what was a hard-fought clash, while the Welshman was quick to thank the Watford faithful for another rousing show of support on the road.
He said: “Troy and I had a bit of a giggle outside after the game, and I’d like to talk to him further because he knows this club inside out. I thought the appreciation our fans gave him and John was great, and it shows their class.
“The support from our fans was incredible from start to finish. Seeing that wall of yellow was brilliant - we all massively appreciate their efforts to come and get behind us.”
After picking up eight points from a possible 12, and currently sitting comfortably in the play-off places, Watford next travel to Preston North End on Saturday (August 20, 3pm KO), hoping to become the first side to breach the Lilywhites’ defence this campaign.
Edwards added: “They’ve not conceded yet so we already know it’s going to be a tough game, but we’ll certainly be going there to win.
“We need to keep up this good momentum. We’ve had a good start results-wise, and the belief grows with every point. Hopefully if we keep building and improving we can keep that going.”
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Rob Edwards admitted he was “bit frustrated” after tonight’s 1-1 draw at Birmingham City as he felt Watford created enough chances to have won the game.
Watford again showed character to come from behind to earn a point as their reunion with club legend Troy Deeney ended in a 1-1 draw at Birmingham City.
Watford FC confirms midfielder Domingos Quina has joined Spanish top-flight side Elche CF on-loan for the remainder of the 2022/23 season.
The 22-year-old has made 37 first-team appearances for Watford since signing from West Ham United in the summer of 2018, and he will now embark on his fourth temporary spell away from Vicarage Road.
Having finished the 2020/21 campaign at Elche’s Spanish rivals Granada, Quina spent time at Fulham and Barnsley in the Championship last season before returning to Hertfordshire in pre-season. He featured on the bench for Watford’s 1-1 draw at West Bromwich Albion earlier this month.
Good luck, Domingos!
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Coverage of Watford's trip to Birmingham City in the Championship at St Andrew's as the Hornets come from behind to draw.
Watford FC confirms that the club’s fixture list is now set until the international break at the end of September.
The EFL and Sky Sports have concluded their September selections for live broadcast, and our game at home to Sunderland (September 17, 3pm KO) has been chosen for broadcast by Pitch International to overseas rightsholders who’ve partnered with the EFL this season.
This is similar to this Saturday’s game at Preston North End (August 20, 3pm KO), which means Hive Live video streams for both games will only be available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories.
A list of exempt territories will be revealed in due course ahead of both fixtures, while those fans unable to access the video stream will be able to listen to live audio coverage. Click HERE for more information, or to purchase Hive Live passes.
Besides the Sunderland clash, the Hornets are set to visit Rotherham United (Saturday September 3, 3pm KO) and Blackburn Rovers (Tuesday September 13, 7.45pm KO) next month, either side of a home game against Reading (Saturday September 10, 3pm KO).
Hive Live video streams will be available to overseas supporters only for the Rotherham and Reading games due to the Saturday 3pm blackout, but both domestic and international fans will be able to access full coverage of the trip to Ewood Park. Further details will communicated in due course.
Meanwhile, Watford host Milton Keynes Dons for the first time in the club’s history in Round Two of the Carabao Cup next Tuesday (August 23, 7.45pm KO), however should Rob Edwards’ charges progress, Round Three won’t commence until early November.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Vicarage Road has been home to Watford FC for 100 years. The first match took place on August 30, 1922 when Watford played Millwall.
With the 2022 centenary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road approaching, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
Today, Tom Brodrick writes about Watford’s leading player of the 1930s, who broke the club’s league goalscoring record one afternoon at The Vic, and whose final goals tally remains second-highest in our history even now.
It has been said that ‘a great man is always willing to be little’. It is appropriate, then, that Watford’s second highest all-time goalscorer, and for 35 years the record holder for most appearances, was a modest Salford lad of relatively diminutive stature; one who never put himself forward to take penalties and was nicknamed ‘The Boy’ by his teammates.
Signed from Manchester United in the 1928 close season, Tommy Barnett made his debut at home to Gillingham that September. He opened his scoring record at Brentford the following month, two weeks before his 20th birthday.
Just two years after Watford finished second-bottom and had to re-apply for their place in the Football League, Tommy’s league tally of 12 in his debut season helped the club reach the giddy heights of eighth; his profile was done no harm by a further five FA Cup goals. He soon came to the attention of Arsenal manager Herbert Chapman, who travelled to Exeter in April to scout Barnett on behalf of the First Division club.
Tommy, however, remained overlooked by upper-league sides and instead played a further 10 seasons of Division Three (South) football at Vicarage Road. Whilst he didn’t take the Blues’ league ‘golden boot’ until 1933/34, and only again in 1936/37, the longevity of his Watford career in tandem with his steady goalscoring record allowed him to achieve extraordinary statistics.
It was during a frenetic game at Vicarage Road in September 1934 against Clapton Orient that Tommy Barnett became the club’s then-all-time top league goalscorer, scoring once in a 5-0 rout. He had netted his 81st league goal three weeks earlier, equalling the record set by Charlie White a decade before. Ironically, or perhaps fittingly given his humble persona, Barnett’s new record-setting 82nd against Orient was eclipsed within the game itself by Billy Lane and James Poxton, who each scored twice.
The Watford Observer felt the day’s gate of nearly 8,000 was ‘satisfactory’ considering the ‘oppressive heat and the threat of a thunderstorm’. The game was evidently relatively unenergetic until a late twist: ‘Until the last few minutes there was nothing in the match to fetch one out of the apathy the heat engendered. Then came three hectic goals which left everybody – including the Orient defenders – gasping with astonishment.
‘A more sensational climax could not be imagined.’
After a first-half stalemate, Lane opened the scoring five minutes after the break – a back-heel into the net ‘whilst lying on the ground’ – with Barnett providing the assist. Poxton later converted a penalty awarded for handball. The dramatic goal spell unfolded in the last five minutes, with Watford netting three in three minutes as reported breathlessly by the Observer:
‘In the 41st minute of the second half POXTON scored with a low shot from a neat pass by O’Brien following a raid from the right…
‘In the 42nd minute LANE followed up a pass by Woodward and beat Robertson with a well-placed shot.
‘In the 43rd minute BARNETT added a fifth from O’Brien’s pass, Robertson being helpless from a drive from close range.’
The fact that Tommy Barnett’s 88th-minute goal broke the club’s league goalscoring record seems to have gone unrecognised at the time. It is only with the exhaustive statistical records available to us today (for which we must thank the late Trefor Jones) that we can pinpoint the game within which Tommy achieved the feat.
Tommy’s 12 goals by the season’s end helped Watford reach a then joint-highest-ever league position of sixth in Division Three (South). The next four years saw the club achieve successive league finishes of fifth, then fourth place for three seasons running. Who knows whether Tommy Barnett could have created a sensation by firing Watford to promotion in 1939/40 to play against more illustrious Second Division opposition?
The outbreak of World War Two, with the inevitable resulting abandonment of that season, put paid to any such dreams and, as it transpired, to Barnett’s playing career.
Despite this, his legendary status at Vicarage Road had been cemented by 163 goals in all competitions, 144 of those within his 395 league appearances. Those remained club records until Duncan Welbourne overtook his appearances record in the mid-1970s, and Luther Blissett his goalscoring one in the late 1980s.
After the War, Tommy found himself in the centre of the action during the Speedway boom as masseur for the Wembley Lions team at the old Empire Stadium. After a subsequently brief stint working in Australia, he returned to Watford and regularly attended at Vicarage Road for the remainder of his life. He died aged 77 in the 1986 close-season, reportedly en route to collecting his season ticket.
More From This Series
Home Ground Heroes: Fred Pagnam
Home Ground Heroes: Eddie Mummery
Home Ground Heroes: Neil McBain
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Match Info
- Birmingham City v Watford
- Sky Bet Championship
- St Andrew’s Stadium
- Tuesday August 16, 7.45pm BST
Officials
- Referee: David Webb
- Assistants: Andrew Dallison and Matthew Smith
- Fourth Official: Charles Breakspear
Opposition
With a win, a draw and a loss from their first three games, Birmingham City sit in 12th going into their match against Watford. The Blues finished 20th last season, 10 points clear of the relegation zone, and have signed five players in order to improve on the 2021/22 position, bringing in defenders Dion Sanderson and Austin Trusty on-loan, Derby midfielder Krystian Bielik, Norwich City winger Przemysław Płacheta and goalkeeper John Ruddy.
Led by Head Coach John Eustace and captained by Troy Deeney, the two former Hornets’ skippers will be looking to pick up three points in an emotional reunion with their old club.
Key Stats
- Watford have won three of their last four away league games against Birmingham, winning all three matches without conceding a goal.
- After keeping consecutive clean sheets between March and April, Birmingham have recorded just one shutout in their last nine in the Championship.
- The Hornets are looking to avoid defeat in each of their opening four league games in a second-tier season for only the fifth time, having also done so in 1988/89, 1989/90, 2000/01 and 2013/14.
For a full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Birmingham City In Numbers.
Team News
Head Coach Rob Edwards said Watford are “still assessing” Tom Cleverley after he picked up an injury against Burnley on Friday night.
Jordan Graham picked up an injury in Birmingham’s Carabao Cup defeat to Norwich City last week, but midfielders Gary Gardner and Krystian Bielik aren’t far from a return, according to Head Coach Eustace.
What Are They Saying?
Rob Edwards, Watford Head Coach:
“The quick turnaround from Friday to Tuesday isn’t easy, but we’ve experienced it Monday to Friday already. We want to be able to recover, we want to get messages across to them for the next game and we’ll need to manage players’ load.
“There are players who feel more sore than others. There’s always lots to do in the three days or so but we’re used to it, so it runs pretty smoothly.”
John Eustace, Birmingham City Head Coach:
“It is another opportunity to play against one of the top teams in the league.
"Watford are favourites for promotion, we are favourites for relegation, so it will be an interesting game.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 22
Drawn: 9
Lost: 17
Last Six:
- March 2021: Watford 3-0 Birmingham City (Championship)
- December 2020: Birmingham City 0-1 Watford (Championship)
- April 2015: Watford 1-0 Birmingham City (Championship)
- November 2014: Birmingham City 2-1 Watford (Championship)
- February 2014: Watford 1-0 Birmingham City (Championship)
- August 2013: Birmingham City 0-1 Watford (Championship)
Golden Flashback
Gianfranco Zola’s high-flying Hornets put four past the Blues at St Andrew’s in 2013, thanks to a Troy Deeney brace and goals from Almen Abdi and Ikechi Anya.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Birmingham City v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing clash.
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Rob Edwards is hoping to get the chance to speak to Troy Deeney after tonight’s game at Birmingham City but has no special plans for dealing with the former Hornets captain.
Watford and Birmingham City will meet for their 49th fixture this Tuesday (August 16, 7.45pm KO), as the two sides go head-to-head in the second-tier.
Ahead of the encounter, we take a look back at five of the best matches between the Hornets and the Blues.
Birmingham City 1-3 Watford – March 10, 1984
We begin in the FA Cup, the competition where the Blues and the yellows would first meet back in 1931. The Hornets were enjoying an extended run in the contest and were looking to take one step closer to Wembley immortalisation.
The irrepressible John Barnes opened proceedings at St Andrew’s, unleashing a powerful effort past future Watford goalkeeper Tony Coton. After the break, Birmingham equalised but the visitors would soon restore their lead through Les Taylor. Barnes would notch the final goal at the far post to confirm Watford’s place in the final four of the cup.
Following the victory in the Midlands, the Hornets would win the semi-final against Plymouth Argyle to set up a first FA Cup final against Everton.
Watford 5-2 Birmingham City – January 15, 1994
In the only Vicarage Road encounter featured on this list, a relegation-threatened Birmingham City were beaten 5-2 in a seven-goal thriller.
Watford’s Paul Furlong struck three impressive goals, and with the match all but decided, Andy Hessenthaler and Liam Daish’s own goal made it five, ensuring the two Birmingham goals were nothing more then consolation efforts.
It would be Watford’s seventh consecutive victory over Birmingham at The Vic, a record stretching back to 1979.
Birmingham City 1-0 Watford (agg 1-1 AET, 6-7 pens) – May 20, 1999
Despite what the full-time scoreline would suggest, this would be a hugely important night in the history of Watford Football Club. After a frantic end to the 1998/99 First Division season, the Hornets only just confirmed a play-off semi-final against the Blues.
Following a 1-0 victory in the opening leg, all Watford had to do was travel to St Andrew’s and not lose, to secure a place at Wembley Stadium for a chance to ascend to the Premier League. A ferocious atmosphere buoyed the Blues and after just 120 seconds they had levelled the match on aggregate through Dele Adebola.
After an epic game, both teams were unable to be separated after 90 minutes and extra-time, and therefore a penalty shootout was the only outcome. Goalkeeper and Hornets Ambassador Alec Chamberlain would go on to become a hero, denying Chris Holland and setting up a tie against Bolton Wanderers for top-flight prestige.
For more on that famous evening at St Andrew’s, click HERE.
Birmingham City 0-4 Watford – February 16, 2013
Heading into the business end of the 2012/13 season, the Hornets were flying high in the Championship under Gianfranco Zola, on the edge of breaking into the automatic promotion places.
Their form certainly didn’t falter when they met the Blues at St Andrew’s as Troy Deeney notched a brace, while Ikechi Anya and Almen Abdi completed the rout in the Midlands.
The result put Watford on course for at least a play-off position as the league’s top-scoring team marched on.
Birmingham City 0-1 Watford – December 12, 2020
The most recent meeting between the sides at St Andrew’s came in the second-tier back in 2020. With the stadium empty, Watford came into the game in good form under Championship Manager of the Month for November, Vladimir Ivić.
With the game featuring very little in the way of clearcut chances, Birmingham-born Deeney scored from the spot to make the difference amid the eerie surroundings.
It would be Ivić’s final victory before the arrival of Xisco Muñoz, who would take the Hornets back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
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Watford are insistent Joao Pedro is not for sale after Newcastle United had a bid to sign him rejected.
Losing Hassane Kamara to suspension is a blow for Rob Edwards’ Hornets ahead of their trip to Birmingham City on Tuesday night (7.45pm KO), but the Head Coach feels the team’s flexibility in formation and during the game provides Watford with an added advantage.
Captain Tom Cleverley will be closely looked at before the game as he recovers from injury, after coming off at half-time in Friday night’s win over Burnley.
Edwards switched to four in defence for that game, becoming five after Kamara’s dismissal prompted Christian Kabasele’s introduction and a change in responsibilities for winger Ken Sema. Facing fixtures on Tuesday and Saturday may also mean the opportunity for changes and team management.
“The quick turnaround from Friday to Tuesday isn’t easy, but we’ve experienced it Monday to Friday already,” Edwards explained. “We want to be able to recover, we want to get messages across to them for the next game and we’ll need to manage players’ load.
“There are players who feel more sore than others. There’s always lots to do in the three days or so but we’re used to it, so it runs pretty smoothly.
“Being able to change and adapt to a different shape makes us stronger, we can play a number of different ways and win football matches, which doesn’t surprise me because we’ve got good players. But it shows they’re coachable, it shows they’re intelligent, and if we need to we can adjust according to the opposition or what we’ve got available to us.
“We’re still assessing Tom. He’s been playing through some pain, so he’s touch and go at the moment.”
New arrival Keinan Davis signed for the club on Saturday on-loan from Aston Villa. The striker, who has had a pre-season of sorts, is subject to praise from Edwards and will be in contention for upcoming games, but will be looked after first and foremost.
“He’s settled in really well,” the Head Coach continued. “He’s a really good guy, he’s had three good days of training now. He had a pre-season but a lot of his work has been individual work, so he’s someone we’ll probably have to bring up to speed. We want to introduce him quickly, but make sure we manage him right.
“He brings a lot of quality, he can get a hold of the ball and bring others into the game, but also can turn and drive away from his man. He brings know-how, he was involved in a successful team last season that got promoted, so he’s been there and done it very recently, so he brings that side to help us as well.”
Watford’s opponents Birmingham contain two former Hornets captains. John Eustace is at the helm having taken over in the summer, and Troy Deeney has taken up the armband at St Andrew’s in his second season in blue.
It will be the first time Deeney faces the Hornets since his emotional farewell in 2021, after 11 years of service at Vicarage Road. Former midfielder Eustace came up against Watford as a Derby player following his departure from the club in 2013, but will take on the Golden Boys for the first time in the dugout on Tuesday night.
Edwards is fully aware of the sentiment and expects a positive reception for both men from the away supporters, but knows that his players will treat the game as normal in the Midlands.
He added: “Both John Eustace and Troy Deeney have been great servants for this club, very good players and performed consistently for a long time. Troy’s still doing it now!
“I went up against John a few times, I think he scored in one of the games I was playing in so I know the qualities he’s got. I know he’s a good man first and foremost and I like how they play.
“Troy is a club legend and I’m sure our fans will give him the recognition he deserves. I’m sure it’ll be difficult playing against him, I’m sure he’ll be up for it as well, but once the game starts that all has to go, it’s business as usual.”
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Rob Edwards believes Watford have signed a striker with quality and knowledge of what it takes to achieve promotion following the acquisition of Keinan Davis.
Tom Cleverley is rated as “touch and go” to be fit for Watford’s trip to Birmingham City tomorrow.
As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we’re taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
In this edition, James Garrett takes a look back at an opening day clash with Liverpool, ending in a dramatic rescue from an unlikely source of goals...
We football supporters always love the start of the season; for one thing, it is usually warm and quite often sunny. Then there’s always the hope of a new season, a fresh start, new signings and the potential chance for something special to happen.
At the start of the 2017/18 campaign the Hornets had a new Head Coach. Marco Silva had taken over from the pragmatic Walter Mazzarri, who had done just enough to help the club survive in their second Premier League season of the Pozzo era. When the team beat Swansea in mid-April they reached the milestone of 40 points, which has seen every team, bar one season, avoid relegation in the history of the Premier League.
There was a real feeling of positivity before the opening game of the 2017/18 season as the Hornets had made some promising signings over the summer. We welcomed back Nathaniel Chalobah, this time as a permanent signing from Chelsea, and Will Hughes, who had been tracked by a host of bigger Premier League clubs, joined the club from Derby but was ultimately required to wait a few months before he was given regular opportunities in the first team.
The Hornets also welcomed the club record signing, Andre Gray, from Burnley but it was another forward player, Richarlison from Brazilian club Fluminese, that had fans most excited. This was largely thanks to a selection of YouTube clips which featured a couple of wonder goals, but it was hoped that the raw 20-year-old would give us some exciting moments over the upcoming months of the new season. It wasn’t just the Hornets who welcomed new signings as Mo Salah made his Liverpool debut after joining from Roma.
The game and the season exploded into life in a scintillating first half; Stefano Okaka headed in Jose Holebas’ in-swinging corner after eight minutes to surprise the Reds and give the Hornets an early lead. After 29 minutes Liverpool equalised with some superb buildup play and a glorious finish from Sadio Mane, but this only brought a superb reply from the Hornets three minutes later. After some neat play, Abdoulaye Doucoure swept the ball home from close range as the Liverpool defenders failed to clear the danger.
The Hornets deservedly led at half-time but we knew only too well from playing the Reds over the years that they can score very quickly when they start playing really well. Within 12 minutes of the second half they had turned the game around and led 3-2 thanks to a Roberto Firmino penalty and a debut goal for Salah, who volleyed home from a yard out.
Despite Richarlison making his debut as an early second-half substitute, it was looking like a Liverpool win but defenders Joel Matip and Dejan Lovren both missed good chances to finish the game off. Watford hung on all the way until they won a 93rd-minute corner which fell at the feet of Richarlison at the near post. The Brazilian volleyed the ball with pace, hitting Liverpool goalkeeper Simon Mignolet and bouncing off the bar and on to the line, where centre-back Miguel Britos headed into the net from inches out. It was a strange goal and had VAR been around it would have been ruled out as Britos was inches offside, but most supporters in Vicarage Road didn’t care about that.
It was a rousing end to a really good game of football and there was no doubt the Hornets deserved a point. After the match, Silva thanked the fans for pushing the team on in the final minutes and it felt like the start of something very good.
Indeed, for the first few months of the season, the Hornets played with some genuine flair and confidence as we were also treated to some fantastic moments from our new boy from Brazil.
More From This Series
Last Minute Club: Craig Dawson’s Overhead Kick (2020)
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Watford Football Club is delighted to announce global leader in men’s below-the-waist products, MANSCAPED™, as an Official Partner.
As part of the partnership, MANSCAPED™ will be offering Watford fans special deals on their favourite products, as well as utilising the Hornets’ pitch-facing LED and collaborating with digital content on the club’s social media platforms and Hive Live streaming service.
Furthermore, MANSCAPED will continue its support of the brand’s longtime partner, Testicular Cancer Society®, by taking over a selection of toilets at Vicarage Road with branding aimed to educate and entertain, whilst sharing a very important message.
MANSCAPED has become a global men’s lifestyle and consumer brand admired and trusted by over six million men worldwide. Founded by Paul Tran in 2016 in San Diego, California, MANSCAPED tapped a white space within men’s grooming, sparking a fresh conversation that was once taboo, and creating a new category of its own.
Watford FC Commercial Director, Paul O’Brien, said: “We are delighted to be working with MANSCAPED, a company which is the market leader in below-the-waist grooming products, and which values and prioritises health, wellness and hygiene, without taking itself too seriously.
“We are looking forward to working closely with MANSCAPED and are excited by the brand, its values and the incredible support it gives to the Testicular Cancer Society.”
Lucas Coyle, Partnerships Manager at MANSCAPED, added: “When seeking new partnership opportunities, we are always looking for unique organizations that embrace the MANSCAPED brand and have a really special following and set of fans — Watford FC perfectly checked these boxes.
“Watford has been a staple in English football since its inception so many years ago and boasts one of the largest fanbases of any EFL Championship team. We believe there is seamless synergy within this partnership and look forward to working alongside their talented team and remarkable athletes.”
About MANSCAPED™
Founded by Paul Tran in 2016, San Diego, California-based MANSCAPED™ is the global men’s lifestyle consumer brand and male grooming category creator trusted by over six million men worldwide. The product range includes a diversified line of premium tools, formulations, and accessories designed to introduce and elevate a whole new self-care routine for men. MANSCAPED’s collection is available globally in 39 countries via DTC and on Amazon in more than 100 countries worldwide. Retail placement includes Target®, Best Buy, Macy’s, and Military Exchanges in the U.S. and Hairhouse locations in Australia.
For more information, visit the website or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Tumblr and YouTube.
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After an impressive unbeaten start to the second-tier campaign, Rob Edwards’ Hornets travel to St Andrew’s to face Birmingham City on Tuesday night (August 16, 7.45pm KO).
Ahead of what promises to be an enticing encounter, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the fixture...
Previous Meetings
Watford have won three of their last four away league games against Birmingham, winning all three matches without conceding a goal.
The Blues have lost seven of their last eight league matches against Watford, with this their first meeting since March 2021.
The Golden Boys have kept a clean sheet in seven of their last eight meetings with Birmingham, and have kept a shutout in their last three matches against the Blues.
Despite Watford’s strong record, Birmingham have won all three of their home midweek matches (Tues/Weds/Thurs) versus the Hornets, with this their first such clash during the week since November 2014.
On average, 2.6 goals are scored when Watford and Birmingham meet.
Recent Form
Watford have lost just one of their last five away league games against sides from the West Midlands, with one of those wins versus Birmingham in December 2020 (1-0).
After keeping consecutive clean sheets between March and April, Birmingham have recorded just one shutout in their last nine in the Championship.
The Hornets are looking to avoid defeat in each of their opening four league games in a second-tier season for only the fifth time, having also done so in 1988/89, 1989/90, 2000/01 and 2013/14.
Edwards’ side are aiming to win consecutive league games for the first time since August 2021, when they beat Swansea City in May and Aston Villa in August.
This is Watford’s fourth league match of the season and they are yet to play on a Saturday (Monday twice, Friday, Tuesday). They are the first side from outside the top-flight to play none of their opening four league games of a season on a Saturday since Carlisle United in 1962/63 in the third-tier.
Opposition Stat Attack
Przemysław Płacheta currently tops the rankings for shots on target (4) for the Blues, with Juninho Bacuna first for shots off target (6) and assists (1). Płacheta has also won the greatest number of fouls for his team (8).
Maxime Colin has attempted the most passes in total (107), as well as the most passes in the opposition’s half (74).
Defensively, Auston Trusty has attempted the highest number of tackles (12) and shares the most number of blocks with Marc Roberts (3).
Dion Sanderson has the most interceptions (6) and the most attempted passes in his own half (57).
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A man has been charged with trespassing on the railway after reports of a large fight following Watford’s match with Burnley.
Tickets for Watford’s Carabao Cup second-round clash against MK Dons at Vicarage Road (Tuesday August 23, 7.45pm KO) will go on sale to Season Ticket Holders from 12noon today (Friday August 12).
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Season Ticket Holders will have their regular seats reserved for them until 10am on Monday August 15. If they are not bought by this time, they will become available to all other eligible purchasers.
Season ticket holders will continue to be able to buy their ticket for the game throughout the remainder of the sales process, but their regular seat cannot be guaranteed after this time.
Click HERE to reserve your regular seat for the fixture.
Read below for more key information, including on-sale dates and ticket prices.
On-Sale Dates
- Season Ticket Holders
12noon, Saturday August 12 * Home Groups A, B, C, and D*
10am, Monday August 15 * General Sale
10am, Tuesday August 16
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket Holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in person.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £12 (£10 for Season Ticket Holders)
- 65 & over: £9 (£7 for Season Ticket Holders)
- Full-time student: £9 (£7 for Season Ticket Holders)
- 18 & under: £6 (£4 for Season Ticket Holders)
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such, all bookings made in this area must contain at least one person from the 18 & Under category. Following alterations to our online ticketing process, tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
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David Webb has been appointed to referee Watford’s trip to Birmingham City tomorrow night.
As Watford fans head back to St Andrews for an early season, Championship fixture, we thought we'd replay a documentary we made during the lockdown season about Watford's Play Off Semi Final win against Birmingham City, in 1999. We asked a bunch of Watford fans to share their memories of being a Watford fan before, during and after the historic penalty shoot out. It fascinating and wonderful to look back on the time and how fans got tickets and followed the game from a far. A huge thank you to Matt Rowson, Pete Fincham, Frances Lynn, Steve and Nick Catley for their contributions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Stevenage-born Keinan Davis is back in his home county having sealed a loan move from Aston Villa, and is excited to begin a new challenge with Watford in the Sky Bet Championship.
The striker explained that the ambition of the club, as well as rave reviews of Head Coach Rob Edwards from former colleagues, were two reasons for his transfer.
“I’m really happy,” Davis began. “I’m from Hertfordshire so I’m familiar with the surroundings. It’s good to be at a top club like Watford.
“Some people at my previous club know the gaffer here and they were saying he’s a really good guy. Watford speaks for itself, they should be in the Premier League so it didn’t take much to persuade me.”
A creative striker with the ability to provide for fellow attackers as well as score goals of his own, Davis netted five and assisted two in 15 games on loan at Nottingham Forest in the Championship last season, helping the Tricky Trees to promotion via the play-offs.
The Hornets’ newest recruit has spoken to Edwards in depth already and knows what is expected of him as a player.
“[Edwards] has seen me play and knows what I can bring to the team, so he’s telling me to do the same thing and hopefully it all gels together and I can start getting some games and goals under my belt,” said the forward.
“I bring good hold-up play, goals, I’m skilful, good at dribbling and effective at the top end of the pitch.”
Davis watched Friday night’s 1-0 win over Burnley from the Vicarage Road stands and felt the buzz immediately, saying he was itching to get on the pitch and help the team as soon as possible. The 24-year-old has high hopes for the season ahead, and seeks to replicate his previous successful second-tier campaigns at Forest and Villa.
“It was a really good win, against a top side in this league,” Davis said of Friday night's victory. “The stadium was very good and the fans too. Any game you watch you just want to be playing, and that was definitely the case on Friday!
“The lads did well, they've have had a tough start to the season with the teams they’ve played against and they haven’t lost, so it’s very good to see.
“I have two previous promotions, and hopefully I can get another one with Watford, get the opportunity to play in the Premier League, help the team stay there and keep building from there.”
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixtures against Reading (Saturday September 10, 3pm KO) and Sunderland (Saturday September 17, 3pm KO) will go on sale to fans in Home Group A at 12noon on Monday (August 15).
Tickets will be available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday August 15 * Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday August 16 * Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday August 17 * Home Group D
12noon, Thursday August 18 * General Sale*
12noon, Friday August 19
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Tickets Prices - Reading
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £15
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £15
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £33
- 65 & Over: £21
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £23
- Full-Time Student: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Ticket Prices - Sunderland
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £17
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £17
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £38
- 65 & Over: £23
- Full-Time Student: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £40
- 65 & Over: £25
- Full-Time Student: £22
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such all bookings made in this area must contain at least one 18 and under. Following alterations to our online ticketing process, tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
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Emmanuel Dennis has completed a permanent transfer to Nottingham Forest.
The striker has moved to the newly-promoted Premier League side for an undisclosed fee.
Signed from Club Brugge in June 2021, Dennis topped Watford’s scoring charts last season with 10 goals in 35 games in all competitions.
The Nigeria international featured in the Hornets’ first two matches of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship campaign but has now secured a switch back to the top-flight.
We wish Emmanuel all the best for the future.
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For the first time this season, all UK-based and overseas Watford fans will be able to tune in to live video coverage of the Hornets' trip to Birmingham City on Tuesday (August 16, 7.45pm KO BST).
With Rob Edwards' side looking to make it four games unbeaten in 2022/23, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 7.30pm BST.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Watch a live video stream on Hive Live with a £10 match pass. Coverage starts at approximately 7.30pm BST.
- This game is included in £25 monthly and £140 seasonal (early bird rate until August 31) Hive Live video subscriptions for international supporters.
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass.
- Click HERE to purchase any of the passes mentioned above.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford boss Rob Edwards hailed Hamza Choudhury’s debut as “terrific”, describing his appetite for work as “infectious”.
Watford have completed the season-long loan signing of Keinan Davis from Aston Villa – and the move will be made permanent if the Hornets are promoted back to the Premier League.
Watford FC is delighted to announce the signing of English striker Keinan Davis on a season-long loan.
The talented 24-year-old joins from Aston Villa after successfully helping Nottingham Forest to Premier League promotion during a loan spell earlier in 2022.
Having previously spent time with Stevenage and Biggleswade Town in his youth, Davis signed his first professional deal with Villa in 2015 following an impressive trial period with the Midlands club.
He would earn his first appearance in claret and blue during the 2016/17 season, coming off the bench against Tottenham Hotspur in the FA Cup, making his league debut a week later.
As well as gaining plenty of Championship experience during his time at Villa Park, Davis featured over 30 times in the Premier League, dramatically scoring a late equaliser - his first top-flight goal - against local rivals West Bromwich Albion.
He made 86 appearances in total for Aston Villa before departing in a temporary move to Nottingham Forest in January 2022.
At the City Ground, Davis would play a key role in Forest’s promotion campaign, scoring five goals in 14 matches, featuring in the play-off semi-finals against Sheffield United and the final victory over Huddersfield Town.
Welcome to Watford, Keinan!
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On Season 2, Episode 4 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford 1, Burnley 0. Ten-man Watford get over the line against Burnley at The Vic, and top the table (temporarily) in the process. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: August 13, 2022.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news, match reports and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Rob Edwards is “delighted” Keinan Davis is set to join Watford and said preparations for the victory over Burnley were not adversely affected by Emmanuel Dennis’ transfer to Nottingham Forest.
Watford continued their decent start to the season with a hard earned win over Vincent Kompany’s Burnley; thanks in large part to another terrific performance from Austrian stopper Dan Bachmann. Mike, Jon, Jas and DCW convened in the balmy Friday night heat to discuss another absorbing night at the Vic, which saw Captain Tom score on his birthday, fan favourite Kamara see red, Yasser Asprilla make an eye-catching debut and most importantly, Watford claim the three points against a fellow promotion hopeful. It’s good to be back to winning ways. Come on you ‘Orns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards was proud of his players after a determined performance against Burnley to secure an important 1-0 victory at The Vic.
Tom Cleverley’s late first-half strike made the difference on the night, complimented by some impressive goalkeeping from Daniel Bachmann in-between the sticks.
Edwards was impressed with his side’s spirit and togetherness to get over the line, especially after going down to 10-men.
“We were tested again and I’m delighted with the three points; that goes without saying,” Edwards began.
“The character, the resilience and the unity of the players, because of the circumstances and going down to 10-men in the end, I thought was excellent. That really pleased me. I didn’t think there were loads [of chances] in the first-half and I’m sure most would agree. I was quite pleased with how we performed.
“The goal came at a terrific time for us and it perhaps changed our mindset a little bit going into the second-half and I thought [Burnley] had a little bit of momentum in that second period, but we looked fairly solid.
“I think their first three shots were from the edge of the box on the volley, so I thought we were alright, but clearly the red card put us on the back foot. In the end, to get the victory was great because they are a good team.”
The Watford boss has been particularly impressed by the attitude of goalscorer Cleverley, who has worked extremely hard to come back from a pre-season setback and was withdrawn at half-time tonight due to an injury suffered while scoring.
“He missed a bit of pre-season with a similar sort of issue, so I’m not anticipating it being a real problem, but we will manage him and assess him,” he added.
“It’s probably a little bit early to give loads of details. If you think about it, he didn’t play much football in pre-season and it’s probably because of Cleverley’s attitude and desire that he has been able to play the football he has done, to the quality he has done. He missed probably four weeks of our pre-season, so it’s incredible what he has been doing.
“It was amazing for him to score on his birthday, probably his last touch of the game and it was a pretty good touch as well, but he does that, arriving late into the box and it was a nice calm finish.”
Hamza Choudhury made an impressive debut in front of a raucous crowd, going on to receive a standing ovation following his second-half substitution. Edwards was pleased with the new midfielder’s contribution and is hopeful of more in the future.
“I was very pleased and I thought he was excellent,” said Edwards. “I thought he was tenacious, his running, his desire, it’s infectious the way he gets about.
“He covers the ground so quickly and it was a terrific debut. I’m really pleased with him; he was just cramping up at the end a little bit. That was the reason we brought him off.”
Another important figure within the Watford ranks was goalkeeper Bachmann, who crucially denied Burnley on multiple occasions and Edwards praised the Austrian’s contribution.
“He [Bachmann] has had a very good week and we have needed him,” Edwards continued.
“He has been magnificent, he really has. I said this before, he is doing his job which is to keep the ball out of the back of the net, but he is doing it very well.
“We needed everyone including our goalkeeper tonight, as we did on Monday, to get something. He is doing his job, he is very professional and he is great to have around the place. He is a top professional and he is doing his job very well.”
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The season may be only three games old but the qualities which pleased Rob Edwards most about Watford’s performance had a familiar ring to them following the 1-0 victory over Burnley.
Watford sit top of the early-season Championship table tonight after displaying plenty of character, grit and desire to hold on with ten men and beat Burnley 1-0.
Watford striker Ashley Fletcher has completed a loan move to Wigan Athletic for the rest of the season.
Watford FC confirms striker Ashley Fletcher will spend the 2022/23 campaign on loan at fellow Sky Bet Championship side Wigan Athletic.
The 25-year-old, who spent the second-half of last season with MLS outfit New York Red Bulls, joined the Hornets last summer following his departure from Middlesbrough.
Fletcher made six appearances in yellow last campaign, scoring against Crystal Palace and Stoke City in the Carabao Cup.
Good luck, Ashley!
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Watford hold on with ten men to Burnley 1-0 at Vicarage Road to go top of the Championship ahead of the weekend fixtures.
Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Friday evening’s fixture against Burnley (August 12, 8pm KO BST), with Rob Edwards’ men looking to extend their unbeaten start to the fresh Sky Bet Championship campaign.
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - continuing into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, two metres x one metre) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Weather Warning
We are expecting hot weather at The Vic on Friday evening and some parts of the stadium will be particularly warm, especially the Sir Elton John Stand which will be in sunlight for the first part of the match.
For those supporters sitting in this stand we strongly recommend you follow our tips for coping in hot weather, as the main risks posed by a heatwave are:
- Not drinking enough water (dehydration)
- Overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing
- Heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Tips For Coping In Hot Weather:
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
- Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling
- Keep in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide brimmed hat. Hats will be available to purchase in The Hornets Shop
- Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people and those with underlying health conditions are particularly at risk
- Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
If you, or anyone close to you is experiencing problems with the heat please attract the attention of a steward and report the problem to them. We will have medical personnel on-site who can assist.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Burnley, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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The Golden Girls will host Norwich City Women in the Determining Round of the FA WNL Cup, with ties scheduled to be played on Sunday September 11.
Winners of the Determining Round ties will enter the FA WNL Cup, with those who are defeated entering the FA WNL Plate.
This will be the first time the Hornets are playing in the competition since 2019/20. While Watford lost to Portsmouth after extra time in the Determining Round that season, the team would go on a fantastic run in the Plate.
Victories over Kent Football United, Oxford United, Chichester City, and a tremendous win away at Middlesbrough after going down down to ten (with centre-back Hattie Kettle playing in goal after the red card), saw the Golden Girls reach the final.
That match-up against West Bromwich Albion would ultimately not take place. A countrywide lockdown due to the Covid-19 pandemic meant the game was postponed, and with the season eventually declared null and void, it was never re-scheduled.
Despite not being able to play that final, it’s something Watford won’t want to be attempting to reach again this time around. The Hornets will have to get past a Norwich City side though if they want to enter the Cup, rather than the Plate.
Norwich currently play in the FA WNL Division One South East, one tier lower than Damon Lathrope’s side. Last campaign saw them finish in eighth place, with Natasha Snelling their top scorer with nine goals.
Season Tickets On Sale!
The match against Norwich City will be included in the cost of your Season Ticket, so don't delay and get yours today!
Prices are just £50 for Adults and £30 for Concessions, with a huge 50% discount for all subsequent Season Tickets after spending £50.
To read more about the fantastic offers and for information on how to buy, click here.
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Watford striker Ashley Fletcher is set to join Championship rivals Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan, the Watford Observer understands.
Match Info
- Watford v Burnley
- Sky Bet Championship
- Vicarage Road
- Friday August 12, 8pm BST
Officials
- Referee: Thomas Bramall
- Assistants: Constantine Hatzidakis, Nick Greenhalgh
- Fourth Official: Leigh Doughty
Opposition
Burnley have picked up four points from their opening two games under new Head Coach Vincent Kompany, playing a more possession-based, controlling style of play compared to their approach under former boss Sean Dyche. The Clarets have brought in 11 players, including last year's League One Player of the Season, Scott Twine; Manchester City prospect Taylor Harwood-Bellis; and former Anderlecht midfielder Scott Cullen.
Key Stats
- Five of the last six league encounters between Watford and Burnley in the Championship have ended level, with the Hornets winning the other at Vicarage Road in March 2012. The last four in a row at this level have been drawn.
- The Hornets have only lost twice in their last 15 outings in the Championship [W11 D2], while winning each of their last six in a row when playing on a Friday in the second tier.
- Burnley are looking to win consecutive away league games for the first time since May 2021 and are unbeaten in their last 12 away games in the Championship, winning the last four in a row.
For the full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Burnley In Numbers.
Team News
Three players will be unavailable to Rob Edwards for Friday night’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Burnley [August 12, 8pm BST], as confirmed by the Head Coach in his pre-match press conference.
Midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru will be out for “two or three months” after he suffered a knee ligament injury in training.
Imrân Louza remains out of action following a knee injury suffered in May, with Nigerian forward Samuel Kalu also sidelined with a hamstring injury.
For more information, click HERE.
What Are They Saying?
Rob Edwards, Watford Head Coach:
“I have huge respect for what he [Vincent Kompany] did as a player and as a man as well, because I like the way he talks. I like what he stands for and he seems like a genuine, really good person. He has made a really good start to his coaching career which I’m sure he will be really successful in as well.
“They have made some changes [in their playing style] and I have heard him talking about keeping a lot of the things that made Burnley difficult to play against throughout the years, but he also wants to bring his own stamp on things. He has been very successful with that so far in the first couple of games.
“We know it will be a difficult game, they all are because they all bring their different challenges and threats.”
Vincent Kompany, Burnley Manager:
“If we talk about teams who have come down, and look at the turnover of all three squads, we’re in a much more delicate situation with more room for error because we’re all new, myself included.
“Watford are still very much a team geared up to go back to the Premier League and then try to stay there.
“It’s the type of challenge for us to have at this time of the season though, I wouldn’t have it any other way. I’d prefer to go there now because we will have a very good idea of where we are with the squad afterwards.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 13
Drawn: 11
Lost: 22
Last Six:
April 2022: Watford 1-2 Burnley (Premier League)
February 2020: Burnley 0-0 Watford (Premier League)
June 2020: Burnley 1-0 Watford (Premier League)
November 2019: Watford 0-3 Burnley (Premier League)
January 2019: Watford 0-0 Burnley (Premier League)
August 2018: Burnley 1-3 Watford (Premier League)
Golden Flashback
M'Baye Niang made an immediate impact on his Vicarage Road debut back in 2017, scoring and providing an assist in a 2-1 victory.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Burnley, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the enticing clash.
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Watford FC and Tring Brewery have teamed up to brew a special commemorative ale for the 100-year anniversary of the club’s first game at Vicarage Road.
The Centenary Ale is a 4.4 per cent golden ale, brewed with the finest British malts and hops. Gold hops have been used to impart a gentle floral aroma, which complements a robust body that boasts deep golden hues.
The special beverage will be on sale from Friday August 12 and is available from The Hornets Shop, online or in-store at Tring Brewery. Nationwide orders of single bottles, three-bottle presentation packs and full cases of twelve can be purchased HERE.
In addition, the golden ale will be available to buy at The Vic in hospitality areas and on draught from the Real Ale Bar in the Graham Taylor Stand on matchdays.
On the launch of the Centenary Ale, Kevin Newman, Head of Retail at Watford FC, said: “When we were looking to create a beer to celebrate the centenary of Vicarage Road, Tring were the obvious choice, as a Hertfordshire-based brewery with a reputation for great ales.
“The team at Tring have been wonderful partners in the project, involving the club in every step of the process, from brewing and tasting to bottle design and marketing.
“As the first beer Watford Football Club have put their name to since the FA Cup Final Commemorative Ale in 1984, it was important that the beer not only looked great but tasted fantastic too.
“Having now sampled a bottle or two I can safely say that this will not only serve to be a great piece of memorabilia but will be a beer that fans will keep coming back for.”
Jared Ward, PR at Tring Brewery added: “It has been a pleasure to collaborate with one of Hertfordshire’s most recognised institutes. As a local employer, the Tring Brewery team is made up of many Watford fans who have followed the club’s amazing story over the decades.
“The Vic is synonymous with Watford and we are thrilled to brew an ale for this momentous occasion!”
Raise a glass of locally brewed golden ale to 100 years at The Vic!
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Watford Football Club is delighted to announce global leader in men’s below-the-waist products, MANSCAPED™, as an Official Partner.
As part of the partnership, MANSCAPED™ will be offering Watford fans special deals on their favourite products, as well as utilising the Hornets’ pitch-facing LED and collaborating with digital content on the club’s social media platforms and Hive Live streaming service.
Furthermore, MANSCAPED will continue its support of the brand’s longtime partner, Testicular Cancer Society®, by taking over a selection of toilets at Vicarage Road with branding aimed to educate and entertain, whilst sharing a very important message.
MANSCAPED has become a global men’s lifestyle and consumer brand admired and trusted by over six million men worldwide. Founded by Paul Tran in 2016 in San Diego, California, MANSCAPED tapped a white space within men’s grooming, sparking a fresh conversation that was once taboo, and creating a new category of its own.
A spokesperson for Watford FC said: “We are delighted to be working with MANSCAPED, a company which is the market leader in below-the-waist grooming products, and which values and prioritises health, wellness and hygiene, without taking itself too seriously.
“We are looking forward to working closely with MANSCAPED and are excited by the brand, its values and the incredible support it gives to the Testicular Cancer Society.”
Lucas Coyle, Partnerships Manager at MANSCAPED, added: “When seeking new partnership opportunities, we are always looking for unique organizations that embrace the MANSCAPED brand and have a really special following and set of fans — Watford FC perfectly checked these boxes.
“Watford has been a staple in English football since its inception so many years ago and boasts one of the largest fanbases of any EFL Championship team. We believe there is seamless synergy within this partnership and look forward to working alongside their talented team and remarkable athletes.”
About MANSCAPED™
Founded by Paul Tran in 2016, San Diego, California-based MANSCAPED™ is the global men’s lifestyle consumer brand and male grooming category creator trusted by over six million men worldwide. The product range includes a diversified line of premium tools, formulations, and accessories designed to introduce and elevate a whole new self-care routine for men. MANSCAPED’s collection is available globally in 39 countries via DTC and on Amazon in more than 100 countries worldwide. Retail placement includes Target®, Best Buy, Macy’s, and Military Exchanges in the U.S. and Hairhouse locations in Australia.
For more information, visit the website or follow on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, TikTok, Tumblr and YouTube.
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Pontus Dahlberg is happy to be home after completing a permanent move back to IFK Gothenburg.
Watford are close to completing the signing of striker Keinan Davis on loan from Aston Villa.
Rob Edwards is looking forward to working with new signing Hamza Choudhury after the Leicester City man signed for Watford on loan.
Watford’s Carabao Cup second round tie with MK Dons will be played on Tuesday, August 23 at Vicarage Road with a 7.45pm kick-off.
Tickets for Watford’s Carabao Cup second-round clash against MK Dons at Vicarage Road (Tuesday August 23, 7.45pm KO) will go on sale to Season Ticket Holders from 12noon today (Friday August 12).
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Season Ticket Holders will have their regular seats reserved for them until 10am on Monday August 15. If they are not bought by this time, they will become available to all other eligible purchasers.
Season ticket holders will continue to be able to buy their ticket for the game throughout the remainder of the sales process, but their regular seat cannot be guaranteed after this time.
Click HERE to reserve your regular seat for the fixture.
Read below for more key information, including on-sale dates and ticket prices.
On-Sale Dates
- Season Ticket Holders
12noon, Saturday August 12 * Home Groups A, B, C, and D*
10am, Monday August 15 * General Sale
10am, Tuesday August 16
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket Holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in person.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £12 (£10 for Season Ticket Holders)
- 65 & over: £9 (£7 for Season Ticket Holders)
- Full-time student: £9 (£7 for Season Ticket Holders)
- 18 & under: £6 (£4 for Season Ticket Holders)
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such, all bookings made in this area must contain at least one person from the 18 & Under category. Following alterations to our online ticketing process, tickets in this area are available to purchase through tickets.watfordfc.com.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
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The Hornets welcome Burnley to Vicarage Road this evening (August 12, 8pm KO) for the third match of the new season.
Ahead of what promises to be an enticing encounter, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the fixture...
Previous Meetings
Five of the last six league encounters between Watford and Burnley in the Championship have ended level, with the Hornets winning the other at Vicarage Road in March 2012. The last four in a row at this level have been drawn.
Watford have won just two of their last 14 league games against the Clarets [D6 L6] and none of their last five since a 3-1 away win in August 2018 in the Premier League.
Burnley have won their last two away league games against the Hornets, most recently in April in the top-flight, coming from 1-0 down to win 2-1. They’ve never won three in a row on the road against the Golden Boys.
Recent Form
The Hornets have only lost twice in their last 15 outings in the Championship [W11 D2], while winning each of their last six in a row when playing on a Friday in the second tier.
Watford have won each of their last 10 home league games in the Championship, keeping a clean sheet in the last eight in a row. The last side to score away at Vicarage Road in the second tier were Derby County in February 2021.
Burnley have restricted their opponents to just two shots on target so far this season, the fewest in the Championship across the opening two matchdays.
The visitors are looking to win consecutive away league games for the first time since May 2021 and are unbeaten in their last 12 away games in the Championship, winning the last four in a row.
Opposition Stat Attack
Ashley Barnes leads the way for assists at Burnley with two so far this campaign.
Elsewhere, midfielder Josh Cullen has attempted the highest number of passes [156] in the Clarets' squad and passes in the opposition half [100].
Josh Brownhill is top for crosses [18], with Vincent Kompany’s Burnley second overall in the league for the number of crosses into the box.
Defensively, Taylor Harwood-Bellis tops the rankings for blocks [4], interceptions [3] and clearances [5].
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Watford are continuing discussions with Nottingham Forest over the potential transfer of Emmanuel Dennis, but talks are not as far advanced as some outlets are suggesting, the Watford Observer understands.
Birthday boy Tom Cleverley is embracing the breakneck speed of the Sky Bet Championship season, with the busy schedule even more packed this season due to the Qatar World Cup.
The club captain has been pleased with Watford’s start to the campaign and is excited for what is to come, following an opening-day win over Sheffield United and a valuable point picked up away at West Bromwich Albion. With Burnley next up tonight [August 12, 8pm BST], the midfielder explained to TalkSport on Thursday morning that a typical Championship season leaves little time for intense training sessions.
“We came off the pitch against Sheffield United in our first game after a proper battling Championship game and said to each other, ‘only 45 to go!’” Cleverley smiled. “It’s a battle of attrition but I like the challenge of the Championship, you’re competitive in every single game and I feel like I’m cut out for it.
“You try to do the bulk of your work in pre-season knowing that when the season starts there isn’t going to be much training. It’s a lot of videos, a lot of walkthroughs, systems and oppositions and you might get one session a week where you get a sweat on! For the lads who are playing most of the game it’s recovery, a little bit of preparation and going to battle again.”
Rob Edwards has imprinted his philosophy on the team already and is working to ensure the Hornets are cohesive and competitive in the second tier. Connecting with the skipper before his first day had even begun as Head Coach, Cleverley was full of praise for his impact so far at Vicarage Road.
“He’s very modern-day,” Cleverley explained. “He’s got his own system but can tinker with that. He’s a top man and rang me in the summer before I’d even met him, we spoke for an hour and I could’ve talked football with him all day.
“He’s a person you want to work hard for, you want to run through brick walls for him and we’ve started well. Monday [a 1-1 draw with West Brom] wasn’t our best performance but the gaffer’s good enough to adapt to those challenges and that starts tomorrow night against Burnley.”
The Clarets are next up in a tough start to the league season, and are sat level on points with the Golden Boys after two games. Also under new leadership, with former Manchester City captain Vincent Kompany in charge, Cleverley expects a battle on Friday night.
“It’s strange now that a lot of people you’ve played against are in the opposition dugout,” he said. “He’s been a legend for Manchester City and in English football, and he’s got Burnley playing a different style of football, but we’ve got to make it as hostile as we can for him and his team. They were quite comfortable against Huddersfield when I watched them, so we’ve got to take note of that and make it as uncomfortable as possible.”
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Burnley not only have a Premier League legend as manager but his assistant is very well known to Watford boss Rob Edwards as well.
After a positive start to life at Vicarage Road, Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards is hoping to maintain momentum going into a hotly-anticipated clash against Burnley (August 12, 8pm KO).
The Watford boss is eager to play in front of the Hornets faithful once again, after experiencing an electric atmosphere during the opening day victory against Sheffield United.
Excited to face the Clarets and their new manager Vincent Kompany, Edwards was complimentary of the next opponents to take their place in the away dugout at The Vic.
“Vincent Kompany is a Premier League legend and a legend in this country for what he has done in the top flight and with his national team,” Edwards opened.
“I have huge respect for what he did as a player and as a man as well, because I like the way he talks. I like what he stands for and he seems like a genuine, really good person. He has made a really good start to his coaching career which I’m sure he will be really successful in as well.
“They have made some changes [in their playing style] and I have heard him talking about keeping a lot of the things that made Burnley difficult to play against throughout the years, but he also wants to bring his own stamp on things. He has been very successful with that so far in the first couple of games.
“We know it will be a difficult game, they all are because they all bring their different challenges and threats.”
Looking back on an important point earned on the road at West Bromwich Albion, the Hornets boss believes that the result is hugely significant in building for the season ahead.
“It is a good result, there is no doubt about it,” he said. “If we had gone there and completely dominated the game, which I know we didn’t, it still would’ve been a good point.
“If you look at how the game went, it was a good draw. Going to West Brom, who are a very good team, it doesn’t matter how you play in the end. If you come away with a point, it’s a good point.”
Following the news that Tom Dele-Bashiru will miss a couple of months of action after suffering a knee ligament injury, Watford’s midfield has been bolstered by the new arrival Hamza Choudhury.
Edwards is excited by the recent addition and is hopeful that he can play an important role.
“Hamza [Choudhury] will bring a real pedigree and I think he is first of all an outstanding young person,” Edwards continued.
“He is a really good guy and I have spoken to him in the build-up of bringing him in and then meeting him properly – he is an outstanding guy and will help us as a person.
“He also brings lots of qualities on the pitch and he is very good with the ball. He is an outstanding athlete, tenacious, and selfless in his work and he will be a very good addition to the squad.
“He is someone who I have been keen to bring in, especially with Tom Dele-Bashiru being out for a couple of months, but Hamza is someone who we have been keen on for a while.”
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Watford and Burnley have clashed in league and cup competitions just shy of 50 times in their history, with plenty of late drama and goals galore.
Take a look at five of the best matches to have taken place at Vicarage Road between the two sides ahead of the Clarets’ visit on Friday night (August 12, 8pm KO)...
Watford 2-0 Burnley - March 9, 2003
Perhaps the fixture that stands out most in the memory for Watford supporters, a tense, end-to-end FA Cup quarter-final went the way of the Golden Boys thanks to two second-half goals in quick succession.
Ray Lewington’s charges had survived a torrid season off the pitch, battling financial woes and off-pitch hardship to retain their place in the Championship and put together a valiant run in the cup. Tommy Smith put the Hornets ahead with 15 minutes left to play, popping up to prod home a scrappy corner. Six minutes later, Stephen Glass’ free-kick sealed an historic victory, etching his name into Watford folklore and sending his side to a semi-final against Southampton.
Watford 4-0 Burnley - May 3, 1980
Just two weeks after the Hornets put four past Fulham in their biggest win of the season, Graham Taylor’s side replicated the result against the Clarets at The Vic on the final day of the 1979/80 campaign. Watford were on course to finish 18th in their first Division Two season under Taylor, but ended in a rich vein of form that would foreshadow their climb to ninth and later second in the two following campaigns.
Nearly 12,000 were in attendance to see the 4-0 victory, with goals coming from Wilf Rostron, Steve Sims and Keith Pritchett on two occasions.
Watford 2-1 Burnley - February 4, 2017
M’Baye Niang immediately endeared himself to the Watford faithful with a goal and an assist on his home debut for the club in a 2-1 victory in February 2017.
Jeff Hendrick inadvertently gave the hosts an advantage after just five minutes, earning a red card for a late challenge on José Holebas, and Troy Deeney connected perfectly with Niang’s pinpoint cross to head home the opener four minutes later.
A jubilant Niang wheeled away in celebration in first-half stoppage time also, darting towards the front post and flicking on a header to get the better of Tom Heaton between the sticks.
Sebastian Prödl’s arm connected with a driven shot from Joey Barton on 78 minutes, with Ashley Barnes converting from the resulting penalty to put some late pressure on Watford, but Walter Mazzarri’s side held out to secure all three points.
Watford 3-1 Burnley - August 20, 2005
Hornets heroes Micah Hyde and Gifton Noel-Williams faced the Golden Boys as part of a Burnley side riddled with injuries, as Aidy Boothroyd’s Watford continued an impressive start to the 2005/06 season which resulted in promotion to the Premier League via the play-offs.
Burnley responded swiftly to Marlon King’s opener; Ade Akinbiyi winning a spot kick for Garreth O’Connor to convert. Gavin Mahon restored the advantage on 30 minutes and Watford were then comfortable for the remaining hour of the match. Debutant Matthew Spring put gloss on the result with his first goal in yellow, making it seven points from nine at the start of the Boothroyd regime.
Watford 3-2 Burnley - March 3, 2012
Nyron Nosworthy scored at both ends in a dramatic Watford win over the Clarets back in 2012.
Current Burnley forward Jay Rodriguez put the visitors ahead in the first half before the advantage was doubled early in the second, with Nosworthy heading past teammate Tomasz Kuszczak in goal. The defender made amends almost immediately though, nodding home Sean Murray’s cross to halve the deficit.
In the second half future Burnley loanee Alex Kacaniklic equalised with 18 minutes remaining and Sean Dyche’s Hornets then quickly scored again to take the lead, Troy Deeney converting from inside the box. The result delivered a blow to the Lancashire side’s play-off hopes and kick-started a Hornets run which saw them defeated only once in their final 13 games.
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Watford will continue to develop the youth at the club under Rob Edwards and the boss has been impressed with what he has seen so far.
Swedish goalkeeper Pontus Dahlberg has completed a permanent move to IFK Göteborg for an undisclosed fee with Watford FC retaining a significant sell-on fee.
Dahlberg returns to his former club after four-and-a-half seasons at Vicarage Road.
Now 23, the shot-stopper had stints at Dutch side FC Emmen, Swedish club BK Häcken and most recently spent time in League One with Doncaster Rovers and Gillingham.
Dahlberg appeared on several occasions in the Under-21 side and in friendly action for the first-team.
We wish Pontus all the best for the future.
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Tom Dele-Bashiru will miss "a couple of months" of the season with another knee injury. Early team news from Watford boss Rob Edwards ahead of Burnley visit.
Three players will be unavailable to Rob Edwards for Friday night’s Sky Bet Championship clash with Burnley [August 12, 8pm BST], as confirmed by the Head Coach in his pre-match press conference.
Midfielder Tom Dele-Bashiru will be out for “two or three months” after he suffered a knee ligament injury in training.
Edwards is disappointed to be without Dele-Bashiru, but praised the midfielder’s attitude and looks forward to his return.
“Tom Dele-Bashiru has unfortunately injured his knee and has some ligament damage,” said the 39-year-old.
“Tom will be missing for two or three months, which is obviously disappointing. No one wants to be injured, even if it’s a week. Tom has started really well, has had a great pre-season and is a great lad working really hard and showing lots of quality.
“It’s frustrating to be without him for a period of time, but mentally he is tough and he has got through it before. We and the club will support him fully and do everything to make sure he comes back stronger.”
Imrân Louza also remains out of action following a knee injury suffered in May, with Edwards noting that the Moroccan is “on his way back” after the long-term absence.
Nigerian forward Samuel Kalu is also sidelined with a hamstring injury, and is estimated to return to training in two to three weeks.
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The games are coming thick and fast now that the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season is in full swing, and the countdown to Watford’s return to Vicarage Road against Burnley on Friday night (August 12, 8pm KO BST) is already almost over.
Ahead of the mouth-watering contest under the lights, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 7.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This match will be televised live on Sky Sports, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 7.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- As this match has been selected by international broadcasters for live coverage, we are unable to show video footage of the match in countries in which the game is being televised. Supporters in these countries who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
EFL Broadcast Exempt
- Supporters in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories (see list below, which changes from match to match) will be able to stream the match on Hive Live. This match will be included in monthly and seasonal subscriptions, or individual match passes, all of which can be purchased HERE.
- The exempt territories for this fixture are: Afghanistan, Albania, American Samoa, Andorra, Australia, Austria, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Cook Islands, East Timor, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Fed States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Gibraltar, Guam, Indonesia, Kiribati, Laos, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macau, Maldives, Malta, Marshall Islands, Monaco, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, New Zealand, Niue, Norfolk Islands, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Pitcairn Islands, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Samoa, Solomon Islands, South Korea, South Tyrol, Sri Lanka, St Pierre & Miquelon, Switzerland, Tahiti, Taiwan, Thailand, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, US Virgin Islands, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna, Western Samoa.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Friday evening’s fixture against Burnley (August 12, 8pm KO BST), with Rob Edwards’ men looking to extend their unbeaten start to the fresh Sky Bet Championship campaign.
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
Full details of the club’s provision for supporters with all types of disability, including visiting supporters, can be found in our Access Statement HERE.
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - continuing into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
- Knives
- Fireworks
- Smoke canisters
- Air-horns
- Flares
- Weapons
- Dangerous or hazardous items
- Laser devices
- Bottles or other glass vessels
- Cans
- Poles
- Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, two metres x one metre) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Weather Warning
We are expecting hot weather at The Vic on Friday evening and some parts of the stadium will be particularly warm, especially the Sir Elton John Stand which will be in sunlight for the first part of the match.
For those supporters sitting in this stand we strongly recommend you follow our tips for coping in hot weather, as the main risks posed by a heatwave are:
- Not drinking enough water (dehydration)
- Overheating, which can make symptoms worse for people who already have problems with their heart or breathing
- Heat exhaustion and heatstroke
Tips For Coping In Hot Weather:
- Drink plenty of fluids and avoid excess alcohol
- Make sure you take water with you, if you are travelling
- Keep in the shade, apply sunscreen regularly and wear a wide brimmed hat. Hats will be available to purchase in The Hornets Shop
- Look out for those who may struggle to keep themselves cool and hydrated – older people and those with underlying health conditions are particularly at risk
- Never leave anyone in a closed, parked vehicle, especially infants, young children or animals
If you, or anyone close to you is experiencing problems with the heat please attract the attention of a steward and report the problem to them. We will have medical personnel on-site who can assist.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Burnley, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
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Watford will take on League One side MK Dons at Vicarage Road in the second round of the Carabao Cup, to be played on the week commencing August 22.
The draw took place live on Sky Sports following the first-round fixture between Sheffield Wednesday and Sunderland.
The Hornets advanced to the third round of the competition last year, after beating Crystal Palace 1-0 at The Vic in the second round.
Ashley Fletcher’s goal against the Eagles earned a home tie against Stoke City, when the Golden Boys’ run ended with a 3-1 defeat despite Fletcher’s second goal in as many games.
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The draw for the second round of the Carabao Cup will see Watford play at home against League One opposition.
Ben & Mike are back to discuss Watford maintaining their unbeaten start to the Sky Bet Championship campaign with a 1-1 draw at West Bromwich Albion. Follow VoicesOfTheVic: Twitter - https://twitter.com/VoicesOfTheVic Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/voicesofthevic Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/TheVoicesOfTheVic Contact us: thevoicesofthevic@gmail.com Thanks for watching! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watford return to Vicarage Road on Friday to take on Burnley in the Championship with Thomas Bramall chosen as referee.
Highly-rated midfielder Hamza Choudhury has signed for Watford FC on a season-long loan with an option to buy, the club confirms.
The 24-year-old joins from Premier League side Leicester City, where he has plied his trade since the age of seven and has gone on to make a total of 84 first-team appearances since making his debut against Liverpool in the Carabao Cup in September 2017.
His Football League bow came a year-and-a-half earlier on-loan at Burton Albion in League One, and after a second spell at the Pirelli Stadium in the Championship, Choudhury quickly established himself in the Foxes’ senior set-up.
Choudhury, whose father is from Grenada, and whose mother and stepfather are Bangladeshi, came on as a second-half substitute in Leicester’s FA Cup final triumph over Chelsea in May 2021, while he also helped his side reach the semi-finals of the UEFA Europa Conference League in 2021/22.
An England youth international, Choudhury picked up seven caps for the Under-21s having made his debut against China in May 2018, while he also represented the Young Lions at the 2019 UEFA U21 European Championships in Italy.
Welcome to Watford, Hamza!
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Tickets for Watford’s trip to Rotherham United in the Sky Bet Championship on Saturday September 3 (3pm KO) are on sale to supporters in Away Group A now.
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone at 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Monday August 8 * Away Group B
12noon, Tuesday August 9 * Away Group C
12noon, Wednesday August 10 * Away Group D
12noon, Thursday August 11 * Away Group E*
10am, Friday August 12 * General Sale
3pm, Friday August 12
*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Rotherham United will finish at 4pm on Friday September 2. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Any remaining tickets will be available to purchase on the day from the Away Ticket Sales Point, located at the rear of the Mears South Stand. On-the-day ticket prices will increase by £2 for those aged over 18 and by £1 for those aged 17 and under. Any ticket purchases made at the New York Stadium will not be included in any data used to compile Ticket Access Groups.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £24
- Adult With A Disability: £14
- 60 & Over: £14
- 18-21 Years Old: £14
- Armed Forces*: £14
- 13-17 Years Old: £9
- Under 13: £7
*Armed Forces concession applies to those currently serving only. An active Armed Forces ID must be shown at the turnstile.
Coach Travel
Coaches will depart from Occupation Road at 9am. All coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination. As this journey is using the M1 northbound, there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 9.45am.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocation specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area will be available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for this match.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Thursday September 1, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking. We will arrange for replacement tickets to be available for collection from the New York Stadium.
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Vicarage Road has been home to Watford FC for 100 years. The first match took place on August 30, 1922 when Watford played Millwall.
It’s heating up at the moment, as teams ramp up their preparations ahead of things getting underway on Sunday August 21.
In our second of three articles previewing our opponents for 2022/23, we take a look at Gillingham, Ipswich Town, London Bees, and MK Dons. Part One can be found HERE.
Gillingham Women
Nickname: Gills
Manager: Josh Oatham
Ground: Rochester United Sports Ground
Last Meeting
Gillingham 2-3 Watford – Oct 4, 2020
Watford continued their winning start to the 2020/21 season with an entertaining victory in Kent. Otesha Charles’ strike saw the hosts go in front early on, but the Golden Girls responded in fine fashion, eventually going 3-1 up with goals from Adekite Fatuga-Dada, Emma Beckett and Sarah Wiltshire.
Georgia Griffin pulled a goal back to ensure that it would be a nervy last 15 minutes, but Watford did enough to prevail and take the three points.
2022/2023 Fixtures
Watford v Gillingham (21/08/2022)
Gillingham v Watford (08/01/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 6th
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Third Round
FA WNL Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Amy Russ (13)
Recent History
Gillingham won promotion to the Southern Division back in 2016/17, when they stormed to the South East Division title. As a sign of their dominance, Fliss Gibbons managed to score a remarkable 33 goals in 19 games, and Charlotte Gurr was nowhere near top scorer despite netting 23 in 15.
There was plenty of change the following summer, and due to the club losing key personnel, it would be more of a struggle in the third tier of women’s football, the Gills eventually going on to finish ninth in the next campaign.
For the next few years, that would always roughly be their level, as the team went on to finish in either 9th or 10th for the next three seasons, although with two of these being curtailed, it might have been different had things played to their conclusion.
The latter of those seasons saw off-the-field change, as Gillingham FC decided to no longer operate a women’s team, with the club carrying on under an independent structure. It’s a decision that’s been vindicated by those still involved, and progress has followed. The Gills finished sixth last year and will now be trying to build on that this time around.
Squad Look
Due to that successful campaign, it’s no surprise that the club have looked to retain a number of players from that squad. So far 11 have already been announced as being retained, with more potentially to come.
Cara Davies was an almost ever-present and she’ll be back again for another season, while Vicky Ashton-Jones, their vastly experienced captain, has stayed on too.
At the other end, they will have to replace the goals of last year’s top scorer Amy Russ though, with the forward having made the switch to Ebbsfleet United. Elsewhere, a couple of other regulars have moved to different Southern Division clubs.
New Additions
Gillingham have announced two new arrivals so far. While she’s played at a higher level recently, Grace Coombs certainly knows all about this division, the defender was a regular at Charlton Athletic for over a decade, helping them to league and cup success.
They’ve also added Ylenia Carabott to the squad. The 33-year-old has been an integral part of the Maltese national side for the majority of her career and joins the Gills after spending last year at Keynsham Town.
Ipswich Town Women
Nickname: Tractor Girls
Manager: Joe Sheehan
Ground: AGL Arena
Last Meeting
While the two teams haven’t faced off competitively in recent years, there will be some familiarity having played some behind closed doors friendlies in preparation for previous seasons.
2022/2023 Fixtures
Ipswich Town v Watford (04/09/2022)
Watford v Ipswich Town (05/02/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 3rd
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Quarter-Final
FA WNL Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Natasha Thomas (15)
Recent History
Since the restructuring of women’s football in 2014, Ipswich Town were an ever-present in the FA WPL/WNL South East Division until finally managing to earn promotion via upward movement back in 2021.
There could be no arguments whatsoever the club deserved it, having been incredibly unfortunate to have two potential promotion campaigns halted by the pandemic. In 2019/20 they were top after 14 games when it was eventually declared null and void, while they had a 100 per cent start prior to things being curtailed in 2020/21.
The momentum continued last season as they immediately established themselves as title contenders at a higher level, as a tremendous battle with Southampton FC Women unfolded. Eventually they would fall away slightly and finish third, but they made sure they took the scalp of the Saints a couple of times along the way.
One of those occasions was in the Vitality Women’s FA Cup, as a remarkable run saw Ipswich reach the last eight, where they were only narrowly defeated by top-tier West Ham United by a solitary goal. It was certainly a very good season, and now they’ll be aiming to do even better this time around.
Squad Look
While Ipswich have retained the services of the majority of their key players from last year, there’s certainly been a couple of notable departures.
Paige Peake has moved to Southampton, while Eva Hubbard has also left the club. The long-serving Lindsey Cooper has moved on after more than a decade at the club, with whom she made 210 appearances.
They still have the services of several important personnel though. Sarah Quantrill remains between the sticks after keeping an incredibly impressive 17 clean sheets in the league in 2021/22. Last year’s top scorer Natasha Thomas is back, and she’s always a huge threat in attacking areas.
There’s a notable ex-Watford connection in the squad too. Bonnie Horwood was an almost ever-present with Ipswich last campaign and remains at the club.
On the new signing front, nothing has been officially confirmed yet at the time of writing.
London Bees
Nickname: Bees
Manager/Head Coach: Vacant
Ground: The Hive London
Last Meeting
Watford 0-4 London Bees – Apr 22, 2018
With the two teams swapping divisions in 2021, it’s been more than four years since the last meeting, when London Bees were victorious against a young Hornets side. A brace from Katie Wilkinson and goals from Destiney Toussaint and Tricia Gould saw the visitors take all three points.
2022/23 Fixtures
London Bees v Watford (23/10/22)
Watford v London Bees (16/04/23)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 8th
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: First Round
FA WNL Cup: Determining Round (Didn’t enter Plate)
Top Scorer: Jo Wilson (14)
Recent History
London Bees will be no strangers to Watford fans, with the two teams competing alongside each other in what was then known as FA WSL 2 for several seasons.
After finishing bottom in the inaugural campaign, the Bees gradually started to make slight improvements season by season, although they would struggle to crack the top half. In 2016 they notably made the Continental Cup semi-final, superbly beating Chelsea en route.
The exception to that league run was in 2019/20, when they were in fifth place prior to pandemic hitting and the season ultimately being declared null and void. It was a struggle the year after though, only winning three of 20 games and being relegated to the FA Women’s National League.
It was very much hit and miss last season, with the team in mid-table form throughout before a poor run to end 2021/22 ultimately saw them closer points wise to the relegation zone than those above them.
Evaluating where they stand right now is incredibly difficult, especially with the fact that Head Coach Sian Osmond departed at the beginning of this month.
Squad Look
Taking a look at last season’s Bees squad is very much a blast from the past, with numerous ex Hornets players amongst their personnel.
Jo Wilson was their top scorer, while Danielle Puddefoot was very much a regular in their side too. Others who featured often were Courtnay Ward-Chambers and Amber Tullett, while a few of our former Development Team players were involved also.
The key here though is last season. At the moment there have been no public disclosures of their playing personnel for 2022/23, although one ex Watford player in Shayla Burgess does seem to be staying with the club.
MK Dons Women
Nickname: Dons
Head Coach: Charlie Bill
Ground: Stadium MK
Last Meeting
Watford 3-1 MK Dons – Apr 4, 2021
With the league season being curtailed, this was the first time either side had been in action since December, as the FA decided to play the Vitality Women’s FA Cup rounds behind closed doors.
A bit of rustiness was perhaps to be expected, but no one told Rosie Kmita, who would go on to score a hat-trick and seal the Hornets’ place in the next round.
2022/2023 Fixtures
MK Dons v Watford (25/09/2022)
Watford v MK Dons (05/03/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 9th
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: First Round
FA WNL Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Cherrelle Albert (9)
Recent History
After going close to promotion on a couple of occasions, Milton Keynes finally won the Division One South East in 2017/18, only losing one league game all season on their way to the title.
Up until the last campaign there was a notable theme of gradual improvement. With taking the final placings from the pandemic hit years into account, the club managed to perform better than before for five seasons in a row.
With five wins out of eight in 2020/21, it looked like the team were well placed to then make a further push, but MK would only go on to finish in ninth place the following season.
However, that doesn’t tell the whole story. With only three wins in their first 17 league matches, it looked like relegation was a certainty. A run of 5-2-2 to end the season saw them pull off a great escape and stay up in the end by a five point margin.
Charlie Bill’s side will certainly be hoping those displays to end the last campaign will now carry on to the beginning of this one.
Squad Look
With that end of season form in mind, it’s no surprise that the staff and players at the club have opted to keep a good thing going, with their retained list containing more than a full matchday squad.
There are three notable former Watford players amongst that number, as Nicole Pepper, Tricia Gould and Amy Martin have all opted to continue their spell in Buckinghamshire. Pepper in particular is a key part of the side, being one of the first names on the teamsheet last year.
Despite the high percentage of retained players, Stadium MK has seen a couple of departures. Keeping with the ex-Hornet theme, Cherrelle Albert announced her retirement from the game this summer.
New Additions
Even with the above in mind, Milton Keynes have been active this summer, already managing to recruit five players.
A couple of those aren’t entirely new signings though. Former Watford player Gemma Biggadike has joined permanently after impressing in her loan spell last season, while Lucy Wood returns on loan after having an impact in the back end of the previous campaign.
Therese Addison became signing number three after trialling at the club in pre-season, and recently the squad has grown further as Nicola Puddick and Angelina Nixon were both announced by the club.
Season Tickets On Sale Now!
Season Tickets for the Golden Girls’ 2022/2023 campaign are on sale now, with some fantastic deals on offer.
Get yours before the end of August and you can be watching Watford for a bargain price!
Full information regarding Season Tickets can be found HERE.
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Recent arrival Mario Gaspar said he was delighted to adorn the yellow of Watford for the first time away at West Bromwich Albion on Monday night, as the Spain international helped the Hornets earn a 1-1 draw at the Hawthorns.
The 31-year-old stepped off the bench to replace fellow defender Hassane Kamara with little under 15 minutes left on the clock, and helped snuff out pressure from the home side after Karlan Grant had cancelled out Ismaïla Sarr’s stunning opener.
Having been eager to get his first taste of English football Gaspar insisted the competitive nature of the clash and buoyant atmosphere has left him thirsty for more, and he is already looking ahead to Friday night’s visit of Burnley (August 12, 8pm KO) for more minutes.
“I couldn’t wait to make my debut,” Gaspar said. “This kind of situation and atmosphere is what I was expecting and hoping for when I signed to come to England, and I’m really happy to have got on to the pitch.
“We were under pressure when I came on, but we coped with it and tried to hit them on the counter-attack. It would’ve been great to come away with all three points, but overall I think the draw was a good result for the team.
“The next game is coming up soon, but I love playing so the more the better! This is the nature of this league, and we need to be used to playing every three or four days.”
While Gaspar continues to adapt to Head Coach Rob Edwards’ methods on the pitch, the former Villarreal man is enjoying getting used to life in a new country away from the grass as well.
After being welcomed with open arms by the Hornets fans and his teammates, he is confident he can play a big role in the club’s attempts to earn promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Gaspar added: “Step by step I’m getting there. I’m trying to learn the language, and I’m trying to get to know my teammates on and off the pitch.
“The reality is it’s a great club and everything is here for me. We’re all ready to fight for each other, and for the fans. They were brilliant tonight and that gives us players extra motivation. I’m really excited for what’s ahead in the coming weeks and months.”
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Character was key to picking up a point against an on-form West Bromwich Albion side, as goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann reflected on a busy 90 minutes which ended level at the Hawthorns.
Bachmann was called upon on several occasions to make vital saves for the Hornets, preventing the likes of Jed Wallace and Karlan Grant from netting winners and making a string of fine stops.
It was Grant who equalised late on in the first-half after Ismaïla Sarr scored from his own half, and Bachmann felt it could have been worse if not for some resolute Golden Boys defending, but didn’t take any extra credit for his contributions.
“That’s my job!” Bachmann smiled. “It’s nice to help the team out, last week was pretty quiet and this week they needed me a bit more which is what I’m here for.
“It was a terrible start, that’s for sure. The first 45 minutes wasn’t good enough, it was far from our best performance but we nearly could have won it, and that says a lot about our team, the desire and togetherness we have. To take a point after that is pretty decent.
“It was a bad time to concede as well, if we had gone into half-time 1-0 up we might have come out in the second half differently. We tried to change a couple of things but credit to West Brom, they were very good on and off the ball.
“Having said that, we’ve got to be better. Without the ball we defended well and showed determination to get the point. The Hawthorns is never an easy place to come to and West Brom are a team that want to go up like us. It was never going to be an easy game, so to come away with a point is pretty pleasing.”
Bachmann may have had the best view of anyone when Sarr unleashed his audacious attempt from 60 yards, and like Head Coach Rob Edwards, he could tell where it was going when it connected with his right boot.
“When it left his foot I knew it was in,” Bachmann recalled. “I was right behind and knew there was nothing David Button could do about it. It never looks as good from the stands and people will look at the goalie, but there’s nothing he can do about it, it was a moment of brilliance and a nice feeling to score a goal like that especially after the start we had. We could have been 2-0 or 3-0 down at that point and suddenly we’re 1-0 up.”
It’s back to home comforts on Friday night with Burnley visiting Vicarage Road, and while Austria international Bachmann acknowledges the season won’t be defined by the three opening games, he is keen to reward the supporters’ commitment after the team’s poor showing last season in the Premier League.
The 28-year-old added: “It’s a long season, and four points from two games, when we knew the first three games would be tough, is pretty pleasing. We’ll recover now and go again on Friday.
“We know there was a lot of damage done last season. It wasn’t good enough from us, not just on the football side but off the pitch after games, the way we conducted ourselves after losing, it wasn’t nice for the fans.
“It’s been a good start [this season] to get that trust again, we know they’ll always support us. We also know there’s anger and hurt, it hurt us to get relegated and it will hurt them even more. We know what it means to them and we want to give them good performances. We didn’t give them a good show tonight but we showed determination, stuck together and got a point out of it.”
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On Season 2, Episode 3 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews West From 1, Watford 1. Watford revert to their appalling Premier League form of last season with an abysmal, shocking no-show at The Hawthorns -- and still get a point for not turning up. Also: In news and notes, Watford FC Women gear up for their upcoming season, with new faces and expectations. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: August 8, 2022.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Watford remain unbeaten after their first away game in this Championship campaign, but how?! Well, Jon, Mike and his brother Andy gathered at the final whistle to try and work out exactly that. It was a tough watch but a welcome point; sensational then slack from Sarr, interspersed with some brilliance from Bachmann and defiant defending, all combining to mean the Hornets escaped the Hawthorns with what has to be deemed a lucky point. As well as the West Brom debrief, Jon spoke to the incredible Ann Swanson at the recent Junior Hornets fun day, and another bona fide legend in the shape of Sir Nigel Gibbs, who was in attendance at the launch of the Vicarage Road centenary exhibition at Watford Museum. Two legends, a legendary goal and a point on the road. What’s not to love? This is From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards admitted West Bromwich Albion were the better side on the night in a competitive 1-1 draw at the Hawthorns, but was satisfied with the effort and desire of his team to fend off attacks and threaten with chances of their own.
A moment of magic saw Ismaïla Sarr’s audacious effort go in from the Hornets’ own half just after 10 minutes, with Karlan Grant’s equaliser on the stroke of half-time levelling the score.
In a game where the Baggies had significant possession but were unable to breach the Golden Boys’ goal thanks to strong defending and Daniel Bachmann’s impressive display, Edwards highlighted his side’s commitment for the full 90 minutes.
“I can’t say I enjoyed it, but what I did enjoy was the fight and the heart that we showed throughout,” Edwards began.
“It wasn’t our night with the ball and I want to give West Brom credit, clearly they were the better team tonight, and we’ve spoken about that in the dressing room. We couldn’t get any rhythm, we couldn’t keep the ball long enough and we weren’t able to press very well. We had to adjust twice.
“But I’m proud of the fight, togetherness and spirit they showed and a bit of luck as well, but I thought we earned that luck to get a point out of a very difficult place.”
Sarr’s strike is already earning Goal of the Season suggestions, and his Head Coach gave him full credit. Edwards felt the Senegal winger showed bravery to step up in the second half to take a penalty, even if the shot was saved from 12 yards.
“I’ve not seen that yet [in training] but I’m not surprised by it because he [Sarr]’s super talented,” the 39-year-old smiled. “I didn’t see it coming but as soon as it left his foot I knew it was in. It was an amazing goal. That’s down to Isma and his quality; it was one of those moments of genius.
“I’m sure he’ll be disappointed [about the penalty] but he’s been incredible and is a big reason why we got a point. He’s brave enough to step up and take the penalty, it didn’t go in but we probably didn't deserve it, so we deal with that and support him.”
At the other end, Bachmann’s heroics between the sticks were crucial to picking up a point in the Midlands, denying the Baggies’ forwards on several occasions.
Edwards continued: “You need everyone’s help to get results in this league. He made some very good saves, and did his job well. The lads in front of him try and protect him as much as possible but we needed him tonight; he stepped up really well.”
A quick turnaround sees Burnley visit Vicarage Road on Friday night, in another difficult test for Edwards’ charges. He knows his team can improve on the performance, but takes heart from the effort they showed.
“When it really counted we showed a lot of desire to keep the ball out of the net, so that element I’m really pleased with,” added the Head Coach. “We know we can do better, and I’ll take responsibility for the performances but we will improve. It's game number two, we’ve come to a difficult place and got a point, but we’re going to grow together with a big game on Friday.
“We’ll be better with the ball. We’re at home so we want to be more aggressive with and without the ball. Tonight it wasn’t our night and West Brom were top class. I’m sure we’ll be better on Friday and we have to be because Burnley are a really good team. We’re already looking forward to it.”
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Rob Edwards and Steve Bruce spoke after the game to give their thoughts of a 1-1 draw between Watford and West Bromwich Albion.
Watford will be looking to make it two wins from two in the Championship when they go to West Bromwich Albion. Neil Metcalfe follows all the action from The Hawthorns.
Tickets for Watford’s trip to Rotherham United in the Sky Bet Championship on Saturday September 3 (3pm KO) are on sale to supporters in Away Group A now.
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone at 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Monday August 8 * Away Group B
12noon, Tuesday August 9 * Away Group C
12noon, Wednesday August 10 * Away Group D
12noon, Thursday August 11 * Away Group E*
10am, Friday August 12 * General Sale
3pm, Friday August 12
*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at Rotherham United will finish at 4pm on Friday September 2. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Any remaining tickets will be available to purchase on the day from the Away Ticket Sales Point, located at the rear of the Mears South Stand. On-the-day ticket prices will increase by £2 for those aged over 18 and by £1 for those aged 17 and under. Any ticket purchases made at the New York Stadium will not be included in any data used to compile Ticket Access Groups.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £24
- Adult With A Disability: £14
- 60 & Over: £14
- 18-21 Years Old: £14
- Armed Forces*: £14
- 13-17 Years Old: £9
- Under 13: £7
*Armed Forces concession applies to those currently serving only. An active Armed Forces ID must be shown at the turnstile.
Coach Travel
Coaches will depart from Occupation Road at 9am. All coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination. As this journey is using the M1 northbound, there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 9.45am.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocation specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area will be available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for this match.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Thursday September 1, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking. We will arrange for replacement tickets to be available for collection from the New York Stadium.
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We can confirm that there have been a further two changes to the Golden Girls’ 2022/23 schedule, with another set of fixtures being reversed.
Our matches against Ipswich Town have now been switched, meaning the dates for the two games are as follows.
- September 4, 2022 – Ipswich Town v Watford
- February 5, 2023 – Watford v Ipswich Town
The Hornets’ full fixture list can be found HERE.
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Watford Under-21 goalkeeper Myles Roberts will spend the 2022/23 campaign on loan at Vanarama National League South side Welling United.
Roberts, who has previously had spells on loan at Wingate & Finchley and Concord Rangers, joins the south-east Londoners until June 30, with a break clause option in January.
Best of luck, Myles!
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Watford will have Mario Gaspar available for selection against West Brom after his visa clearance came through. Team news ahead of The Hawthorns trip.
Watford will have Mario Gaspar available for selection against West Brom after his visa clearance came through. Team news ahead of The Hawthorns trip.
Rob Edwards is thoroughly enjoying his Championship baptism with Watford as he locks horns with very different coaches.
Positivity surrounds Watford FC following their opening day victory over Sheffield United, but Rob Edwards’ feet remain firmly on the ground, with West Bromwich Albion up next on Monday night.
Edwards highlighted the attitude of his players in the win at Vicarage Road during his pre-match press conference, and reported no new injury concerns following the first game.
There’s also a chance Watford supporters could see a first glimpse of Mario Gaspar at the Hawthorns, now that the defender is available for selection.
“Everyone came through the game unscathed which is good,” Edwards explained. “Long term we've got Imrân Louza who’s been missing for a while, but other than that there’s not too many changes from what was available last week.
“Mario Gaspar will be available, so that’s good for us, he’s ready to go.
“There’s been a good vibe around the training ground. After a win it’s always a good feeling and it’s important to not get carried away, especially in the Football League.
“It will be another very difficult game, West Brom are always a formidable force, and Steve Bruce has four promotions from this league.
“They’ve recruited some good players and they will be a difficult team to get the better of. We know it’s going to be difficult, especially at their place, but it’s one we’re looking forward to and I think it’ll be difficult for them too.”
Reflecting on the first game of the season, Edwards gave praise to two key parties who helped the Hornets over the line at The Vic. João Pedro’s impressive display was discussed, alongside the ‘electric’ atmosphere created by the home support.
“João is a very talented player, and when you marry talent with hard work you’ve got potential to be very special, and he has that potential in him,” continued the Head Coach. “He’s a great person, a team player, and he showed both sides of his game against Sheffield United.
“It was great to get that win but it wasn’t the be-all-and-end-all. It was great that we got off to a good start but the most important thing to me was the performance. The unity of the players, the commitment, the running, the fight and endeavour, that was the most important thing and what the fans and I want to see.
“It’s really important for me to mention the supporters again and say a special thank you. We felt very welcomed when we came out, and I don’t think we can understate the influence they can have. They played a huge part on Monday night and the atmosphere was electric.”
Moving on from the Blades to the Baggies, the 39-year-old expects a different approach from their opponents, anticipating an even game. Edwards is impressed by the new recruits brought in by experienced manager Bruce, but feels his side are more than capable of matching the opposition’s creativity.
Edwards explained: “They have recruited some very good players, Jed [Wallace] is someone I worked with at Wolves, he’s done very well at this level and I’ve admired [John] Swift from afar. We’ll respect them, because we know they’ve got good players that in the right moments can hurt us, but we know on the flip side that we’ve got some very good creative players as well.
“They’ll have a different shape [to Sheffield United], there will be different spaces when we’re on the ball and pressing will be different. Sheffield United are a well-oiled team that have been doing something similar for the last four or five years. West Brom have an experienced coach and a decent amount of experienced players in this league. There are similarities between the two but the biggest thing will be the shape changes and different personnel, their threats come in different places.
“The Championship is always competitive, you never fully have an idea who’s going to be in and around the top. It’s exciting and a great start for us.”
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Watford manager Rob Edwards says the fans will play a major role in any success earned this season.
Watford FC Women are thrilled to reveal four new signings and a re-signing Hornet ahead of the new campaign, with Emily Wallace, Melis Mehmet, Morgan Rogers and Scarlett Williams joining the club alongside goalkeeper Georgie Ferguson, who remains with the Golden Girls for 2022/23.
Ferguson was the Hornets’ first-choice between the sticks in 2021/22, and joins six teammates who re-signed earlier in the summer. The 19-year-old, from a family of Watford Season Ticket holders, will be hoping to add more stunning saves to her collection in the upcoming campaign.
Welsh pair Rogers and Williams make the move having been with Tottenham Hotspur, where they showed their qualities with Spurs’ academy side. Rogers has signed on a permanent basis, while Williams has arrived on a dual-sign agreement from the North London outfit.
Rogers will be no stranger to Golden Girls fans, having originally signed for Watford in January this year on a similar arrangement.
The defender made her debut away at Liverpool and would go on to establish herself in the first team, impressing in her seven appearances.
She is also a Welsh youth international who has earned several call-ups to the senior set-up. Just like her former and current teammate, Williams has also represented her country at youth level, having been a key part of Wales’ Under-19 side recently.
Last season was a bit of a breakthrough year for Williams, as she made her senior debut for Tottenham Hotspur too, featuring against Coventry United in the FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup.
The talented youngster can play in defence and midfield, and will now be looking to make an impact at first-team level with the Golden Girls.
Mehmet joins Damon Lathrope’s side following 11 years with Arsenal. The exciting full-back, 18, spent last term on loan at London City Lionesses in her first taste of first-team football, having made her Gunners debut against Chelsea at the Emirates Stadium earlier in the season.
Attacking full-back Wallace has also agreed terms to become a Hornet. Previously at Oxford United and Reading, the young defender has experience at this level and netted for the first time in March against Hounslow, making 31 appearances in 2021/22.
A warm welcome to all of our new signings, and congratulations to Georgie!
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After Watford’s thrilling opening-day victory over Sheffield United, Rob Edwards’ men are preparing to face West Bromwich Albion this coming Monday (August 8, 8pm KO).
Ahead of the trip to the Hawthorns, we take a look at some of the players to have worn both shirts during their careers.
Ben Foster
Former Watford goalkeeper Ben Foster joined the club for his first stint in 2005 on-loan from Manchester United. The Hornets were promoted to the Premier League through the play-offs that year, with Foster extending his temporary spell at Vicarage Road into the following campaign.
Foster then won the club's Player of the Season award for 2006/07 and even though Watford were relegated, the glovesman’s performances in goal won him many admirers.
After his spell with the Red Devils concluded, Foster moved to Birmingham City before making the temporary switch to West Brom for the 2011/12 campaign after the Blues were relegated from the top-flight. It would be at the Hawthorns where the shot-stopper would make over 200 appearances, winning the supporters’ Player of the Season award and being called up to the England squad.
He would rejoin the Hornets in 2018, departing in 2022 after a hugely memorable second spell which included promotion and an FA Cup final.
Matĕj Vydra
A lethal goalscorer blessed with ferocious pace and technique, Matĕj Vydra made a significant impact over two successful loan spells with the Hornets. The first in 2012/13 saw Vydra score over 20 goals as Watford finished third, falling just short of winning a place in the top-flight.
Despite this, his form earned him an opportunity to play for West Brom in the Premier League and, although the move was another temporary one, Vydra helped keep the Baggies in the top-flight, featuring 23 times.
Upon the start of the 2014/15 campaign, Vydra returned to The Vic for his second loan spell and continued where he had left off. The Czech striker scored 16 as the Golden Boys were promoted to the top-flight, significantly notching a goal against Brighton & Hove Albion to secure the triumph.
Paul Robinson
Watford born-and-bred, defender Paul Robinson rose through the youth Academy with the Hornets. A key part of the double promotion in the late 1990s, which saw Watford rise to the Premier League, Robinson was a robust and popular figure at The Vic.
The Hornets Ambassador made over 230 appearances in yellow, cementing his legacy before making the move to the Midlands. He would enjoy similar success at West Brom, spending seven seasons in the top-flight and the second-tier, and playing a significant part in two further promotions.
For more on Robinson’s Hornets career, click HERE.
Kevin Phillips
Then a dynamic young striker, Kevin Phillips signed for Watford in 1994 from fellow Hertfordshire side Baldock Town in his first major transfer. He established himself as a regular for the Hornets, injuries permitting, racking up over 50 appearances in yellow and scoring more than 20 goals.
After moves to Sunderland, Southampton and Aston Villa, Phillips made the switch to West Brom. Although he would only spend two years at the Hawthorns, he scored more than 40 goals during his spell, notably winning the second-tier in his final season.
James Chambers
James Chambers was born in West Bromwich and worked his way through the academy system of his local side. After making his professional debut in January 2000, Chambers would earn two promotions to the top-flight in his five-season spell with the first-team.
After more than 50 appearances for the Baggies, the full-back moved to Vicarage Road in 2004, originally on a loan move before it swiftly became permanent a month later. After 40 appearances in his debut campaign, he played another significant part in a promotion campaign the following season as the Hornets jumped to the Premier League by beating Leeds United in the play-off final.
Despite never having scored a league goal in his entire career before, he was responsible for two Watford goals, only 10 minutes apart, in a League Cup victory over Southampton in 2004/05.
Follow West Brom v Watford Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of West Bromwich Albion v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash.
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It’s a new home ground for Watford FC Women this season, with the Golden Girls playing games at Wealdstone FC’s Grosvenor Vale.
For those who might not have been before, we’ve put together this helpful guide to give you as much information about our new venue as possible.
Purchasing Tickets
Season Tickets will be available until the end of August, and we have some fantastic value prices for all of the family, including huge discounts when you spend more than £50. For more information, please click HERE.
Ticket Prices
Individual match prices are as follows:
Adults - £5
Concessions (U16, 65+, disabled) - £3
Watford FC/Wealdstone ST holders - £1
If you wish to purchase in advance, you can do so in three ways: online, at the Vicarage Road Ticketing & Supporter Services Office, or over the phone (01923 223023).
You will also be able to buy tickets on the day of the game, however adult and concession prices will increase by £2.
Please note: Wealdstone Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
Getting To The Ground
Train/Tube
Grosvenor Vale is incredibly well connected by public transport, with several stations within walking distance.
Ruislip and Ruislip Manor are the two nearest. Both are a 5-10 minute walk from the ground and on the Metropolitan/Piccadilly line. For those coming from Watford on the Metropolitan line, it’s a simple change at Harrow-on-the-Hill station.
Another route if travelling from Watford is to take the London Overground from Watford Junction/Watford High Street to Kenton. From there it’s a short walk to Northwick Park, where you can pick up the Metropolitan line.
If travelling from elsewhere you can also use Ruislip Gardens on the Central line, which is approximately a 15 minute walk. West Ruislip is on the same line which is around 20 minutes away, while also providing some National Rail services.
Car
If you are travelling from Watford, it should take you approximately 25-35 minutes to get to Wealdstone on a Sunday.
The postcode of the ground is HA4 6JQ. If wishing to plan your journey via Google Maps, you can do so HERE.
There will be free parking at the stadium, however space is limited. Street parking is also available near the stadium, while there are also several car parks within the vicinity of the ground.
Ruislip Station has plenty of spaces and costs £1.50, while Kingsend South (Long Stay), Kingsend North, Pembroke Gardens, and Linden Avenue all offer free parking on a Sunday and are within a 10-20 minute walk.
If you require disabled parking at the ground, please email george.wells@watfordfc.com and this will be sorted for you.
Bus
Depending on where you are located, the bus could be a great option for you to get to Wealdstone, with numerous routes stopping within 5-10 minutes of the ground.
The closest bus stop to the ground is Grosvenor Vale bus stop which is served by the E7 bus, which runs between Ruislip station and Ealing Broadway. Bus routes 114, 278, 331, 398, H13, U1 and U10 also stop at the nearby Ruislip station.
Arrival/Entrance
At the time of writing, all of our Sunday home fixtures are 2pm kick-offs, with midweek games at 7.45pm. We would recommend arriving in plenty of time to ensure a smooth entrance into the stadium.
There will be two turnstiles on the day. Supporters can pay on the day in the box office.
For those who need to access the disabled areas, our stewards will open the gate for you.
Dogs
We can confirm that your dogs are more than welcome at Grosvenor Vale, however they must be kept on their lead.
Stands
For those who would rather watch the match sitting down, there are covered seated stands on the side and behind the goal. If you prefer to stand, covered and uncovered terracing is also available.
Food & Drink
There are food areas in the stadium grounds and a bar inside the Wealdstone clubhouse. Food and drink at the bar can be purchased with cash and card, with outlets inside the stadium also cash and card.
Younger Fans
At every home game we will be on the lookout for a lucky family to win a money can’t buy moment – watching the warm-up from the subs bench. We will also have a face painter at the ground for those of you wanting to adorn the club colours.
Finally, there is plenty of space around the pitch for children to move to get a good view, and food and drink available to keep them energised for the whole game. We want all children and their families to enjoy the day and see where they could be in years to come.
Any Other Questions
Is there anything you want to know that hasn’t been covered here? Feel free to message us on any of our social media accounts (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram), and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
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Twelve years on from the 2010/11 Championship opening day, Danny Graham reflects on the night at Carrow Road that kick-started his Golden Boot winning campaign, in an interview first published in matchday programme The Hornet...
Watford spoiled Norwich City’s party on the opening day of the 2010/11 season, rocking up at Carrow Road as relegation favourites and shocking the ambitious newly-promoted Canaries, who would go on to reach the Premier League by May.
This was in great part down to the prolific goal scoring of one Danny Graham, who that night netted the first and second of his 27 goals for the campaign and insisted talk of a dogfight at the bottom of the table was never on the agenda.
“We were widely tipped for relegation, but we didn’t even flirt with that thought,” said the Gateshead-born striker, who began his career at Middlesbrough before joining Watford from Carlisle United in 2009. “At the start of every season, we expected to go and put on a good performance. We’d had a good pre-season, but we knew it was going to be a tough game because they were a new team coming up from League One. We were playing on Sky in front of a full house at Carrow Road, so we expected it to be tough, but I think that kind of worked in our favour. It was probably a perfect start for Norwich to have Watford at home, but we tried to use that to make sure we put in a good performance and that certainly was the case.”
The underdog mentality and spectacle of the Sky cameras had Watford well up for the game as manager Malky Mackay returned to his old stomping ground, and it took only 14 minutes for the Hornets to go ahead through John Eustace.
“I remember his goal very clearly, it was a high looping cross from Don Cowie, the defender misjudged it, so he took it down on his chest and struck it with his left foot, it took a little nick and flew in,” said Graham. “I think that got us off to a great start, he was our captain and one of the more experienced heads in the squad and he was great for all the young players.”
Just 10 minutes later the lead was doubled as Graham linked up with teenage strike partner Marvin Sordell to finish the slickest of moves which would grace any league.
“It was great, me and Marvin struck up a really great partnership and we always tried to play close together,” recalled the 36-year-old. “So, when Lloydy played that ball into my chest, I kind of knew Marv was going to be in that sort of area. Once I’d chested it inside, I got on my bike and hoped Marv could play me through, which he did, then I got the finish. Going in at 2-0 at half-time filled everyone with confidence and gave us the belief we could go on and win that game and have a good season.”
The hosts pulled one back through Andrew Crofts shortly after the break, but Graham never felt in doubt that his team would take the three points, restoring the two-goal cushion with another fine strike before a late consolation from Michael Nelson meant Norwich rather flatteringly lost by only a single goal.
“We knew there were going to be chances, so when it got to 2-1, we didn’t panic, we re-grouped and then got the third,” said Graham, who found the bottom corner with finesse in the 81st minute. “As a forward I was in the wide left on the edge of the box and my first thought was to look up and see if anyone was in a better position than I was, but when I saw there was no one there I thought I could manage to squeeze it in, and luckily it went in off the post. In my eyes, that killed the game and topped off a great performance. It was a bit disappointing they then scored again to make it 3-2, but the most important thing in that game was getting off to a good start in the league.”
Graham and Watford had started as they meant to go on. Relegation never looked likely and in fact the play-offs even looked within reach when a stunning festive period with six successive wins saw the Golden Boys rapidly climb the table.
“There were plenty of highs in that season,” remembered Graham. “Play-off talk did become realistic at that point I think, because we were beating good teams and playing good football. The only problem I feel we had was maybe the size of the squad. Overall, to be tipped for relegation by most people and then to have that run and finish where we finished [14th], it was a really good season for us.”
It was a good season for Graham individually too. Having netted 14 times in his first season at Vicarage Road he almost doubled that number this campaign; his 27 goals included 24 in the Championship which earned him the league’s Golden Boot award.
“I was targeting 20 plus before the season started, because I’d scored 14 the season before and there were a number of games I’d missed when Heiðar Helguson was playing well, so I set that target, and this set me off perfectly with two in the first game,” he said. “A lot of it was down to the players around me supplying the right balls, the right crosses and through-balls at the time and I was lucky enough to put them away. When I left Middlesbrough, my aim was to play first-team football, I had the belief in my ability to make it back to the top and that’s what I wanted to do. I scored 41 goals in two seasons at Watford, so I felt as though at that time it was right for me to move on. If there were no offers from the Premier League, would I have stayed? 100 per cent. The only way I would have left was to go to the Premier League, and that was the case.”
The Watford faithful bade farewell to Graham on the final home game of the season by donning white vests with messages of thanks, mimicking what had become somewhat of a trademark celebration for the forward.
“I’ve still got a vest upstairs with some of my shirts, someone had drawn a ‘Super Dan’ logo like a Superman one!” laughed Graham. “The vest thing all started because the kit man Will Jones made a vest for me [‘Watford’s table tennis champion 2010/11, get over it lads!’] and said to show it when I scored. I did it again with a get-well message for Stephen McGinn after his bad injury. For the club to do the vest thing and the fans to take the time to make them at home and wear them on the final day of the season, that was a very special moment.”
More In This Series
- Shittu v Reading (2007)
- Byrne v Middlesbrough (1991)
- Miller v Wycombe Wanderers (1997)
- Kennedy v Luton Town (1997)
- Palmer v Bournemouth (1998)
- Guedioura v Cardiff City (2014)
- Ighalo v Brentford (2015)
Listen To Golden Tales
Hear more stories from Danny Graham’s two years as a Hornet by listening to the Golden Tales Podcast.
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Following on from the curtain-raiser against Sheffield United, Rob Edwards’ Watford side are preparing to face West Bromwich Albion at the Hawthorns (Monday August 8, 8pm KO).
Ahead of the enticing affair, here are five memorable results against the Baggies from years gone by…
Watford 3-0 West Bromwich Albion - September 11, 1982
Following promotion to the top-flight under Graham Taylor, the Hornets were looking to set the tone in an early season encounter against West Brom.
In only their second-ever competitive meeting, the two sides packed with talent walked onto the Vicarage Road pitch as the likes of Kenny Jackett and Luther Blissett went up against Cyrille Regis and Gary Owen.
A double from Blissett would be enough to secure the points, with Les Taylor’s late strike putting the game out of sight of the visitors. The Golden Boys would go on to finish second in the league, securing European football under the tutelage of GT.
Watford 4-1 West Bromwich Albion - November 20, 1984
The two sides would clash again in the fourth round of the League Cup a few years later. With over 16,000 packed into The Vic, the tie promised much and it certainly delivered.
A five-goal thriller saw Watford secure their place in the next round of the cup competition. Steve Terry, Taylor, Blissett and George Reilly all marked the occasion with a goal, blowing the Baggies out of the water.
GT’s side enjoyed an extended run in the competition, reaching the quarter-final stage before being knocked out by Sunderland.
Watford 5-1 West Bromwich Albion - August 24, 1985
After the League Cup thrashing, the Baggies fought back and beat the Hornets twice on the bounce. In the third match of the new campaign, both teams clashed once again and this time, however, Watford were on the right side of the scoreline.
An impressive five goals were scored by the home side, three of which were notched by that season’s top goalscorer Colin West. Terry and Brian Talbot rounded the match off, with West Brom scoring a consolation goal through Imre Varadi.
The victory moved the Hornets into the top four heading into another exciting campaign, although they would occupy the mid-table places come the conclusion.
Watford 2-0 West Bromwich Albion - April 4, 2017
With the 2017/18 season reaching its penultimate month, the Hornets and the Baggies collided once more. M’Baye Niang opened the scoring within the first 15 minutes, curling an exquisite effort into the top corner, before Troy Deeney notched a goal from close range just after the interval.
The encounter was flipped when Miguel Britos received a second yellow card and was sent off, but Walter Mazzarri’s men were able to hold on for half-an-hour to record their first win in five matches. The result was also Watford's first league win against West Brom at Vicarage Road since November 1994.
The Golden Boys would only win once more in the top-flight that season, as they limped home to finish 17th.
Watford 1-0 West Bromwich Albion - March 3, 2018
With under 10 matches to go, Javi Gracia’s Watford side were looking to secure safety from the drop zone, while pushing further up the table. The most recent meeting between the two sides was an exciting affair, but there was only one goal.
The difference maker was Deeney, who chipped the ball over an on-rushing Ben Foster to secure three points with 10 minutes to play.
The victory against the Baggies moved the Hornets into the top half of the Premier League table, while subjecting West Brom to their fifth straight defeat as they languished at the foot of the standings.
Follow West Brom v Watford Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of West Bromwich Albion v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship clash.
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Watford FC Academy’s fixtures for the 2022/23 season have been released.
The Under-21s will compete in the Premier League Professional Development League, while the Under-18s will once again compete in the U18 Premier League Professional Development League.
Some play-off and cup dates remain TBC, as detailed below. These will be announced in due course.
Please note, all fixtures are subject to change.
Under-21s
Professional Development League:
Wed Aug 10: Wigan Athletic (A) - 1pm
Mon Aug 22: Hull City (A) - 7pm
Tue Aug 30: Barnsley (H) - 1pm
Tue Sep 6: Sheffield United (A) - 5pm
Tue Sep 13: Millwall (H) - 1pm
Mon Sep 19: Swansea City (A) - 2pm
Fri Sep 23: Charlton Athletic (H) - 1pm (VR)
Fri Sep 30: Ipswich Town (A) - 1pm
Mon Oct 10: Reading (A) - 2pm
Tue Oct 18: Cardiff City (H) - 1pm
Mon Oct 24: Queens Park Rangers (A) - 7pm
Tue Nov 1: Colchester United (H) - 1pm
Tue Nov 8: Bristol City (A) - 1pm
Tue Nov 29: Crewe Alexandra (H) - 1pm
Tue Jan 10: Ipswich Town (H) - 1pm
Tue Jan 17: Reading (H) - 1pm
Tue Jan 24: Cardiff City (A) - 1pm
Tue Feb 14: Millwall (A) - 1.30pm
Mon Feb 20: Charlton Athletic (A) - 1pm
Fri Feb 24: Swansea City (H) - 1pm (VR)
Tue Feb 28: Bristol City (H) - 1pm
Tue Mar 7: Colchester United (A) - 1pm
Mon Mar 20: Queens Park Rangers (H) - 1pm (VR)
Fri Mar 31: Peterborough United (H) - 1pm (VR)
Mon Apr 17: Birmingham City (A) - 1.30pm
Mon Apr 24: Sheffield Wednesday (H) - 1pm (VR)
Mon May 1: Coventry City (A) - 2pm
Tue May 9: Burnley (H) - 1pm
PDL play-off dates TBC
Premier League Cup:
Tue Oct 4: Huddersfield Town (H) - 1pm
Sat Nov 19: Middlesbrough (A) - 3pm
Tue Nov 22: West Bromwich Albion (H) - 1pm
Fri Dec 9: Huddersfield Town (A) - 7pm
Tue Dec 20: Middlesbrough (H) - 1pm
TBC: West Bromwich Albion (A)
L16: Between Feb 3-6, 2023
QF: Between Mar 10-13, 2023
SF: By April 24, 2023
Final: Between May 12-15, 2023
Hertfordshire Senior County Cup dates TBC
Under-18s
U18 Professional Development League:
Sat Aug 20: Crewe Alexandra (H) - 12pm
Fri Aug 26: Wigan Athletic (A) - 11am
Sat Sep 10: Peterborough United (H) - 10.30am
Sat Sep 17: Coventry City (A) - 11am
Sat Sep 24: Reading (A) - 11am
Sat Oct 1: Cardiff City (H) - 1pm
Sat Oct 15: Charlton Athletic (A) - 11am
Sat Oct 22: Queens Park Rangers (H) - 10.30am
Sat Oct 29: Millwall (H) - 10.30am
Sat Nov 19: Swansea City (A) - 1pm
Sat Nov 26: Ipswich Town (H) - 10.30am
Sat Dec 10: Bristol City (A) - 11am
Sat Dec 17: Colchester United (A) - 11am
Sat Jan 7: Reading (H) - 10.30am
Sat Jan 14: Cardiff City (A) - 1pm
Sat Jan 21: Bristol City (H) - 10.30am
Sat Jan 28: Millwall (A) - 10.30am
Sat Feb 11: Charlton Athletic (H) - 10.30am
Sat Feb 18: Ipswich Town (A) - 11.30am
Sat Feb 25: Colchester United (H) - 11am
Sat Mar 4: Queens Park Rangers (A) - 10.30am
Sat Mar 11: Swansea City (H) - 1pm
Sat Mar 18: Burnley (H) - 10.30am
Sat Apr 1: Hull City (A) - 11am
Sat Apr 8: Birmingham City (A) - 12pm
Sat Apr 15: Sheffield Wednesday (H) - 12pm
Sat Apr 22: Sheffield United (A) - 11am
Sat Apr 29: Barnsley (H) - 1pm
U18PDL play-off dates TBC
FA Youth Cup:
First Round: By November 5, 2022
Second Round: By November 26, 2022
Third Round: By December 17, 2022
Fourth Round: By January 21, 2023
Fifth Round: By February 11, 2023
QF: By March 4, 2023
SF: By April 8, 2023
Final: By April 29, 2023
U18/U16 PDL Cup dates TBC
Home Matches
Unless otherwise stated, all home U18 matches will be held at Watford FC’s London Colney training ground, and all U21 matches will be held either at the training ground, or at Kings Langley FC’s Orbital Fasteners Stadium. Matches at Vicarage Road Stadium are marked ‘VR’.
All fixtures at the London Colney training ground will be held behind closed doors and will not be open to spectators, while those games at Kings Langley and at Vicarage Road will be reviewed on a game-by-game basis.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Women’s Team at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Physiotherapist or Sports Therapist to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for day-to-day delivery of high level injury prevention, injury rehabilitation and pitch side first aid/emergency care for our Women’s Team.
You will play a key role implementing systems and infrastructures required to deliver high level injury prevention, injury rehabilitation and pitch side first aid/ emergency care and ensure that these processes are supported, documented, and reviewed appropriately, in collaboration with the rest of the club medical staff.
You will be required to attend all training sessions and competition matches played by the club throughout the season and pre-season, as well as providing or arranging equivalent services to players during the off season to ensure continuity of treatment.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Degree qualification (Physiotherapy, Sports Therapy, Sports Rehabilitation)
- Proof of Professional Registration (CSP, HCPC, SST, BASRaT)
- Valid FA Safeguarding Certificate (or working towards)
- Be a UKAD Clean Sport Advisor
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Women’s Physiotherapist/Sports Therapist
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Casual Worker
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com, or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Women’s Team at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Strength and Conditioning Coach to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for day-to-day delivery, programming of strength, power, loading, prehab and conditioning that will contribute to performance outcomes and long-term development of fitness.
The Strength and Conditioning Coach will be responsible for providing individualised and periodized strength, speed and conditioning plans and programmes for players working with coaches and as part of a multi-disciplinary team to support on pitch performance.
You will play a key role implementing systems and infrastructures required to deliver high level physical preparation and ensure that these processes are supported, documented, and reviewed appropriately, in collaboration with the rest of the multi-disciplinary team.
You will be required to attend all training sessions and competition matches played by the club throughout the season and pre-season, as well as providing high-performance, year-round season specific S&C programmes.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
- BSc in Sports Science or a related field
- Hold UK Strength & Conditioning Association (UKSCA) Accredited Strength and Conditioning Coach (ASCC) credentials or working towards
- Football Association Level 2 Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAiF) qualification
- Be a UKAD Clean Sport Advisor
- Have extensive experience of working in a sport science setting with elite athletes
- Be able to work effectively in a team environment and operate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary support team
The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Women’s Strength and Conditioning Coach
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Casual Worker
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com, or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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While the dust continues to settle after Watford’s season-opening win over Sheffield United, preparations for the Hornets’ next clash away at West Bromwich Albion (Monday August 8, 8pm KO BST) are already well underway.
Ahead of the mouth-watering contest at the Hawthorns, find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 7.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This match will be televised live on Sky Sports, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 7.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- As this match has been selected by international broadcasters for live coverage, we are unable to show video footage of the match in countries in which the game is being televised. Supporters in these countries who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
EFL Broadcast Exempt
- Supporters in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories (see list below) will be able to stream the match on Hive Live. This match will be included in monthly and seasonal subscriptions, or individual match passes, all of which can be purchased HERE.
- The exempt territories for this fixture are: Afghanistan, Albania, American Samoa, Andorra, Bangladesh, Belgium, Bhutan, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Cook Islands, East Timor, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Fed States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Gibraltar, Guam, Indonesia, Israel, Kiribati, Laos, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macau, Maldives, Malta, Marshall Islands, Monaco, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, Niue, Norfolk Islands, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Philippines, Pitcairn Islands, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Romania, Samoa, Solomon Islands, South Korea, South Tyrol, Sri Lanka, St Pierre & Miquelon, Tahiti, Taiwan, Thailand, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, US Virgin Islands, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna, Western Samoa.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Hertfordshire-born prospect Max Delyfer has joined Watford’s Under-21 side subject to the completion of a medical, the club confirms.
The defensive midfielder arrives following a successful spell at Isthmian League side Potters Bar Town, where the 18-year-old broke into the first-team at the start of last season. Playing regularly in a men’s team environment, Delyfer was previously in the youth set-up at Arsenal.
The playmaker has spent pre-season on trial in Omer Riza’s side, impressing in a friendly fixture against Hitchin Town last week, and he feels immediately settled in his new surroundings.
“I’m absolutely over the moon. It’s a dream come true and something I’m really proud of,” said Delyfer.
“It’s been brilliant. All of the players, coaches and staff have really welcomed me and I felt at home straight away; as soon as I stepped in the door I knew this was the place for me. It’s been really successful and I’m ready to kick on now.”
Delyfer has aims to grow as a player with the Young Hornets and hopes his experience at senior level will stand him in good stead. His role in the base of midfield sees him regularly carry the ball, start attacks with his passing qualities and prevent opposition chances, utilising his physicality.
The youngster continued: “Potters Bar really helped me to get that experience in men’s football, and now I’m ready to take it into Watford and push on again.
“I’m a holding midfielder and I can play as a box-to-box midfielder as well. I like to get on the ball as much as possible, control the tempo of the game and show my passing range. I’m a strong defensive midfielder who can dominate the game.
“I’m going to try and progress as much as I can this season, do as much for the team as possible and help Watford win games!”
Welcome to Watford, Max!
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To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
Next up is Beppe Sannino, who was at the helm for eight months between December 2013 and August 2014...
Somehow, when the language barrier often seemed too mountainous to navigate, Beppe Sannino always managed to get his point across. A convincing 3-0 win against Leeds United, including Troy Deeney’s 22nd goal of the season, had extended the Italian ringmaster’s impressive home record to just one defeat in 12 games, and gave Watford renewed hope of sneaking into the Championship’s top six.
At the post-match press conference – always a hoot trying to decipher Sannino’s extravagant semaphore, body language and sound effects – your correspondent ventured a question that the play-offs might yet be attainable for the Hornets. Sannino spoke virtually no English but he recognised the odd buzzword, and daring to mention the play-offs was like wishing an actor good luck before curtain up at the theatre: well-intentioned, but strictly taboo. Breaking into a high-pitched screech, which was half scalded cat and half emergency brake on a train, his colourful response was delightfully scatty.
But it conveyed emphatically that he would not entertain such fanciful talk unless the Hornets were within touching distance of the dotted line. He soon called a halt to the formalities by pretending to blow a full-time whistle. As it transpired, Sannino was right to be cautious. Following an undeserved 2-1 defeat at Queens Park Rangers on Easter Monday, Watford’s season tailed off with four consecutive defeats and they finished the 2013/14 season in a mediocre 13th.
T-shirts in The Hornets Shop bore the legend ‘Beppe Sannino, he’s out of his box’ – and few supporters were inclined to disagree with the official club merchandise. At the end of every game, he would thank the referee and his assistants by marching on to the pitch to shake hands and bowing theatrically in appreciation. And his suggestion of an extra week’s training after the end of the season was a bit too left-field for the players’ liking. But at least he signed off in style, a 4-2 win against Huddersfield with 10 men which had Vicarage Road rocking.
That was one of Deeney’s favourites in his 11 years at Watford, and he recalled: “Games like that, where our backs were against the wall but the crowd swung behind us and we dug it out by fighting together, was the rewarding side of captaincy. We all put our nuts on the line to win that.” There can’t be too many Head Coaches who part company with their club when they are second in the table, after winning four of the first five games of the season, but that’s what happened to dear old Beppe.
Credit where it’s due: he stopped the rot after Gianfranco Zola’s memorable reign had petered out in five home defeats on the spin, and he made The Vic a fortress again, but Sannino simply couldn’t buy an away win. Three times in a row – at Manchester City in the cup, Nottingham Forest and Leicester – Watford were 2-0 up but lost two and drew the other. Since leaving Vicarage Road in August 2014, he has been Head Coach at eight different clubs, the last of them Al-Ittihad in Libya.
More From This Series
The Boss Files: Steve Harrison
The Boss Files: Glenn Roeder
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Watford Football Club has responded after fans hit out at how stewards and emergency services reacted to a young supporter falling ill during a game.
Among a number of other medical incidents which took place inside Vicarage Road Stadium before and during Monday August 1’s match, a female Sheffield United supporter was treated during the second-half of the game.
The supporter affected has a pre-existing medical condition, which requires specific medical intervention.
Stewards alerted St John Ambulance staff to a female supporter feeling unwell during the second-half, so first response medical services were at the scene within two minutes of being called. At this point, the patient was sitting up and conversing with staff.
Safety and security staff attended in the minutes after, given other supporters’ concern and attempts to alert further attention. These minutes included two supporters – one from the home section and one from the away section – reaching the pitch perimeter AstroTurf in order to raise awareness. The club is satisfied neither of these supporters was attempting a pitch incursion and were simply trying to help.
Paramedics were called and attended as the patient’s condition regressed rapidly, while other support medical staff liaised directly with East of England Ambulance service, working to advise appropriate care given the very specific nature of the condition.
After just over nine minutes had elapsed, an ambulance was on-site to transport the patient to nearby Watford General Hospital, under the guidance of the Crowd Doctor who was continuing to stabilise the patient.
For further reference, the EEAST (East of England Ambulance Service) press statement reads as below:
‘There were a number of medical incidents at Watford Football Club’s ground on August 1. Towards the end of the match, St John Ambulance alerted our own paramedics, who were on-site in the First Aid room, to an incident where a female had become unwell. Once our crew assessed the patient, we were able to have an ambulance on-scene in just over nine minutes, and she was transported to Watford General Hospital for further assessment and care.’
As is customary after every home fixture, Watford FC’s matchday debriefing will include a review of operations with the potential for procedural change should it be deemed necessary.
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Transfer news: Watford youngster JJ McKiernan is heading out on loan to National League Eastleigh.
The referee has been chosen for Watford's trip to The Hawthorns on Monday and the Championship game with West Brom.
Watford Under-21 playmaker JJ McKiernan will spend the first half of the 2022/23 campaign on loan at Vanarama National League side Eastleigh FC.
The Northern Ireland youth international, signed from Andover Town in 2018, will join the Spitfires until January 2023.
McKiernan has trained with the first-team throughout pre-season, featuring in friendlies against the likes of Cambridge United and Panathinaikos.
Go well, JJ!
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Watford fans should expect some surprises in team selection for the rest of August says Cristiano Giaretta as rule of 11 is followed.
With the start of Watford FC’s Sky Bet Championship season just hours away, the club can confirm squad numbers for the men’s team for 2022/23.
Daniel Bachmann has taken the vacant number one shirt, while the number 26 that he previously wore has been given to fellow goalkeeper Ben Hamer.
Forward additions Rey Manaj and Vakoun Bayo have been handed numbers nine and 19 respectively, with Yáser Asprilla and Maduka Okoye choosing 18 and 35 as their first numbers at Vicarage Road.
Pontus Dahlberg and Dapo Mebude have been given 30 and 37 following their temporary spells away from Watford last year, while the club’s other returning loanees Domingos Quina (20), Tom Dele-Bashiru (24), Mattie Pollock (32) and Joseph Hungbo (36) have all kept their previous numbers.
Young talents JJ McKiernan and Adian Manning have also been given squad numbers for the new campaign, with the duo taking 43 and 44 respectively.
Mario Gaspar’s squad number will be revealed in due course, following his recent arrival at the club.
2022/23 Watford FC Squad Numbers
1 - Daniel Bachmann
2 - Jeremy Ngakia
5 - William Troost-Ekong
6 - Imrân Louza
8 - Tom Cleverley
9 - Rey Manaj
10 - João Pedro
12 - Ken Sema
13 - Adalberto Peñaranda
14 - Hassane Kamara
15 - Craig Cathcart
16 - Dan Gosling
17 - Ashley Fletcher
18 - Yáser Asprilla
19 - Vakoun Bayo
20 - Domingos Quina
22 - Samir
23 - Ismaïla Sarr
24 - Tom Dele-Bashiru
25 - Emmanuel Dennis
26 - Ben Hamer
27 - Christian Kabasele
28 - Samuel Kalu
30 - Pontus Dahlberg
31 - Francisco Sierralta
32 - Mattie Pollock
33 - Ignacio Pussetto
35 - Maduka Okoye
36 - Joseph Hungbo
37 - Dapo Mebude
39 - Edo Kayembe
41 - Vincent Angelini
42 - James Morris
43 - JJ McKiernan
44 - Adian Manning 47 - Shaq Forde
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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A freshly rebranded pub has revealed the origin behind its new name - which honours a major part of Watford FC's history.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are joined by The Athletic's Watford correspondent Adam Leventhal to chat about the Hornets opening day victory at home to Sheffield United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watford FC is delighted to announce the signings of forward Annie Rossiter and midfielder Nicola Gibson ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
The duo have joined up with Damon Lathrope’s side already for pre-season and are settling into the squad, playing a part in the behind-closed-doors friendly fixtures in preparation for the upcoming FA Women’s National League Southern Division season.
Rossiter is no stranger to the Hornets, scoring the winner for London City Lionesses in the Golden Girls’ away fixture last season. The 20-year-old, developed in Millwall’s youth side before joining London City in 2019, has featured for England Under-18s.
The bright young forward is a skilful dribbler and composed in front of goal, with four seasons of experience in the Championship under her belt already. She reunites with fellow attacker Flo Fyfe and defender Ylenia Priest, having last played with the duo in the 2020/21 season.
Gibson, 29, swaps Crawley Wasps for the Hornets following several seasons at National League and Championship level.
The midfielder won Players’ Player of the Season for her tireless efforts last term and played a key role in Crawley’s progression to the semi-final of the FA National League Cup, picking up the Player of the Match award against Oxford United in the final eight.
Gibson plied her trade in the US as an 18-year-old, representing the University of West Alabama before turning out for Durham and London Bees back in her home country.
Welcome to Watford, Annie and Nicola!
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Tickets for Watford FC Women’s opening clash of the 2022/23 season against Gillingham Women at Grosvenor Vale, Wealdstone FC, are now on sale!
The Hornets host Gillingham on Sunday August 21 at 2pm in the FA Women’s National League South.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
All seating is unreserved, and Season Ticket holders for the men’s side and for Wealdstone FC can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below. Wealdstone FC Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
There is also a 50 per cent discount available on group bookings for 10 people and over. Please note that this offer is only available over the phone and in-person, and not online.
Please also note that on the day of the match, adult & concession (junior, senior & disability) prices will increase by £2.
Ticket Prices
Adult (Pre-Match/Matchday): £5/£7
Junior (U16) & Senior (65+) (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Disability (Pre-Match/Matchday): £3/£5
Group Booking (10+): As above with 50% discount
Men’s/Wealdstone FC ST Holders (Pre-Match/Matchday): £1/£1
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
2022/23 Season Tickets!
Season Tickets are now on sale for Watford FC Women’s upcoming 2022/23 season, with some fantastic value offers in place for all of the family.
Click HERE for more information!
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With wing backs an important part of the formation Watford head coach Rob Edwards like to play, it was interesting that in pre-season he moved Hassane Kamara from the left, where he has played before, out to the right.
Vicarage Road has been home to Watford FC for 100 years. The first match took place on August 30, 1922 when Watford played Millwall.
Head Coach Rob Edwards was pleased with the effort and resilience shown in his side’s 1-0 win against Sheffield United, as the Hornets kicked off the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season with three points.
Blown away by the welcome he received from the supporters ahead of his first match in charge, Edwards felt the atmosphere buoyed his team through difficult moments in the clash with the Blades, with João Pedro’s goal ultimately proving the difference.
“I’m delighted with the three points,” Edwards began. “We want to win football matches and the fans want to see winning football; I’m really pleased we were able to do that tonight.
“The commitment, togetherness and spirit of the players was excellent, that’s the minimum you can ask for and they gave us that.
“I thought once we got the goal we had the momentum, and I thought we could have been a little bit more ruthless and got the second one. But the resilience at the end of the game to see it out and protect the goal relatively comfortably was very pleasing. Overall, I’m delighted.”
Receiving a warm introduction to the Watford faithful, the 39-year-old was briefly lost for words. Edwards was full of praise for the fans’ role in the match.
The Head Coach continued: “It’s difficult to find the words, but I loved it. As soon as I came out, the atmosphere was brilliant, so a massive thank you to the supporters for making it a special night, and I’m very pleased we were able to reward that with a win.
“We bounced off each other well. There were some exciting moments where we provided on the pitch, and when we needed them they came through for us as well in difficult moments, especially towards the six added minutes. A massive thank you to them, they were brilliant.”
The result is positive for the team’s confidence going forward, but Edwards is keen to stay grounded. He was enthusiastic about the talent on show in the campaign opener, but even more delighted with the work rate of the team. The well-worked counter-attacking goal was a reward for their graft, with João Pedro finishing off an explosive break after the visitors’ corner.
“It’s great,” Edwards said. “The quality of the players first of all, huge credit to them, it’s great to watch, the fast attacking football.
“We know we’ve got quality, but quality alone is not enough. We need to run, need to fight and work for each other, and they showed a lot of togetherness. We’ll make mistakes but if we sprint to win it back and show desire, we’ll be in a good place because we’ve got good players.
“It means a lot, three points and that’s all, but it’s a win and we haven’t seen a win here for a long time so that’s important for us, and important for belief. I keep talking about that spirit and togetherness for everyone to believe and back the players. It is important but let’s keep calm, it’s three points.”
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Craig Cathcart was delighted to play a part in providing Watford fans with their first home win since November, with the Hornets beating Sheffield United 1-0 in their Sky Bet Championship opener.
João Pedro finished off a clever counter-attacking move to net the decisive goal at Vicarage Road in a hard-fought contest with the Blades, where Cathcart and the Hornets picked up a clean sheet for their efforts at the other end.
Eager to mark the first game of the season with a win, the Northern Irishman felt the Golden Boys upped their intensity in the second half, which played a major role in collecting all three points in the game.
“You always want to get off to a good start, especially being at home where we haven’t won for a long time,” said the defender. “We managed to do that tonight, performed well and overall it was a good performance that reflected the hard work in pre-season.
“We felt the optimism of the supporters even before the game, they were right behind us throughout the whole match. As soon as we got the goal it lifted everyone and the crowd were great tonight, got right behind us. It was good to get the win they deserved for so long.
“We knew it would be tough, Sheffield United are a good side and got into the play-offs last year so we knew it would be difficult from kick-off, but we managed it, kept it quite tight. It was even in the first half, in the second half we stepped it up, showed intensity, won the ball back high and could have had a couple more goals so we’re really pleased.”
The centre-half believes his side could have added to their lead in the second period, but showed solidity throughout to preserve the advantage they already had in the game. Hoping the victory can build momentum, Cathcart knows the upcoming fixtures against West Bromwich Albion (Monday August 8, 8pm KO) and Burnley (Friday August 12, 8pm KO) are equally difficult.
Cathcart added: “As soon as we got the goal the pressure was off us a bit, we killed the clock a bit towards the end but we were still pushing for that second goal. It wasn’t to be, so we managed to hold out for the 1-0 win. It’s a good clean sheet and we look ahead to West Brom now.
“We know we’ve got a difficult start to the season, there are some big teams in this league and we want to compete. We’re a good side and we believe in ourselves.”
Emmanuel Dennis agreed with Cathcart’s assessment of the game, mentioning that it was key to provide the loyal supporters with something to cheer about after just two home league wins last term.
“We had a difficult season last season in the Premier League,” Dennis reflected. “This time we came out to play good football, give the fans something to be happy about and I’m happy, the whole team was brilliant today and we won the game.”
João Pedro was named Man of the Match for his efforts, and his Nigerian strike partner praised the Brazilian’s hard work at the training ground in preparation for the new campaign, also mentioning Head Coach Rob Edwards’ immediate impact at the club.
Dennis added: “[João Pedro] has been brilliant for all of pre-season, and his work in the gym and outside of the gym. He really showed today how important he can be for the team, and scored the winning goal.
“[Edwards] is a good person and a good Head Coach, he gives us a lot of positive energy, he’s a young man and the whole vibe is excitement in the group. Everyone is happy and you can see it in how we play. He’s been really great and his positivity is great for everyone, I’m happy we could give everything and make him happy today.”
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Watford powered to an impressive 1-0 win over Paul Heckingbottom’s Sheffield United in the opening fixture of the 2022/23 campaign, with João Pedro’s second-half strike proving the difference at a raucous Vicarage Road.
We’ve pulled together a selection of photos below, showcasing some of the best bits from what was a thrilling night of Sky Bet Championship football under the lights.
The Calm Before The Storm
Some New Faces At Vicarage Road
Watford Push For The Lead In A Competitive Opening 45
Tensions Between The Teams With Plenty At Stake
João Pedro Grabs The Winner In The 56th Minute
All Smiles At Full-Time
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1- I was in a band at school. There were many bands… an ever-evolving morass of entities with rotating membership and varying levels of competence, musicianship and ambition. The Rosslyns were lead by Kieron, who wrote the lyrics, sang the songs and played guitar, abetted by Howard’s musical genius. I played bass guitar, functionally, dutifully. […]
Not surprisingly, a lot of questions from the national media after the game were about Ismaila Sarr and Emmanuel Dennis.
On Season 2, Episode 2 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford 1, Sheffield United 0. The Rob Edwards Era at Watford kicks off with a clean-sheet victory at The Vic in his Championship managerial bow. Also: Greatest-ever Watford legend and humanitarian Luther Blissett OBE tweets about being offered the Honorary Vice-President position at Watford FC that he has not yet accepted. Omar opines on the comments of a living legend. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: August 2, 2022.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Watford began the new Championship season with a win over Sheffield United, and head coach Rob Edwards praised players and fans alike.
Head Coach Rob Edwards was pleased with the effort and resilience shown in his side’s 1-0 win against Sheffield United, as the Hornets kicked off the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season with three points.
Blown away by the welcome he received from the supporters ahead of his first match in charge, Edwards felt the atmosphere buoyed his team through difficult moments in the clash with the Blades, with João Pedro’s goal ultimately proving the difference.
“I’m delighted with the three points,” Edwards began. “We want to win football matches and the fans want to see winning football; I’m really pleased we were able to do that tonight.
“The commitment, togetherness and spirit of the players was excellent, that’s the minimum you can ask for and they gave us that.
“I thought once we got the goal we had the momentum, and I thought we could have been a little bit more ruthless and got the second one. But the resilience at the end of the game to see it out and protect the goal relatively comfortably was very pleasing. Overall, I’m delighted.”
Receiving a warm introduction to the Watford faithful, the 39-year-old was briefly lost for words. Edwards was full of praise for the fans’ role in the match.
The Head Coach continued: “It’s difficult to find the words, but I loved it. As soon as I came out, the atmosphere was brilliant, so a massive thank you to the supporters for making it a special night, and I’m very pleased we were able to reward that with a win.
“We bounced off each other well. There were some exciting moments where we provided on the pitch, and when we needed them they came through for us as well in difficult moments, especially towards the six added minutes. A massive thank you to them, they were brilliant.”
The result is positive for the team’s confidence going forward, but Edwards is keen to stay grounded. He was enthusiastic about the talent on show in the campaign opener, but even more delighted with the work rate of the team. The well-worked counter-attacking goal was a reward for their graft, with João Pedro finishing off an explosive break after the visitors’ corner.
“It’s great,” Edwards said. “The quality of the players first of all, huge credit to them, it’s great to watch, the fast attacking football.
“We know we’ve got quality, but quality alone is not enough. We need to run, need to fight and work for each other, and they showed a lot of togetherness. We’ll make mistakes but if we sprint to win it back and show desire, we’ll be in a good place because we’ve got good players.
“It means a lot, three points and that’s all, but it’s a win and we haven’t seen a win here for a long time so that’s important for us, and important for belief. I keep talking about that spirit and togetherness for everyone to believe and back the players. It is important but let’s keep calm, it’s three points.”
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After the first home win since November 2021, Jon, Mike and DCW gather to discuss the Hornets 1-0 win against the United team of Sheffield. The performance of our 'current' front three Where Rob might still have work to do Luther's response to being awarded Honoury Life President Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Joao Pedro scores the only goal as Watford start the season with a win over Sheffield United.
Omissions of non-homegrown players from the Hornets’ matchday 18 can be expected throughout the month of August while the summer transfer window remains open and Watford’s squad make-up continues to finalise itself.
At times, this could affect names Head Coach Rob Edwards expects to be part of his plans from September onwards.
“The ‘Rule of 11’ (no more than 11 non-homegrown players can be named on an EFL matchday teamsheet) will have some influence for now,” explained Sporting Director Cristiano Giaretta.
“But we are all committed with Rob’s aim of having only 11 non-homegrown players in the first-team squad after the window.
“It’s important we see August in a different way because things can still change until this month is over.”
Follow Watford v Sheffield United
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Sheffield United this evening (August 1, 8pm KO), via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship curtain-raiser from home.
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Season Tickets are now on sale for Watford FC Women’s upcoming 2022/23 season, with some fantastic value offers in place for all of the family.
A minimum of 11 league games will be covered, with all home cup draws included as part of the Season Ticket too. Whether the game is at Grosvenor Vale or Vicarage Road, you can be part of the action!
Concession prices for the whole campaign are £30, with adults at £50. This means you can cheer on the Hornets for under £3 and £5 per game respectively!
If there are a few of you, it will be even cheaper than that. We’ve put a deal in place that sees a 50 per cent discount for all expenditure past £50. Examples: An adult and a concession Season Ticket would be £65 (full price adult, 50 per cent off the concession). For two adults and two concessions, the total price would be £105 (50 per cent off the second adult and both concessions).
If you have a Season Ticket for either Watford FC men’s team, or for Wealdstone FC, you can take advantage of our reduced matchday prices, with entrance only £1.
Visit our Season Ticket section of the website HERE.
Whether you’re a regular or perhaps looking to support the Golden Girls for the first time, there’s never been a better time to show your support for Watford and the women’s game.
Season Tickets remain on sale until the end of August, and we want to see and hear as many of you as possible, as the team aims to win promotion and return to the Barclays Women’s Championship.
Season Tickets
Adult - £50
Concession - £30*
*Please note: After a spend of £50, there will be a 50 per cent discount on all subsequent Season Tickets.
Single Game Tickets
Adult - £5
Concessions - £3*
Men’s/Wealdstone Season Ticket holders - £1
Please note: On the day of the match, adult & concession prices will increase by £2.
*Concessions include Youth (Under 16), Senior (65+), and Disability
Please note, the group discount is not available online. Wealdstone Season Ticket holders will have to call us to purchase tickets at £1 when making their first booking, however subsequent purchases can be made online.
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As a leading global payment and risk management solutions provider, Corpay (previously known as AFEX), started its partnership in Watford in 2019, and was subsequently on the club’s back of shirt during the 2020/21 promotion winning season.
Now in their fourth year with the club, Corpay will have their logo on the back of the Golden Boys’ shirts once again.
“We’re proud to continue our support of Watford FC and their community as their Official FX Payments Partner. We have been cultivating our relationship with the Hornets for the past three seasons, and we are very pleased to renew this partnership under the new Corpay brand,” said Jon Delaney, EMEA Sales Director at Corpay.
“As big fans of the club, we were honoured to see Corpay’s name on the Hornets’ shirt for their last promotion. I am really excited for the beginning of the new season, and I – and the entire Corpay team – are convinced this will be another memorable year for the partnership and for the Hornets.”’
Corpay is deeply involved in the sporting industry in the UK and around the world, supporting federations, clubs, athletes, service providers and other organisations involved in the business of sport with international payment solutions and tailored hedging strategies to help reduce risk. The market expertise and personalised service Corpay offers is supported by its state-of-the-art technology.
Watford FC Commercial Director, Paul O’Brien, said: “Corpay have been a longstanding supporter of Watford Football Club, and we’re delighted that Corpay will be on the club’s shirt for the 2022/23 Championship season.”
Corpay’s relationship with the club is much wider than a standard partnership, with the organisation giving its expertise on any of the club’s foreign exchange transfers.
Paul continued: “I am very grateful to Jon, Brad, Nathan and the wider team for creating a special relationship, and I very much look forward to the fourth year of our partnership.”
About Corpay
Corpay is a global leader in business payments, helping companies of all sizes better track, manage and pay their expenses. Corpay provides customers with a comprehensive suite of online payment solutions including Bill Payment, AP Automation, Cross-Border Payments, Currency Risk Management, and Commercial Card Programs. As the largest commercial issuer of Mastercard in North America, Corpay handles over a billion transactions each year. Corpay is part of the FLEETCOR (NYSE: FLT) portfolio of brands. Click HERE to learn more.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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The countdown to the start of Watford’s fresh Sky Bet Championship campaign is almost over, with the Hornets back at Vicarage Road for Monday evening’s fixture against Sheffield United (August 1, 8pm KO BST).
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Retail Information
In celebration of England’s historic triumph at the Women’s European Championships this summer, we’re offering free printing on women’s Watford shirts at The Hornets Shop for one day only!
In-store only, supporters can receive free printing on women’s Watford shirts purchased in the Vicarage Road store on August 1. The store will be open until 10.30pm.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
We Campaign
The We campaign - continuing into its fourth season - has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents of discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues, which led to a record number of reports last season (58).
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Click HERE for more information.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
Knives
Fireworks
Smoke canisters
Air-horns
Flares
Weapons
Dangerous or hazardous items
Laser devices
Bottles or other glass vessels
Cans
Poles
Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, two metres x one metre) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Sheffield United, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship curtain-raiser from home.
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Watford FC is proud to continue the We campaign into its fourth season, working with the hate crime unit at Herts Police to encourage inclusivity and tackle discrimination and abuse directly.
Actions speak louder than words, and the issue of discrimination and abuse in football is something that should and will remain in sharp focus. The We campaign has provided a clearer route for supporters to report incidents, which led to a record number of reports last season. A total of 58 incidents were reported across the season, and we thank those supporters who have used the We campaign to date.
Among the actions taken last season, education and awareness sessions run by the club, and supported by Kick It Out where appropriate, were the most common outcome. Yellow cards were placed on seats to alert supporters that an incident took place, when we were unable to identify any individuals. Away teams were notified when incidents involved their supporters, while stadium bans and behaviour agreements have also been issued.
In addition to a stadium ban, one supporter has been given an 18-month community order after appearing in court in connection with a racially aggravated hate crime, which was reported through the We campaign. Perry Eastwood, aged 45 and from Oxhey, appeared at St Albans Crown Court on Tuesday April 19.
Eastwood was refused entry to the ground due to wearing an away team shirt in the home team seating area. When staff spoke to him, he became verbally abusive and threatening towards a member of staff, before making hate comments.
As well as the community order, he was sentenced to 50 hours of unpaid work and 20 days Rehabilitation Activity Requirement (RAR). He was also handed a fine of £500 and ordered to pay victim surcharge costs.
“This is a great example of how effective collaboration can work within our local community,” said Hornets’ Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury.
“The creation of the club’s ‘We’ campaign was designed to educate and inform as well as remind our supporters we’re committed to making Vicarage Road a welcoming place for everyone.
“We’re grateful to Hertfordshire Constabulary as we’re aware how tough it is to see these incidents through to a conviction.”
Hate Crime Officer Dani Howlett-Bolton, who led the investigation, said: “Firstly I’d like to thank the victim for supporting this investigation and being ready to stand up in court and give their evidence.
“By working with the club, we have been able to support victims and bring offenders to justice. Watford FC has led nationally on hate crime in football, and we’re incredibly grateful for their ongoing support in removing all hate crime from our communities.”
As a result of feedback received from those who made a report during 2021/22, we have changed the number to make it even easier to report discrimination, excessive anti-social behaviour or safeguarding issues.
Please text ‘We’, followed by seat numbers and details, to 66777 straight away. Our team will then investigate and take action accordingly.
The same details will be used at all Watford FC men’s and women’s matches, and Community Trust events, so please work with us to make our stadiums and events enjoyable for all supporters.
Watch Now
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Tonight a new journey starts for Watford FC, head coach Rob Edwards, the players and the supporters.
In celebration of England’s historic triumph at the Women’s European Championships this summer, for today only we’re offering free printing on women’s Watford shirts at The Hornets Shop!
In-store only, supporters can receive free printing on women’s Watford shirts purchased in the Vicarage Road store today (August 1).
With the Hornets in action against Sheffield United in the first game of the Sky Bet Championship season this evening (8pm KO), the store will be open until 10.30pm tonight.
Watch Now
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Watford FC today confirms a new partnership with ASUS, the multinational company known for the world’s leading high-quality personal computers, monitors, graphics cards, routers and other technology solutions. Today, ASUS is designing and building next-generation smart technologies to provide experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere.
With the partnership starting just before the 2022/23 season kicks-off, the club will be working with ASUS who will provide leading products to backroom staff to assist Watford FC in their bid for promotion back into the Premier League. In addition, ASUS will feature on Watford FC’s LED advertising boards for all matches played at Vicarage Road, while the club will also be welcoming ASUS employees and clients to the stadium.
Founded in Taiwan in 1989, ASUS is one of Fortune magazine’s World’s Most Admired Companies and is dedicated to creating products for today and tomorrow’s smart life. ASUS employs more than 17,000 people worldwide with their UK head office, in Hemel Hempstead, driven by technology and leading the way in innovation, in search of incredible ideas and experiences for their consumers.
Paul O’Brien, Watford FC Commercial Director, said: “We are thrilled that ASUS have decided to come on-board as a partner for the upcoming 2022/23 season. With the club aiming to be promoted back to the Premier League for the 2023/24 season, it is fantastic to be aligned and working with such an innovative brand as ASUS and we look forward to welcoming them to Vicarage Road over the course of the campaign.”
Emma Strivens, UK Consumer Marketing Lead of ASUS, said: “We’re really excited to be partnered with Watford FC for the upcoming 2022/23 season. Hertfordshire is our UK home and Watford FC is a cemented part of the culture throughout the county. The club and ASUS are aligned on innovation and the continued strive for greatness and we look forward to the future success of the club and our partnership.”
About ASUS
ASUS is a global technology leader that provides the world’s most innovative and intuitive devices, components and solutions to deliver incredible experiences that enhance the lives of people everywhere. With its team of 5,000 in-house R&D experts, ASUS is world-renowned for continuously reimagining today’s technologies for tomorrow, garners more than 11 awards every day for quality, innovation and design, and is ranked among Fortune’s World’s Most Admired Companies. Click HERE for more information.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford's new squad numbers see Daniel Bachmann wearing No.1, Rey Manaj takes the nine shirt but Mario Gaspar's number not announced yet
The countdown to the start of Watford’s fresh Sky Bet Championship campaign is almost over, with the Hornets back at Vicarage Road for Monday evening’s fixture against Sheffield United (August 1, 8pm KO BST).
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Wallet to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke devices or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
Knives
Fireworks
Smoke canisters
Air-horns
Flares
Weapons
Dangerous or hazardous items
Laser devices
Bottles or other glass vessels
Cans
Poles
Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, two metres x one metre) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Sheffield United, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship curtain-raiser from home.
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With the start of Watford FC’s Sky Bet Championship season just hours away, the club can confirm squad numbers for the men’s team for 2022/23.
Daniel Bachmann has taken the vacant number one shirt, while the number 26 that he previously wore has been given to fellow goalkeeper Ben Hamer.
Forward additions Rey Manaj and Vakoun Bayo have been handed numbers nine and 19 respectively, with Yáser Asprilla and Maduka Okoye choosing 18 and 35 as their first numbers at Vicarage Road.
Pontus Dahlberg and Dapo Mebude have been given 30 and 37 following their temporary spells away from Watford last year, while the club’s other returning loanees Domingos Quina (20), Tom Dele-Bashiru (24), Mattie Pollock (32) and Joseph Hungbo (36) have all kept their previous numbers.
Young talents JJ McKiernan and Adian Manning have also been given squad numbers for the new campaign, with the duo taking 43 and 44 respectively.
Mario Gaspar’s squad number will be revealed in due course, following his recent arrival at the club.
2022/23 Watford FC Squad Numbers
1 - Daniel Bachmann
2 - Jeremy Ngakia
5 - William Troost-Ekong
6 - Imrân Louza
8 - Tom Cleverley
9 - Rey Manaj
10 - João Pedro
12 - Ken Sema
13 - Adalberto Peñaranda
14 - Hassane Kamara
15 - Craig Cathcart
16 - Dan Gosling
17 - Ashley Fletcher
18 - Yáser Asprilla
19 - Vakoun Bayo
20 - Domingos Quina
22 - Samir
23 - Ismaïla Sarr
24 - Tom Dele-Bashiru
25 - Emmanuel Dennis
26 - Ben Hamer
27 - Christian Kabasele
28 - Samuel Kalu
30 - Pontus Dahlberg
31 - Francisco Sierralta
32 - Mattie Pollock
33 - Ignacio Pussetto
35 - Maduka Okoye
36 - Joseph Hungbo
37 - Dapo Mebude
39 - Edo Kayembe
41 - Vincent Angelini
42 - James Morris
43 - JJ McKiernan
44 - Adian Manning
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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The gap between the Premier League and the Championship is massive says Watford skipper Tom Cleverley ahead of tomorrow's game with Sheffield United.
The countdown to the start of Watford’s fresh Sky Bet Championship campaign is almost over, with the Hornets back at Vicarage Road for Monday evening’s fixture against Sheffield United (August 1, 8pm KO BST).
All at the club are delighted to welcome fans back once again for the 2022/23 season, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe. Ahead of kick-off, below is a list of everything stadium visitors need to know…
Getting To The Ground
Stadium address:
Vicarage Road Stadium
Vicarage Road
Watford
WD18 0ER
By Train Or Tube
The nearest station is Watford High Street, a 10-minute walk away from the ground. Watford Junction train station is about a 20-minute walk.
Watford has its own London Underground tube station, which is on the Metropolitan Line and is situated just under one mile from Vicarage Road.
By Car
Due to the club’s partnership with Event Support Team (EST), fans are able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School for Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, by clicking HERE.
There is no parking available at the ground and street parking is restricted for local residents with matchday permits. Watford General Hospital ensure that their security and parking staff monitor the entrances to the hospital car parks to prevent people from parking on-site.
Accessibility
All accessible entrances will be open as detailed in the stadium map below:
For any access queries please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Pay to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device, and click HERE for all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium.
We encourage anyone who experiences difficulties downloading or using their tickets to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023, so these issues can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
Security
Early Arrival
In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible. Turnstiles will open 90 minutes before kick-off, and the clock-style graphic above gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
Searches & Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this season, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. Bags will be checked at an outer cordon before entering the stadium, and those larger than A4 size (height: 297mm width: 210mm depth: 210mm) will not be permitted entry.
Love Football. Protect The Game.
The Hornets have backed the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds.
This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke bombs or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. For everyone’s safety, Watford FC will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police.
Click HERE for more information.
Smoking
Smoking (including e-cigarettes) is not permitted in any area of the stadium.
Prohibited Items
The following articles are prohibited and must not be brought to the stadium:
Knives
Fireworks
Smoke canisters
Air-horns
Flares
Weapons
Dangerous or hazardous items
Laser devices
Bottles or other glass vessels
Cans
Poles
Any other article that might compromise public safety and/or illegal substances
Any person in possession of such items will be refused entry to the ground.
Further, you may not bring into the ground any sponsorship, promotional or marketing materials save in respect of official merchandise. Any flags or banners larger than those maximum dimensions permitted by the club (or, in the absence of such stipulations, two metres x one metre) and/or of an offensive nature are also prohibited.
Covid-19
Despite restrictions having ended, it is still important to do all you can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. If possible, take a Covid-19 test on the day of the game, to check there is no risk of passing on the virus. You can also wear a face covering in indoor and crowded areas, and continue to wash your hands regularly or use hand sanitiser provided around the stadium.
Further Questions?
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Can’t Make It To The Vic?
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Watford v Sheffield United, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service with Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the mouth-watering Sky Bet Championship curtain-raiser from home.
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixtures against Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 27, 3pm KO) and Middlesbrough (Tuesday August 30, 8pm KO) will go on sale to fans in Home Group A at 12pm on Monday (August 1).
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Please note that special pricing is in place for the Vic 100 Anniversary Matchday against Middlesbrough.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12pm, Monday August 1 * Home Group B
12pm, Tuesday August 2 * Home Group C
12pm, Wednesday August 3 * Home Group D
12pm, Thursday August 4 * General Sale*
12pm, Friday August 5
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices - Queens Park Rangers
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £17
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £17
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £38
- 65 & Over: £23
- Full-Time Student: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £40
- 65 & Over: £25
- Full-Time Student: £22
- 18 & Under: £10
Ticket Prices - Middlesbrough
Special pricing is in place for the Vic 100 Anniversary Matchday, with the below prices applicable throughout Vicarage Road.
- Adult: £20.22
- 65 & Over: £19.22
- Full-Time Student: 100p
- 18 & Under: 100p
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such, all bookings made in this area must contain at least one person from the 18 & Under category. Because of this, online sales for the Ann Swanson Family Stand will not be available. Tickets can be purchased by telephone or in-person only.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford keeper Daniel Bachmann looks ahead with confidence, reflects on last season with frustration and says even Man Utd didn't tempt him away
Rob Edwards’ Watford side are gearing up for their first fixture of the fresh Sky Bet Championship season, under the Vicarage Road lights against Sheffield United (Monday August 1, 8pm KO).
In anticipation of the clash against our South Yorkshire opposition, here are five memorable results against the Blades from years gone by…
Watford 5-0 Sheffield United - January 5, 1985
Their first FA Cup match since the 1984 final, the Hornets showed no signs of a hangover in a third-round meeting with Sheffield United at Vicarage Road.
Luther Blissett, back from one season at Milan, bagged four in the tie, with one from the penalty spot. The best of the bunch was the first, after Worrell Sterling’s committed effort provided the opportunity to cross in for Blissett to make the decisive touch.
Watford 3-0 Sheffield United - February 2, 2010
Tom Cleverley would be satisfied with a similar return to 2010’s Vicarage Road meeting with the Blades on Monday, having scored the opener in a 3-0 win against them 12 years ago.
The newly-appointed club captain headed home to put the Hornets in front, before Heiðar Helguson and Don Cowie added to the advantage in the second half. The play-off chasing visitors succumbed to an unlikely defeat given their strong form at the time, while Watford occupied 12th position, just nine points off the relegation zone.
Sheffield United 1-4 Watford - February 6, 2006
Having suffered a 3-2 defeat at Vicarage Road earlier in the season, the Golden Boys inflicted a convincing defeat on their hosts at Bramall Lane in February 2006, with two Marlon King goals crucial to the victory.
Chris Eagles took just six minutes to open the scoring before King’s brace, and a late Hameur Bouazza goal ensured the Championship points were heading back to Hertfordshire.
Watford 3-0 Sheffield United - March 12, 2011
A mere 13 months after their last 3-0 win against United at The Vic, Watford were in a similar goalscoring mood.
The Blades, stuck in 23rd and lacking confidence, had former Hornets Darius Henderson and Lee Williamson sent off against their old club in the first 45, making a tough task even more difficult. Goals from Danny Graham, Martin Taylor and Ross Jenkins gave Watford the points.
Watford 4-1 Sheffield United - August 28, 2000
Heiðar Helguson, Tommy Mooney, Gifton Noel-Williams and Micah Hyde were all on the scoresheet in an impressive 4-1 win against Neil Warnock’s United in 2000. Helguson, 10 years before netting in the same fixture again in his second Watford spell, took just eight minutes to make the breakthrough.
Despite Nordin Wooter and Allan Nielsen being absent from the side, the Golden Boys emerged relatively untroubled by the Blades at the end of the match, going back ahead through Mooney three minutes after Wayne Quinn’s equaliser. Noel-Williams established some breathing room between the sides swiftly after the break, with Hyde’s strike putting the game beyond doubt with 20 minutes left of play.
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Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards is relishing the challenge of the Sky Bet Championship, ahead of the Hornets’ curtain-raiser against Sheffield United this Monday (August 1, 8pm KO).
The 39-year-old, who joined the club in May, is hungry to get started against the Blades and take his seat in the Vicarage Road dugout for the first time.
It has been a busy pre-season for Edwards’ Hornets, with five games played and a tour to Austria. The Head Coach believes that the preparation has been extremely important in setting expectations for the fast-approaching campaign.
“I want to see a team that plays with passion, with energy, with commitment and with bravery,” said Edwards, in his first press conference as Watford boss.
“Those are the words I have used a lot, and the words that we talk about at the training ground on a daily basis.
“We want to have a great connection with our supporters, and the very least they want to see is that desire, that passion and that will to fight. Our fans have their heads screwed on - they will forgive mistakes if they see reactions, people trying really hard and giving everything, they will give us more time.
“It’s been great, and the lads have bought into what we are trying to do. They want to be successful as much as we do, and to do that we have to be together as a group.
“That’s probably been our biggest focus as a group so far in pre-season, and it’s been great to get to know the players as footballers and as people.”
Edwards acknowledges the trials that lay ahead for his side in a competitive second-tier, and is certain that his team will rise to the occasion.
“I’m well aware that there are a lot of strong teams in the league,” he said. “I have a lot of respect for the clubs in this league, and there are a lot of strong managers and coaches that we will be up against.
“The Championship is always difficult. It’s going to be a challenge, and every game will bring different challenges.
“I’m expecting it to be tough for us, but also for anyone playing us. I think it will be competitive and it will be exciting to watch.”
Walking out at Vicarage Road come Monday night can’t come soon enough for Edwards, as he begins a new chapter at Watford following his League Two title-winning success at Forest Green Rovers last season.
“Me, the staff and the players have an opportunity to start a real journey because, okay things didn’t go well last season, but forget that, it’s done and let’s move on,” said Edwards.
“It’s the way I want to be as a person in a leadership position; I’m having conversations, giving people ownership, being honest with people and being inclusive – that is how we try to be on a day-to-day basis.
“First and foremost, it’s about being decent people, and that’s really important to me and us as a group. That helps to bring people together. Obviously, the fun stuff is great as well - the great barbecues, the kayaking and being together for five or six days always helps.
“But let’s concentrate on the here and now because I’m really looking forward to it. We have a few more days to wait, but I’m really looking forward to it.”
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming home fixtures against Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 27, 3pm KO) and Middlesbrough (Tuesday August 30, 8pm KO) will go on sale to fans in Home Group A at 12pm on Monday (August 1).
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Please note that special pricing is in place for the Vic 100 Anniversary Matchday against Middlesbrough.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12pm, Monday August 1 * Home Group B
12pm, Tuesday August 2 * Home Group C
12pm, Wednesday August 3 * Home Group D
12pm, Thursday August 4 * General Sale*
12pm, Friday August 5
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Ticket Prices - Queens Park Rangers
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £17
- 18 & Under: £10
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £35
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £17
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £38
- 65 & Over: £23
- Full-Time Student: £20
- 18 & Under: £10
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £40
- 65 & Over: £25
- Full-Time Student: £22
- 18 & Under: £10
Ticket Prices - Middlesbrough
Special pricing is in place for the Vic 100 Anniversary Matchday, with the below prices applicable throughout Vicarage Road.
- Adult: £20.22
- 65 & Over: £19.22
- Full-Time Student: 100p
- 18 & Under: 100p
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such, all bookings made in this area must contain at least one person from the 18 & Under category. Because of this, online sales for the Ann Swanson Family Stand will not be available. Tickets can be purchased by telephone or in-person only.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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As we approach the start of the Sky Bet Championship season, Season Ticket holders should note the following details surrounding their 2022/23 Season Tickets.
NFC Mobile Season Tickets
Supporters with downloaded NFC Mobile Season Tickets need take no action. The process of updating passes for the new season has now been completed. Your refreshed 2022/23 Season Ticket will appear in your digital wallet platform (Apple Wallet/Google Wallet). Any change to your seat details or personal information will appear on the updated NFC Mobile Season Ticket.
Season Card
Season Ticket holders who continue to use Season Cards, and have made no change to their seat details or personal information, will be able to carry on using their Season Card issued last season. If there has been a change to seat details or personal information, a new Season Card has been issued and dispatched.
New Season Ticket Holders
Those supporters who have become new Season Ticket holders for the 2022/23 season are now able to download their Season Tickets as an NFC Mobile Season Ticket to their digital wallet platform (Apple Wallet/Google Wallet). Please see instructions for the different platforms below.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to the account of the Season Ticket holder, select 'Season Tickets'.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select 'Download NFC Pass'.
- On the screen that opens click 'Next', then choose 'Automatically Select' followed by 'Done'.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Wallet is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From Google Chrome on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to the account of the Season Ticket holder, select 'Season Tickets'.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select 'Download NFC Pass'. When prompted, select 'Open App'.
- Your pass is now added to Google Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
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Watford kick off their 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship campaign under the lights, with a home game against Sheffield United (Monday August 1, 8pm KO BST).
Find out below how you can follow the match on the club’s Hive Live streaming service.
Domestic Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 7.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- This match will be televised live on Sky Sports, meaning we are unable to sell individual Hive Live video passes for the match.
- Domestic supporters includes those in the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
International Supporters
- Listen to live commentary from Jon Marks and Tommy Mooney from approximately 7.45pm BST with a £4.50 monthly audio pass, or a £45 seasonal audio pass. Click HERE to purchase.
- As this match has been selected by international broadcasters for live coverage, we are unable to show video footage of the match in countries in which the game is being televised. Supporters in these countries who have purchased video subscriptions will have access to live audio commentary.
EFL Broadcast Exempt
- Supporters in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories (see list below) will be able to stream the match on Hive Live. This match will be included in monthly and seasonal subscriptions, or individual match passes, all of which can be purchased HERE.
- The exempt territories for this fixture are: Afghanistan, Albania, American Samoa, Andorra, Angola, Bangladesh, Belgium, Benin, Bhutan, Botswana, Brunei, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Cape Verde, Central African Republic, Chad, China, Christmas Island, Cocos Islands, Comoros, Congo (Republic of), Cook Islands, Cote d'Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, East Timor, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Equatorial Guinea, Falkland Islands, Faroe Islands, Fed States of Micronesia, Fiji, French Polynesia, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Gibraltar, Guam, Guinea, Guinea-Bissau, Indonesia, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Macau, Madagascar, Malawi, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mayotte, Monaco, Mongolia, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Nepal, New Caledonia, Niger, Nigeria, Niue, Norfolk Islands, North Korea, Northern Mariana Islands, Pakistan, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Phillippines, Pitcairn Islands, Portugal, Puerto Rico, Reunion, Romania, Rwanda, Samoa, Sao Tome & Principe, Senegal, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Socotra, Solomon Islands, Somalia (inc Somaliland), South Africa, South Korea, South Sudan, South Tyrol, Sri Lanka, St. Helena and Ascension, St Pierre & Miquelon, Sudan, Swaziland, Tahiti, Taiwan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tokelau, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uganda, US Virgin Islands, Vanuatu, Vietnam, Wallis & Futuna, Western Samoa, Zambia, Zimbabwe.
How Can I Buy A Pass?
Seasonal, monthly and match passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
For more information on Hive Live, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
For any technical issues or support enquiries relating to Hive Live, please email watfordtv@streamamg.com.
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Seasonal and monthly passes for Watford FC’s Hive Live match streaming service are now available to buy, ahead of the impending Sky Bet Championship campaign.
Following the successful trial run of the video service for the Hornets’ final pre-season outing against Southampton last Saturday, fans are now able to finalise their preparations for 2022/23 by signing up to the club’s audio or visual coverage.
With Jon Marks and Watford legend Tommy Mooney on commentary duties, the show - that will start approximately 15 minutes before each game - will bring you live coverage of the match as well as expert punditry and analysis.
Fans are reminded that the service is restricted compared to the 2020/21 season, when broadcast regulations were relaxed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and UK-based supporters could watch a large number of fixtures as the Golden Boys roared to promotion.
This time around, the ability for us to stream video domestically (includes UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man) is reduced due to the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, which bars the live broadcast of domestic fixtures in this country. However, we will still be able to bring live video coverage of occasional Championship games to domestic supporters via watfordfc.com and the club app.
Overseas supporters, on the other hand, can look forward to seeing the majority of our fixtures this coming 2022/23 season.
What Services Are Available Now?
International Video Subscription – Season Pass (£140 Early Bird) or Monthly Pass (£25 Per Month)*
- Available to overseas fans, outside of the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
- Online video coverage of all league matches, provided they haven’t been selected for international TV broadcast in the territory you reside.
*Season Pass price increases to £170 from September 1.
Audio Pass – Season Pass (£45) or Monthly Pass (£4.50 Per Month)
- Available to fans in all domestic and overseas territories.
- Online broadcast of audio commentary of all league games.
Passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
What Other Services Will Be Available?
Individual video passes will be available to domestic and overseas fans on a game-by-game basis at a cost of £10, dependant on streaming restrictions.
While overseas supporters can access online video coverage of all league matches, provided they haven’t been selected for international TV broadcast in the territory they reside (as above), domestic fans will have access to the following:
- All scheduled midweek & Bank Holiday league matches, unless selected for live broadcast on Sky Sports.
- All league matches moved from Saturday 3pm to midweek for non-TV purposes.
- Any league matches played on December 10 and 17 (due to lifting of Saturday 3pm blackout for World Cup quarter-finals and third-place play-offs), unless selected for live broadcast on Sky Sports.
What Coverage Can I Access In August?
- Sheffield United (H), Monday August 1, 8pm KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories, due to Sky Sports broadcast.
- West Bromwich Albion (A), Monday August 8, 8pm KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories, due to Sky Sports broadcast.
- Burnley (H), Friday August 12, 8pm KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories, due to Sky Sports broadcast.
- Birmingham City (A), Tuesday August 16, 7.45pm KO: video stream available to domestic & overseas supporters.
- Preston North End (A), Saturday August 20, 3pm KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories, due to international TV broadcast.
- QPR (H), Saturday August 27, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only.
- Middlesbrough (H), Tuesday August 30, 8pm KO: video stream only available in EFL Broadcast Exempt territories, due to Sky Sports broadcast.
For more information, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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A brick, a part of a floodlight pylon or some large metal letters may not immediately come to mind as the most appealing objects to put in a public display, but all will rightly take their place alongside instantly recognisable Watford Football Club shirts and a much-loved painting when a new exhibition opens at Watford Museum next week.
The sale of Kiko Femenia and potential transfer of Samir have not caused Watford any issues in terms of lining up replacements.
Positive reviews from former Hornets and the desire for an exciting new challenge convinced Mario Gaspar to become a Watford player, as the Spaniard put pen to paper on a move to Vicarage Road following his departure from Villarreal.
A keen viewer of English football, the 31-year-old has joined up with training and settled in quickly with his new teammates, and is looking forward to putting on a Watford shirt for the first time.
“I’m very happy to be here and to have the opportunity to play for this club,” said the Spain international. “I’m looking forward to starting.
“People recommended this club to me and now that I am here, I can say that they were right. Everyone has welcomed me in a very warm way, from the teammates to the staff.
“I’m a football lover so I know about the club, I follow the Premier League and have heard stories from former teammates who played for the club.”
One former teammate of Mario’s is Étienne Capoue, the fan-favourite midfielder who turned out for Watford between 2015 and 2021 and won the 2018/19 club Player of the Year award. Playing alongside the Golden Boys’ new recruit for 18 months, the Frenchman recommended the club to Mario.
Mario smiled: “He’s a great teammate and a fantastic friend. I know the fans loved him here, they love him at Villarreal as well.
“I spoke with him when this opportunity arose and he spoke in a very good way about the club, the facilities and the fans. He was one of the people who pushed me to come here.”
Third on the all-time appearances list for the Yellow Submarine, moving club and country was far from an easy decision, but Mario has embraced his move. He understands that Championship football will be a tough new challenge, but he has achieved success in a second-tier before, winning promotion in Spain in 2013.
“I’ve spent my whole life at Villarreal and gained a lot of experience there, but always at the same club,” the right-back explained. “The idea of moving abroad to a league like the Championship is a challenge that excites me.
“I’ve come here with the objective of taking this team back to the Premier League. I achieved this at Villarreal in 2013, and the feeling was fantastic. Hopefully I can feel the same emotions again. I know the Championship is very long and very tough, but we have to go through it and push for promotion.”
Villarreal won their first major trophy with Mario in the team, seeing off Manchester United on penalties in the 2020/21 UEFA Europa League final. The defender’s extensive CV stands him in good stead and provides him with knowledge to impart on younger members of Rob Edwards’ Watford squad.
“It was a dream come true, the first trophy in the club’s history,” reminisced Mario. “We came close in previous years but always got eliminated in quarter-finals and semi-finals. Lifting a trophy at the club where you grew up is an incredible feeling.
“It’s one of the reasons I came here, to bring my experience. I have the duty to transmit that to younger players and help the club to have a successful season.”
Swapping the yellow of Villarreal for that of Watford, Mario admits it isn’t down to a colour preference, but excitedly anticipates stepping out at Vicarage Road to a sea of yellow in the upcoming season.
Added Mario: “It’s a coincidence! I’ve spent my whole life wearing a yellow shirt and here I am wearing yellow again. I have only received positive feedback about the stadium, the pitch and the fans, so I cannot wait to be there.”
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Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards is relishing the challenge of the Sky Bet Championship, ahead of the Hornets’ curtain-raiser against Sheffield United this Monday (August 1, 8pm KO).
The 39-year-old, who joined the club in May, is hungry to get started against the Blades and take his seat in the Vicarage Road dugout for the first time.
It has been a busy pre-season for Edwards’ Hornets, with five games played and a tour to Austria. The Head Coach believes that the preparation has been extremely important in setting expectations for the fast-approaching campaign.
“I want to see a team that plays with passion, with energy, with commitment and with bravery,” said Edwards, in his first press conference as Watford boss.
“Those are the words I have used a lot, and the words that we talk about at the training ground on a daily basis.
“We want to have a great connection with our supporters, and the very least they want to see is that desire, that passion and that will to fight. Our fans have their heads screwed on - they will forgive mistakes if they see reactions, people trying really hard and giving everything, they will give us more time.
“It’s been great, and the lads have bought into what we are trying to do. They want to be successful as much as we do, and to do that we have to be together as a group.
“That’s probably been our biggest focus as a group so far in pre-season, and it’s been great to get to know the players as footballers and as people.”
Edwards acknowledges the trials that lay ahead for his side in a competitive second-tier, and is certain that his team will rise to the occasion.
“I’m well aware that there are a lot of strong teams in the league,” he said. “I have a lot of respect for the clubs in this league, and there are a lot of strong managers and coaches that we will be up against.
“The Championship is always difficult. It’s going to be a challenge, and every game will bring different challenges.
“I’m expecting it to be tough for us, but also for anyone playing us. I think it will be competitive and it will be exciting to watch.”
Walking out at Vicarage Road come Monday night can’t come soon enough for Edwards, as he begins a new chapter at Watford following his League Two title-winning success at Forest Green Rovers last season.
“Me, the staff and the players have an opportunity to start a real journey because, okay things didn’t go well last season, but forget that, it’s done and let’s move on,” said Edwards.
“It’s the way I want to be as a person in a leadership position; I’m having conversations, giving people ownership, being honest with people and being inclusive – that is how we try to be on a day-to-day basis.
“First and foremost, it’s about being decent people, and that’s really important to me and us as a group. That helps to bring people together. Obviously, the fun stuff is great as well - the great barbecues, the kayaking and being together for five or six days always helps.
“But let’s concentrate on the here and now because I’m really looking forward to it. We have a few more days to wait, but I’m really looking forward to it.”
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Mario Gaspar brings leadership, knowledge and technical ability to Watford says head coach Rob Edwards
Hornets youngster Kwadwo Baah says he is grateful for the opportunity after completing a loan move to Fortuna Dusseldorf.
An exciting opportunity has become available within the Grounds Maintenance department at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a Groundsperson to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing a pitch maintenance programme, and to ensure delivery of an excellent playing surface at the club’s training ground based in London Colney.
The role will be based on a 40-hour week which will include evening, weekend and matchday hours, and will be based at our training ground facilities in London Colney, however there may be a requirement at times to work at our Vicarage Road Stadium.
You must have:
- The desire to forge a successful career in the sports turf industry
- Excellent time keeping and organisational skills
- Ability to work in a team and using own initiative
- Willing to work unsociable hours, which will include evenings and weekends, and have a flexible approach to tasks and the ability to work to tight deadlines
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
You would ideally have, but not vital:
- Spraying certificates (or working towards)
- NVQ level 2 sports turf or equivalent, or working towards/willing to work towards
- Minimum of two years experience working in winter sports surfaces
- Experience working within a multi-sports environment
- Experience using SGL pitch lights
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Groundsperson
Salary/Hourly rate of pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com, or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Watford FC confirms the signing of free agent defender Mario Gaspar, following his departure from La Liga side Villarreal.
The 31-year-old joins the Hornets after plying his trade at the Estadio de la Cerámica for over a decade, having risen through the Yellow Submarine’s youth and reserve ranks to make his first-team debut in March 2009, and gone on to serve as club captain in recent years.
Third in the club’s all-time appearance list - having featured over 400 times in yellow - Mario was key to Villarreal’s rise from the Segunda Division to European football, winning promotion to the Spanish top-tier in 2012/13.
He continued to be a mainstay in the first division, helping his side qualify for Europe in five consecutive seasons between 2013/14 and 2017/18 due to his solidity in defence and capability to attack from the right flank.
After helping Villarreal to a semi-final win over Arsenal, Mario scored a penalty in their Europa League final shoot-out victory over Manchester United in May 2021, the club’s first ever major trophy.
Among 18 appearances in all competitions last season, the Novelda-born star featured for his boyhood side in the Champions League on two occasions as they stormed to the last four, wearing the armband in a 2-0 victory over BSC Young Boys.
A full international, Mario played three times for La Roja in qualifier and friendly action, memorably scoring an outstanding acrobatic goal against England in November 2015 that was nominated for the FIFA Puskás Award.
Welcome to Watford, Mario!
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Watford forward Kwadwo Baah has completed a loan move to Fortuna Düsseldorf.
The 19-year-old has signed for the German second-tier outfit until the end of the 2022/23 season.
Germany Under-19 international Baah joined Watford from Rochdale in May 2021 and is yet to appear for the Hornets’ first-team.
Good luck, Kwadwo!
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Ignacio Pussetto looks likely to be loaned out again - Watford chairman Scott Duxbury explains the situation with Argentinian.
SWANSEA CITY INS: Harry Darling (Milton Keynes Dons, Undisclosed), Matthew Sorinola (Union SG, Undisclosed), Nathan Wood (Middlesbrough, Undisclosed), Joe Allen (Stoke City, Free), Archie Matthews (Birmingham City, Free) OUTS: Flynn Downes (West Ham United, £12,000,000), Yan Dhanda (Ross County, Free), Ben Hamer (Watford, Free), Jacob Jones (Forest Green Rovers, Free), Jamie Searle (Barnsley, Free), Korey […]
Watford chairman Scott Duxbury has said owner Gino Pozzo is not interested in selling the club.
Ben & Mike catch up on all the latest news coming out of WD18 & will be joined later in the show by Nick from Sheff United Way to preview the upcoming fixture against The Blades. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Watford chairman Scott Duxbury explained paperwork shared online was not a loan but actually a process called a ‘sales discount’.
Kiko Femenia has signed a three-year contract with Villarreal following the completion of his move from Watford.
Watford FC confirms that defender Kiko Femenía has today completed a permanent transfer to Spanish side Villarreal, for an undisclosed fee.
As communicated by the Hornets’ Sporting Director Cristiano Giaretta last weekend, Femenía had indicated a desire to return to his native homeland this summer to be closer to his family, and the club has been working hard to reach a solution to benefit all parties involved.
In total Femenía scored two goals and notched 12 assists in 151 games for Watford following his arrival from Alavés in the summer of 2017, and he played a key role in helping the Golden Boys reach the 2018/19 FA Cup final, and earn promotion back to the Premier League at the first time of asking in 2020/21.
The 31-year-old featured 27 times in the English top-flight during the last campaign, and he was recognised for surpassing 100 Premier League appearances with an award in Spring 2022.
We thank Kiko for his contributions to the club and wish him all the best for the future.
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Defender William Troost-Ekong visited Future Academies secondary school in Watford last week to meet and talk to students.
The session began with a short interview, with the 28-year-old opening up about his career path and progression in football.
Following the wonderful insight, Troost-Ekong took excellent questions from the students in attendance, before posing for selfies and signing autographs.
On a brilliant day, the Nigeria captain said: “It was a pleasure to visit the school and speak to the students. They asked some really good and varied questions. I enjoyed meeting them and wish them all the best in their future studies.”
Miss Davies, Deputy Head of PE at the school, added: “Students were invited to hear about Will’s journey, from being an overseas student to becoming a top football player and captain of his national team.
“He spoke passionately about his career, while also keeping students grounded about the trials and tribulations of the sport.
“The students have been inspired to work hard for their dreams, and they all left with desire to achieve!”
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Watford chairman Scott Duxbury has said suggestions Watford will not pay transfer fees are simply not true.
ROTHERHAM UNITED INS: Cohen Bramall (Lincoln City, Undisclosed), Peter Kioso (Luton Town, Undisclosed), Conor Washington (Charlton Athletic, Free) OUTS: Alfie Burnett (Forest Green Rovers, Free), Jake Cooper (Altrincham, Free), Jacob Gratton (Farsley Celtic, Free), Michael Ihiekwe (Sheffield Wednesday, Free), Freddie Ladapo (Ipswich Town, Free), Angus MacDonald (Swindon Town, Free), Joe Mattock (Harrogate Town, Free), Mickel […]
On Season 2, Episode 1 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore looks at a revamped, recommitted Watford Football Club as a new era under Rob Edwards begins and the 100-year anniversary of Watford FC at The Vic beckons next month. Also: A look at the offseason, the preseason, ins and outs, kit launches and a preliminary prediction for Watford in the new season ahead in the Championship. Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC. This podcast is available on numerous podcasting platforms.
Episode publish date: July 27, 2022.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: Watford news and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Mario Gaspar, one of Villarreal's top-three all-time appearance makers, has signed for Watford on a two-year deal.
Watford’s Under-21 side played out a goalless draw with Hitchin Town in a competitive clash at Top Field on Tuesday evening (July 26).
The Hornets’ XI included Tom Cleverley, Dapo Mebude and Ashley Fletcher from the first-team squad, with James Morris captaining the side. Despite decent chances for Fletcher and Shaq Forde, neither was able to find the crucial deciding goal.
Under-21 Lead Coach Omer Riza was pleased with his side’s performance against the Canaries, and believes the display is something to build upon heading into the new Academy campaign.
“It was a well-contested match and we prepared well coming from our previous games,” Riza began. “We started really fast and aggressively with a high press. We pressed where we could, and we dealt with first and second balls which I thought we did quite well.
“Our games against Hitchin Town have started to become our more regular friendlies, and it’s one of our local teams. It’s nice to play against them and help them with their crowds, and for us, we aren’t travelling too far and we get a good fixture.
“Hitchin were aggressive, which gave us a good chance to work on our build-up play and creativity under pressure. We should’ve gone into half-time a few goals up, but the first-half performance was full of hard work.
“Our build-up play wasn’t always as good as I would’ve liked it to have been and we lacked composure and taking the sting out of the game, but the players are starting to see that the conditioning they did over pre-season is paying off.
“We started the second half well, kept possession and played with a bit more control and patience. We were trying to provoke the opposition to play through them and we dominated the second half. We could’ve gone and scored a few more, but we weren’t able to break them down which we will take back to the training ground.
“All the subs got on to the pitch and got their minutes in, the senior players got their 45 minutes and it was a good game and something to build upon.”
After the spirited fixture, Riza was pleased to see the effect the senior players had passed on to the younger members of the Under-21 squad.
“We had three first-team players playing which was great for the boys, learning from their experience and knowledge while playing alongside older players including the club captain,” he continued.
“The senior players came in with a great attitude. Cleverley came with a fantastic attitude like he always has, Fletcher has been training with us and so has Dapo and their attitude and character have been really good.
“I think it’s brilliant to have the senior players involved. It’s what the young players need and what they currently lack. They are usually playing with their own age group and sometimes they need the senior players around them to watch, see how they act and the little pieces of information they can pass on.
“It’s really key because what better example is there than the club captain. Fletcher and Mebude have worked really hard in training and as long as the senior players come down and teach the youngsters the right way, it can only be a positive. It’s something that I will always be in favour of doing if I have the opportunity.”
Alongside the senior players, first-team Head Coach Rob Edwards and Assistant Richie Kyle were in attendance at the match. Riza explained how the communication between the two levels, senior and Academy, works and how important the duo have been in the early parts of the season.
“We are in with conversation with Rob Edwards and Richie Kyle about looking at our younger players and trying to give them an opportunity where possible,” he said.
“The playing style is something that we are also trying to replicate, wanting to press high and win the ball back quickly. We are trying to get the boys ready so that when they step into the first team it’s not something Rob and Richie have to coach again, because the players have been doing it day in and day out.
“They have both been great, and they have come to watch the younger and senior players. It was nice to see them in attendance and it shows the youngsters that people are always watching.”
Line-Up
Starting XI: Roberts (Marriott HT), Abbott, Morris (C) (Batzelis HT), Holding (Balogun 65’), Trialist, Trialist, Cleverley (Grieves HT), Trialist, Mebude (Blake HT), Fletcher (Adeyemo HT), Forde (Davis 65’)
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The Watford Observer has again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
New Watford club captain Tom Cleverley discusses why his role is important in making the club relatable to fans again
With the start of the new season now just a little under a month away, we’re taking a look at the other 11 teams that the Golden Girls will be competing against in the FA Women’s National League Southern Division.
There will be some renewed rivalries in 2022/23, while Watford will also face off against some teams in competitive action for the first time.
Here’s the first instalment of our three-part look into this season’s opponents.
Billericay Town Women
Nickname: The Blues
Manager: Scott Chickelday
Ground: New Lodge
Last Meeting
While the two teams haven’t faced off competitively, there have been several friendly matches, including an end-of-season game at Vicarage Road in 2021.
2022/2023 Fixtures
Watford v Billericay Town (06/11/2022)
Billericay Town v Watford (30/04/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL D1 South East: 1st
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Fourth Round
FA WNL Cup: Last 16
Top Scorer: Zoe Rushen (29)
Recent History
After winning promotion from the Eastern Regional Women’s Football League in 2017/18, Billericay would then consistently be one of the strongest sides in the FA WNL Division One South East.
They would finish second the following season, only behind runaway champions Crawley Wasps. The following campaign would not be completed due to the pandemic; however the Blues were well in the mix at the time of the curtailment.
After another year of Covid disruption, Billericay wouldn’t have a chance at on-the-field promotion until 2021/22, when a magnificent title race unfolded. They pipped Hashtag United by one point, taking 63 points from 24 games, compared to their Essex rivals’ 62. Ricay’s only league defeat came against Hashtag, but they did enough elsewhere to ensure promotion.
The team will now face up to the challenge of playing at a higher level. In recent years they’ve enjoyed a couple of runs to the Last 32 in the Women’s FA Cup, being knocked out by opponents from two tiers higher on penalties both times.
Squad Look
While they would use numerous players throughout last season, nine featured in 21 or more of their 24 league matches, with three ever presents: Shannan Drewe, Ellie Jeffkins and Zoe Rushen.
Rushen took the plaudits for her scoring, but the team was also incredibly tight defensively. Billericay only conceded 15 times, as goalkeepers Alexandra Baker and Amy Mullett earned plenty of clean sheets between them.
New Additions
Sophie McLean was the first to sign. The midfielder has vast experience at a higher level, with a promotion from the FA Women’s Championship on her CV when with Tottenham Hotspur. She was also a regular in Crystal Palace’s side last season.
Second through the door was Holly Turner. The forward previously played for Hashtag United and will be looking to make her mark again after an ACL injury.
Former Gillingham player Beau Parker was the most recent arrival. No player featured in more games for the Gills last year than Parker, and she’ll now be aiming to excel with her new club.
Bridgwater United Women
Nickname: The Robins
Manager: Adam Murry
Ground: Fairfax Park
Last Meeting
Watford 1-1 Yeovil United – Oct 18, 2020
The two teams last met a couple of years ago, when Bridgwater were playing under the guise of Yeovil United. Katie O’Leary opened the scoring from the penalty spot, but Jenna Markham’s equaliser just before the break meant it was a point apiece.
2022/2023 Fixtures
Bridgwater United v Watford (28/08/2022)
Watford v Bridgwater United (29/01/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 4th
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Fourth Round
FA WNL Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Meesha Dudley-Jones (9)
Recent History
It’s certainly been an interesting decade or so for Bridgwater United, with plenty of highs, lows, and name changes along the way.
Then known as Yeovil Town, the club was awarded a licence to compete in the inaugural WSL 2 season which began in 2014. After a couple of years finishing in the top half, they would go on to impressively win the league title in 2016, earning promotion to the top tier of women’s football in England.
It was a remarkable rise for the team from Somerset, and understandably, it was a difficult transition to playing against some of the best sides in the country.
Yeovil would only manage to win two games in their three-season spell, with the final of those seeing the club face financial difficulties.
With a restructuring of the women’s game taking place, the team would end up being demoted two divisions rather than one. 2021/22 would be the first full campaign completed by the club since those WSL days, due to the pandemic. They finished fourth in their first season as Bridgwater and will now be looking to push on further.
Squad Look
Of those who featured most regularly for Bridgwater last season, several were a part of the side when involved in the top two divisions.
Bethany-May Howard, Charlotte Buxton and Leah Burridge all played a role in the club’s successes at a higher level. The latter of the three departed towards the end of 2021/22, finishing the campaign with Wolves.
Amy Goddard was the only ever-present, being regularly voted Player of the Match by opposition teams, while Meesha Dudley-Jones was the top scorer in a side where the goals were shared around.
Another regular was Sydney Hinchcliffe, with the former Watford defender playing in a more advanced role with United.
At the time of writing, no new additions have been officially announced by the club.
Cheltenham Town Ladies
Nickname: The Robins
Manager: Tom Davies
Ground: Corinium Stadium
Last Meeting
Cheltenham will be another new opponent for the Hornets, but the two sides did meet back in a friendly in the summer of 2018.
2022/23 Fixtures
Watford v Cheltenham Town (18/09/2022)
Cheltenham Town v Watford (12/02/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL D1 South West: 1st
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Second Round
FA WNL Plate: Semi-Final
Top Scorer: Lacy-Jai Liggett (17)
Recent History
Having won promotion to the FA WNL South West Division back in 2013/14, Cheltenham were perennial strugglers at first, however always did enough to keep their heads above the water in those first four campaigns.
It was 2018/19 when their fortunes started to change, as the team would go on to win 12 of their 20 league games en route to a fourth-placed finish.
On the field performances would be even better the following campaign. The team were theoretically in a promotion battle at the time of the curtailment due to Covid, losing only one of their 11 games, however they were also deducted three points for fielding an ineligible player.
Realistically though, no team in the division had a shot at going up until Southampton FC Women’s progress up the pyramid had been secured, and with upward movement seeing that happen ahead of the 2021/22 season, the Robins knew they had a great chance of doing so.
With 45 points from 18 games and only one defeat which came on the opening day, do so they did. A new challenge will now begin as they play in the Southern Division for the first time in their history.
Squad Look
One of the main reasons behind their success last year was a strong defensive record, and a big part of that was goalkeeper Aimee Watson, who was an ever-present between the sticks.
While a few key personnel from that title-winning campaign have departed, they’ve managed to keep the majority of the squad together.
That includes young forward Lacy-Jai Liggett who was prolific in front of goal, plus Amy Wathan who was integral to the Coventry United side that won the Southern Division in 2018/19.
While there won’t be a reunion on the pitch after her retirement this summer, ex-Golden Girl Samantha Hallsworth will still be involved with Cheltenham as their Club Secretary.
At the time of writing, the club have only confirmed the retainment of players, and no new signings at this point.
Crawley Wasps
Nickname: Wasps
Manager: Dan Logue
Ground: Camping World Community Stadium
Last Meeting
Crawley Wasps 1-0 Watford – Oct 11, 2020
Watford had won 10 consecutive league games prior to this one, spread over two seasons due to the pandemic. That run came to an end in Horley, as a free-kick from Naomi Cole saw the Wasps prevail by a single goal margin.
2022/2023 Fixtures
Crawley Wasps v Watford (12/10/2022)
Watford v Crawley Wasps (15/03/2023)
Last Season
FA WNL Southern Division: 5th
Vitality Women’s FA Cup: Second Round
FA WNL Cup: Semi-Final
Top Scorer: Iesha Swaby (17)
Recent History
Crawley’s progress in the last half a dozen years or so has been remarkable. Having comfortably won the London & South East Regional Women’s Premier Division, that was then followed up by winning the 2018/19 FA WNL South East Division the following year.
It was a fantastic season for the team, and success wasn’t just limited to the league. They managed to reach the FA WNL Cup Final where they lost to Blackburn Rovers, while also going on a deep run in the Women’s FA Cup, eventually only being knocked out by Arsenal in front of a crowd of more than 1,500.
The constant progress continued, as in their first season in the Southern Division, they were top of the table with a 12-1-1 record when the season was stopped, although the Golden Girls could have gone just above them on goal difference by winning the games in hand.
It was a really competitive rivalry between the sides. Crawley’s only league loss in 2019/20 came against Watford, and the reverse was the case in 2020/21. Due to the unique circumstances of the shortened seasons, it would be the Hornets eventually winning promotion via upward movement.
That meant Wasps remained in the Southern Division for the previous campaign, and while they were still strong, it was a step back from the previous seasons. They didn’t draw a single one of the 26 games, eventually going 15-0-11 and finishing fifth.
Squad Look
Naomi Cole, Ellie Russell, and Rachel Palmer have been the main notable departures over the summer, with all three likely to be remembered fondly for the massive contributions they made to the club.
While the squad for the new campaign is still to be finalised, it’s notable that Iesha Swaby featured in their friendly against Millwall. Last season’s top scorer was on a dual-sign agreement with Brighton & Hove Albion and is seemingly still going to be involved with Wasps in 2022/23.
New Additions
Melanie Parreno-Espinosa featured in the game against Millwall, and she was officially unveiled as a new signing after that encounter.
She was previously with Gillingham, where she scored seven goals in 26 appearances last season, Parreno-Espinosa also featured for the Charlton side that won the league back in 2017/18.
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The Proud Hornets were in London earlier this month (July 2) to celebrate the annual and iconic Pride event for 2022.
Watford FC’s LGBTQI+ supporters group walked from Marble Arch to Trafalgar Square, celebrating inclusivity, equality and diversity.
Cheered on by the thousands of people in attendance, the atmosphere was akin to a carnival with the LGBT+ community and their allies out in full force for a day of festivity and joy.
With many representing the group, flags were proudly held aloft carrying club and pride colours throughout the streets of the English capital.
Of the event, a spokesperson for the Proud Hornets said: “After a gap of three years it was great for us to be back at London Pride and feeling the love from the huge crowds.”
The club and its staff were delighted to reaffirm their commitment to the LGBT+ community and their allies by joining the significant march.
Watford FC’s Marketing Manager Alex Cook, one of the staff members to have participated, said: “It was an honour to support the Proud Hornets at Pride in London and show our support for the LGBT+ community.
“It was truly amazing to see so many people in attendance cheering on the parade, and I’m excited to continue our partnership with the Proud Hornets, attending further events in the future.”
The Proud Hornets will celebrate their fifth birthday later this year, with the club in early conversations with them about marking that special occasion in early December.
Watford’s LGBTQI+ supporters group will also be attending Herts Pride 2022, the county’s largest LGBTQ+ festival and celebration. For more information on the event and how to attend, click HERE.
For fans looking for more information on the Proud Hornets, you can visit their website HERE or Twitter page HERE.
Photo Credit: Proud Hornets
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Watford FC confirms a couple of changes to the Golden Girls’ fixture list, with our two matches against Bridgwater United Women in the FA Women’s National League South being swapped around.
The second game of the 2022/23 season will now see Damon Lathrope’s side on the road instead, making the trip to Fairfax Park on August 28.
Due to the reversal of the fixtures between the sides, it means the Hornets will now host Bridgwater on January 29.
You can find the updated fixture list HERE. Any further changes will be announced here at watfordfc.com and on our social media channels.
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Josh Smith will take charge of a Watford game for the first time on Monday after being chosen to officiate the Championship opener against Sheffield United.
It wasn’t just the sunny weather that brightened the day of attendees at the latest Watford Premier Network event at Vicarage Road.
July’s WPN event, Powered by Network My Club and in association with Watford Chamber of Commerce, brought together a fine blend of business owners from near and far, to a sun-drenched View Lounge.
The buzz of networking and conversation was quick to fill the room, followed by a delicious lunch, and plenty of refreshments to keep attendees hydrated.
After lunch, it was time to hear from special guest speaker, Executive Vice President of Studio Operations at Warner Bros., Dan Dark OBE.
Following Dan’s insightful Q&A with Lee Partridge, a busy afternoon of networking was rounded off with attendees being given a private behind-the-scenes tour of Vicarage Road, including the changing rooms, media centre and in the dugouts by the pitch.
Event attendee, professional coach and speaker Marc Singer, shared on LinkedIn: “Another fantastic WPN event, spent networking with Network My Club and Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce. A highlight for me has to be the stadium tour at the end!”
Kat Wojcik also shared: “A big thank you to Network My Club, Watford Football Club and Watford & West Herts Chamber of Commerce for hosting a great networking lunch this afternoon. A fantastic way of connecting with leading businesses from Watford and beyond. Also, amazing to have a Q&A opportunity with Dan Dark OBE!”
The next WPN event takes place at Vicarage Road on Friday September 16, and bookings are now open for business owners across Watford and Hertfordshire.
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NORWICH CITY INS: Gabriel Sara (São Paulo, Undisclosed), Isaac Hayden (Newcastle United, Season Loan) OUTS: Pierre Lees-Melou (Brest, €2.3 million), Dan Adshead (Cheltenham Town, Undisclosed), Rocky Bushiri (Hibernian, Undisclosed), Matt Dennis (Milton Keynes Dons, Undisclosed), Akin Famewo (Sheffield Wednesday, Undisclosed), Christoph Zimmermann (Darmstadt, Undisclosed), Josip Drmić (Dinamo Zagreb, Free), Josh Giurgi (Shelbourne, Free), Nelson Khumbeni […]
Seasonal and monthly passes for Watford FC’s Hive Live match streaming service are now available to buy, ahead of the impending Sky Bet Championship campaign.
Following the successful trial run of the video service for the Hornets’ final pre-season outing against Southampton last Saturday, fans are now able to finalise their preparations for 2022/23 by signing up to the club’s audio or visual coverage.
With Jon Marks and Watford legend Tommy Mooney on commentary duties, the show - that will start approximately 15 minutes before each game - will bring you live coverage of the match as well as expert punditry and analysis.
Fans are reminded that the service is restricted compared to the 2020/21 season, when broadcast regulations were relaxed due to the Covid-19 pandemic, and UK-based supporters could watch a large number of fixtures as the Golden Boys roared to promotion.
This time around, the ability for us to stream video domestically (includes UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man) is reduced due to the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout, which bars the live broadcast of domestic fixtures in this country. However, we will still be able to bring live video coverage of occasional Championship games to domestic supporters via watfordfc.com and the club app.
Overseas supporters, on the other hand, can look forward to seeing the majority of our fixtures this coming 2022/23 season.
What Services Are Available Now?
International Video Subscription – Season Pass (£140 Early Bird) or Monthly Pass (£25 Per Month)*
- Available to overseas fans, outside of the UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man.
- Online video coverage of all league matches, provided they haven’t been selected for international TV broadcast in the territory you reside.
*Season Pass price increases to £170 from September 1.
Audio Pass – Season Pass (£45) or Monthly Pass (£4.50 Per Month)
- Available to fans in all domestic and overseas territories.
- Online broadcast of audio commentary of all league games.
Passes can be purchased by clicking HERE.
What Other Services Will Be Available?
Individual video passes will be available to domestic and overseas fans on a game-by-game basis at a cost of £10, dependant on streaming restrictions.
While overseas supporters can access online video coverage of all league matches, provided they haven’t been selected for international TV broadcast in the territory they reside (as above), domestic fans will have access to the following:
- All scheduled midweek & Bank Holiday league matches, unless selected for live broadcast on Sky Sports.
- All league matches moved from Saturday 3pm to midweek for non-TV purposes.
- Any league matches played on December 10 and 17 (due to lifting of Saturday 3pm blackout for World Cup quarter-finals and third-place play-offs), unless selected for live broadcast on Sky Sports.
What Coverage Can I Access In August?
- Sheffield United (H), Monday August 1, 8pm KO: no video stream due to Sky Sports broadcast.
- West Bromwich Albion (A), Monday August 8, 8pm KO: no video stream due to Sky Sports broadcast.
- Burnley (H), Friday August 12, 8pm KO: no video stream due to Sky Sports broadcast.
- Birmingham City (A), Tuesday August 16, 7.45pm KO: video stream available to domestic & overseas supporters.
- Preston North End (A), Saturday August 20, 3pm KO: video stream only available in specific overseas territories due to international TV broadcast.
- QPR (H), Saturday August 27, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only.
- Middlesbrough (H), Tuesday August 30, 8pm KO: no video stream due to Sky Sports broadcast.
For more information, including a list of FAQs, click HERE.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford's newly-appointed club captain Tom Cleverley played the first half as Watford drew their friendly at Hitchin Town.
Watford FC Women have a new General Manager in place for the 2022/23 campaign, with George Wells taking up the role following the departure of Amber Wildgust earlier this summer.
Vastly experienced having occupied a number of roles within the women’s game, Wells enjoyed a smooth integration into the club with an opportunity to communicate regularly with his predecessor, with the ball rolling already on the new season’s preparations.
Wells’ work at the likes of Arsenal and the Middlesex FA saw him meet plenty of people in the sport, and he has reunited with several familiar faces at Watford.
“It’s great to be here, my first week was really good and it was great to have the opportunity to meet Amber and transition over smoothly,” said Wells. “I was very grateful for that chance.
“I’ve been coaching in the women’s game for 14 years, working with young players from age 11 to senior football and more recently working with Arsenal Women’s academy.
“My background is commercial operations in County FAs and the FA, building a really strong network within the women’s game which I hope will help Damon [Lathrope], Laura [Dyer] and the other staff here, and it’s helped me settle in because I’ve already worked with about a third of the players in the squad!
“It’s nice to see some familiar faces, and my background made the General Manager role a perfect fit for me. Watford being my local club is great, and I’m really proud to be here.”
The new appointment comes at a time when Watford’s coaching team is changing. Damon Lathrope is now at the helm as Head Coach following a spell as assistant last term, with Matt Bevans assisting him. Laura Dyer, a mainstay at the club in recent years and joint-Head Coach at the back end of last season, has also remained involved and will play a major role with the Hornets this season as Assistant Coach. Armand Kavaja, while coaching in the men’s Academy, will assist the coaching staff throughout the campaign, with Goalkeeping Coach Ilirjan Memaj also working with the Young Hornets and Golden Girls.
In the Development Team, Jo Williams and Joe Doyle will remain as Head Coach and Assistant Head, but will be bolstered by the arrival of experienced Hornets defender Renée Hector in the coaching staff. To check out our first-team staff list, click HERE.
“The structure, staff and players in place here sets us up really well for the new season,” Wells continued. “I think we’re in a really good position. It was a tough year last year and I was aware of the situation, but now I’m really excited to come in, hopefully have an impact and make life easier for the players and staff.”
The Hornets stand in good stead for 2022/23 in the FA National League South, but are under no illusions about the challenges ahead. Pre-season has provided the chance for Wells, Lathrope and the coaching staff to assess the squad, retain several key names and make new signings.
Wells explained: “The squad’s looking good, they’re in a good place and the facilities help with that high performance which is what we want to instil across the season. Even though we’ve come down to the National League, it’s a long season ahead and we’re preparing the team as best we can to achieve good things.
“It’s a familiar league for us to play in, and the players and staff have ambitious goals. We know what we want to achieve - now we’ve got to go out and do it. We’re in a really good position to have a successful season but it’s a tough league, and as you can see from last season, you’ve not only got to win the league but a play-off also.”
A new season, new league and new General Manager has also seen a new home for Watford, as they prepare to play their home fixtures at Wealdstone FC’s Grosvenor Vale.
With all eyes currently on the ongoing Women’s European Championships, Wells hopes the support for the Lionesses during this year’s historic tournament can help attract more attention to the women’s game, particularly at the Vale. The loyal group of supporters who attended regularly at Kings Langley’s Orbital Fasteners Stadium will also be crucial for the Hornets in the upcoming season, alongside the newer fans brought in.
“Women’s football is thriving at the moment, especially with England lucky enough to host the Women’s Euros currently,” said the General Manager. “With our return to play being soon after the completion of the competition we are looking forward to welcoming lots of new fans as well as old to Grosvenor Vale, our new home.
“We’re really grateful for everything Kings Langley have provided us in the past, and the Under-23s are staying there along with some of the Academy set-up. For our first team we’re really pleased to be going to Grosvenor Vale - there’s a lovely pitch, a great set-up and lots of grassroots football in the area. I know Ruislip very well.
“We’re looking forward to engaging with local people, getting our regular contingent of fans to come across and hopefully see us in a very exciting season. I know the players are champing at the bit to get back into it, it’ll be a really good opportunity.”
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The Hornets Shop will host a signing session with Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards and Assistant Richie Kyle this Friday (July 29)!
Edwards and Kyle will be in-store for pictures and signings during the afternoon, giving supporters a chance to meet the new men at the helm ahead of the curtain-raiser against Sheffield United on Monday August 1 (8pm KO).
The session will take place from 2.30-3.30pm BST at the Vicarage Road Hornets Shop; we advise supporters to arrive early in case of large queues.
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Former Watford defender Derek Agyakwa has joined Port Vale following a successful trial.
He was the man on the line when Nick Wright's bicycle kick went over his head at Wembley. Former club captain Neil Cox talks all things Watford.
HULL CITY INS: Doğukan Sinik (Antalyaspor, Undisclosed), Ozan Tufan (Fenerbahçe, Undisclosed), Allahyar Sayyadmanesh (Fenerbahçe, Undisclosed), Benjamin Tetteh (Yeni Malatyaspor, Undisclosed), Oscar Estupiñán (Vitória Guimãraes, Free), Tobias Figueiredo (Nottingham Forest, Free), Jean-Michel Seri (Fulham, Free), Nathan Baxter (Chelsea, Season Loan) OUTS: George Honeyman (Millwall, Undisclosed), Keane Lewis-Potter (Brentford, Undisclosed), George Moncur (Leyton Orient, Undisclosed), Tom Eaves […]
Kiko Femenia has told Watford fans he “will always carry you in my heart” in an emotional farewell from Vicarage Road.
Watford take an Under-21 team to Hitchin Town tomorrow (Tuesday) evening for a pre-season friendly at 7.30pm - tickets MUST be purchased in advance.
With the 2022 centenary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road approaching, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil.
Today, David Harrison writes about the star player in Watford’s first win over higher-division opponents at The Vic, who went on to manage the club twice.
There will be Watford fans today who followed the club during Neil McBain’s second spell in the Vicarage Road managerial seat. However it’s unlikely many people alive would have witnessed McBain’s first spell in the hot seat, while if you were lucky enough to see the big man actually playing for the club, you’re likely to have a telegram from the Queen stashed away at home.
McBain joined Watford for £1,000 from Liverpool in 1928, already a seasoned Scottish international. He was 33 and had collected three caps, the first of which saw a memorable 1-0 win over England. As a player McBain was unquestionably the real deal.
‘A composed, consistent, intelligent, tenacious and tactically versatile player with excellent technique and distribution.’ Well, actually that’s an internet description of Filippo Galli, but not a bad parallel in terms of experience and pedigree, despite the Italian arriving here 73 years later.
McBain became player-manager in the summer of 1929, before hanging up his boots in 1932. His first managerial spell lasted until 1937, and the board made the extraordinary decision to reappoint him no less than 19 years later. Neither managerial stint could be termed a great success, but as a player McBain had been a class act. In fact, he must have stuck out like a sore thumb in Division 3 (South).
He had arrived at Vicarage Road with little fanfare, and slotted quietly into the half-back line. McBain joined during our ninth Football League season, the seventh at Vicarage Road. Despite high expectations, things were not going well, with a succession of bottom-half finishes. However, the 1928/29 FA Cup campaign offered a welcome break from league action and represented an opportunity for some giant-killing.
Having edged past non-league Leyton and lowly-league rivals Merthyr Town, Watford were handed a plum third-round home tie against the mighty Preston North End, previous winners of the competition and boasting the legendary Alex James in their side. The great Tommy Barnett scored the game’s only goal that day, in front of 18,344 at Vicarage Road, to earn Watford’s greatest scalp to date as a Football League club. Frank Smith kept James under control throughout but it was McBain’s display that caught the eye.
The club programme was rarely given to effusive praise but on this occasion didn’t hold back. ‘They all played wonderfully well and if there was a player who stood out in the twenty-two, it was Neil McBain. He was simply wonderful and gave the PNE halves an exhibition and object lesson of how half-backs should play, especially how to keep the ball on the ground and feed the forwards. It was pretty to see McBain bring the ball under control on the hard going so quickly and glide his passes just at the right moment. Well played McBain!’
McBain lived a full and noteworthy life. He served in the Great War, in both the Royal Navy and Black Watch. In his playing career he represented the unprecedented trio of Manchester United, Liverpool and Everton. Every bit as remarkable, certainly in these parts, he somehow managed both Watford and Luton Town, as well as an eye-catching spell in charge of the world-famous Argentinian club, Estudiantes de la Plata.
He also holds two Football League records unlikely ever to be broken. In March 1947, while managing Division 3 (North) New Brighton, McBain was forced to appear in goal when transport difficulties precluded his regular keeper from reaching an away game at Hartlepool. By then McBain was 51 years old, distinctly bulky and hadn’t played a Football League game for 16 years. He was also 5ft 8ins and, as a half-back during his playing career, not the obvious choice for an emergency goalkeeping slot.
That appearance made McBain the oldest man ever to play in the Football League, as well as achieving the longest playing career, 32 years elapsing between his first and last appearances. He was not a great manager, and by the end of his second spell had become a marginal figure at the club, but that 1929 display against Preston remains the stuff of legends and made Neil McBain a legitimate Home Ground Hero.
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Tickets are now on sale for Watford’s trips to Birmingham City (Tuesday August 16, 7.45pm KO) and Preston North End (Saturday August 20, 3pm KO).
Watford FC is supporting an all-football approach to ensure that every football fan feels safe attending matches.
Ahead of the new season, the Hornets are backing the introduction of strong measures across football to tackle antisocial and criminal behaviours within football grounds. This includes entering the pitch without permission, carrying or using smoke bombs or pyros and throwing objects onto the pitch, as well as discriminatory behaviour and taking drugs. All of these actions are illegal, dangerous and have no place in our game.
For everyone’s safety, all clubs will report anyone carrying out these offences to the police. Prosecution by the police can result in a permanent criminal record, which could affect your employment and education, and in some cases, result in a prison sentence.
Anyone who enters the pitch without permission or uses smoke bombs or pyros will now receive an automatic club ban. This could also now apply to the parents or guardians of children involved in these activities.
These measures reflect the seriousness of the risks to fans and staff – pyros can burn at 2,000 degrees Celsius and can cause life-changing injuries, burns and potentially fatal asthma attacks. Entering the pitch endangers everyone because it’s impossible to tell the difference between a celebrating fan and a violent attacker. That is why the pitch must remain a safe space for players, and the stands for supporters.
This season, Watford FC is supporting the FA, Premier League, EFL, and the Football Supporters Association to make football a safer and more welcoming environment, by cracking down on dangerous behaviour that can put fans, players, staff and match officials at risk. We ask our supporters to come together to show that those who commit these illegal acts do not represent the majority of supporters.
FA Chief Executive Mark Bullingham said: “We all know about the fantastic and unique role that football can play in bringing communities together. However, the rise in anti-social behaviour that we saw in stadiums at the end of last season was entirely unacceptable and put people’s safety at risk. Together, English football has introduced new measures and stronger sanctions, for the start of the coming season, to send out a clear message that we will not tolerate this type of illegal and dangerous behaviour. Football stadiums must be a safe, inclusive and enjoyable environment for all, and it is the responsibility of everyone in the game, including governing bodies, clubs, players, coaches, and fans, to ensure that we all play our part in protecting our game and each other.”
Premier League Chief Executive Richard Masters said: “Everyone should feel safe and able to enjoy a football match. Together, with clubs and partners across football, we are making clear the type of incidents we saw last season must stop. If we don’t take collective and sustained action, it may only be a matter of time before someone is seriously injured, or worse.
“These new measures are a strong response to a significant increase in fan behaviour issues, but we know it is the minority who have behaved unacceptably and unlawfully. Premier League football should be a fantastic experience for everyone and we don’t want matches to be marred by these sorts of events in the future.”
EFL Chief Executive Trevor Birch said: “This season sees new measures introduced and sanctions implemented that will serve to remind everyone attending games - but particularly the minority of people behaving in an offensive manner - that there are real life consequences for the criminal, dangerous and irresponsible conduct at football. It is wholly appropriate that these unacceptable behaviours will now be dealt with through a combination of police action and automatic club bans. There is nothing like going to watch your team live and that is why the English professional game has taken strong collective action, to ensure the matchday experience remains a safe and welcoming environment for all including fans, players, club staff and match officials.”
Football Supporters’ Association Chief Executive Kevin Miles said: “We are contacted by supporters on a fairly regular basis who have been caught jumping on the pitch, or with pyro in the stands, and without exception they regret doing it.
“Whether they had positive intentions or not is irrelevant in the eyes of the law - pyro and pitch incursions are illegal, you will be prosecuted and you will be banned by your club.”
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BURNLEY INS: Luke McNally (Oxford United, £1,800,000), Samuel Bastien (Standard Liège, Undisclosed), Arijanet Muric (Manchester City, Undisclosed), Scott Twine (Milton Keynes Dons, Undisclosed), CJ Egan-Riley (Manchester City, Free), Taylor Harwood-Bellis (Manchester City, Season Loan), Ian Maatsen (Chelsea, Season Loan) OUTS: Nathan Collins (Wolves, £20,500,000), Nick Pope (Newcastle United, £10,000,000), Josh Cullen (Anderlecht, Undisclosed), Wayne Hennessey […]
Rob Edwards reflects upon Watford's 0-0 draw in the final pre-season friendly of the summer.
Head coach Rob Edwards has said Daniel Bachmann will be Watford's first-choice keeper when the season starts.
Players social posts spark unfounded rumours as Watford give players a break - but Masina is leaving the club
Watford full-back Hassane Kamara was pleased with the 4-1 pre-season victory over Wycombe Wanderers, in which he featured from the right-hand side after coming on for Kiko Femenía.
Ismaïla Sarr notched a double, while Emmanuel Dennis and Yáser Asprilla rounded off an imposing result at the London Colney training ground, as Head Coach Rob Edwards made multiple substitutions in a bid to further preparations ahead of the new campaign.
Ivory Coast international Kamara believes that the victory will be important for the team’s morale heading into next Saturday, when the Hornets play Southampton at Grosvenor Vale (July 23, 3pm KO).
“We’re happy because we won today and it’s very good for our confidence,” said Kamara.
“When we move more, someone comes back and another goes, we have a lot of chances. We have to keep it, we have to keep this level. This year the Championship will be very difficult, so we have to work and take this confidence to have a good season.
“The Head Coach told us to control the game and when we started the game it was difficult because we needed to move more, but when we had better movement, the game improved. When we played simple it was good for the team.”
Despite playing in a somewhat unfamiliar position during the win over the Chairboys, the 28-year-old is happy to contribute to Watford’s performances in any way boss Edwards sees fit.
He added: “I am here for the team so if the coach needs me to play at right-back or anywhere, I am here to help the team. The Head Coach didn’t ask for anything specifically in that position because it’s the same as left-back, just on the other side.
“It’s important to keep that confidence and the work offensively, but after, we have to be careful because we conceded at a set-piece. We have to be careful on that, keep the confidence and the good movement.”
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Sarr, Dennis and Asprilla on the scoresheet as Hornets beat Wycombe 4-1 at the training ground
Watford’s Under-18 and Under-21 sides have confirmed their pre-season schedules for 2022/23, kicking off tomorrow (Saturday July 16).
The Professional Development League campaigns will begin in August, and both age groups have already returned to training in preparation for another important season.
The Under-21s’ pre-season schedule, which will see five fixtures take place, is as follows:
- Loughborough University v Watford Under-21 - Saturday July 16
- West Bromwich Albion Under-21 v Watford Under-21 - Saturday July 23
- Hitchin Town v Watford Under-21 - Tuesday July 26
- Southampton Under-21 v Watford Under-21 - Saturday July 30
- Kings Langley v Watford Under-21 - Tuesday August 2
The Under-18s begin their pre-season fixtures next Tuesday (July 19). The full list of games is below:
- Watford Under-18 v Watford CSE Trust - Tuesday July 19
- Watford Under-18 v Northampton Town Academy - Saturday July 23
- AFC Bournemouth Academy v Watford Under-18 - Tuesday July 26
- Watford Under-18 v Stevenage Academy - Saturday July 30
- Tottenham Hotspur Academy v Watford Under-18 - Saturday August 6
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An intrepid great-grandmother was taking a flight in Spitfire, fatbergs clogging up Watford’s sewers, a couple were preparing to play their part in London 2012 and Watford’s new chief executive was explaining a change of management were among the stories making the headlines in the Watford Observer five and ten years ago this week.
Off the back of changes to professional development leagues in England, Watford’s Under-23 side will now become Under-21 ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
In June, the Premier League announced changes to the Premier League 2 and lower development leagues which would see the age limit lowered by two years to reflect the average age of sides in last year’s competition, standing at 19.
As part of an effort to ensure young players gain experience with and against older players, the limit on over-age outfield players in the leagues has been increased from three to five, with one over-age goalkeeper also.
Watford Academy Director Richard Johnson is positive about the change, and sees it as a benefit to the youngsters at the club.
“It’s a welcome change, the average age within the Under-23s was 19 so many clubs were sticking to that age group anyway,” Johnson explained.
“That was something myself and Jimmy wanted to quickly change here, promoting youth, promoting Under-16s to Under-18 football and Under-18s to Under-23s. For what we’re trying to do in the Academy it’s a very welcome change.
“We’ve got a young group within the PDP programme now, we’re looking forward to seeing how the boys progress. With the five over-age players, it could be of real benefit for the younger lads to have experience in there.”
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Match Info
- Watford v Wycombe Wanderers
- Friendly
- Watford FC training ground, London Colney (behind closed doors)
- Saturday July 16, 11am (re-arranged from original 1pm KO)
Opposition
Wycombe Wanderers returned to Sky Bet League One last term following their relegation from the Championship in 2021. The Chairboys nearly secured an immediate return to the second tier last season, only to lose 2-0 to Sunderland in the play-off final.
Sam Vokes was the key man in his debut campaign at Adams Park, netting 17 goals and seven assists in the league.
Stats Buzz
- Watford and Wycombe have only faced off three times in the 21st century. The Hornets are unbeaten in those games, winning two and drawing one.
- The first time the Golden Boys faced Wycombe was a 1959 FA Cup meeting. Watford ran out 5-1 winners in the second-round tie.
Been At Both
Ikechi Anya has donned both Watford yellow and Wycombe blue in his career, coming through the academy at the Buckinghamshire side before departing in 2007 for Oxford City.
After a few seasons in Spain with the likes of Cadiz, Celta Vigo and Granada the Scot joined Watford in 2012, winning promotion to the Premier League in 2014/15 as a fast, versatile player.
Head To Head
Overall:
Won: 5
Drawn: 3
Lost: 0
Last Five:
March 2021: Watford 2-0 Wycombe Wanderers (Championship)
October 2020: Wycombe Wanderers 1-1 Watford (Championship)
August 2012: Watford 1-0 Wycombe Wanderers (League Cup)
December 1997: Wycombe Wanderers 0-0 Watford (Division Two)
September 1997: Watford 2-1 Wycombe Wanderers (Division Two)
Last Time Out
Andre Gray scored in both halves as the Hornets saw off Wycombe at Vicarage Road, in a game played behind closed doors in 2021.
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Only one goal in three pre-season games so far, and Watford head coach Rob Edwards wants his players to take more risks to rectify it.
Tickets for Watford’s Sky Bet Championship clash against Burnley (Friday August 12, 8pm KO) will go on sale to supporters in Home Group A at 12noon on Monday (July 18).
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday July 18 * Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday July 19 * Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday July 20 * Home Group D
12noon, Thursday July 21 * General Sale*
12noon, Friday July 22
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in person.
Ticket Prices
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £28
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £16
- 18 & Under: £5
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £22
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such, all bookings made in this area must contain at least one person from the 18 & Under category. Because of this, online sales for the Ann Swanson Family Stand will not be available. Tickets can be purchased by telephone or in-person only.
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Tickets for Watford’s trip to West Bromwich Albion in the Sky Bet Championship on Monday August 8 (8pm KO) will go on sale to supporters in Away Group A at at 12noon on Monday (July 18).
Tickets are available from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone at 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Away Group A
12noon, Monday July 18 * Away Group B
12noon, Tuesday July 19 * Away Group C
12noon, Wednesday July 20 * Away Group D
12noon, Thursday July 21 * Away Group E*
9am, Friday July 22 * General Sale
4pm, Friday July 22
*Away Group E sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in-person.
Subject to availability, ticket sales for our away fixture at West Bromwich Albion will finish at 12pm on Monday August 8. We are unable to amend any bookings after this time.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £30
- Disabled Adult: £15
- 65 & Over: £20
- 20-25 Years Old: £15
- 17-19 Years Old: £10
- Under 17: £5
Coach Travel
All coach travel this season is priced at £15, regardless of destination.
Coaches for our trip to West Bromwich Albion will depart from Occupation Road at 3pm.
As this journey is using the M1 northbound there will be an additional pick-up and drop-off at the Milton Keynes Coachway, close to M1 junction 14 MK16 0AA. The pick-up time at the Milton Keynes Coachway will be approximately 3.45pm.
Please note, the designated coach number booked during coach travel bookings is subject to alteration. When amending coach travel bookings, we will not split bookings, that are made together, between coaches.
Junior Hornets
We are reserving an area within our allocation specifically for Junior Hornets members and their families. This area will be available at all away games, not just those designated as Junior Hornets Away Days. There is no different pricing within this area for this match.
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the Junior Hornets members area should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Designated Seating Area
Supporters wishing to purchase tickets within the designated seating area, an area of seating for supporters who wish to remain seated during the game, should make their purchase by calling 01923 223023 when sales are available to their sales group.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Replacement Tickets
Supporters who are without their tickets by Friday August 5, either having not received their tickets or mislaid them, should email supporters@watfordfc.com with their Fan ID number and details of their booking. We will arrange for replacement tickets to be available for collection from The Hawthorns.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Watford head coach Rob Edwards says 'hard work' is going into signing some homegrown players
Midfielder Joseph Hungbo won Scotland's Goal of the Season while on loan, but admits he had no idea where Ross County was!
Watford have reduced their match ticket prices for the upcoming season in the Sky Bet Championship.
To help celebrate the 100-year anniversary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road, Daily Mirror sports writer Mike Walters recalls his encounters with those who have occupied the Hornets’ hotseat.
Next up is Steve Harrison, who featured for the Golden Boys as a player before returning to Hertfordshire to manage the team between 1988 and 1990.
Dipping into his pocket, the great comedian produced a £5 note and waved it at the group of players slumped on the pavilion steps after an energetic training session.
Breaking into song – nicely in tune – Steve Harrison recited a few bars of a Frank Sinatra classic and posed the group of mainly young prospects a quiz question which left them floundering more than any tactical diagram on a flipchart.
“Right,” said Harrison. “A fiver to the first one who can tell me the name of the dog who features in the lyrics of Strangers In The Night... any offers? Anyone? Come on, the name of the dog...”
After a few seconds of blank looks and head-scratching, Harrison put the group out of their misery. “Give up? You’ll kick yourselves...”
Breaking into song again, he slipped the fiver back in his pocket and replaced Strangers In The Night in the opening line with “Scooby-dooby-doo...”
As the players broke into a mixture of jeers, howls of laughter and indiscriminate gestures, Harrison wagged his finger knowingly at another audience defeated by his invincible sense of humour, and invited the waiting football hack into the canteen for a cup of tea.
If Harrison wasn’t the funniest man in football, he was in the top one.
At one of Watford’s end-of-season awards nights at Bailey’s nightclub, his send-up of Chairman Elton John was world-class mimicry.
A robust left-back as a player, Harrison was the Hornets manager whose second coming at Vicarage Road early in 1988 came too late to repair the damage of half a season stalled on the starting grid under Dave Bassett.
Although he was in the cockpit when relegation came calling, ending Watford’s six-year stay in the penthouse, he was desperately close to bouncing back at the first attempt, thwarted by an undeserved (and unique) play-off semi-final defeat on away goals against Blackburn Rovers.
That season was decorated by a four-game FA Cup marathon with Newcastle and the eclipse of another top-flight club, Derby County, with a reassembled side financed largely by Sir Elton’s largesse.
“The Chairman is on tour around the world doing his business so I can do mine,” said Harrison, who quit in March 1990 on the premise that he was more cut out for coaching on the training ground than the all-consuming demands of football management.
His overall record (36 wins, 27 draws, 35 defeats) was inconclusive support of that argument, but Harrison’s transfer deals included some gems – Neil Redfearn and Rick Holden went on to enjoy cup success and adulation at Oldham, with Redfearn also a leading light in Barnsley’s elevation to the Premier League almost a decade later.
This correspondent’s view is that Harrison, now 69, was unduly harsh in his self-assessment, and history might have judged him very differently as a manager if fortune had not deserted the Hornets in that play-off semi-final against Blackburn.
But that impersonation of Elton stands alone in the Bailey’s hall of fame...
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Young forward Tiago Cukur has completed a permanent transfer to Turkish outfit Fenerbahçe SK for an undisclosed fee, Watford FC confirms.
Cukur, 19, returns to his native country having joined the Hornets in January 2021, where he has turned out for the club’s Under-18 and Under-23 sides.
The Dutch-born striker - who earned his first senior international cap last month - spent the first half of last season on loan at Doncaster Rovers, and featured on the bench for Watford’s first team against Everton and Leicester City in May.
We wish Tiago all the best for the future.
Meanwhile, the club confirms a trio of temporary outgoings from Vicarage Road. Young Colombian Ober Almanza has joined Club Independiente Santa Fe until December 31, 2022, while compatriots Jorge Segura and Juergen Elitim have headed to Independiente Medellín and Racing de Santander respectively, both until June 30, 2023.
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Former Watford strikers Joshua King and Tiago Cukur have completed their moves to Fenerbahce.
Francisco Sierralta hoping to break back into the Watford team after frustrating campaign
The newest recruit to join Rob Edwards’ Hornets, Rey Manaj put pen to paper on a three-year deal from Barcelona on Tuesday (July 12), and is looking forward to donning the yellow shirt at Vicarage Road.
A dynamic forward who brings with him an abundance of experience from his time in Italy and Spain, at just 25 years old, Manaj is hoping to use that to his advantage in the next chapter of his career.
After a successful loan move to Spezia in Italy’s top-flight during the 2021/22 campaign, the Albanian explained how the transfer to Watford came to fruition after attracting numerous clubs all vying for his signature.
“Two weeks ago, my agent called me and I just wanted to wait until the end of the season because it had been a very long one,” said Manaj.
“After that, I spoke to my agent and I had a few calls from Italy and Spain, but I spoke with the owner [Gino Pozzo] and I decided to join the club.
“I checked the squad before coming here and there are some familiar names, but I don’t really know anyone on a personal level yet. During these first few days I will get to know them both on the pitch and off it, and we will work together for the club.
“Everyone has welcomed me in a fantastic way. From my teammates to the staff and the senior management – they all gave me a very warm welcome. I’m very happy to be here.”
Manaj is no stranger to pressure having played for Inter Milan and Barcelona. In Italy, Manaj was guided by Roberto Mancini at the San Siro, while in Spain he became the first Albanian to make the senior Barcelona squad in early 2020.
The forward acknowledges that he is not the first player to have made the step to Watford from the Catalonian giants, with Gerard Deulofeu and current teammate Kiko Femenía having made the switch in the past.
“I’m very proud because I wore two shirts for very important clubs [Inter and Barcelona], but now I have to look forward to my time at Watford,” Manaj continued.
“My agent played a very important role because he is always the one that gives me the advice on where to go. Watford is a very renowned team, everyone in Italy knows Watford. In fact, as soon as I said to people that I was moving here, everyone said that I chose the best team.
“My focus is on this next adventure because now I am wearing Watford’s shirt and we have to go back to the Premier League. I’m very excited to be here.”
Manaj is the first senior Watford star to hail from Albania, a feat that he is proud of. However, ahead of the new season, his focus is on preparing for another important year of football.
As a forward, Manaj knows that as well as contributing to the scoreline he will also need to be a more rounded individual under Edwards.
He said: “Every player that plays in an attacking position needs to be able to be creative and give some options for the whole team. Not only do I want to produce goals and assists, but we have to be a part of the whole strategy.
“I am looking forward to walking out at Vicarage Road, but we have 20 days in front of us and my pre-season starts now. We have to make sure that we arrive ready for the first game and get three points at home.”
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You could win a new Watford home or away shirt before the first game of the season - just enter our competition
Some new opportunities have become available within the Academy at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a number of football coaches, that can demonstrate the ability to design, deliver and review coaching sessions in line with our curriculum for Academy players.
We are looking for coaches for the age groups U9-12s and U13-16s. You may be required to coach evenings and weekends, as well as be expected to attend and contribute to regular Continuous Professional Development (CPD) events that take place throughout the season.
The successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, and flexible to the requirements of the role and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Minimum Level 3 UEFA B Coaching Licence
- FA Youth Award
- Knowledge of the PMA System
- Valid FA Safeguarding Certificate
- Previous experience coaching in an elite sports environment
- Valid FA Level 2 Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAiF)
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Casual Worker - Academy Coach (Foundation Phase U9-12 & Youth Phase U13-16)
Rate Of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 5pm, August 12 2022
Interview Date: Week commencing August 15 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing which age group you would prefer to work with, and why you would be suitable for the role, provide copies of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to Adam Balletta, adam.balletta@watfordfc.com or by post to Adam Balletta, Watford Football Club Training Ground, UCL Sports Ground, Bell Lane, London Colney, Hertfordshire, AL2 1BZ.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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The newest recruit to join Rob Edwards’ Hornets, Rey Manaj put pen to paper on a three-year deal from Barcelona on Tuesday (July 12), and is looking forward to donning the yellow shirt at Vicarage Road.
A dynamic forward who brings with him an abundance of experience from his time in Italy and Spain, at just 25 years old, Manaj is hoping to use that to his advantage in the next chapter of his career.
After a successful loan move to Spezia in Italy’s top-flight during the 2021/22 campaign, the Albanian explained how the transfer to Watford came to fruition after attracting numerous clubs all vying for his signature.
“Two weeks ago, my agent called me and I just wanted to wait until the end of the season because it had been a very long one,” said Manaj.
“After that, I spoke to my agent and I had a few calls from Italy and Spain, but I spoke with the owner [Gino Pozzo] and I decided to join the club.
“I checked the squad before coming here and there are some familiar names, but I don’t really know anyone on a personal level yet. During these first few days I will get to know them both on the pitch and off it, and we will work together for the club.
“Everyone has welcomed me in a fantastic way. From my teammates to the staff and the senior management – they all gave me a very warm welcome. I’m very happy to be here.”
Manaj is no stranger to pressure having played for Inter Milan and Barcelona. In Italy, Manaj was guided by Roberto Mancini at the San Siro, while in Spain he became the first Albanian to make the senior Barcelona squad in early 2020.
The forward acknowledges that he is not the first player to have made the step to Watford from the Catalonian giants, with Gerard Deulofeu and current teammate Kiko Femenía having made the switch in the past.
“I’m very proud because I wore two shirts for very important clubs [Inter and Barcelona], but now I have to look forward to my time at Watford,” Manaj continued.
“My agent played a very important role because he is always the one that gives me the advice on where to go. Watford is a very renowned team, everyone in Italy knows Watford. In fact, as soon as I said to people that I was moving here, everyone said that I chose the best team.
“My focus is on this next adventure because now I am wearing Watford’s shirt and we have to go back to the Premier League. I’m very excited to be here.”
Manaj is the first senior Watford star to hail from Albania, a feat that he is proud of. However, ahead of the new season, his focus is on preparing for another important year of football.
As a forward, Manaj knows that as well as contributing to the scoreline he will also need to be a more rounded individual under Edwards.
He said: “Every player that plays in an attacking position needs to be able to be creative and give some options for the whole team. Not only do I want to produce goals and assists, but we have to be a part of the whole strategy.
“I am looking forward to walking out at Vicarage Road, but we have 20 days in front of us and my pre-season starts now. We have to make sure that we arrive ready for the first game and get three points at home.”
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The Watford Observer has again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
Watford are without a win in their three pre-season games and head coach Rob Edwards is not making any excuses
Following a three-year hiatus, the Premier League Kicks Cup returned last month, providing young people with the chance to compete with other communities on the pitch and represent their local clubs.
PL Kicks is the Premier League’s current longest-running community programme, which celebrated its 15th anniversary earlier this year.
Since it began, more than 440,000 young people have participated in PL Kicks football and multi-sport sessions run across 936 venues by 90 Premier League, English Football League and National League sides. The weekly free sessions allow young people to get exercise, learn and hone skills in sport and life, as well as taking part in regular workshops.
More than 1,000 youngsters took part in this year’s PL Kicks Cup over three days in Nottingham in June, representing over 70 different clubs and participating in the boys’, girls’ and pan-disability competitions.
The Watford Community, Sports and Education Trust entered a team for each competition.
Made up of players from sessions in Harrow, Hillingdon and Hertfordshire, the boys’ team featured youngsters who the Trust’s PL Kicks coaches felt deserved to represent them based on ability, commitment, attitude and behaviour at sessions.
The final squad was selected after a trial session; Joe Booth, Joe Hanson, Olly Pope, Cristiano Faria, Nico Romano, Becaye Jabbi, Samuel Kin and team captain Liam Fortune. Winning three, drawing one and losing one in the group stages, the boys advanced to the knockout stages, where they were narrowly defeated by Reading.
Following the same selection criteria as the boys’ team, the girls’ team was selected prior to the tournament and featured: Amelia Mongia-Duthie, Aniya Patel, Charlotte Davey, Lara Freitas, Merryn Dyson, Matilda Walker and Ruby Havens. The girls reached the semi-finals of the competition thanks to their excellent team spirit, with all playing exceptionally well.
Saj Vigneswaran, PL Kicks Officer at the Trust, gave more background on two players and their journeys to success on the programme.
“Amelia and Lara attended a 12-week programme called Premier League Changemakers, which is a female leadership qualification run by Watford FC Trust through the Inspires programme,” said Saj.
“The girls were referred by their schools to Chessbrook, a Pupil Referral Unit. The girls started the course quite shy but came out of their shell as the weeks went on. Throughout the programme they took part in ice breakers, weekly activities, and group discussions. After completing their written work, the girls were rewarded with use of the football pitch at the Meriden Community Centre.
“After many kickabouts both the girls were put forward to represent Watford FC Trust in the PL Kicks Cup. They were chosen for their hard work, good behaviour and footballing abilities.
“The girls impressed the coaches right from the off as they arrived ahead of the scheduled meet time. They were an asset to the club throughout the entire tournament. They engaged well, behaved perfectly, and went above and beyond for the team.”
Nineteen clubs attended the PL Kicks pan-disability event on the final day of the competition. Captained by Rocco Bentley, the team consisted of: Callum Yates, Arun Patel, Niamh Douglas, Mark Johnson, Alfie Bevan and Alex Green.
The team were unfortunately knocked out in group stages, but maintained a positive morale and consoled others who were eliminated. As a result of this, Watford were the recipients of the Fair Play award.
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Moroccan midfielder Imran Louza is set to miss the first month of the season as he continues to recover from knee surgery.
As part of the club’s ongoing We Campaign, Watford FC is pleased to support Kick It Out’s refreshed strategy and updated vision for the charity’s future, which is detailed below...
Since 1993, Kick It Out has been at the heart of the fight against discrimination in football, leading the charge for positive change. Moving forward, Kick It Out will explore supporting other sports, provided these are funded independently of football.
In January 2022, we announced an exploratory partnership with the England and Wales Cricket Board (ECB), to identify and address issues of equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) within cricket, and work in this area is ongoing.
The hate, abuse and inequality in sport persists, and as long as discrimination exists, so will we.
Refreshed Vision
Kick It Out will continue to lead the fight with a clear purpose and vision:
- To support words with action, providing long-term solutions and tangible acts.
- To challenge ignorance and inequality, providing a voice for any individual or organisation.
- To educate, inform and direct our audience, giving them the tools for change.
- To mobilise and empower our allies so that our message becomes theirs.
- To confront all issues, from the dressing-room to the boardroom.
Kick It Out’s new strategy will focus on three key pillars of activity:
Voice: We will amplify unheard voices, lead thinking, and advocate for change.
- A host of working groups will tackle specific issues across sport, such as Antisemitism and LGBTQ+, and we will lead public dialogue and guide best practice on EDI issues in sport.
- We will continue to work with our partners in football, to drive and lead football’s response to online abuse, including work around the Online Safety Bill and lobbying parliament.
Skills: We will create understanding and build knowledge
- A new digital learning platform, launching later this year, will host EDI learning resources to connect sports organisations with training materials and expertise across a host of areas.
- We will continue to develop and scale up our fan education programme, reaching more football fans, by providing rehabilitative sessions for those found guilty of discriminatory abuse.
Talent: We will inspire opportunity and connect it with unseen talent
- Initiatives will include our updated Raise Your Game programme, which aims to develop talent through different stages of their career, from entry-level to senior leadership across a range of sport careers.
A Change In Identity
Kick It Out’s new logo - shown above - is inspired by the shape of a football, the sport we are most associated with. But it also references a club badge design, which is an important aspect of our brand as we want supporters to wear the Kick It Out logo with pride and engage other sports in our mission.
The logo is deliberately hand-crafted to bring across attitude and energy, as well as a sense of our grassroots beginnings. The ‘IT’ is at the heart of the logo, representing everything Kick It Out stands against, which is all forms of discrimination.
Sanjay Bhandari, Kick It Out Chair, explained: “Our heritage is tackling racism in football, but our scope for the future is to expand our remit to create more inclusive cultures in other sports and tackle every form of discrimination. Today, we run education programmes for academy players, parents and fans and we will be developing our education offering even further in the coming months.
“We will continue to campaign to make sure football is always welcoming – to everyone. We remain committed to supporting people from under-represented and minority communities to make a career in football and thrive. And we will continue to call out discrimination wherever it happens – from your local park, to the Premier League and to your social feed.”
Tony Burnett, Kick It Out CEO, said: “Our new visual identity is focused on being bold and energetic, and easier to adopt and utilise across different channels, activations, and other sports. This, alongside our updated vision, will help us better reach our target audiences and execute our strategy. We also want to say thank you to the Sky Creative Agency, as part of our ongoing partnership with Sky, they have helped execute our new brand identity and bring our creative vision to life.
“We all know Kick It Out shouldn’t have to exist. Our biggest hope is that one-day football and other sports will no longer need us. But right now, we’re here to put an end to every form of discrimination. We won’t stop until it stops.”
Dave Messenger, Watford FC’s EDI Lead, added: “Watford FC is a club for everyone, with our EDI activities representing and engaging with the heart and soul of the community which surrounds it. The issue of discrimination in football is something that should and will remain in sharp focus for everyone associated with the club. We are delighted to continue our long-standing support of Kick It Out, as we share their refreshed vision for a truly inclusive sport.”
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Midfielder Imrân Louza will start his pre-season programme at some time during the first half of August, with rehab from summer knee surgery progressing as expected.
Playing with pain for the latter part of the 2021/22 campaign, the Morocco international underwent a procedure in early May which aimed to resolve a niggling issue.
The 23-year-old is now working through a structured recovery programme with a view to stepping into a fuller training schedule next month.
Tom Cleverley, meanwhile, reported a soreness in his calf early into pre-season training - thus his absence from practice matches so far.
The experienced midfielder will rejoin the group for full training across the next few days.
Yesterday’s training ground work-out against Bolton Wanderers saw striker Vakoun Bayo leave the field feeling unwell. Positively, he’s had some initial medical checks and is already feeling much improved.
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Following the announcement of Rey Manaj’s move to Watford, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the Albanian striker and his career.
17 years, 6 months and 14 days old – Manaj’s age when he made his professional debut for then Serie C side Cremonese. He would make over 25 appearances for the Italian side and would score his first professional goal a month later against Alessandria Calcio.
51 – career goals scored. The forward is heavily involved in the attacking play, regularly notching a goal or an assist.
18 – goals from penalties. Manaj is adept at converting from the spot, with 35 per cent of his goals coming from 12-yards out.
85th – minute Manaj made his Serie A debut for Inter Milan against Atalanta. The Albanian joined I Nerazzurri in the summer of 2015 and was included in first-team training under the tutelage of Roberto Mancini. He would start his first game in the Coppa Italia against Cagliari.
4 – loan moves. Having played at Pescara, Pisa, Granada and Spezia on-loan, Manaj has played in a variety of football styles in Italy and Spain.
10,897 – minutes played in his career. At only 25 years old, Manaj has enjoyed a career that has covered eight years. He will be certain to use all of his experience to his advantage at Vicarage Road.
40 – appearances for Albacete. The highest number that Manaj has earned at a single club, the dynamic footballer spent a season and a half at the Spanish club before leaving in January 2020.
15 – Managers and Head Coaches. Manaj has learnt from some of the very best coaches including Mancini, Thiago Motta, Gennaro Gattuso and Marco Giampaolo.
12 – seconds was all it took to score his first international goal. Manaj notched his first strike for the Albanian national team against Kosovo, breaking the record for the youngest goalscorer and the fastest goal scored by a substitute for Albania.
30 – caps for Albania’s national team. After regularly featuring for the youth sides, Manaj has established himself as one of the key players for his country in competitions such as the World Cup qualifiers, European Championship qualifiers and the Nations League.
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Watford goalkeeper Maduka Okoye can see plenty of progress in the squad and is positive about pre-season, but he admitted his side should have been better during the early stages of their 2-0 defeat to Bolton Wanderers at London Colney.
Kieran Lee and Dapo Afolayan’s first-half goals proved the difference in the training-ground fixture, which saw 21 Golden Boys get minutes at points in the game.
“I think it was quite difficult in the beginning which is understandable because this is new for us,” said Nigeria international Okoye. “We’ll find our way; you can see in the second half we were way better and we’ve shown progress.”
Okoye joined the Hornets from Dutch side Sparta Rotterdam last season but spent the rest of the campaign in the Eredivisie, only linking up with his new side last month. He feels settled already in Hertfordshire and is optimistic about the season ahead.
“It’s been fantastic,” the 22-year-old continued. “I’ve had a great time already, there are funny guys and good vibes here. I think that’s important, we feel connected to other players and the staff, I’m settling in very well.”
Nearly a week of the Golden Boys’ pre-season was spent in Austria, as the team bonded on and off the pitch with intense training and fun activities.
The goalkeeper enjoyed his time with the group in Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser, adding: “It was nice, we had a good time.
“We worked very hard but we had fun and a smile on our faces, and we made steps in the right direction. Now we’re back and continuing with our hard work.”
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Head coach admits performances now need to be turned into results as Watford are beaten 2-0 by Bolton Wanderers
Watford FC is pleased to announce the signing of Albanian striker Rey Manaj on a three-year deal from Barcelona, for an undisclosed fee.
The 25-year-old arrives with a plethora of experience from Italy and Spain, including the Italian top-flight where he featured nearly 50 times for the likes of Inter Milan, Spezia and Pescara.
The international forward has 30 caps for Albania, with experience in World Cup qualification, European Championship qualification and the UEFA Nations League.
As a youngster, Manaj moved to Italy and began his career at Piacenza, before moving to Cremonese.
After a flurry of impressive performances, the highly sought-after attacker moved to Inter Milan in 2015 where he was coached by current Italian national team boss Roberto Mancini.
During that season the dynamic forward made his debut for the first team, notably scoring in a penalty shootout against Juventus in the Italian Cup.
Additionally, Manaj guided Inter’s youth side to success in the Under-19 Italian Cup, scoring in the semi-final and the final to beat Juventus.
In the subsequent seasons, temporary moves to Pescara, Pisa and Granada followed before he permanently relocated to Spain and second-tier side Albacete.
He featured over 40 times over two seasons, scoring 10 goals and catching the eye of Barcelona B in January 2020, leading to a transfer to the Blaugrana’s second team.
Manaj would be called up to the senior side in the same month, becoming the first-ever Albanian to make it to Barcelona’s first team, and was an unused substitute against Getafe.
At the start of the 2021/22 season, Manaj moved on loan to Serie A side Spezia where he led the line for the Italian outfit, making 19 starts and scoring five top-flight goals.
Welcome to the Hornets, Rey!
The Fabric Of Our Club
Watford FC’s hotly-anticipated 2022/23 home kit is now on sale. Click HERE to check it out!
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Watford head coach Edwards describes new signing from Barcelona as 'technically very, very good'.
Match Info
- Watford v Bolton Wanderers
- Friendly
- Watford FC training ground, London Colney (behind closed doors)
- Tuesday July 12, 3pm
Opposition
Last season was Bolton’s first back in the third-tier of English football after being in League Two the year before. Manager Ian Evatt led the Wanderers to a comfortable ninth-placed finish.
Oladapo Afolayan was a key player in Bolton’s top-half campaign, picking up 12 goals and four assists, but Amadou Bakayoko wasn’t far off him picking up 11 goals and three assists.
Stats Buzz
The last time Watford and Bolton played each other in league competition was in February 2015, ending in a 4-3 win for the Hornets in the Championship.
Over 20 players have worn both Watford and Bolton shirts throughout their careers, including Paul Robinson and Marvin Sordell.
The Golden Boys and the Wanderers met for the first time in August 1969, with the match concluding as a goalless draw.
Been At Both
Sordell wore both yellow and white during his 10-year professional career. Rising through the Watford Academy, the Englishman made over 80 appearances at Vicarage Road.
A dynamic striker in the early part of his career, Sordell notched 27 goals in all competitions, eventually joining Bolton on transfer deadline day in January 2012. The former Hornet would play 29 times for the Trotters over a two-year stint.
Head To Head
Overall:
Won: 16
Drawn: 5
Lost: 12
Last Four:
February 2015: Bolton Wanderers 3-4 Watford (Championship)
August 2014: Watford 3-0 Bolton Wanderers (Championship)
February 2014: Bolton Wanderers 2-0 Watford (Championship)
November 2013: Watford 0-1 Bolton Wanderers (Championship)
Last Time Out
In 2015, Troy Deeney notched a late winner in a seven-goal thriller against Bolton on their way to promotion.
The Hornets were kept in the encounter with goals from an in-form Odion Ighalo, Almen Abdi and Joel Ekstrand, with Watford’s number nine securing the 4-3 victory away from home.
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Promising young midfielder Luigi Gaspar has joined Watford’s Under-23 side.
The London-born 18-year-old signs for the Hornets following his departure from Premier League side Arsenal, with whom he played in the Under-18s.
Gaspar is delighted to begin his new challenge in a Watford shirt, at a new age level.
“It’s very nice to be here,” said Gaspar. “I’m very happy for me and my family and excited to get started.
“I’m very motivated, and can’t wait to get started.”
Son of former Gunners midfielder and current Technical Director Edu, Gaspar made his Arsenal Under-23 debut against West Ham United in May, having played previously in the Under-18 Premier League Professional Development League.
He credits Watford’s training ground neighbours for aiding his development, but felt it was time to move on.
“It was very good for me, coming from Brazil to a big club like Arsenal, training every day with them,” Gaspar explained. “I had a good three seasons there.
“It’s not easy to join another club but now things are getting more serious, with Under-23 football, me and my family made the choice to move.”
Prior to spending three years with the North London side, Gaspar played for Corinthians in Brazil from Under-7 level.
A creative spark in the middle of the pitch, Gaspar feels most comfortable with the ball at his feet.
“I’m a defensive midfielder but I like to play with the ball, and I like to pass,” the youngster added.
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In preparation for the new 2022/23 home kit going on sale, The Hornets Shop at Vicarage Road Stadium will be closed this Thursday (July 7).
The store will reopen on Friday (July 8) at 9am as usual, with the new strip in stock.
The Watford FC store in the Atria Centre will continue to trade as normal, or alternatively, you can visit shop.watfordfc.com.
Pre-Order Now!
Pre-order the new 2022/23 Watford FC home kit HERE ahead of the official on-sale date (Friday July 8)!
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The Hornets had friendlier conditions to deal with on day four of their pre-season camp in Austria, but that didn’t stop them from getting wet, as they enjoyed white water rafting and other activities in the municipality of Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser.
Joined by Yaser Asprilla in the morning, the Colombian went around the dining room during breakfast, introducing himself to players, coaches and staff before training for the first time as a Watford player.
The squad split into small groups for drills in their morning session on a new pitch following the heavy rainfall the day before.
Joseph Hungbo has trained with the squad, having spent last season on loan at Ross County in the Scottish Premiership. The winger is excited about the season ahead, and has enjoyed pre-season so far, despite mixed weather conditions..
“It’s been tough!” Hungbo laughed. “We’ve come into the new season off the back of disappointment last season and we need to improve, so going away all together, building character and togetherness as well as getting everything right on the pitch, it’s what we need, and it’s been good.
“We had sunshine for the first two days and then a bit of rain from there onwards but you’ve got to adapt to what you’re given. Mother Nature wasn’t nice to us but it’s all about our conditioning and getting ready for the season so the weather doesn’t matter too much.”
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Learning under Rob Edwards and adapting to the new Head Coach’s style of play is a challenge relished by the 22-year-old. Gaining experience out on loan last term, he is confident he can establish himself in the first-team squad for the upcoming campaign.
“He [Edwards] wants us to play to a certain structure, but within that structure he wants us to express ourselves,” Hungbo explained. “It’s been what we needed, and for myself, I feel great. I’m going to keep on working and it’s been a great experience, but tough as well.
“It’s made me understand that I’ve got a point to prove. I had a good season but that’s done now and no-one’s talking about that. I’m focused on what I and the team are going to do this season so I feel it’s been good for my confidence but at the same time, I’ve got to get better.
“I don’t really set targets, I play my game. I enjoy my football, and as long as I do that nothing can stop me. Setting targets only puts pressure on myself and I don’t want to do that, I just want to make sure every time I step onto the pitch I enjoy my football and work hard for the team.”
Hungbo was among the first group to take the plunge in the local river, as the squad gave white water rafting a try in the afternoon. An hour-and-a-half in the water, as well as carrying the large rafts to and from the location, added to the team bonding exercises that have taken place during the pre-season retreat, with smiles on every face at the end of a busy afternoon.
A meal in the mountains was a reward for their hard work during the week, alongside a music performance to close out the evening, providing a break from the initiation songs that had taken place on the first three days of the trip.
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Watford FC’s Hive Live match streaming service is back for the 2022/23 season, albeit with updated EFL guidelines on who can access which games when compared with our last Sky Bet Championship campaign.
With the vast majority of matches played behind closed doors in 2020/21, broadcast regulations were relaxed and UK-based supporters could watch a large number of fixtures during our promotion-winning season.
This time around, the ability for us to stream video domestically (includes UK, Republic of Ireland, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man) is reduced due to the reinstatement of the Saturday 3pm blackout which bars the live broadcast of domestic fixtures in this country. However, we will still be able to bring live video coverage of occasional Championship games to domestic supporters via watfordfc.com and the club app.
Overseas supporters, on the other hand, can look forward to seeing the majority of our fixtures this coming 2022/23 season.
Which Games Will I Be Able To Watch Domestically?
- All scheduled midweek & Bank Holiday league matches, unless selected for live broadcast on Sky Sports
- All league matches moved from Saturday 3pm to midweek for non-TV purposes
- Any league matches played on December 10 and 17 (due to lifting of Saturday 3pm blackout for World Cup quarter-finals and third-place play-offs), unless selected for live broadcast on Sky Sports
Which Games Will I Be Able To Watch Overseas?
- All league matches, provided they haven’t been selected for international TV broadcast in the territory you reside
What Does That Mean For August?
- Sheffield United (H), Monday August 1, 8pm KO: no video stream due to Sky Sports broadcast
- West Bromwich Albion (A), Monday August 8, 8pm KO: no video stream due to Sky Sports broadcast
- Burnley (H), Friday August 12, 8pm KO: no video stream due to Sky Sports broadcast
- Birmingham City (A), Tuesday August 16, 7.45pm KO: video stream available to domestic & overseas supporters
- Preston North End (A), Saturday August 20, 3pm KO: video stream only available in specific overseas territories due to international TV broadcast
- QPR (H), Saturday August 27, 3pm KO: video stream available to overseas supporters only
- Middlesbrough (H), Tuesday August 30, 8pm KO: no video stream due to Sky Sports broadcast
How Will Hive Live Look?
We won’t be broadcasting pre-match and post-match studio shows, as we did in 2020/21, however coverage is likely to start approximately 15 minutes before kick-off and will come courtesy of long-standing Watford commentator Jon Marks and a special guest match summariser. Matches are typically produced to at least a four-camera standard.
How Much Will It Cost?
Live video streaming passes will cost £10 per match for domestic and overseas supporters (fixed fee applicable across the EFL). Subscription packages will be available to overseas supporters, costing £140 (seasonal early bird rate, rises to £170 on September 1) and £25 (monthly).
How About Audio Commentary?
The EFL does not permit the free online broadcast of audio commentary, however an audio-only Hive Live subscription will be available for all Championship games domestically, costing £45 (seasonal) and £4.50 (monthly).
Can I Watch Pre-Season Friendlies?
As a trial run, a video stream including full commentary and match replays will be available for the friendly against Southampton at Wealdstone FC (Saturday July 23, 3pm KO) for £5. Further information on when and how to purchase a match pass will be provided in due course.
How Can I Find Out More?
More details relating to the 2022/23 Hive Live service will be published on club channels soon.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Striker Ashley Fletcher is returning to Vicarage Road following the end of his six-month loan with New York Red Bulls.
In this last diary instalment, we take a look back at the final two days (July 9 & 10) of Watford’s 2022 Austrian pre-season tour.
The Hornets awoke for their penultimate day in Austria on Saturday (July 9), as preparations ramped up before the exhibition encounter against Panathinaikos a day later.
The morning saw the players enjoy an intense training session under the Austrian sunshine. The squad split into groups for different drills which included shooting, crossing and small-sided games, concluding with an 11 v 11 match as usual.
Following their productive final training session of the camp, the players went for lunch before enjoying a well-earned afternoon off.
Half of the squad decided to rest in their rooms and the spa, while others went up the lift to the top of the mountain, with the coaches going for a walk around the glorious scenery too.
Captured by some of the curious members of the squad, the Austrian mountains provided some breath-taking views.
After returning for dinner, Yáser Asprilla, who had joined up with the squad on day three, performed his initiation song. There had been a high bar set for impressive initiation song performances and Asprilla certainly didn’t disappoint.
The Austrian daybreak the following morning ensured that the players would be waking for their final day (July 10) in glorious sunshine at the Kaiserlodge.
Pre-match breakfast was followed swiftly by a detailed team meeting, as Rob Edwards and his coaches continued to organise their players for the match ahead.
The squad travelled to FC Kössen, and upon arrival were welcomed by a significant number of Greek supporters who had turned out to see Panathinaikos.
With the match ending in a deadlock, both teams shook hands, exchanged pleasantries and made their way back to the dressing rooms.
Edwards was pleased with his team’s fight and desire, explaining: “I’m really pleased. The most pleasing thing was the commitment and the effort, there was a real togetherness.”
For more from the Head Coach on the friendly fixture, and the Austrian tour, click HERE.
The day concluded with a final trip to Salzburg Airport before the team arrived back in the UK ahead of another important pre-season clash against Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday (July 12, 3pm KO).
More From This Series
Austria Pre-Season Diary: Day Four
Austria Pre-Season Diary: Day Three
Austria Pre-Season Diary: Day Two
Austria Pre-Season Diary: Day One
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming pre-season fixture against Southampton (Saturday July 23, 3pm KO) are on sale to supporters now.
The fixture, taking place at Wealdstone FC’s Grosvenor Vale, has an attendance cap at 2,500, with 2,000 tickets available for Watford supporters.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Tickets will only be available to supporters with a Fan ID created before June 23, 2022. Supporters requiring either a wheelchair space or ambulant seating should call the Supporter Services team on 01923 223023 to make their booking.
Tickets for this friendly match will be issued as print-at-home etickets.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £15 (£12 for Season Ticket holders)
- 18 & Under: £5 (£3 for Season Ticket holders)
Match Streaming
A match stream will be available for the fixture for £5, with commentary and two-camera coverage.
Further information on when and how to purchase a match pass to stream the fixture will be provided in due course.
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Watford FC’s Academy is looking to recruit potential host families to support young players aged between 16 and 23 for the upcoming season.
The Academy has more than 150 young players within the structure, some of whom stay with host families, allowing them to take the opportunity of full-time employment at the football club as either an apprentice or professional player.
The club is therefore looking for families who can provide a room (per player) and a cooked evening or lunchtime meal during the week in either a six-night per week or seven-night per week agreement.
In providing a suitable and safe environment, the club is looking for hosts in central Watford and the St Albans or London Colney area. Transport is provided by the club for players in our Under-18 squad, while members of the Under-23 squad are required to make their own way to and from training.
As part of the recruitment process, the club would complete several visits to determine the suitability of location and to ensure the home meets the requirements for hosting a young player. This role will have regular contact with children and it is therefore required by law to have a DBS Enhanced Criminal Record Check with children’s barred list check for all house occupants aged 18 and over.
The club takes its responsibility for safeguarding children and vulnerable groups seriously and all placements would be subject to risk assessments and any additional support required.
If you feel you would be able to successfully support some of our young players, please send an email expressing your interest to hradmin@watfordfc.com.
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Young striker Tiago Cukur is expected to complete a move to Fenerbahce which could be worth as much as £1.5m.
Tickets are on sale for the friendly against Southampton, and a live stream will be available too
Former Watford boss Aidy Boothroyd wants Jamshedpur to compete with the top teams in Asia after returning to football management with the champions of India.
Tickets for Watford’s opening game of the Sky Bet Championship season against Sheffield United (Monday August 1, 8pm KO) will go on sale to supporters at 12noon on Monday (July 11).
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such, all bookings made in this area must contain at least one person from the 18 & Under category. Because of this, online sales for the Ann Swanson Family Stand will not be available. Tickets can be purchased by telephone or in-person only.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday July 11 * Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday July 12 * Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday July 13 * Home Group D
12noon, Thursday July 14 * General Sale*
12noon, Friday July 15
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in person.
Ticket Prices
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £28
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £16
- 18 & Under: £5
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £22
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £5
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
Watch Now
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Tickets for Watford’s upcoming pre-season fixture against Southampton (Saturday July 23, 3pm KO) are on sale to supporters now.
The fixture, taking place at Wealdstone FC’s Grosvenor Vale, has an attendance cap at 2,500, with 2,000 tickets available for Watford supporters.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Tickets will only be available to supporters with a Fan ID created before June 23, 2022. Supporters requiring either a wheelchair space or ambulant seating should call the Supporter Services team on 01923 223023 to make their booking.
Tickets for this friendly match will be issued as print-at-home etickets.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Ticket Prices
- Adult: £15 (£12 for Season Ticket holders)
- 18 & Under: £5 (£3 for Season Ticket holders)
Match Streaming
A match stream will be available for the fixture for £5, with commentary and four-camera coverage.
Further information on when and how to purchase a match pass to stream the fixture will be provided in due course.
Watch Now
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Tickets for Watford's opening game of the Sky Bet Championship season against Sheffield United will go on sale to supporters at 12noon on Monday [July 11].
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such, all bookings made in this area must contain at least one person from the 18 & Under category. Because of this, online sales for the Ann Swanson Family Stand will not be available. Tickets can be purchased by telephone or in-person only.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday July 11 * Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday July 12 * Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday July 13 * Home Group D
12noon, Thursday July 14 * General Sale*
12noon, Friday July 15
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in person.
Ticket Prices
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £28
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £16
- 18 & Under: £5
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £22
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £5
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
Watch Now
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The commitment levels shown by the Watford players in their goalless draw with Greek side Panathinaikos provided Head Coach Rob Edwards with plenty to smile about, with the Hornets continuing their preparations for the 2022/23 campaign in Austria.
The pre-season meeting concluded the Golden Boys’ six-day trip to the municipality of Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser in north-west Austria, providing the squad with a chance to put into practice a week’s hard work.
Despite the game ending with nothing to split Watford and Panathinaikos, Edwards noted a team spirit that has developed over the pre-season so far.
“I’m really pleased,” said the Head Coach. “The most pleasing thing was the commitment and the effort. There was a real togetherness.
“At the end of the game we had six or seven players playing out of position, but I wanted to try and stick to what we’ve been trying to do, and that asked a few of them to play out of position. The commitment they showed, the understanding and the running to make up for mistakes if we made them, was brilliant.
“The young players showed great character, the senior players helped the younger ones, and the effort was great. We created some good chances but have got to be a bit more ruthless in that top end, which will come. We probably need to take a few more risks at the right time, but I was very pleased with that.”
It brings to an end their time in mainland Europe after six days, a camp Edwards described as intense and demanding for the team, bringing out an attitude that has impressed the coaching staff.
Edwards reflected: “It’s a beautiful place, what a wonderful place in the world! The facilities have been brilliant, and people are looking after us. On the lads’ attitude, I couldn’t have asked for any more. We’ve worked hard, it’s been intense, 95 per cent of it has been ball work and the boys have given everything, which is what we demand, but they’ve done really well.
“We’re really working on developing a winning culture, because we need to win football matches, but also an environment where we support each other, push each other and demand more.”
Building an identity on the pitch has been key during pre-season, but Edwards and his coaching staff are also aiming to develop a positive culture in the group.
“This has been a real focus from day one,” Edwards continued. “No team is successful without a spirit, or without having intensity and working hard. That’s the focus all season, but certainly when we’re living together, we can really hit that home. Every time I pass someone in the corridor we can chat about it, and at the dinner table, in the evenings, so it’s a great thing to do, to come away and have time with each other.
“When you work closely with people over the next 10, 11 months, you’re going to fight with each other and go through tough times with each other, and hopefully have good times together. Being a close unit helps, when you are mates you can demand more from each other. We don’t want to force it, but things like the initiation songs in the evening have been great, the water rafting, going out for dinner, they all help. Ultimately nothing helps that more than winning football matches.
“Every day we’re learning more about them, I’ve seen some good personalities and good players. They’re all listening, taking on board the information and putting it into practice. I stress this a lot, it’s finding out what they’re like as a person and appealing to them on a human side. If we can get that connection, they know when we’re pushing them or having a go at them, it’s because we care.”
Colombian midfielder Yaser Asprilla made his first outing in yellow, coming on as a substitute with 20 minutes remaining. Seeing the 18-year-old in action on the training pitch and in footage from his time at former club Envigado, Edwards is excited to see more from the youngster.
“Yaser, from everything I’ve seen, looks like a very talented boy,” said Edwards. “He’s a young lad, and has come from a completely different side of the world. The culture is different, and he’s going to be himself but also try and fit into the group.
“What we have to do now as a football club; as staff, players, supporters, everyone, is support him. It could take some time for him to settle; it would be great if he hits the ground running, but he’s a young boy in a new part of the world, so it’s important we support him and not put too much pressure on him.”
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Watford and Panathinaikos couldn’t be separated after a goalless draw at FC Kössen in Austria.
In the second pre-season match of the new campaign, a busy first-half saw Vakoun Bayo and João Pedro go closest for the Hornets, with a flurry of changes following at the interval as Rob Edwards rotated his squad during the friendly.
The lively encounter saw Yáser Asprilla make his first appearance in yellow since joining up with the first-team, but neither side was able to break the deadlock, bringing Watford’s Austrian pre-season tour to a conclusion.
Composed Watford possession was the order in the opening stages, as both sides continued to grow into the exhibition encounter.
Recent acquisition Bayo was first to try his luck for the Golden Boys, snatching the ball following a defensive error, but his strike was a straightforward effort at the Panathinaikos goalkeeper.
His attacking partner João Pedro also enjoyed a significant role during the first-half. At the 20-minute mark, the Brazilian took a shot from the edge of the area, bending it around an approaching defender. Although powerful, the opponent’s shot-stopper was able to deny Watford the opener.
After the break, the 20-year-old had another shot on target, wriggling his way past defenders before cutting inside and unleashing a potent shot, forcing the Panathinaikos goalkeeper to palm the ball away from danger.
The final half-hour saw another flurry of substitutions with youngsters JJ McKiernan and Dapo Mebude among those receiving valuable minutes.
Notably, 18-year-old Asprilla came onto the pitch in the final stages, partnering Kwadwo Baah in attack.
At the other end of the pitch, Maduka Okoye produced a solid diving stop to deny Panathinaikos a set-piece goal, moving quickly to palm the ball away.
The intensity remained as midfielder Mebude curled an effort towards goal, but his strike was comfortably caught.
The Hornets will now depart Austria, arriving back at London Colney in preparation for Bolton Wanderers on Tuesday (July 12).
Line-Up
Starting XI: Bachmann (GK) (Okoye HT), Sema (Kamara HT), Samir (Morris 61'), Kabasele (Asprilla 73'), Cathcart (Pollock 61'), Ngakia (Hungbo HT), Kayembe (McKiernan 61'), Gosling (Quina HT), Dele-Bashiru (Mebude 61'), Bayo (Kalu HT), João Pedro (Baah 61')
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Tickets for Watford's opening game of the Sky Bet Championship season against Sheffield United will go on sale to supporters at 12noon on Monday [July 11].
This season the Ann Swanson Family Stand is exclusively for those attending with young supporters. As such, all bookings made in this area must contain at least one person from the 18 & Under category. Because of this, online sales for the Ann Swanson Family Stand will not be available. Tickets can be purchased by telephone or in-person only.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12noon, Monday July 11 * Home Group B
12noon, Tuesday July 12 * Home Group C
12noon, Wednesday July 13 * Home Group D
12noon, Thursday July 14 * General Sale*
12noon, Friday July 15
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in person.
Ticket Prices
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Ann Swanson Family Stand:
- Adult: £25
- 65 & Over: £17
- Full-Time Student: £13
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £28
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £16
- 18 & Under: £5
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £22
- Full-Time Student: £18
- 18 & Under: £5
NFC Mobile Tickets
Like last season, all tickets during the 2022/23 campaign will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2022/23 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
Watch Now
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The Hornets had friendlier conditions to deal with on day four of their pre-season camp in Austria, but that didn’t stop them from getting wet, as they enjoyed white water rafting and other activities in the municipality of Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser.
Joined by Yaser Asprilla in the morning, the Colombian went around the dining room during breakfast, introducing himself to players, coaches and staff before training for the first time as a Watford player.
The squad split into small groups for drills in their morning session on a new pitch following the heavy rainfall the day before.
Joseph Hungbo has trained with the squad, having spent last season on loan at Ross County in the Scottish Premiership. The winger is excited about the season ahead, and has enjoyed pre-season so far, despite mixed weather conditions..
“It’s been tough!” Hungbo laughed. “We’ve come into the new season off the back of disappointment last season and we need to improve, so going away all together, building character and togetherness as well as getting everything right on the pitch, it’s what we need, and it’s been good.
“We had sunshine for the first two days and then a bit of rain from there onwards but you’ve got to adapt to what you’re given. Mother Nature wasn’t nice to us but it’s all about our conditioning and getting ready for the season so the weather doesn’t matter too much.”
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Learning under Rob Edwards and adapting to the new Head Coach’s style of play is a challenge relished by the 22-year-old. Gaining experience out on loan last term, he is confident he can establish himself in the first-team squad for the upcoming campaign.
“He [Edwards] wants us to play to a certain structure, but within that structure he wants us to express ourselves,” Hungbo explained. “It’s been what we needed, and for myself, I feel great. I’m going to keep on working and it’s been a great experience, but tough as well.
“It’s made me understand that I’ve got a point to prove. I had a good season but that’s done now and no-one’s talking about that. I’m focused on what I and the team are going to do this season so I feel it’s been good for my confidence but at the same time, I’ve got to get better.
“I don’t really set targets, I play my game. I enjoy my football, and as long as I do that nothing can stop me. Setting targets only puts pressure on myself and I don’t want to do that, I just want to make sure every time I step onto the pitch I enjoy my football and work hard for the team.”
Hungbo was among the first group to take the plunge in the local river, as the squad gave white water rafting a try in the afternoon. An hour-and-a-half in the water, as well as carrying the large rafts to and from the location, added to the team bonding exercises that have taken place during the pre-season retreat, with smiles on every face at the end of a busy afternoon.
A meal in the mountains was a reward for their hard work during the week, alongside a music performance to close out the evening, providing a break from the initiation songs that had taken place on the first three days of the trip.
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Match Info
- Watford v Panathinaikos
- Friendly
- FC Kössen, Austria
- 12.30pm (BST), Sunday July 10
Opposition
During Panathinaikos’ 63rd consecutive season in Super League Greece, the club saw success in the ‘Greek Football Cup’ defeating PAOK in the final, along with a fourth-place finish in the league, which secured them a spot in the Europa Conference League third qualifying round. Assisting with this success was Argentine attacker Sebastián Palacios, who scored 13 goals in all competitions for the club.
Been At Both
Greek goalkeeper Orestis Karnezis started his professional career at Panathinaikos, playing in 53 games between 2007 and 2013. During the 2012/13 season he became a regular for the Greek side, with his admirable performances earning him a spot in the Greece national team where he became part of their 2014 FIFA World Cup squad.
Karnezis joined Watford on loan in the 2017/18 season. During an outing at Stoke City, he pulled off a remarkable save from winger Xherdan Shaqiri's dangerous volley which secured a crucial clean sheet and point in Watford’s survival campaign.
Ones to Watch
Former Real Betis and Malaga left-back Juankar is one to watch ahead of the friendly between Watford and Panathinaikos. His speed and overlapping runs down the left flank make him a threat for the Hornets.
Despite injuries Juankar has played 55 times over the two seasons he has spent at the club, scoring two goals from his defensive position. The creativity he has brought to Panathinaikos’ back line could prove to be difficult for the Watford forwards.
Another one to keep an eye on is Argentine striker Palacios, who was the club’s highest scorer in his first season. During the 2021/22 campaign, he netted 13 times in all competitions, helping to win Panathinaikos’ first cup in eight years. The 30-year-old natural finisher brings a dangerous and agile aspect to the club’s forward line.
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Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy spoke to current Watford FC defender Christian Kabasele about his time at Watford so far and the upcoming season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The Watford squad enjoyed an eventful day three of their pre-season camp in Austria, with two training sessions, a change in weather, Rob Edwards’ initiation song and a new face in the group.
Similarly to day two, the training began soon after breakfast, but the players were greeted by clouds rather than beaming sunshine on Thursday morning. Light rain followed but didn’t disrupt the session, with players slightly relieved to train in cooler conditions.
An attack vs defence drill was completed before an 11v11 training match, with others continuing recovery in the gym.
Assistant Head Coach Richie Kyle led the session after lunch, starting with a handball game before more match-style situations as the rain got heavier in Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser.
Kyle has been pleased with the work ethic and attitude of the group so far, getting to know the players on and off the pitch.
“They’ve been great,” said Kyle. “The weather’s been fantastic until now, the scenery and hotel have been great in terms of facilities, it’s everything we wanted.
“I think for us to be away and get to know the lads really helps us get to know everyone, especially for myself and Rob, there’s a lot of new staff as well.”
Kyle is happy with the squad’s progress in pre-season so far, and feels being in Austria with the group has helped.
Kyle continued: “It’s really important, it’s hard sometimes at the training ground to spend enough time with people as there’s lots going on, but when you’re here with them 24/7 you get to learn about the individual. It gives us time to get to know them, know how they work, and more importantly they’ll get to know how we want to play in more detail, we get more time with them on that.
“Pre-season is about fitness, getting them back to the levels they should be and getting ready for the first game of the season which is the goal. Everyone needs to be ready, fit and resilient.”
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The squad had a short break after training, which provided the opportunity for the Head Coach to perform his highly-anticipated initiation song. Following on from Kyle’s impressive showing the day before, Edwards entertained with Bon Jovi’s Always, using a water bottle as a fake microphone, walking down the players’ table and earning similar praise to his assistant.
Also performing were the media team and a coach, with one of the waiters getting in on the act with an Austrian rap song to cap off the performances.
Following a team meeting, Colombian midfielder Yaser Asprilla joined up with the group for the first time since signing from Envigado. The 19-year-old, who arrived after a 19-hour flight, met Edwards before getting some rest ahead of starting training on Friday.
Love Island and games of Uno were the pastimes in the evening before the squad went to sleep, with a busy Friday to follow.
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Our regular look back at the stories that were making the headlines five and ten years ago this week recalls when approval was given to a controversial tower block in Watford, a venue in the town received blue plaque recognition, a revamp of Cassiobury Park was given a major boost and a lorry got stuck in a ditch.
Four Watford matches in August will now be broadcast live on domestic TV after Sky Sports selected a further two home games in the opening month of the season.
The Watford squad enjoyed an eventful day three of their pre-season camp in Austria, with two training sessions, a change in weather, Rob Edwards’ initiation song and a new face in the group.
Similarly to day two, the training began soon after breakfast, but the players were greeted by clouds rather than beaming sunshine on Thursday morning. Light rain followed but didn’t disrupt the session, with players slightly relieved to train in cooler conditions.
An attack vs defence drill was completed before an 11v11 training match, with others continuing recovery in the gym.
Assistant Head Coach Richie Kyle led the session after lunch, starting with a handball game before more match-style situations as the rain got heavier in Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser.
Kyle has been pleased with the work ethic and attitude of the group so far, getting to know the players on and off the pitch.
“They’ve been great,” said Kyle. “The weather’s been fantastic until now, the scenery and hotel have been great in terms of facilities, it’s everything we wanted.
“I think for us to be away and get to know the lads really helps us get to know everyone, especially for myself and Rob, there’s a lot of new staff as well.”
Kyle is happy with the squad’s progress in pre-season so far, and feels being in Austria with the group has helped.
Kyle continued: “It’s really important, it’s hard sometimes at the training ground to spend enough time with people as there’s lots going on, but when you’re here with them 24/7 you get to learn about the individual. It gives us time to get to know them, know how they work, and more importantly they’ll get to know how we want to play in more detail, we get more time with them on that.
“Pre-season is about fitness, getting them back to the levels they should be and getting ready for the first game of the season which is the goal. Everyone needs to be ready, fit and resilient.”
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The squad had a short break after training, which provided the opportunity for the Head Coach to perform his highly-anticipated initiation song. Following on from Kyle’s impressive showing the day before, Edwards entertained with Bon Jovi’s Always, using a water bottle as a fake microphone, walking down the players’ table and earning similar praise to his assistant.
Also performing were the media team and a coach, with one of the waiters getting in on the act with an Austrian rap song to cap off the performances.
Following a team meeting, Colombian midfielder Yaser Asprilla joined up with the group for the first time since signing from Envigado. The 19-year-old, who arrived after a 19-hour flight, met Edwards before getting some rest ahead of starting training on Friday.
Love Island and games of Uno were the pastimes in the evening before the squad went to sleep, with a busy Friday to follow.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Content and Marketing Team at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a Social Media Executive to be a part of a hard-working team responsible for the day-to-day running of the Club’s official Social Media channels. This includes helping grow the audience of the Club’s Academy and International Social Media channels, identifying opportunities to support the revenue income for all of the Club’s commercial departments and assisting in delivering consistent best-in-class management of the Club’s official Social Media channels.
You will play a key role in working with the Senior Social Media Executive and Content & Production Manager to ensure all planned content is posted on the key Social Media channels, ensuring content is optimised for the channel and its audience.
You will also assist the implementation of the Club’s tone of voice across all platforms, sharing ideas on engaging content that stands out from the crowd. In addition, you’ll support the matchday feeds to drive supporter engagement and support the Club’s commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion through pro-active Social Media activity.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- At least 1 year’s experience planning and scheduling Social Media content on multiple channels, using content management tools such as Hootsuite, Tweet Deck, Sprout Social or similar
- Experience in delivering a consistent tone of voice for a brand
- Experience of working with key IT packages on both Mac & PC, video / photo editing software (e.g. Final Cut, Premiere Pro, Photoshop) & Microsoft Office etc
- Ability to work matchdays (including pre- & post-match and evenings) for both home and away games as well as other Club events that may fall outside normal working hours
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
- Understanding of the Club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
For the full job advert, click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Social Media Executive
Salary: £24,000 - £28,500pa dependent on knowledge and experience
Location: Watford Football Club – Vicarage Road Stadium & the Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 10am, Monday July 25, 2022
Application process:
- Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the Careers section.
- Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
- If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the Careers section.
- Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted, reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Watford’s Sky Bet Championship home matches against Burnley and Middlesbrough in August have been selected for live broadcast by Sky Sports.
The visit of Burnley to Vicarage Road will now take place on Friday August 12 at 8pm, while Middlesbrough's trip to Hertfordshire on Tuesday August 30 will now kick off at 8pm.
Sky's Watford picks already include the Hornets’ opening two games – against Sheffield United at home (Monday August 1, 8pm KO) and West Bromwich Albion away (Monday August 8, 8pm KO).
Several other amendments to our original provisional fixture list published in June have also already been confirmed.
Both local derby games against Luton Town have been subject to change for safety reasons, as has the Millwall Boxing Day home fixture.
Meanwhile Watford and Hull City agreed to move their Vicarage Road fixture back 24 hours to avoid any potential clash with World Cup quarter-final ties.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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The Hornets Shop at Vicarage Road Stadium remains open despite road closures.
Free parking remains available on Occupation Road, with access possible to Vicarage Road from the hospital end.
Atria Watford’s store also remains open, with the new 2022/23 Kelme home kit now on sale at both stores and online.
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The 2022/23 Watford FC home kit is available in-store now!
Following last week’s pre-sale, the new strip is now available for purchase online and in the club shops at Vicarage Road Stadium and Atria Watford.
For the third season running, Watford have combined with Kelme to create a stunning and bespoke design.
Available in men’s, women’s and junior sizes, the new home shirt features ‘100 Years at Vicarage Road’ on the back neck to commemorate the centenary of the stadium (August 30, 2022), along with a subliminal ‘W’ entwined in the pattern on the shirt.
Red and black flashes under the sleeves, as well as asymmetric cuffs, set off the rich yellow body and beautifully represent the colours of the club.
Visit shop.watfordfc.com to order the new kit, with new trainingwear also on sale, as well as fashion from the Elton x Watford collection.
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When Sir Elton John told the audience at Monday night’s Vicarage Road concert that he was ready to return to playing a greater role with Watford FC, it didn’t come as a surprise to club officials.
Ben Aiton & Mike Duffy are back with the first episode of Season 5 of Voices of the Vic podcast and this one is looking at the ins and outs at WD18. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Following a day of acclimatising to their new training camp, the Watford squad’s first full day in Austria (Wednesday) contained intense training sessions, mini-matches and, for some of the group, a swim in the pool.
Sessions took place in the morning and afternoon, as Rob Edwards and his coaching staff worked on a mixture of strength and conditioning, pressing drills and an 11 v 11 match before lunchtime.
In the gym, midfielder Imrân Louza continued his recovery, whilst defender William Troost-Ekong re-joined the group following an injury suffered on international duty with Nigeria.
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After a break for food, they returned for their second session in cloudy Austrian weather, splitting into three equal teams.
The groups faced off in a trio of challenges: an intense rondo, a passing drill and a small-sided match, with the losers condemned to leaping into the pool next to the pitch.
Team one ran out the victors, with team three finishing last and completing their forfeit.
Once a third of the group had managed to dry off, the Hornets settled down for their evening meal, accompanied by more initiation songs. Up stepped Under-23 midfielder JJ McKiernan, new goalkeeper Maduka Okoye and Assistant Head Coach Richie Kyle.
McKiernan was first to stand on his chair, and chose to sing Ed Sheeran’s Galway Girl. Okoye opted for Sere by DJ Spinall & Fireboy DML and Kyle closed the night out with an inspiring rendition of Stand By Me by Ben E. King, earning rapturous applause.
All sat together around the table, the group then had a team meeting to outline aims and expectations for the season, led by Edwards and his staff, before it was time to turn in.
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The Golden Boys have quickly settled in at their pre-season training camp in Austria having completed a busy first day on Tuesday (July 5).
Taking off at 10am following a coach trip from the Hornets’ London Colney training ground, the group arrived at Salzburg Airport two hours later, at 1pm local time, travelling to their hotel in the Municipality of Scheffau am Wilden Kaiser.
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Soaking in the breathtaking views, the squad sat down for lunch around 2.45pm, swiftly after finding their rooms and becoming familiar with the surroundings.
They headed out to the pitches for an early evening session at 5pm and were put through their paces with shooting and passing drills, running and working on team shape.
Next to the pitch, Imran Louza was among a small group continuing his recovery from injury in the pop-up gym.
All eating dinner together as a group, new signing Vakoun Bayo and Academy midfielder Adian Manning - who recently signed his first professional contract - performed their initiation songs in front of players and staff, putting in admirable showings, before the team turned in for the night ahead of a packed day two.
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The Watford Observer has again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
Colombian midfielder Yaser Asprilla to join first-team squad at their Austrian training base early tomorrow morning
Former Watford Academy forward Dominic Hutchinson has joined Wealdstone a permanent basis.
Promising young midfielder Luigi Gaspar has joined Watford’s Under-23 side.
The London-born 18-year-old signs for the Hornets following his departure from Premier League side Arsenal, with whom he played in the Under-18s.
Gaspar is delighted to begin his new challenge in a Watford shirt, at a new age level.
“It’s very nice to be here,” said Gaspar. “I’m very happy for me and my family and excited to get started.
“I’m very motivated, and can’t wait to get started.”
Son of former Gunners midfielder and current Technical Director Edu, Gaspar made his Arsenal Under-23 debut against West Ham United in May, having played previously in the Under-18 Premier League Professional Development League.
He credits Watford’s training ground neighbours for aiding his development, but felt it was time to move on.
“It was very good for me, coming from Brazil to a big club like Arsenal, training every day with them,” Gaspar explained. “I had a good three seasons there.
“It’s not easy to join another club but now things are getting more serious, with Under-23 football, me and my family made the choice to move.”
Prior to spending three years with the North London side, Gaspar played for Corinthians in Brazil from Under-7 level.
A creative spark in the middle of the pitch, Gaspar feels most comfortable with the ball at his feet.
“I’m a defensive midfielder but I like to play with the ball, and I like to pass,” the youngster added.
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Away to Huddersfield on January 10, 2015. Watford lost 3-1, Odion Ighalo scored the Hornets’ only goal. There’s something significant about that largely nondescript game. Chances are, like me, you’ll not know what that is.
In preparation for the new 2022/23 home kit going on sale, The Hornets Shop at Vicarage Road Stadium will be closed this Thursday (July 7).
The store will reopen on Friday (July 8) at 9am as usual, with the new strip in stock.
The Watford FC store in the Atria Centre will continue to trade as normal, or alternatively, you can visit shop.watfordfc.com.
Pre-Order Now!
Pre-order the new 2022/23 Watford FC home kit HERE ahead of the official on-sale date (Friday July 8)!
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Bianca Baptiste is fully focused on providing ‘the push’ to get Watford back into the Barclays Women’s Championship following confirmation of her move to the Golden Girls.
The striker is no stranger to Watford, having faced the Hornets on several occasions over the years as a Tottenham Hotspur and Crystal Palace player, impressing at Vicarage Road for the Eagles in a 2-2 draw last term.
Quickly settling in and meeting her new teammates, Baptiste is now excited to get started, with her sights firmly set on the top of the table.
“It feels amazing,” said Baptiste. “The atmosphere is amazing and the staff have made me feel welcome here. I couldn’t think of anywhere else I’d want to be.
“There are so many people here that have the ability to play football and progress and to push and win the league.
“The atmosphere was incredible here last season. It wasn’t the first time I’ve played here, and every time I’ve stepped out onto the pitch it’s been a great feeling.”
Experienced at National League level, Baptiste finished top goalscorer with Spurs in 2017, scoring 27 times in 34 games and winning promotion to the second tier. She became known at both Tottenham and Palace for her speed and creativity in attack, and hopes to provide opposition defenders with plenty of problems in the upcoming season.
“I’m a little bit erratic, I’m annoying to play against!” Baptiste joked.
“That [2017] was one of the best times of my life and it was an amazing feeling to finish top scorer. I hope this season I can bring the push - and score the goals - to get us promoted into the league we deserve to be in.”
Whilst ambitious, Baptiste is aware of the challenge the Hornets face in the National League, but believes Watford can achieve great things in 2022/23.
She added: “We’ve got teams we’re coming up against that could give us a bit of a shock, but as long as we’re ready, we’ll give them a run for their money!”
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There have been some further alterations to Watford FC's provisional 2022/23 fixture list, first published last month.
Two of the changes affect the local derby fixtures, while there are other date & kick-off time changes.
With the full support of both clubs, police requests to move both of the derby fixtures between Watford and Luton Town in the Sky Bet EFL Championship this season have been approved by relevant authorities.
The Hornets will now host the Hatters at Vicarage Road on Sunday October 23, 12noon kick-off, with the return match at Kenilworth Road now scheduled for 12.30pm on Saturday April 1.
Both Watford FC and Luton Town FC will treat the safety of supporters from both clubs as top priority when it comes to these two eagerly-anticipated matchdays.
Further collaborative announcements will follow in due course, nearer to the time of tickets going on sale for the first of the two fixtures.
In another date change, Watford and Hull City have agreed to move their Vicarage Road fixture back 24 hours to avoid any potential clash with World Cup quarter-final ties. This match will now take place on Sunday December 11, 3pm kick-off.
Meanwhile, the Boxing Day home game against Millwall will start at 12noon. However, the pre-season friendly planned for Tuesday July 19 versus the Lions at The Den will now not take place. A replacement fixture for this date may soon be confirmed.
Sky Sports have not yet finalised all of their August UK live selections, so further amends are possible before August's fixture schedule is fully confirmed.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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The final episode of Series 18 is out now. You can listwaen below, or by downloading the MP3 here. NEVER MEET YOUR HEROES (Series 18 Episode 4) In June 2022, a Watford fan arrives in Hornet Heaven with an attitude that’s going to make his life hell. (33 minutes) https://audioboom.com/posts/8115277-never-meet-your-heroes-s18-e4
Both matches between Watford and Luton Town have been switched to Sunday lunchtimes following discussions between the two clubs and their respective police forces.
Vicarage Road was awash with yellow as lifelong Watford supporter and Honorary Life-President Elton John returned home as part of his hotly-anticipated, award-winning Farewell Yellow Brick Road tour.
Below is a selection of photos from two very special nights at The Vic (July 3 & 4)…
A Colourful Arrival
Elton Takes To The Stage
Show Time
A Special Surprise & Fond Farewell
Photographs by Ben Gibson / HST Global Limited t/a Rocket Entertainment and Alan Cozzi / Watford FC
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In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they’ve played with or against.
Next to reveal his line-up is Hornets forward João Pedro, with his side reflecting the quality of opposition he has faced in his career...
GK: ALISSON
In my opinion, he's the best goalkeeper in the world. He's also Brazilian, so I have to pick him!
DEF: VIRGIL VAN DIJK
He's quick, he's massive, he has a lot of strength and his attention level is always high. The best defender.
MID: KEVIN DE BRUYNE
He's fantastic technically, and such a high quality that not many players in the world can achieve.
FWD: CRISTIANO RONALDO
Simply the best, what more needs to be said? Everything he does looks easy and he's the best goalscorer there is.
FWD: MOHAMED SALAH
He's quick, always ready and has repeated his form every season in the Premier League and Europe.
More From This Series
Dream Team: Hassane Kamara’s Five-A-Side
Dream Team: Jeremy Ngakia’s Five-A-Side
Dream Team: William Troost-Ekong’s Five-A-Side
Dream Team: Dan Gosling’s Five-A-Side
Dream Team: Craig Cathcart’s Five-A-Side
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Young Watford midfielder Adian Manning has put pen to paper on his first professional contract.
The 18-year-old has been rewarded for his efforts in the 2021/22 season, a campaign which included an unforgettable winner against Cardiff City in the FA Youth Cup, debuting in Omer Riza’s Under-23 side and training with the first-team. Manning also spent time out on loan in the second half of last season, turning out for Kings Langley and Biggleswade Town.
The youngster signed for Watford aged eight, and has ascended through the ranks year-by-year through hard work and determination.
“It’s an amazing feeling,” said Manning. “Especially coming from Watford so young, coming through each age group and finally signing my contract now, it’s a great achievement and I’m over the moon, and a bit speechless!”
Manning played 116 minutes of a thrilling FA Youth Cup contest against Chelsea which ultimately ended in narrow defeat, threatening on several occasions with precise and dangerous set-pieces.
“The FA Youth Cup game against Chelsea was really memorable for me last season, and training with the first-team was another proud moment,” reflected Manning.
Already hard at work and looking to continue his rise in 2022/23, Manning started for the Hornets’ first-team in their opening pre-season game against Cambridge United, sharing the midfield with Dan Gosling and Tom Dele-Bashiru in the first half.
With childhood friends Shaq Forde and Ryan Andrews also signing professional terms over the summer, Manning expressed his pride at the trio succeeding at Watford over the last decade.
He said: “Ryan and Shaq have been like my brothers from very young so to grow up with them and to have all signed our contracts now is an amazing feeling. Hopefully there’s much more to come from all of us.”
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Vicarage Road has been a miserable place for Watford fans over the past 12 months. Apart from the early optimism provided by last season’s opening-day win over Aston Villa and the victory over a shambolic Manchester United, Hornets supporters had to endure an increasingly demoralising experience at the stadium, concluding with the dismal 5-1 defeat to Leicester City.
Rock legend Sir Elton John told fans at Vicarage Road tonight that he is ready to take a more active role at Watford FC.
On the day the United States celebrates its Independence Day, we take a look at the career of Watford’s Captain America, Jay DeMerit.
Here are five memorable and noteworthy games from the defender’s time in England, with promotion-winners, top-flight performances and key highlights from an unforgettable spell.
Debut: Watford 1-0 Cambridge United, August 24, 2004
Those unaware of DeMerit’s story may have expected the American to struggle against the physical nature of a League Cup tie against League Two Cambridge United, but the then-24-year-old had amassed some English football experience in non-league at Southall and Northwood, joining Watford off the back of an impressive performance in the latter’s friendly against the Hornets.
DeMerit helped keep a clean sheet in the first round tie, playing the full 90 minutes at Vicarage Road.
First goal: Ipswich Town 1-2 Watford, February 22, 2005
Leaping highest to score a powerful header, as he did on several occasions in a Watford shirt, DeMerit opened his account at Portman Road in 2005.
The Tractor Boys were leading the Championship at the time but the Hornets defender scored on the stroke of half-time to put the visitors ahead, with Watford winning the game 2-1. It was the first of nine goals for the Golden Boys, and three in his debut campaign.
Play-off final: Leeds United 0-3 Watford, May 21, 2006
Watford didn’t achieve any league success in DeMerit’s first season at Vicarage Road, but Aidy Boothroyd’s side found themselves in the Championship play-off final a year later, albeit as underdogs against Leeds United.
Scoring with his head once again, he put the Hornets ahead at the Millennium Stadium, setting up an historic 3-0 victory to seal a spot in the 2006/07 Premier League, only the second time Watford had reached the top-flight since its renaming in 1992.
First Premier League start: Watford 1-1 West Ham United, August 22, 2006
Arriving in the first division of English football in an unlikely manner, having been in non-league just two years earlier, DeMerit’s first appearance in the competition came against Everton three days before his first top-flight start, ending in a 2-1 defeat.
A more positive result came in his first start however, holding fellow newly-promoted side West Ham United to a 1-1 draw at home.
Final Vicarage Road appearance: Watford 1-0 Plymouth Argyle, April 10, 2010
A couple of months before he would represent the States on the world stage in South Africa, DeMerit played his final home game as a Watford player, a crucial victory over Plymouth Argyle in the Championship. The Hornets were fighting the drop at the time, but were given breathing room from the bottom three thanks to a goal from Heiðar Helguson and a clean sheet with DeMerit in the defence.
His departure that summer marked the end of an unforgettable stint as a Watford player, and began his time flying the Watford flag across the pond, something he still does as a Hornets Ambassador to this day.
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Striker Shaq Forde has signed as a professional with Watford having joined a seven-year-old.
Watford attacker Shaq Forde has signed his first professional contract with the Hornets.
Forde enjoyed a breakout season in 2021/22, starting the campaign in Tom Hart’s Under-18 side and impressing in the Professional Development League before stepping up to the Under-23s.
Pleased to have agreed terms with the club he joined a decade ago, Forde is excited to continue his progress in a Watford shirt and make a positive impression under new Head Coach Rob Edwards.
He said: “It’s a great feeling to sign my first professional contract. Coming through the Academy from Under-8s to making it here, it’s a real honour.”
Following in the footsteps of his father, former Watford striker Fabian Forde, Shaq made his senior debut for Watford in the Emirates FA Cup against Leicester City in January.
The forward continued his development on loan at Kings Langley in 2022, scoring two goals, notching an assist and winning a penalty in just three Southern League Premier Division South matches.
“Making my debut was a special moment. Being on the bench against Brentford and travelling with the squad to Liverpool, there were some great memories from last season,” said Forde.
The coaching staff quickly took note of Forde’s promise and rewarded the 18-year-old with a call-up to the first-team setup, where he will prepare for the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season.
“I’m very excited to continue training with the first-team, it’s a step up I’ve liked and embraced. I can’t wait to show my talent and push on,” added Forde.
“My aim is to get into the team, do my best to stay there and help get into the Premier League, getting a few goals and assists on the way.”
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Watford have added another friendly to their pre-season schedule and will play Panathinaikos on the final day of their training camp in Austria.
The Hornets have added further to their pre-season schedule with a friendly against Panathinaikos.
Rob Edwards’ side will face the Greek outfit on Sunday July 10 – the final day of Watford’s Austrian training camp – at 12.30pm UK time in Walchsee.
Panathinaikos, who finished fourth in the Greece Super League in 2021/22, have been crowned domestic champions 20 times and have also lifted the Greek Cup on 19 occasions, including last season.
Click HERE for more details on Watford’s pre-season schedule.
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An impassioned Sir Elton John urged Hornets fans to get behind new head coach Rob Edwards and implored the players to perform “with a lot more f***ing passion” than last season as he made a triumphant homecoming to Vicarage Road last night.
Former Watford captain John Eustace has been apppointed Birmingham City's new head coach a day following Lee Bowyer’s departure.
Sir Elton John will step out on stage at Vicarage Road this evening for the first of his Farewell Yellow Brick Road shows at the home of the Hornets, but back in 1977 the rock star was in town for a very different reason – to be the star of a special Watford Observer calendar.
Damon Lathrope hopes his Watford side will be an “exciting team to watch and an enjoyable team to play for” following his appointment as the Golden Girls’ Head Coach.
Lathrope takes up the number one role after a spell on the team’s coaching staff last term, also spending three years working in the Hornets’ Academy after a playing career which saw him rack up over 250 league appearances.
“I’m really excited and grateful for the opportunity,” said Lathrope. “It’s something I didn’t see myself doing, I’ve been at the club for three years now and I’m really excited to get going in this new role.
“Prematurely, I fell into coaching off the back of my playing career and initially started with Stevenage’s academy. They were really good for me, and gave me an opportunity when I could barely walk. I then helped out at Hitchin Town, and then the opportunity came up to join Watford.
“I’ve been here for three years and absolutely loved it, worked my way up the age groups and here I am now.”
Watford’s squad contains considerable experience alongside plenty of promising youth talents. Lathrope’s time working and playing in academy football will undoubtedly allow the 32-year-old to create a positive environment for the team to thrive in.
“My background working with the Academy and with young players, that’s at the forefront of my mind. It’s something all of us staff are in conversation about and keen to make the most of this year,” Lathrope continued.
“Having experienced players is huge. You’ve got players that know the league probably better than I do, they’ve played at that level and higher, and I want there to be a relationship between players and staff where we can go and seek information from them, and take their opinions seriously.
“For the group that will be with us, they’re goldust when we’re trying to build a positive environment. We’re getting a nice blend and I’m really looking forward to it.”
Lathrope hopes to embed an attitude and style that allows the Hornets to immediately bounce back to the Barclays Women’s Championship, following relegation last term. He recognises the difficult task at hand, but is motivated to create special memories at the club.
“We want to control games,” stated the former midfielder. “We want to have the ball for longer than the opposition, but we really want the players to understand the purpose behind it and that comes down to time on the grass and pre-season. We want to be an exciting team to watch and an enjoyable team to play for.
“The girls we have here are very committed to the cause and we’re all edging towards the same goal.”
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Watford FC Women are delighted to announce the first new arrival ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, with Bianca Baptiste joining the club.
The forward has had plenty of success in her career so far and makes the move to the Golden Girls after a productive three seasons with Crystal Palace Women.
Baptiste was an integral part of the Eagles’ side in the FA Women’s Championship, only missing two games in total over the last couple of campaigns.
In 2020/21 she was particularly impressive, netting 14 goals in all competitions – a rate better than one every two matches. Six of those came in the FA Women’s Continental Tyres League Cup, a tally which saw her end up as the competition’s top scorer.
Those performances certainly didn’t go unnoticed, with Bianca being named as Palace’s Player of the Season. That individual award isn’t the only silverware in her collection, with the 30-year-old playing a huge part in Tottenham Hotspur’s rise through the leagues.
Having featured well over 150 times for Spurs, Baptiste would help the side she had spent most of her career with earn promotion to the FA WSL in 2018/19.
A couple of seasons prior to that, Tottenham won promotion to FA WSL 2, winning the FA WPL Southern Division, and then beating Blackburn Rovers in the play-off. They were victorious in the FA WPL Cup that year too, retaining the trophy that they had also won the previous campaign.
That was the last time that Bianca played in the third tier. She scored 27 goals in 34 games in all competitions, which included a brace in the play-off game, showcasing the ability that she has to perform on the biggest occasions.
With the Golden Girls’ aspirations this upcoming season, both that and the threat she will pose in attacking areas will no doubt be a huge asset to the team.
Welcome to Watford, Bianca!
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Watford’s newest recruit Vakoun Bayo has already acquired years of footballing experience around the world in his young career, and is now preparing for his first campaign in England.
Here are all the details you need to know about the 25-year-old, who signed for the Hornets earlier this week on a five-year deal, and made his first appearance in yellow in Saturday’s pre-season clash against Cambridge United…
Name: Vakoun Bayo
Age: 25
Position: Striker
Former Clubs: Stade d’Abidjan, Étoile du Sahel, Dunajská Streda, Celtic, Toulouse (loan), Gent, Charleroi
A Star In Slovakia
While Bayo started his career in his native Ivory Coast, a move north to Tunisian side Étoile du Sahel followed in 2015, where he remained until 2017 and won a league title in 2016. His career kick-started after a move to Europe, joining Dunajská Streda in Slovakia.
Bayo, nicknamed ‘the Crow’, immediately became accustomed to Slovakian football, scoring on his home debut against Spartak Trnava. After a promising half-season having signed in March 2018, the Ivorian bagged 10 goals in 16 league games in 2018/19, as well as three goals in four UEFA Europa League qualifiers. The striker averaged a goal every 50 minutes in the cup too, finding the target five times in four games.
Aerial Threat
The recent arrival scores with both feet and is a regular assist provider, but it is in the air where he has proven to be prolific. Nine of Bayo’s 22 goals in Slovakia were with his head, as well as five out of 13 at French side Toulouse.
Play-Off Goals
Bayo’s loan move - that eventually became permanent - to RSC Charleroi garnered considerable success for club and player at the back end of the most recent campaign. Signed from Jupiler Pro League rivals KAA Gent, Bayo netted 11 in 16 for the Zebras.
Despite being ineligible for play-off games against his parent club, the attacker provided four goals and an assist in four games, helping Charleroi to third place in the Play Off II.
Ivory Coast International
Joining fellow Ivorian Hassane Kamara at Watford, Bayo will hope to add to his two caps won in 2018. Aged 22, the forward came off the bench twice against the Central African Republic in Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, replacing current Burnley forward Maxwel Cornet and former Aston Villa striker Jonathan Kodjia for Les Éléphants.
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The first pre-season friendly of the summer ended in defeat as Watford were beaten 3-1 by Cambridge United.
As one of the longest-serving Watford players, Craig Cathcart has done more than his fair share of meeting new head coaches. However, this time around, it was a reunion rather than an introduction.
Watford have completed their first signing of the Rob Edwards era by confirming the arrival of striker Vakoun Bayo
Vakoun Bayo aims to excite the Watford supporters with his goals, and he can’t wait to meet them in August when the Sky Bet Championship season kicks off.
Bayo, as he prefers to be known, confirmed his move from Belgian side RSC Charleroi on a five-year deal on Saturday, fulfilling a boyhood dream of playing in England.
The striker’s prior experience in six different countries stands him in good stead at 25 years old, with an aim to show his talent in the upcoming campaign.
“I’m very happy to be here,” Bayo smiled. “Since I was a child I’ve wanted to play in England, so coming to Watford is great for me.
“I’ve gained a lot of experience from the countries I’ve played in, and I’m here to show everyone who I am.”
Making a name for himself due to his threat in the air and on the end of crosses, Bayo hopes to transition his style of play seamlessly into English football.
Bayo continued: “One of my best qualities is scoring with my head. I love meeting crosses, jumping high and scoring.
“I love to push and jump, doing everything I can to help the team. I’m looking forward to doing that here.
“It’s the quality of a striker to score many goals. I always want to score, score, score to help the team, that’s my mentality. I love scoring goals!”
Meeting new faces and speaking to Head Coach Rob Edwards, Bayo has quickly settled in at the Hornets’ London Colney training ground. Despite playing in the same league as several Golden Boys at different times, he had only met one before arriving in Hertfordshire.
“I knew Hassane Kamara by name and played against [Samuel] Kalu in France,” said Bayo.
“I spoke to him [Edwards] a little bit on the first day I was here. I can’t say what we spoke about, but we spoke about very good things.”
With an immediate Premier League return the ultimate aim for the upcoming season, Bayo will do everything he can to ensure Watford are back in the top-flight next term.
For now, he is looking forward to meeting the supporters at Vicarage Road on the opening day against Sheffield United on August 1, and lifting them from their seats with his goals.
“Scoring goals is always great for a striker, so I love to show my feelings with the supporters,” Bayo added. “I’m excited to be on the pitch and to meet the fans!
“I will do my best! I’m here to score many goals and help the team so I’m ready to do that, and help the team reach the Premier League.”
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It is testament to the relationship between Watford and Elton John that stories about his upcoming concerts at Vicarage Road have been topping our 'most read' section all week.
Watford FC is delighted to announce the signing of Ivorian striker Vakoun Bayo on a five-year deal.
The 25-year-old joins the Hornets from RSC Charleroi after an exciting spell in Belgium’s top-flight, where he scored 11 goals in 16 matches.
An international with Ivory Coast, the dynamic right-footed forward arrives with a host of European experience from both the UEFA Europa League and Europa Conference League.
Having begun his professional career in Tunisia with Étoile du Sahel, Bayo got the opportunity to move to Dunajská Streda in Slovakia.
His goalscoring prowess was on display as he scored 22 times over two years, helping his team finish runners-up in the top-flight in 2018. Notably, during this season Bayo scored three goals over two legs in a Europa League qualifying-round tie against Dinamo Tbilisi.
The forward earned a move to Scottish champions Celtic, where he would play a part in the side that won the Scottish Premiership in 2019/20, alongside the Scottish League Cup.
Bayo would be loaned out to Toulouse in France’s second tier at the start of the 2020/21 campaign, scoring 13 in all competitions as his side finished third in the league and progressed to the quarter-finals of the Coupe de France, in which he would contribute four goal involvements.
After a move to Belgium’s Gent at the start of last season, Bayo made a temporary switch, that became permanent, to Charleroi in December 2021, where he cemented his place leading the line as the Zebras finished sixth.
In addition, Bayo made his international debut for Ivory Coast in an Africa Cup of Nations qualifier against the Central African Republic in 2018, having earned caps at youth level.
Welcome to Watford, Vakoun!
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The current challenge for our camera club members continues to throw up an eclectic mix of pictures, including one captured ahead of one of the big days in Hornets' history.
Murals have been painted, a football ground is being transformed into a concert venue and in a little over 48 hours time the Hornets' most famous fan will again step out on stage at Vicarage Road to perform at the club that has been a huge part of his life.
Music legend Sir Elton John is set to rock the Vic again this weekend when he brings his Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour to the home of Watford FC – and it is not too late to be a part of the audience.
Watford’s opening two games of the new Championship season will be broadcast live by Sky Sports following the rescheduling of their trip to West Bromwich Albion.
Watford’s Sky Bet Championship match against West Bromwich Albion at The Hawthorns has been rescheduled for Monday August 8 (8pm KO), and has been selected for live broadcast.
Due to the Commonwealth Games being held in Birmingham this summer, the fixture has been rearranged from its original date of Saturday August 6.
The Hornets’ first away match of the second-tier season has also been selected by Sky Sports for TV.
While Watford’s season-opening home game against Sheffield United will also be shown live on Sky Sports (Monday August 1), the remaining fixtures for August remain subject to change for TV selection. Any further changes will be announced in due course.
With Vicarage Road’s centenary fast approaching (August 30), the club will celebrate the milestone during the home fixtures against Queens Park Rangers (August 27) and Middlesbrough (August 30).
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In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they’ve played with or against.
Next to reveal his line-up is Hornets full-back Hassane Kamara, whose spell in European football is on display in his chosen side...
GK: KEYLOR NAVAS
He is a very good goalkeeper and he doesn't concede much. I like this player!
DEF: VIRGIL VAN DIJK
He is a very smart defender, and is strong and fast.
MID: JUDE BELLINGHAM
I played against him when he played for England against the Ivory Coast, and he is a very good player.
FWD: CRISTIANO RONALDO
No one can do what he does.
FWD: NEYMAR JR
I played against him. He is at the top top level and is a very good player. Very agile, very technical.
More From This Series
Dream Team: Jeremy Ngakia’s Five-A-Side
Dream Team: William Troost-Ekong’s Five-A-Side
Dream Team: Dan Gosling’s Five-A-Side
Dream Team: Craig Cathcart’s Five-A-Side
Dream Team: Ken Sema’s Five-A-Side
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Watford have confirmed the departure of striker Josh King - as chairman Scott Duxbury told the Watford Observer recently - and also keeper Rob Elliott.
Striker Joshua King and goalkeeper Rob Elliot are both no longer with the Hornets.
King scored five goals in 31 Premier League appearances for Watford last season, after joining as a free agent.
Elliot’s two years at Vicarage Road, meanwhile, provided senior goalkeeping cover. His only first-team game time came early last season in the Carabao Cup.
“We wish both players well for the future,” Sporting Director Cristiano Giaretta said.
“In the case of Rob, he indicated he would wish to consider retirement but the decision is his now, of course.
“We are continuing to consider our options for the third goalkeeper and we need to make sensible choices with the Rule of 11 to consider.”
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The match would be played in a country where it's illegal to be gay, and was announced during Pride month
I remember, many moons ago, clocking up a fairly sizeable sum on my parent’s phone bill calling the Watford Clubcall line.
The Hornets’ pre-season schedule ahead of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season can now be confirmed.
No friendlies will be played at Vicarage Road due to pitch care priorities after infrastructure relating to the Sir Elton John concerts has been removed from the stadium, however there will be a chance to watch Rob Edwards’ side in action in a fixture with Southampton at Wealdstone FC. The partnership with the Stones kicks off a year-long agreement that will see Watford FC Women play the majority of their 2022/23 home fixtures at Grosvenor Vale.
The Hornets will also be travelling to Austria for a training camp from July 5-10.
Additional midweek fixtures may still be arranged, however the current pre-season schedule is as follows:
- Watford v Cambridge United - Saturday July 2, 1pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)
- Watford v Bolton Wanderers - Tuesday July 12, 3pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)
- Watford v Wycombe Wanderers - Saturday July 16, 1pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)
- Watford v Southampton - Saturday July 23, 3pm (Grosvenor Vale, Wealdstone FC)
Ticket details for the Southampton clash at Wealdstone will be announced in due course.
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ITV have announced that Hugh Woozencroft and Jules Breach will present their new EFL coverage from the start of the 2022/23 football season.
Announced earlier this year, ITV will show highlights of the Sky Bet Championship, Sky Bet League One, Sky Bet League Two, Carabao Cup and the Papa John’s Trophy from the upcoming 2022/23 season after the broadcaster entered into a two-season partnership with the EFL.
Woozencroft said: “I’m so excited to help bring the EFL to ITV Sport audiences and it’s a privilege to take up the responsibility of covering the EFL in an impactful, entertaining manner.
“The EFL is a unique sporting institution with incredible history, fantastic clubs and amazing, loyal fans. I really look forward to bringing the rollercoaster of the season to life and can’t wait for kick-off next month.”
The first highlights show will be on air on Saturday July 30 (shown at 9pm on ITV4 with a later repeat on ITV as well as each show being available on ITV Hub), where Hugh will be joined by Breach, who said: “I’m absolutely thrilled to be joining the ITV football team.
“The Football League never fails to entertain and deliver amazing stories every single season and there’s nothing quite like the passion you see from fans up and down the English football pyramid. I can’t wait to get started.”
Throughout the season, a comprehensive round-up of all the day’s action from across the EFL will be screened in the primetime slot each Saturday at 9pm on ITV4, with a repeat being shown on ITV (main channel) later in the evening.
And for those who want to catch up on all the highlights on Sunday mornings, viewers will be able to watch again on ITV.
Highlights of midweek fixtures, where a full round has taken place, will also be broadcast on ITV and ITV Hub, covering Sky Bet EFL matches. Each show will feature every goal from every EFL fixture plus detailed analysis from a panel of expert pundits.
ITV will also present extensive coverage of Sky Bet play-off semi-finals and finals as well as a highlights programme for each of the rounds of the Carabao Cup and the two-legged semi-finals and final.
Each highlights programme will be available in full, on a catch-up basis on ITV Hub during the period of 30 days following its first transmission.
Watford’s own streaming options for the upcoming campaign will be announced in due course.
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The most successful period in Watford’s history began on this day in 1977, as Hornets legend Graham Taylor shook hands with Sir Elton John and became manager.
Taylor, then just 32 years old, had experience managing in the fourth tier from his time at Lincoln City, and was held in high regard by some of the biggest names in English football.
Weeks before Taylor was appointed, he had been invited to Sir Elton’s Windsor home to discuss the role. The then Watford Chairman had acted on the advice of Don Revie, who was England boss at the time, and presented his vision of top-flight football and European aspirations to Taylor.
Despite an attractive offer from First Division outfit West Bromwich Albion, Taylor took the lower league role with dreams of climbing up the divisions, and was unveiled by Sir Elton at Vicarage Road.
Watford’s greatest ever manager needed little time to settle in, romping to the title for the second time in the dugout, finishing 11 points clear of second-placed Southend United.
Momentum carried on into the next season too as the Golden Boys enjoyed another promotion in 1978/79, and by 1982 ‘Elton John’s Taylor-made army’ had reached the summit of English football.
Sir Elton’s dream came true also, when the Hornets finished second in the top tier to qualify for the UEFA Cup, bringing Europe’s elite to Vicarage Road.
Taylor’s Watford journey lasted until the end of the 1986/87 season, having helped build the club from lower-league strugglers to a mid-table First Division outfit, in addition to an FA Cup final. He departed for pastures new, joining Aston Villa, but the Taylor-Watford partnership would return a decade later as he took the Hornets to two more promotions and a first-ever Premier League campaign in 1999/00.
Continuing to fly the Watford flag as an ambassador, charity supporter and Honorary Life-President until his passing in 2017, Taylor remains the club’s most successful-ever manager, with his achievements living long in the memory of supporters.
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Watford’s proposed pre-season friendly with the Qatar national team has been cancelled.
It was around this time 24 years ago that a flame-haired new boy arrived at Vicarage Road.
The comedic genius of Monty Python’s Flying Circus is something I was only introduced to relatively late in life.
GTwo promotions to the Premier League as a player give Rob Edwards first-hand experience of what it takes to get out of the Championship.
In his recent interview, Watford chairman Scott Duxbury spoke about the club knowing it needed to both develop its own players through the academy and give more game time to young players in general.
There was one word which came up repeatedly when Scott Duxbury spoke to me a couple of weeks ago, and it’s a word that perhaps doesn't get the recognition it deserves for the part it has played in the most successful eras in Watford FC history: culture.
Damon Lathrope has taken the reins as Head Coach of Watford FC Women ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, as the Golden Girls return to pre-season.
With the 32-year-old preparing the ranks for the FA Women’s National League South, here’s everything you need to know about the new boss…
Name: Damon Lathrope
Age: 32
From: Stevenage
Role: Head Coach
Former position: Midfielder
Playing career: Cambridge United, Norwich City, Bishop’s Stortford (loan), Torquay United (x2), Hereford United (loan), Aldershot Town, Woking
Coaching career: Hitchin Town, Pro Direct Academy, Watford Academy
Early Career
A Hertfordshire boy, Lathrope joined Norwich City as a scholar after a spell in Cambridge United’s academy in 2006. He signed a professional contract with the Canaries in 2008 and captained the reserves side, playing 50 games before moving closer to home on loan, joining Bishop’s Stortford. It was with the-then National League South side that Lathrope made his first senior appearances, playing nine times over a two-month spell.
Davids Duel
In Lathrope’s first stint at Torquay United, the Gulls were residing in a competitive League Two. Despite the fourth tier’s quality, few would have expected UEFA Champions League winner Edgar Davids to be at the heart of Barnet’s midfield, but the former Dutch international served as player-manager at the Edgware-based side between 2012 and 2014.
Lathrope was able to nullify the three-time Serie A winner in a 2013 clash between Torquay and Barnet, with the current Hornets boss playing his part in a 3-2 win.
Double Century
Lathrope made more appearances at Torquay than any other club, turning out 165 times over two spells at Plainmoor. In addition to his time in Devon, the former holding midfielder amassed 47 National League appearances at Aldershot Town, reaching a century of career games at both League Two and National League level.
Coaching Ventures
A broken leg suffered while at Woking in February 2018 cut short Lathrope’s playing career, with several operations needed to mend the serious injury. Aged 29 at the time, Lathrope moved into coaching soon after his rehabilitation, and became a first-team coach at local side Hitchin Town. He also took charge of the outfit’s Under-19s, and led the college programme.
Lathrope has also coached at the Pro Direct Academy, and now takes charge of Watford FC Women having worked in the youth ranks at Vicarage Road for nearly three years, and coached the Golden Girls last season.
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Watford FC Women are delighted to reveal that Damon Lathrope has been appointed as the club’s new Head Coach.
A holder of the UEFA A Licence, Lathrope was previously an Assistant Coach with the Golden Girls towards the end of last season, combining it with his role with the Watford Academy.
After his playing career was cut short due to injury, the former professional footballer has impressed many with his coaching credentials since taking up new challenges within the game.
A big part of that was his work with the Hornets in 2021/22, with Damon’s attention to detail helping to see an upturn in performance levels. With the 32-year-old making an impact during that time, the club have now named Lathrope as Head Coach for the season ahead.
General Manager Amber Wildgust was pleased to have confirmed the appointment and is excited for the upcoming campaign with Lathrope in charge.
“We are pleased to announce Damon as our Head Coach for the forthcoming season,” said Wildgust.
“He brings a lot of experience from his professional career and has a proven ability to create a high-performance environment and culture that maximises the potential of players while producing results.
“We are really looking forward to the new campaign. We hope it is a season full of success where we can build for the future.”
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Friendlies against World Cup hosts Qatar and Premier League Southampton are the stand-out fixtures from the Hornets’ pre-season schedule.
After a break from the action, the pitches at Watford’s London Colney training ground are once again awash with players preparing for the upcoming 2022/23 season.
Below is a selection of some of the best pictures from the first week back...
Gym Work
On-Pitch Action
High-Flying Goalkeepers
The Players
Like what you see from the new 2022/23 Kelme training wear? Click HERE for the summer range.
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The Hornets’ pre-season schedule ahead of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season can now be confirmed.
No friendlies will be played at Vicarage Road due to pitch care priorities after infrastructure relating to the Sir Elton John concerts has been removed from the stadium, however there will be a chance to watch Rob Edwards’ side in action in a fixture with Southampton at Wealdstone FC. The partnership with the Stones kicks off a year-long agreement that will see Watford FC Women play the majority of their 2022/23 home fixtures at Grosvenor Vale.
The Hornets will also be travelling to Austria for a training camp from July 5-10, with a friendly against the Qatar national team planned for the final day.
Additional midweek fixtures may still be arranged, however the current pre-season schedule is as follows:
- Watford v Cambridge United - Saturday July 2, 1pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)
- Watford v Qatar - Sunday July 10, 1pm (Austria)
- Watford v Bolton Wanderers - Tuesday July 12, 3pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)
- Watford v Wycombe Wanderers - Saturday July 16, 1pm (Watford FC training ground, behind closed doors)
- Watford v Southampton - Saturday July 23, 3pm (Grosvenor Vale, Wealdstone FC)
Ticket details for the Southampton clash at Wealdstone will be announced in due course.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Fans will have seen images and video of new head coach Rob Edwards chatting to individual players during the first week of pre-season training.
The Hornets were on the verge of being taken over, a twitching bug hit Rickmansworth, brave members of the public saved drivers from a burning car and a heatwave were among the stories making the headlines five and ten years ago this week.
Having joined Watford from Sparta Rotterdam at the start of this year, Nigerian international goalkeeper Maduka Okoye was loaned back to the Dutch club so he could finish the season playing for them.
When you have 12,000 season ticket holders renew from the 13,500 you had at the end of one of the most awful campaigns in club history, it shows just how committed, loyal and resilient Watford supporters are.
The fixture list for the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season is now in the calendar, with a feast of exciting matches to look forward to from August to May.
Following the schedule’s confirmation, we take a look at the key stats associated with Watford’s upcoming opponents…
Distance
12 - Although Luton Town are widely considered to be the Hornets’ biggest rivals, the distance between Vicarage Road and Queens Park Rangers’ Loftus Road (12 miles) is the shortest. However, the Hatters’ Kenilworth Road is a shorter road distance than the west-London side, 18.9 miles compared to 19.7 miles.
369 - Sunderland’s Stadium of Light is the furthest distance from Vicarage Road, with an air distance of 369 miles. The Hornets make the long trip north on Saturday April 29, the penultimate game of the season.
Capacity
49,000 - When Watford visit the Stadium of Light, they will play at the biggest ground in this term’s Championship, with a stadium capacity of 49,000.
10,073 - Watford’s opponents on October 22 (home) and April 1 (away), Luton, have the smallest-capacity stadium in the second tier.
Championship Reunion
This season will see the Hornets play against two sides for the first time since 2015. Wigan Athletic and Blackpool last shared a division with Watford in the Golden Boys’ 2014/15 promotion campaign, as Slaviša Jokanović’s side completed a league double over both clubs.
Watford face the Latics in Greater Manchester on October 29, and at home on March 18. The Tangerines take on Rob Edwards’ Hornets at Bloomfield Road on October 8, and at Vicarage Road on January 14.
2 - The only London sides in the Championship this term are Queens Park Rangers and Millwall, the fewest number of London-based teams in Watford’s league since 2009/10 (also two). The Hornets make their trips to the capital on March 11 and October 18 respectively.
Old Adversary
4 - Norwich City will share a division with the Hornets for the fourth successive season, having played in the Premier League in the 2019/20 and 2021/22 campaigns. The Canaries, alongside Watford, formed the Championship top two in 2020/21, and both teams will be hoping for a similar outcome this term.
Opening Day Hopes
8 - Watford have lost just one of their last 15 opening day fixtures, a 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion in 2019. The Hornets have won eight of those games, stretching back to the 2007/08 campaign.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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When you’re sitting with the new head coach during his first week at the club, it’s probably not a good moment to count up how many times someone covering Watford could have written that line in the last decade.
Philip Zinckernagel has completed a permanent transfer to Olympiacos, Watford FC confirms.
The 27-year-old winger, who spent last season on loan at Sky Bet Championship play-off winners Nottingham Forest, has joined the Greek outfit for an undisclosed fee.
He featured 21 times for the Hornets, scoring once, following a January 2021 move from Bodø/Glimt in Norway.
We wish Philip all the best for the future.
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Exciting opportunities have become available within the Supporter Services Team at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a number of highly motivated individuals to join the team in providing excellent customer service within the Ticket Office.
You will play a key role in the sale of matchday tickets, both over the phone and face to face.
The successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Supporter Services Staff
Rate of pay: Hourly, depending on experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Vicarage Road Stadium
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: Ongoing
Download the full job advert HERE.
Application process:
1. Please download and complete the Club application form located HERE.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to dave.newman@watfordfc.com or by post to Dave Newman, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
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Former Watford midfielder Juraj Kucka has returned to Slovakia to play for the first time in 13 years after signing for Slovan Bratislava.
Head Coach Rob Edwards said he’s counting down the days to Watford’s season-opening clash at home to Sheffield United, following the release of the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship fixtures on Thursday (June 23).
The Hornets will get their campaign started against the Blades under the Vicarage Road lights on Monday August 1 (8pm KO) – with the game chosen for broadcast on Sky Sports – before a trip to West Bromwich Albion (August 6) and a home clash against Burnley (August 13) that will round off a trio of enticing match-ups in the opening three weeks.
And though he must wait until the end of the first weekend to lead out his charges for the first time, Edwards is excited about the prospect of getting into the thick of the action against some of the league’s biggest names straight away.
“They’re tasty games,” said the 39-year-old. “We know the Championship is a really competitive league and every game is going to be a challenge, but the first few look good and I’m sure they’ll get a lot of interest.
“Sheffield United were beaten in the play-offs last season and I think they’ll be one of the favourites to be promoted again this year. I know Paul Heckingbottom [manager] reasonably well, and he’s a very good coach. His team will be organised with a good way of playing.
“It’ll be a difficult game, but I think they know it’s going to be difficult for them as well. I’m not disappointed that it’s been moved from the first day of the season because it’s going to be a big occasion in front of our home fans under the lights and on TV, and we’re all really looking forward to that and the season as a whole.”
Midfielder Tom Cleverley agreed that early clashes against some of the teams touted to challenge for promotion represents the ideal start for Watford, with the 32-year-old and his teammates looking to set the tone for success from the off.
“We know we’ve got three of the bigger teams straight away, but we’ll be trying to stamp our authority on the league and there’s no better way to do that by getting points on the board against the likes of Sheffield United, West Brom and Burnley,” he said. “Two of those games are at home as well, which is exciting.
“Fixtures release day is always exciting. I think us players are all the same – I always go straight to the first game, then to Boxing Day, and then to the last day of the season. Millwall on Boxing Day and Stoke on the last day (May 6) have landed at home as well as the first game, which is good.”
The festive clash against the Lions is something that stood out to Edwards when he first got a look at the list, while he admitted he’s already made a note of the home (October 22) and away (April 1) encounters against local rivals Luton Town.
He said: “My birthday’s on Christmas Day so the Boxing Day fixture is always something I look out for first! You look at the Luton games as well, which I know a lot of people will want to talk about.
“There’s not been too many of those games in recent years, and the last couple were behind closed doors because of Covid, so it’ll be great for fans to be able to attend home and away.
“We’ve got a lot of games before that though. I know there’s lots to get excited about when the fixtures are released, but my sole focus now is on getting the team ready for that match against Sheffield United on August 1.”
Little over five weeks stand between now and kick-off on Matchday One, and Cleverley explained that the hard work has already started during the first week of pre-season at the London Colney training ground.
The majority of the playing squad are back on the grass – with a number of individuals who have been away on international duty due to return on Monday (June 27) – and the former England international has enjoyed working under Edwards so far.
Cleverley added: “I was saying with Craig Cathcart that this is our 18th pre-season – and we’ve got lads in the squad who are younger than that – but I’ve still got that enthusiasm for football, I’ve enjoyed every minute of this week, and I can’t wait for the season to get started.
“For me the transition between last season and the new campaign happened straight away. The season we were relegated before we had a really short summer break, so there was no time to reflect on the poor season before. I’ve got the same attitude this time, and it’s all focus on getting us back to the Premier League, which starts on August 1.
“Rob’s experienced dominating a league, controlling games and dominating possession at Forest Green last year, and hopefully he puts that stamp on this team and we can dominate the league like we did in the second half of the 2020/21 season when we went up.”
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Hornets Academy coach Damon Lathrope has been appointed as the new boss of Watford Women.
Watford FC Women are delighted to reveal that Damon Lathrope has been appointed as the club’s new Head Coach.
A holder of the UEFA A Licence, Lathrope was previously an Assistant Coach with the Golden Girls towards the end of last season, combining it with his role with the Watford Academy.
After his playing career was cut short due to injury, the former professional footballer has impressed many with his coaching credentials since taking up new challenges within the game.
A big part of that was his work with the Hornets in 2021/22, with Damon’s attention to detail helping to see an upturn in performance levels. With the 32-year-old making an impact during that time, the club have now named Lathrope as Head Coach for the season ahead.
General Manager Amber Wildgust was pleased to have confirmed the appointment and is excited for the upcoming campaign with Lathrope in charge.
“We are pleased to announce Damon as our Head Coach for the forthcoming season,” said Wildgust.
“He brings a lot of experience from his professional career and has a proven ability to create a high-performance environment and culture that maximises the potential of players while producing results.
“We are really looking forward to the new campaign. We hope it is a season full of success where we can build for the future.”
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Stoke City striker Benik Afobe seems set to move to Belgian side Club Brugges, and while head coach Rob Edwards said he was a player he liked, he is not worried that the transfer window has been open for a while and the club have only made one signing.
New Watford head coach Rod Edwards has made it clear that team selection, formation, style of play and transfers are all his call.
The second episode of Series 18 is out now. You can listen below, or by downloading the MP3 here. UPHEAVAL (S18 E2) In August 1922, the Watford FC afterlife undergoes a seismic shift. (40 minutes)
Overview
The Hornets will get their 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship campaign underway at home to Sheffield United on Monday August 1, with the fixture - set to kick-off at 8pm - having been selected for Sky Sports coverage.
Head Coach Rob Edwards will be hoping to extend Watford’s five-game unbeaten run against the Blades that stretches back to a 3-0 win at The Vic in February 2010, while the teams’ last second-tier clash - in March 2011 - produced the same scoreline.
A trip to Steve Bruce’s West Bromwich Albion five days after the Sheffield United fixture (Saturday August 6) marks the Golden Boys’ first away game of the season, before a return home to welcome fellow relegated side Burnley on Saturday August 13.
A first on-pitch meeting with Troy Deeney since his Vicarage Road departure could be on the cards when the Hornets travel to his current club Birmingham City on Tuesday August 16, while further outings against Preston North End (Saturday August 20), Queens Park Rangers (Saturday August 27) and Middlesbrough (Tuesday August 30) will take place before the club’s first month of competition is out.
That home match against Boro under the lights will mark the 100th anniversary of Watford’s first match at Vicarage Road, with Edwards’ men looking for a win to cap off the celebrations that will be taking place at the stadium.
A hotly-anticipated match-up with local rivals Luton Town is scheduled to take place at home on Saturday October 22, with the away game at Kenilworth Road in the diary for Saturday April 1.
Bristol City will be Watford’s hosts in the final round of Championship fixtures before the break for the 2022 Qatar World Cup on Saturday November 12, with a home clash against Hull City marking the resumption of play on Saturday December 10.
It’s Millwall at home on Boxing Day - with the Lions having fallen to a 4-0 defeat the last time they travelled to The Vic on that date, in 2013 - while a visit to Carrow Road to face Norwich City is in store on New Year’s Day.
There are seven matches scheduled in a busy April before the Golden Boys conclude the 46-game campaign at home to Stoke City on Saturday May 6, three weeks before the Championship play-off final on Monday May 29.
All fixtures are subject to change and may be rescheduled due to cup competitions and international fixtures. The remaining EFL broadcast selections for August will be announced in due course.
AUGUST 2022
Mon Aug 1 Sheffield United H
Sat Aug 6 West Bromwich Albion A
Sat Aug 13 Burnley H
Tue Aug 16 Birmingham City A
Sat Aug 20 Preston North End A
*Wed Aug 24 Carabao Cup R2
Sat Aug 27 Queens Park Rangers H
Tue Aug 30 Middlesbrough H
SEPTEMBER 2022
Sat Sep 3 Rotherham United A
Sat Sep 10 Reading H
Tue Sep 13 Blackburn Rovers A
Sat Sep 17 Sunderland H
*Break for international fixtures
OCTOBER 2022
Sat Oct 1 Stoke City A
Tues Oct 4 Swansea City H
Sat Oct 8 Blackpool A
Sat Oct 15 Norwich City H
Tues Oct 18 Millwall A
Sat Oct 22 Luton Town H
Sat Oct 29 Wigan Athletic A
NOVEMBER 2022
Tues Nov 1 Cardiff City A
Sat Nov 5 Coventry City H
*Wed Nov 9 Carabao Cup R3
Sat Nov 12 Bristol City A
*Break for World Cup
DECEMBER 2022
Sat Dec 10 Hull City H
Sat Dec 17 Huddersfield Town A
*Wed Dec 21 Carabao Cup R4
Mon Dec 26 Millwall H
Thu Dec 29 Swansea City A
JANUARY 2023
Sun Jan 1 Norwich City A
*Sat Jan 7 Emirates FA Cup R3
*Wed Jan 11 Carabao Cup R5
Sat Jan 14 Blackpool H
Sat Jan 21 Rotherham United H
*Wed Jan 25 Carabao Cup SF 1
Sat Jan 28 Middlesbrough A
*Sat Jan 28 Emirates FA Cup R4
FEBRUARY 2023
*Wed Feb 1 Carabao Cup SF 2
Sat Feb 4 Reading A
Sat Feb 11 Blackburn Rovers H
Tue Feb 14 Burnley A
Sat Feb 18 West Bromwich Albion H
Sat Feb 25 Sheffield United A
*Sun Feb 26 Carabao Cup Final
MARCH 2023
*Wed Mar 1 Emirates FA Cup R5
Sat Mar 4 Preston North End H
Sat Mar 11 Queens Park Rangers A
Tue Mar 14 Birmingham City H
Sat Mar 18 Wigan Athletic H
*Sat Mar 18 Emirates FA Cup QF
*Break for international fixtures
APRIL 2023
Sat Apr 1 Luton Town A
Fri Apr 7 Huddersfield Town H
Mon Apr 10 Coventry City A
Sat Apr 15 Bristol City H
Tues Apr 18 Cardiff City H
Sat Apr 22 Hull City A
*Sat Apr 22 Emirates FA Cup SF
Sat Apr 29 Sunderland A
MAY 2023
Sat May 6 Stoke City H
*Mon May 29 Championship Play-Off Final
JUNE 2023
*Sat Jun 3 Emirates FA Cup Final
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
Fixture List Download
To access a downloadable 2022/23 provisional fixture list, please click HERE.
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Fans will have to wait two days longer than most other sets of supporters as Watford's first game of the new Championship season will be at home to Sheffield United on Monday, August 1, and will be shown live on Sky Sports.
Midfielder Philip Zinckernagel is on the verge of joining Greek side Olympiakos for an initial payment of at least €2m.
The Watford Observer has again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
Watford’s greatest player of all time, Luther Blissett OBE DL, has been invited to become only the third Honorary Life-President of the club.
The Hornets are delighted to announce Luther Blissett OBE DL has been invited to become an Honorary Life-President of Watford Football Club.
As Watford FC starts upon its journey of celebrating 100 years at Vicarage Road Stadium, bestowing Luther with this honour would be yet another significant moment during his long association with the club, the town and its community.
Known lovingly as ‘Watford’s favourite son’, the club had been discussing with Luther about his potential involvement with the Hornets Ambassadors programme but the awarding of a Life-Presidency feels far more appropriate in its significance and distinction.
In addition to this honour, as we mark 100 years at The Vic, the Hornets will also continue the conversation with Luther as to how we’ll further recognise his incredible service to the club.
Luther’s unstinting charitable work and service to the local community was recently recognised by the town’s Elected Mayor Peter Taylor, with the awarding of the Freedom of the Borough of Watford. So to complement this, Watford FC intends to make available 20 match tickets per home fixture to allow Luther to personally recognise the hard work and commitment of others who serve this town and its local community, as well as providing access to live football to those who might otherwise not be fortunate enough to be able to come along.
“It’s entirely appropriate that we’d like to recognise Luther in this way,” said Hornets’ Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury.
“He would join the exalted company of the late Graham Taylor OBE and Sir Elton John as those to have been granted Honorary Life-Presidencies of Watford Football Club.”
Added the club’s Chairman: “We’ve also invited Luther to the training ground to meet Rob Edwards and his staff, so that he’s fully connected and engaged at the start of this exciting future for our club.
“His position as an essential part of the fabric of Watford FC – both at home matchdays and all other days of the year – remains as important as it ever was.”
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Former Watford defender Daryl Janmaat has retired from playing to take up a new role at the club where he first made his name.
Watford FC will find out their schedule for the 2022/23 Sky Bet Championship season on Thursday (June 23) at 9am BST, as the fixture list for the campaign is released.
To find out the running order of the Hornets’ upcoming season in the second tier, keep an eye on the club’s website, app, Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, as well as the EFL website.
The Championship campaign kicks off on the weekend of July 30, with the Golden Boys looking to secure an opening day win for the third successive season. The season will run until Saturday May 6, and the play-off final is set to take place on Monday May 29.
Watford, alongside fellow relegated side Burnley, will enter the Carabao Cup in round two. The first-round draw will also be revealed on Thursday June 23, at 2.30pm on Sky Sports News. Rob Edwards’ side will play their second-round fixture on August 23 or 24.
For more information on key dates, click HERE.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford’s 2022/23 fixtures when they are released. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you’ll never miss a match!
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Former Watford coach Graham Stack has joined the backroom staff of Championship rivals Cardiff City as goalkeeping coach.
As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we're taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
First up, James Garrett recalls Craig Dawson's acrobatic equaliser against Leicester City, in an unusually empty stadium...
This goal is perhaps among the most forgotten last-minute Watford Premier League strikes at Vicarage Road, despite the fact it took place just two years ago. Normally an injury-time overhead kick in front of the Rookery would have produced an unforgettable moment for the home fans in attendance, but this particular clash was played in front of club officials from both teams only, while the rest of us had to watch on at home.
You probably won’t need reminding that the Covid-19 pandemic had ended the football season in early March 2020, as the UK was swept into its first full lockdown. For a time, it was unclear if the 2019/20 campaign would even continue, and most of the non-league seasons were ended early.
By the time spring was in full swing though the Government allowed “Project Restart” to begin, and Premier League clubs were allowed back into training and enjoyed a short mid-season pre-season, with a schedule organised for the teams to be able to complete their final nine matches in June and July.
It had largely been a season to forget for the Hornets who hadn’t won a league match in the first three months, and had hired their third manager of the campaign, Nigel Pearson, in early December. The former Leicester boss had brought an honest clarity to the Watford team, breathing life into a side that had been woefully underperforming.
The 2-0 win at home to Manchester United in Pearson’s first home match just before Christmas had provided hope, and the team then finally found some genuine form as they beat Aston Villa and Wolves at home, before a 3-0 win at Bournemouth pushed them just above the relegation zone.
Despite a few more matches bringing mixed fortunes it was the visit of Liverpool on the final day of February that delivered what could be argued as Watford’s greatest ever performance. For this, we have to consider that Liverpool were then romping to their first Premier League title, were European champions, and were unbeaten in over a year.
You know the rest - a magnificent second-half display helped Watford earn a 3-0 win, producing an atmosphere at The Vic that I don’t remember feeling too often in my life watching the Golden Boys. And then it all finished after one more match - everything stopped due to Coronavirus.
The spring of 2020 was a challenging time for a lot of us, but by the early summer the football did return. Our experiences of that period will vary, of course - for me, I found it really hard to re-connect to the season and the team while not being there. For this first match back, Leicester City were our visitors, flying high in third and firmly in the picture for a Champions League place.
Unsurprisingly the match started slowly, with both sets of players performing to an empty stadium. But the match came alive in the second half, with Ismaïla Sarr and Abdoulaye Doucouré both having great chances saved by Kasper Schmeichel. And then, the sucker punch.
Of course, we have felt this before, but usually the feeling is made worse by 2,000 away fans going crazy in the Vicarage Road end. In fairness, a goal in the manner of Ben Chilwell’s 90th-minute strike would usually be enough to win any match, but this time the Hornets had other ideas.
After only Watford’s second corner of the game in the 93rd minute, the ball rebounded to defender Craig Dawson, who tried an overhead kick from seven yards out as he had his back to goal. Schmeichel got his hand to it but couldn’t stop the ball from crashing into the net behind, and Watford had suddenly earned a well-deserved point at the death.
It seemed a really big result at the time as the Hornets were 16th in the table. After the match Pearson reflected on the unusual atmosphere, but was encouraged by the fact his team had rallied in the final few moments.
With eight matches left to play it seemed the Hornets were well-placed to avoid relegation, but the last month of the season did not play out in the way everyone thought it would, with Watford ultimately being relegated back to the Championship after five years in the top tier.
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With the 2022 centenary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road approaching, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil during 100 years at The Vic, in pieces originally published in the matchday programme.
First up, Geoff Wicken writes about a player whose remarkable achievement within 18 months of the opening of The Vic has never been repeated.
It’s rare to see a player score four goals in a single match. Only seven Watford players have done it in a league game at Vicarage Road since the ground opened in 1922: pre-war greats Tommy Barnett and Taffy Davies, followed by Maurice Cook, Barry Dyson, Ross Jenkins, Luther Blissett (who also did it in an FA Cup tie) and most recently Odion Ighalo. A short list, but a distinguished one.
One man, however, outdid all of them. His performance came in just Watford’s second season at Vicarage Road. The five goals Eddie Mummery scored against Newport County have stood as a Watford record since January 1924.
And yet, unlike the four-goal men who had fine careers in which they scored consistently, Mummery’s career was notable for little else. His five-goal effort was freakishly out of context both with Watford’s 1923/24 season and with his own career.
The 1923/24 season was one of struggle at Vicarage Road. It would end with Watford in 20th place of the 22 clubs in Division 3 South. The only two sides to finish lower, and to suffer the ignominy of having to apply for re-election to the league, were – surprisingly from today’s vantage point – Bournemouth and Queens Park Rangers.
Goalscoring was the problem. As 1923 turned to 1924, Watford had only won three out of 23 games, and had only found the net four times in the last 10. Then everything changed – although only for one afternoon. The first match of 1924, on January 5, was against Newport. Suddenly the forwards – especially Mummery – found their form, and Watford went goal-crazy, winning 8-2. After that, it was back to normal. Watford’s next six games brought just three goals, although one of them did bring a surprise FA Cup win away to Middlesbrough, then in the First Division.
The Newport game stands out just as much in Mummery’s Watford career. He played 126 times altogether, either as a forward or a half-back in the positions of the day. His total goals tally was 23 – five of them came on this one remarkable day, and there were only 18 others, spread across six seasons. He was to drop out of league football in 1926, and returned to his home county of Norfolk where he ran a pub and remained involved in local football until dying prematurely of influenza at the young age of 39.
His career, then, had one major highlight. But what a highlight it was. Mummery had one afternoon when everything came together for him. The Watford Observer match report provides a little more detail. It tells us that Mummery had a hat-trick by half-time. He scored early on, and after two more Watford goals, ‘added another brace, the second finding Carr blundering’. After half-time and a sixth Watford goal, ‘Mummery, who seemed able to do as he liked with the Newport backs, added another couple’. It was, as his profile in the following season’s Watford Observer Handbook put it, ‘a most brilliant display’.
The Observer reporter’s final word on the Newport match showed great foresight. ‘Never before have Watford scored eight goals in a league match. It will be a long time, I fancy, before Saturday’s record is beaten’.
Sure enough, it has still to be beaten even now, almost a century later. It has been equalled, just once, on a golden sunny afternoon in September 1982, when Watford put eight past Sunderland. Blissett scored four that day, one of many superb career achievements, but he didn’t quite match Mummery.
Unlike Luther, most players don’t end up in the record books for their achievements. But Mummery did, thanks to one game. That afternoon in January 1924, Eddie Mummery had his one magical career moment. He achieved something that no-one else has done – yet – and in doing so became a Vicarage Road hero.
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Watford FC recruitment lead Cristiano Giaretta has spoken about the Cucho Hernández deal after the Colombian signed for Columbus Crew in the MLS.
He reflected upon not just this transfer but the summer ahead as the Hornets plan their player trading decisions around the EFL's 'Rule Of Eleven'.
Explained the Hornets' Sporting Director: "In the EFL, you can name no more than 11 non-homegrown players on your matchday teamsheet, so this is an important part of our thinking when it comes to player trading during this summer window.
"The coach has made it clear he wants no more than 11 non-homegrown players in his squad to ensure togetherness. He does not want a situation where a player cannot make the matchday squad simply because of eligibility.
“Rob was clear he wanted a different type of player who will occupy this non-homegrown place in the forward line."
Giaretta added: "When you then have a player, like Cucho, that wants to leave because he cannot be guaranteed playing time, and you want to utilise your non-homegrown places carefully, then it became clear it was better to transfer the player."
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In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they’ve played with or against.
William Troost-Ekong chooses an attack-heavy side in this edition, with some notable opponents faced during his time on international duty with Nigeria.
GK: VINCENT ENYEAMA
I’m going to say Vincent Enyeama, the former Nigeria goalkeeper.
DEF: BRAM NUYTINCK
My friend; we played together at Udinese. He’s a good leader and a good player to play with. I look up to him.
MID: LIONEL MESSI
I’ll say Messi! I played against him at the 2018 World Cup.
FWD: CRISTIANO RONALDO & NEYMAR
I’ll take Ronaldo and Neymar for my strikers. That’s not a bad team, is it?
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Here’s a question for you. How much do you know about the English Football League regulation 33.8, found in section 5 of their long list of rules?
An exciting opportunity has become available due to a restructuring within the Grounds Maintenance department at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit an Assistant Head Groundsperson to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing a pitch maintenance programme and to ensure delivery of excellent playing surfaces at the club's training ground based in London Colney.
The role will be based on a 40-hour week which will include evening, weekend and matchday hours and will be based at our training ground facilities in London Colney, however there may be a requirement at times to work at our Vicarage Road Stadium.
The successful candidate will work as an integral part of the Training Grounds Maintenance Team to be primarily responsible for carrying out the following duties:
- Pitch Maintenance - Procedures including but not limiting, mowing, marking, aeration, fertilising, scarifying, frost cover application, top dressing, seeding and pitch light maneuvering/maintenance.
- Equipment Maintenance - Goals, ball stopping nets, advertising boards etc
- Machinery - Greasing, cleaning, setting up, oil checks and visual checks before use
- Liaising with first team/academy coaches and managers
- Ensuring the safety of all playing surfaces
- Adhere to club’s health and safety procedures
- Manual lifting above 25kg
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- NVQ level 2 Sports Turf or equivalent.
- Experience at working at a football club and working to the requirements set by the governing bodies i.e. The FA, PL or EFL.
- Experience of managing a small team of grounds staff.
- Experience of maintenance of football pitches to professional standard.
- Spraying certificates.
- An understanding of the FIFA laws of the game into the Field of Play.
- Appropriate knowledge of fertiliser application to sand based pitches.
- The ability to manage a team to achieve end goals.
- Excellent time keeping and organisational skills.
- Ability to work in a team and using own initiative.
- Willing to work unsociable hours which will include evenings and weekends and have a flexible approach to tasks and the ability to work to tight deadlines.
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel various locations due to the demands of the role.
For the full job advert, click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Assistant Head Groundsperson
Salary: Dependent on experience and qualifications
Location: Watford Football Club – Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 7pm, July 6, 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the Careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the Careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted, reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Cucho Hernandez has thanked Watford and their fans in a farewell statement after completing his move to Columbus Crew.
The combination of a player who wanted to leave and Rob Edwards' desire to find the best way to meet the challenge of a little-known but very impactful Football League rule led to Watford selling Cucho Hernandez to MLS side Columbus Crew for a fee believed to be $10.5m.
Ivory Coast striker Vakoun Issouf Bayo is set to be Watford’s first signing of the summer.
Watford FC recruitment lead Cristiano Giaretta has spoken about the Cucho Hernández deal after the Colombian signed for Columbus Crew in the MLS.
He reflected upon not just this transfer but the summer ahead as the Hornets plan their player trading decisions around the EFL's 'Rule Of Eleven'.
Explained the Hornets' Sporting Director: "In the EFL, you can name no more than 11 non-homegrown players on your matchday teamsheet, so this is an important part of our thinking when it comes to player trading during this summer window.
"The coach has made it clear he wants no more than 11 non-homegrown players in his squad to ensure togetherness. He does not want a situation where a player cannot make the matchday squad simply because of eligibility.
“Rob was clear he wanted a different type of player who will occupy this non-homegrown place in the forward line."
Giaretta added: "When you then have a player, like Cucho, that wants to leave because he cannot be guaranteed playing time, and you want to utilise your non-homegrown places carefully, then it became clear it was better to transfer the player."
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Watford FC confirms the transfer of Cucho Hernández to Columbus Crew for an undisclosed fee.
The 23-year-old forward moves to the MLS after five years on the books at Vicarage Road - four of which were spent on loan in Spain.
His Premier League record last term showed five goals and two assists from 11 starts and 14 appearances from the substitutes' bench.
The Hornets wish Cucho and his family all best wishes for his future career.
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With pre-season now underway at Watford's London Colney training ground ahead of the 2022/23 campaign, take a look at some of the pictures below as Head Coach Rob Edwards got to work.
Edwards Meets His Squad
In The Gym
On The Pitch
Like what you see from the brand-new 2022/23 Kelme training wear? Click HERE for the summer range.
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As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we're taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
First up, James Garrett recalls Craig Dawson's acrobatic equaliser against Leicester City, in an unusually empty stadium...
This goal is perhaps among the most forgotten last-minute Watford Premier League strikes at Vicarage Road, despite the fact it took place just two years ago. Normally an injury-time overhead kick in front of the Rookery would have produced an unforgettable moment for the home fans in attendance, but this particular clash was played in front of club officials from both teams only, while the rest of us had to watch on at home.
You probably won’t need reminding that the Covid-19 pandemic had ended the football season in early March 2020, as the UK was swept into its first full lockdown. For a time, it was unclear if the 2019/20 campaign would even continue, and most of the non-league seasons were ended early.
By the time spring was in full swing though the Government allowed “Project Restart” to begin, and Premier League clubs were allowed back into training and enjoyed a short mid-season pre-season, with a schedule organised for the teams to be able to complete their final nine matches in June and July.
It had largely been a season to forget for the Hornets who hadn’t won a league match in the first three months, and had hired their third manager of the campaign, Nigel Pearson, in early December. The former Leicester boss had brought an honest clarity to the Watford team, breathing life into a side that had been woefully underperforming.
The 2-0 win at home to Manchester United in Pearson’s first home match just before Christmas had provided hope, and the team then finally found some genuine form as they beat Aston Villa and Wolves at home, before a 3-0 win at Bournemouth pushed them just above the relegation zone.
Despite a few more matches bringing mixed fortunes it was the visit of Liverpool on the final day of February that delivered what could be argued as Watford’s greatest ever performance. For this, we have to consider that Liverpool were then romping to their first Premier League title, were European champions, and were unbeaten in over a year.
You know the rest - a magnificent second-half display helped Watford earn a 3-0 win, producing an atmosphere at The Vic that I don’t remember feeling too often in my life watching the Golden Boys. And then it all finished after one more match - everything stopped due to Coronavirus.
The spring of 2020 was a challenging time for a lot of us, but by the early summer the football did return. Our experiences of that period will vary, of course - for me, I found it really hard to re-connect to the season and the team while not being there. For this first match back, Leicester City were our visitors, flying high in third and firmly in the picture for a Champions League place.
Unsurprisingly the match started slowly, with both sets of players performing to an empty stadium. But the match came alive in the second half, with Ismaïla Sarr and Abdoulaye Doucouré both having great chances saved by Kasper Schmeichel. And then, the sucker punch.
Of course, we have felt this before, but usually the feeling is made worse by 2,000 away fans going crazy in the Vicarage Road end. In fairness, a goal in the manner of Ben Chilwell’s 90th-minute strike would usually be enough to win any match, but this time the Hornets had other ideas.
After only Watford’s second corner of the game in the 93rd minute, the ball rebounded to defender Craig Dawson, who tried an overhead kick from seven yards out as he had his back to goal. Schmeichel got his hand to it but couldn’t stop the ball from crashing into the net behind, and Watford had suddenly earned a well-deserved point at the death.
It seemed a really big result at the time as the Hornets were 16th in the table. After the match Pearson reflected on the unusual atmosphere, but was encouraged by the fact his team had rallied in the final few moments.
With eight matches left to play it seemed the Hornets were well-placed to avoid relegation, but the last month of the season did not play out in the way everyone thought it would, with Watford ultimately being relegated back to the Championship after five years in the top tier.
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Helen Ward has been called up to Wales’ squad for their fixture against New Zealand later this month.
The team will spend almost a week training in Spain, before then taking on the Football Ferns in a friendly on June 28 at the Pinatar Arena.
Ward started when the two countries last met back in 2019, with the Welsh ending up victorious by a single-goal margin on that occasion.
Wales’ record goalscorer recently earned her 100th cap for her country and will be looking to add to that tally next week.
The match will provide good preparation for the upcoming World Cup Qualifiers in September, when Wales will be continuing their quest to reach the final tournament, which is being jointly hosted by New Zealand and Australia.
Four points from the fixtures against Greece and Slovenia will guarantee Gemma Grainger’s side a spot in the play-offs, and even at this stage, attention will very much be on the challenges ahead.
Photos: FA Wales
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As part of the ongoing Vicarage Road centenary celebrations, we're taking a look back at memorable late goals at The Vic, as well as a few forgotten ones.
First up, James Garrett recalls Craig Dawson's acrobatic equaliser against Leicester City, in an unusually empty stadium...
This goal is perhaps among the most forgotten last-minute Watford Premier League strikes at Vicarage Road, despite the fact it took place just two years ago. Normally an injury-time overhead kick in front of the Rookery would have produced an unforgettable moment for the home fans in attendance, but this particular clash was played in front of club officials from both teams only, while the rest of us had to watch on at home.
You probably won’t need reminding that the Covid-19 pandemic had ended the football season in early March 2020, as the UK was swept into its first full lockdown. For a time, it was unclear if the 2019/20 campaign would even continue, and most of the non-league seasons were ended early.
By the time spring was in full swing though the Government allowed “Project Restart” to begin, and Premier League clubs were allowed back into training and enjoyed a short mid-season pre-season, with a schedule organised for the teams to be able to complete their final nine matches in June and July.
It had largely been a season to forget for the Hornets who hadn’t won a league match in the first three months, and had hired their third manager of the campaign, Nigel Pearson, in early December. The former Leicester boss had brought an honest clarity to the Watford team, breathing life into a side that had been woefully underperforming.
The 2-0 win at home to Manchester United in Pearson’s first home match just before Christmas had provided hope, and the team then finally found some genuine form as they beat Aston Villa and Wolves at home, before a 3-0 win at Bournemouth pushed them just above the relegation zone.
Despite a few more matches bringing mixed fortunes it was the visit of Liverpool on the final day of February that delivered what could be argued as Watford’s greatest ever performance. For this, we have to consider that Liverpool were then romping to their first Premier League title, were European champions, and were unbeaten in over a year.
You know the rest - a magnificent second-half display helped Watford earn a 3-0 win, producing an atmosphere at The Vic that I don’t remember feeling too often in my life watching the Golden Boys. And then it all finished after one more match - everything stopped due to Coronavirus.
The spring of 2020 was a challenging time for a lot of us, but by the early summer the football did return. Our experiences of that period will vary, of course - for me, I found it really hard to re-connect to the season and the team while not being there. For this first match back, Leicester City were our visitors, flying high in third and firmly in the picture for a Champions League place.
Unsurprisingly the match started slowly, with both sets of players performing to an empty stadium. But the match came alive in the second half, with Ismaïla Sarr and Abdoulaye Doucouré both having great chances saved by Kasper Schmeichel. And then, the sucker punch.
Of course, we have felt this before, but usually the feeling is made worse by 2,000 away fans going crazy in the Vicarage Road end. In fairness, a goal in the manner of Ben Chilwell’s 90th-minute strike would usually be enough to win any match, but this time the Hornets had other ideas.
After only Watford’s second corner of the game in the 93rd minute, the ball rebounded to defender Craig Dawson, who tried an overhead kick from seven yards out as he had his back to goal. Schmeichel got his hand to it but couldn’t stop the ball from crashing into the net behind, and Watford had suddenly earned a well-deserved point at the death.
It seemed a really big result at the time as the Hornets were 16th in the table. After the match Pearson reflected on the unusual atmosphere, but was encouraged by the fact his team had rallied in the final few moments.
With eight matches left to play it seemed the Hornets were well-placed to avoid relegation, but the last month of the season did not play out in the way everyone thought it would, with Watford ultimately being relegated back to the Championship after five years in the top tier.
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We have again dipped into the Watford Observer’s online archive and today bring you a final selection of ten pictures captured by our photographers in 1993.
New and the more established faces at Watford have been getting to know each other or reacquainted after the Hornets returned for pre-season training today.
Elton John returns to Vicarage Road to play two very special dates as part of his award-winning Farewell Yellow Brick Road: Final Tour in just a matter of weeks (July 3-4).
A crucial figure during some of Watford’s most memorable years, Elton was Chairman as the Hornets rose through the divisions of English football, culminating in a second-place finish in the top-flight in 1983, an FA Cup final in 1984 and a memorable voyage into European competition.
To celebrate the Honorary Life-President’s fast-approaching homecoming shows and special relationship with the club, Elton, Watford FC and Copa Retro have collaborated to develop a range of premium fashion and unique accessories.
Inspired by iconic imagery from Elton’s first photoshoot at Vicarage Road in 1974, the Elton x Watford collection is a festivity of colour and imagination.
Graphic depictions of these images are reprised in print and embroidery on apparel, mugs, badges and keyrings.
For those with slightly more adventurous taste, the collection also includes a t-shirt, shirt, bucket hat and scarf, featuring an all-over-print graphic using the renowned ‘Hornet’ from the 1974 crest - the year when Elton first joined the board at Watford.
In addition, the famous side of 1984 are commemorated in the collection with a distinctive depiction of the legendary image with Elton surrounded by his squad.
Discussing the upcoming concerts, Elton said, “I love the club so dearly, and have had some of the best days of my life in those stands. These shows are going to be so incredibly emotional, and to spend them surrounded by my fellow Watford fans will be wonderful. We’ve been on quite the journey together. Come on you ‘Orns!”
To see the full range click HERE, and for more information on Elton’s upcoming Vicarage Road shows, click HERE.
Elton John x Watford FC!
Inspired by iconic imagery from Elton's first photoshoot at Vicarage Road in 1974, the Elton x Watford collection is available HERE!
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There was a time when any Watford squad included a number of homegrown heroes. Names like Blissett, Gibbs and Doyley just rolled off the tongue.
The one thing at Vicarage Road last season that was definitely of Premier League quality was the playing surface.
Watford striker Cucho Hernandez is close to completing a move to the MLS to join Columbus Crew.
It’s very unlikely that any men have ever turned up to watch Watford and had a steward say ‘oh look, fathers’.
We started the week with very few ideas about what Watford FC and their senior officials felt about last season, next season and beyond.
Just about every news programme on every TV channel in the last few months has featured the financial problems the UK faces as one of its main stories.
With the 2022 centenary of Watford’s move to Vicarage Road approaching, writers from The Watford Treasury magazine look back at players who performed great feats on home soil during 100 years at The Vic, in pieces originally published in the matchday programme.
First up, Geoff Wicken writes about a player whose remarkable achievement within 18 months of the opening of The Vic has never been repeated.
It’s rare to see a player score four goals in a single match. Only seven Watford players have done it in a league game at Vicarage Road since the ground opened in 1922: pre-war greats Tommy Barnett and Taffy Davies, followed by Maurice Cook, Barry Dyson, Ross Jenkins, Luther Blissett (who also did it in an FA Cup tie) and most recently Odion Ighalo. A short list, but a distinguished one.
One man, however, outdid all of them. His performance came in just Watford’s second season at Vicarage Road. The five goals Eddie Mummery scored against Newport County have stood as a Watford record since January 1924.
And yet, unlike the four-goal men who had fine careers in which they scored consistently, Mummery’s career was notable for little else. His five-goal effort was freakishly out of context both with Watford’s 1923/24 season and with his own career.
The 1923/24 season was one of struggle at Vicarage Road. It would end with Watford in 20th place of the 22 clubs in Division 3 South. The only two sides to finish lower, and to suffer the ignominy of having to apply for re-election to the league, were – surprisingly from today’s vantage point – Bournemouth and Queens Park Rangers.
Goalscoring was the problem. As 1923 turned to 1924, Watford had only won three out of 23 games, and had only found the net four times in the last 10. Then everything changed – although only for one afternoon. The first match of 1924, on January 5, was against Newport. Suddenly the forwards – especially Mummery – found their form, and Watford went goal-crazy, winning 8-2. After that, it was back to normal. Watford’s next six games brought just three goals, although one of them did bring a surprise FA Cup win away to Middlesbrough, then in the First Division.
The Newport game stands out just as much in Mummery’s Watford career. He played 126 times altogether, either as a forward or a half-back in the positions of the day. His total goals tally was 23 – five of them came on this one remarkable day, and there were only 18 others, spread across six seasons. He was to drop out of league football in 1926, and returned to his home county of Norfolk where he ran a pub and remained involved in local football until dying prematurely of influenza at the young age of 39.
His career, then, had one major highlight. But what a highlight it was. Mummery had one afternoon when everything came together for him. The Watford Observer match report provides a little more detail. It tells us that Mummery had a hat-trick by half-time. He scored early on, and after two more Watford goals, ‘added another brace, the second finding Carr blundering’. After half-time and a sixth Watford goal, ‘Mummery, who seemed able to do as he liked with the Newport backs, added another couple’. It was, as his profile in the following season’s Watford Observer Handbook put it, ‘a most brilliant display’.
The Observer reporter’s final word on the Newport match showed great foresight. ‘Never before have Watford scored eight goals in a league match. It will be a long time, I fancy, before Saturday’s record is beaten’.
Sure enough, it has still to be beaten even now, almost a century later. It has been equalled, just once, on a golden sunny afternoon in September 1982, when Watford put eight past Sunderland. Blissett scored four that day, one of many superb career achievements, but he didn’t quite match Mummery.
Unlike Luther, most players don’t end up in the record books for their achievements. But Mummery did, thanks to one game. That afternoon in January 1924, Eddie Mummery had his one magical career moment. He achieved something that no-one else has done – yet – and in doing so became a Vicarage Road hero.
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With just over two weeks until Sir Elton John’s Farewell Yellow Brick Road Tour heads to Vicarage Road, it’s time to reminisce about another of Watford’s Honorary Life-President’s concerts that took place at The Vic on this day in 2005.
Dubbed the ‘Elton John’s Back For Our Future’ concert, the gig helped raise funds to support the football club, who had faced financial turmoil in the years prior due to the collapse of ITV Digital.
A sea of Hornets supporters and Sir Elton enthusiasts spread across the stands and the pitch 17 years ago - mostly following his yellow dress code - as the former Chairman and global megastar played to 23,000 inside the stadium of his beloved Watford FC 31 years after his last performance at the ground.
Raising over £1 million, Sir Elton played a two-and-a-half-hour set with all of the classics, including Rocket Man, Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting and Your Song, with the latter’s lyrics now adorned on the stand dedicated to the singer.
Sir Elton returned to play a third time at Vicarage Road in 2010, and will be back for the final time in July for two special dates, which you can find out more about HERE.
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With fixture reveal day for the Sky Bet Championship fast approaching (June 23, 9am), we have been examining Watford’s opponents heading into the 2022/23 season.
Following yesterday's first installment, we now run down the final 11 teams in this season’s second tier…
Norwich City
Head Coach: Dean Smith
Nickname: The Canaries
Ground: Carrow Road
Capacity: 27,244
Last Meeting
Watford 0-3 Norwich City, January 2022
Last Season
Premier League: 20th
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: Third Round
Top Scorer: Teemu Pukki (11)
After relegation from the Premier League, Norwich City will be looking for their Championship title-winning experience to give them the edge in the race back to the top-flight.
Preston North End
Manager: Ryan Lowe
Nickname: The Lilywhites
Ground: Deepdale
Capacity: 23,404
Last Meeting
Preston North End 0-1 Watford, February 2021
Last Season
Championship: 13th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Fourth Round
Top Scorer: Emil Riis Jakobsen (20)
Since returning to the Championship in 2015, Preston have enjoyed a consistent run of mid-table finishes, never finishing below 14th. Under manager Ryan Lowe and with Emil Riis Jakobsen in their side, the Lilywhites will be hoping to push further into the top-half of the table.
Queens Park Rangers
Head Coach: Michael Beale
Nickname: The R’s
Ground: Loftus Road
Capacity: 18,439
Last Meeting
Watford 1-2 Queens Park Rangers, February 2021
Last Season
Championship: 11th
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: Fourth Round
Top Scorer: Andre Gray (10)
Following the appointment of new boss Michael Beale, QPR will be hoping to rediscover their form from earlier in the previous campaign, where they occupied the play-off positions for a considerable amount of time.
Reading
Manager: Paul Ince
Nickname: The Royals
Ground: Select Car Leasing Stadium
Capacity: 24,161
Last Meeting
Watford 2-0 Reading, April 2021
Last Season
Championship: 21st
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: John Swift (11)
After receiving a points deduction, but avoiding relegation last season, Reading will be hoping to rebuild with Paul Ince at the helm after being given the job permanently at the end of last season.
Rotherham United
Manager: Paul Warne
Nickname: The Millers
Ground: AESSEAL New York Stadium
Capacity: 12,021
Last Meeting
Rotherham 1-4 Watford, March 2021
Last Season
League One: 2nd (Promoted)
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Michael Smith (20)
An impressive League One campaign saw the Millers gain promotion from the third-tier, two points off champions Wigan Athletic. Imposing defensive stability was supported by a consistent attacking threat, something Paul Warne will be hoping to replicate in the Championship.
Sheffield United
Manager: Paul Heckingbottom
Nickname: The Blades
Ground: Bramall Lane
Capacity: 32,125
Last Meeting
Sheffield United 1-1 Watford, December 2019
Last Season
Championship: 5th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Third Round
Top Scorer: Billy Sharp (15)
When Paul Heckingbottom took over at the end of November 2021, the Blades occupied the mid-table positions. A fantastic turnaround and run followed, losing only five games during the rest of the campaign. Despite missing out to Nottingham Forest in the play-off semi-final, Sheffield United will be hoping to find a similar spate of form.
Stoke City
Manager: Michael O’Neill
Nickname: The Potters
Ground: Bet365 Stadium
Capacity: 30,089
Last Meeting
Watford 1-3 Stoke City, September 2021
Last Season
Championship: 14th
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: Fourth Round
Top Scorer: Jacob Brown (14)
After a more than productive start for the Potters last season, which saw them placed just outside the play-off positions, Stoke dropped down the league to secure another mid-table finish. Michael O’Neill will be hoping to recapture that early form and push for a top-half position.
Sunderland AFC
Head Coach: Alex Neil
Nickname: The Black Cats
Ground: Stadium of Light
Capacity: 49,000
Last Meeting
Watford 1-0 Sunderland, April 2017
Last Season
League One: 5th (Promoted)
FA Cup: First Round
League Cup: Quarter-Finals
Top Scorer: Ross Stewart (26)
After winning the League One play-off final, this is Sunderland’s first season back in the second-tier since 2018 and the Black Cats will be hoping to, at least, maintain that status at the end of the campaign.
Swansea City
Head Coach: Russell Martin
Nickname: The Swans
Ground: Swansea.com Stadium
Capacity: 21,088
Last Meeting
Watford 2-0 Swansea City, May 2021
Last Season
Championship: 15th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Third Round
Top Scorer: Joël Piroe (24)
Although a disappointing campaign last time out, Swansea did enjoy an unbeaten spell towards the end of the season, going nine games without losing between March and April. Russell Martin will be hoping to use that as momentum going into this season.
West Bromwich Albion
Manager: Steve Bruce
Nickname: The Baggies
Ground: The Hawthorns
Capacity: 26,850
Last Meeting
Watford 1-0 West Brom, March 2018
Last Season
Championship: 10th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Karlan Grant (18)
West Brom were either in the automatic promotion positions or the play-off places for the majority of last season until a patch of bad form derailed their plans. In Steve Bruce’s first full campaign in charge of the Baggies, he will be hoping to rediscover their winning style.
Wigan Athletic
Manager: Leam Richardson
Nickname: The Latics
Ground: DW Stadium
Capacity: 25,138
Last Meeting
Wigan Athletic 0-2 Watford, March 2015
Last Season
League One: 1st (Promoted)
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: Third Round
Top Scorer: Will Keane (27)
Back in the Championship after winning the third-tier, Leam Richardson will be looking to maintain their momentum going into the new season. Will Keane’s form will be key to their successes after scoring 27 times in all competitions last season.
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Watford will always be open to ideas for a new stadium but chairman Scott Duxbury says he loves Vicarage Road and plans remain to extend the capacity of both the Sir Elton John and Graham Taylor stands.
In the Dream Team series, Watford players name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they’ve played with or against.
Next up is Dan Gosling, who utilised his time at the likes of Everton and Newcastle to his team's advantage...
GK: TIM HOWARD
“He was at Everton for over 10 years. A great keeper and a great guy, so Tim Howard’s my number one.”
DEF: FABRICIO COLOCCINI
“I played with him at Newcastle and he was a ball-playing centre-half and a great guy!”
DEF: RIO FERDINAND
“Whether I’ve played against him, I’m not sure. I might have got two minutes against him one time! Growing up as a Manchester United fan, Rio was unbelievable.”
MID: MIKEL ARTETA
“I played with him at Everton and he was unbelievable. Skilful, great technique, and he was so unlucky to be in the era of Xavi, Iniesta and Busquets because he should have had more Spanish caps.”
ATT: HATEM BEN ARFA
“I’ve picked him for his dribbling ability, his pace and power. He’s the quickest I’ve ever seen and he was a nightmare to mark in training, but an absolute pleasure to play with.”
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Even a cursory glance during last season at social media and fan websites, or a soundbite from the many podcasts and video channels runs by Watford fans, would have given a clear indication that relations between the club and supporters were rocky.
The Sky Bet Championship fixtures are set to be announced at 9am on Thursday June 23, revealing the full schedule for Watford’s 2022/23 campaign.
As the Hornets await the fixture list, we run through the first 12 clubs in this season’s second tier…
Birmingham City
Nickname: The Blues
Head Coach: Lee Bowyer
Ground: St Andrew's
Capacity: 29,409
Last Meeting
Watford 3-0 Birmingham City, March 2021
Last Season
Championship: 20th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Scott Hogan (10)
After a difficult end to the season that saw the Blues win only four games after the turn of the New Year, Birmingham City will be hoping they can end the rut of bottom-half finishes since 2016.
Blackburn Rovers
Nickname: Rovers
Head Coach: Jon Dahl Tomasson
Ground: Ewood Park
Capacity: 31,367
Last Meeting
Blackburn Rovers 2-3 Watford, February 2021
Last Season
Championship: 8th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Ben Brereton Diaz (22)
After a hugely impressive winter period that saw Rovers enter the automatic promotions spots in January, Blackburn’s season began to falter, winning only four games in the following months. With the appointment of new boss Jon Dahl Tomasson, they will be hoping to revive their fortunes.
Blackpool
Head Coach: TBC
Nickname: The Seasiders
Ground: Bloomfield Road
Capacity: 17,338
Last Meeting
Watford 7-2 Blackpool, January 2015
Last Season
Championship: 16th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Shayne Lavery (10)
Following the departure of former Head Coach Neil Critchley, Blackpool are still on the hunt for a new boss after finishing in the bottom-half of the Championship, during their first season back in the second-tier. The Seasiders will be hoping to push on going into the new campaign.
Bristol City
Nickname: The Robins
Manager: Nigel Pearson
Ground: Ashton Gate
Capacity: 27,000
Last Meeting
Watford 6-0 Bristol City, February 2021
Last Season Championship: 17th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Andreas Weimann (22)
An Andreas Weimann-inspired campaign certainly helped Bristol City’s aspirations last season, as he scored 22 goals and notched 10 assists. An impressive run of results in April ensured the Robins were well clear of any relegation talk, but will be hoping for even better performances going into the new season.
Burnley
Manager: Vincent Kompany
Nickname: The Clarets
Ground: Turf Moor
Capacity: 22,546
Last Meeting
Watford 1-2 Burnley, April 2022
Last Season
Premier League: 18th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Fourth Round
Top Scorer: Maxwel Cornet (9)
Following relegation from the top-flight, the Clarets have entrusted new boss Vincent Kompany with the task of getting Burnley back into the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Cardiff City
Manager: Steve Morison
Nickname: The Bluebirds
Ground: Cardiff City Stadium
Capacity: 33,280
Last Meeting
Cardiff City 1-2 Watford, March 2021
Last Season
Championship: 18th
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Aden Flint (6)
Following the appointment of Steve Morison in November 2021, the Bluebirds enjoyed fleeting spells of quality, but not enough to maintain consistency. Cardiff will be hoping to replicate league finishes from their previous two seasons where they challenged for the play-off positions.
Coventry City
Manager: Mark Robins
Nickname: The Sky Blues
Ground: Coventry Building Society Arena
Capacity: 32,753
Last Meeting
Coventry City 0-0 Watford, February 2021
Last Season Championship: 12th
FA Cup: Fourth Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Victor Gyökeres (18)
In just their second consecutive season in the Championship in a decade, the Sky Blues showed improvement as they finished middle of the pack in 2022. Coventry City will be hoping to build on their success under Mark Robins in the new campaign.
Huddersfield Town
Head Coach: Carlos Corberán
Nickname: The Terriers
Ground: John Smith Stadium
Capacity: 24,121
Last Meeting
Watford 2-0 Huddersfield Town, January 2021
Last Season
Championship: 3rd
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: Second Round
Top Scorer: Danny Ward (14)
A hugely positive season ended in defeat at Wembley Stadium in the play-off final against Nottingham Forest, despite a third-place finish. Carlos Corberán will be hoping to pick up where they left off and challenge for the automatic promotion spots.
Hull City
Head Coach: Shota Arveladze
Nickname: The Tigers
Ground: MKM Stadium
Capacity: 25,586
Last Meeting
Hull City 2-0 Watford, April 2017
Last Season
Championship: 19th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Keane Lewis-Potter (13)
Now under new ownership, the Tigers will be hoping to progress from their 19th-placed finish. A positive end of the season certainly shows promise under boss Shota Arveladze, who joined in January 2022.
Luton Town
Manager: Nathan Jones
Nickname: The Hatters
Ground: Kenilworth Road
Capacity: 10,073
Last Meeting
Luton Town 1-0 Watford, April 2021
Last Season
Championship: 6th
FA Cup: Fifth Round
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Elijah Adebayo (17)
The Hornets and the Hatters will reignite their rivalry when they meet again next season. Luton had a productive campaign last time out, finishing in the play-off spots before losing to Huddersfield in the semi-finals. They’ll be looking to use that momentum going into the new campaign.
Middlesbrough
Manager: Chris Wilder
Nickname: Boro
Ground: Riverside Stadium
Capacity: 34,742
Last Meeting
Middlesbrough 1-1 Watford, April 2021
Last Season
Championship: 7th
FA Cup: Quarter-Finals
League Cup: First Round
Top Scorer: Matt Crooks (11)
Despite a hard-fought campaign last time out, Boro just missed out on the play-off positions by five points. Chris Wilder’s side will be hoping they can go one step further this time in their bid to bring success to the Riverside.
Millwall
Manager: Gary Rowett
Nickname: The Lions
Ground: The Den
Capacity: 20,146
Last Meeting
Watford 1-0 Millwall, April 2021
Last Season
Championship: 9th
FA Cup: Third Round
League Cup: Third Round
Top Scorer: Benik Afobe (13)
A key strength Millwall rely upon is their home form and last season was no different. Only losing four matches at The Den all season helped the Lions maintain the outside chance of a play-off position. Despite it not coming to fruition, Gary Rowett will be hoping this year could be their opportunity.
Sync Your Calendar!
Click HERE to sync your online/mobile calendar with all Watford's 2022/23 fixtures when they are released. The calendar adjusts to your time zone and will automatically update throughout the season, so you'll never miss a match!
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The Watford Observer can reveal with confidence it understands the fee received from Udinese for fans’ favourite Gerard Deulofeu was €12m.
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next up to take on the questions is Under-18s forward Aaron Benn.
The 17-year-old, who joined in June 2021, is capable of playing on both flanks and through the middle as a technical, direct offensive player.
How would you describe your playing style?
In my game, I have a lot of skill and pace. I like one-on-one situations, especially in those wide areas where I can take on my man. I then try to get the cross in to assist one of my teammates.
Biggest influence?
My mum has certainly had a big effect on my career so far. We have a great relationship, and I can talk to her about anything. She keeps pushing me to be the best and one day that will pay off.
Matchday superstitions?
Rolling, stretching, listening to music in the dressing room and praying to God. If I had to choose a genre of music pre-game, it would be American hip-hop. That’s the main one the guys like in the dressing room!
Favourite football kit?
I'm a big fan of the JVC Arsenal kits from the 80s and 90s. If I had to put a player on the back, I’d add Bukayo Saka.
Favourite pair of boots?
I love the Nike Mercurial Superfly, especially in bright colours.
Favourite footballing memory?
Going on tour in Majorca was a huge highlight. Although I didn’t win in the final of the tournament, I will always remember that feeling, which I’ll take into the next final in order to go that one step further.
Most talented teammate?
I would certainly say keep an eye out on Damani Hunter at Watford. He’s a great player to work alongside as he’s always up for a challenge.
Favourite things to do when not playing football?
I love watching sporting documentaries on football clubs and their past. I like watching different types of movies and chilling listening to music as it allows you to take your mind off things. In terms of TV, the big thing at the moment is Love Island, but I also like Swat, which is an American crime drama.
More From This Series
Getting To Know: Alfie Marriott
Getting To Know: Darrin Enahoro-Marcus
Getting To Know: Adian Manning
Getting To Know: Ethan Goulding
Getting To Know: Hamzat Balogun
Getting To Know: Harvey Peters
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Watford Football Club are currently looking to recruit an Academy Head of Goalkeeping Coach.
The Head of Goalkeeping Coach will be responsible for all elements of the goalkeeper development programme within the Academy. The role includes overseeing the Goalkeeping Curriculum within the Academy from our U9 age group to our U21s.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford and be UK/EU residents or non-residents with a valid UK work permit and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- UEFA ‘A’ Goalkeeping Licence.
- Hold the FA Advanced Youth Award.
- Be committed to a CPD programme and make every effort to enhance personal skills and qualifications to meet the Academy needs.
- Have the ability to work with and progress all level of player from U7 to young professional.
- An appreciation of the need for flexible working hours and to recognise the minimum hours per week required to fulfil the above detailed responsibilities.
- A clear appreciation of the playing standard required for each specific age category. This should allow the individual to assist with player recruitment across the various age categories.
- FA Level 2 Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAiF).
- FA Safeguarding Children Workshop.
- Understanding of the club's commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
- The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
For the full job advert, click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Head of Goalkeeping Coach
Salary: Negotiable depending on qualifications and experiences
Location: Watford Football Club – UCL Training Ground, London Colney / Vicarage Road Stadium
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 12noon, July 6, 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the Careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the Careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted, reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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A Watford coach who has taken children to the Watford first team has received a national award.
The notion that previous Watford managers had little or no say in the recruitment of players is wrong says chairman Scott Duxbury – and new boss Rob Edwards will have even more input than his predecessors.
Although admitting Watford has changed its way of working and new manager Rob Edwards will be supported “through hell and high water”, chairman Scott Duxbury also said the club would still have made the manager appointments it did last season.
Head of Academy goalkeeping Graham Stack has decided to leave Vicarage Road. He confirmed the move in a statement made on his social media channels earlier today.
Watford FC can confirm that Graham Stack has left his role as Head of Academy Goalkeeping.
The former Arsenal stopper - who also featured for the likes of Millwall, Hibernian and Barnet during a storied playing career - quickly made an impression after joining Watford’s coaching ranks in 2018.
The 40-year-old stepped up to lead the first team in four Premier League matches alongside Hayden Mullins during the 2019/20 campaign, and he regularly worked with the senior goalkeepers during Nigel Pearson’s time as Head Coach.
More recently he played his part in a successful 2021/22 Academy campaign, in which the Under-18s finished unbeaten in their final six matches and a handful of youth products progressed into the first-team set-up.
“We’d like to wish Graham all the very best for the next step in his coaching career,” said Hornets’ Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury.
“Alongside Hayden Mullins, twice he stepped in to help coach the first team in difficult circumstances and proved a popular figure among the playing staff and other coaches, so I have no doubt he’ll be a great success in whatever he chooses to do next.”
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In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they’ve played with or against.
Next to reveal his line-up is Northern Ireland international Craig Cathcart, whose vast experience representing his country shines through in his selected side...
GK: MANUEL NEUER
I’ve played against him a few times on international duty. He’s amazing with his feet and his hands.
DEF: JOSHUA KIMMICH
Another German in my team! He can play at the back, and he’s played in midfield a few times against us [Northern Ireland] as well. He’s brilliant.
MID: PAUL SCHOLES
I managed to have a bit of time with him in training at Manchester United, and I played against him as well. He was just unbelievable.
MID: KEVIN DE BRUYNE
I think it’d be tough to get the better of him and Scholes in midfield! He’s an integral part of a brilliant Manchester City team.
FWD: CRISTIANO RONALDO
His record speaks for itself, he’s just an incredible player.
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Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards will be joined by his Forest Green No.2 Richie Kyle during his tenure in Hertfordshire.
Kyle, recently-appointed as the Hornets’ Assistant Head Coach, arrives having gained experience in a range of positions at home and abroad, both alongside Edwards and solo.
The 37-year-old appeared with Edwards on the Vicarage Road pitch last month, with the duo being introduced to the Watford supporters before the Premier League clash against Leicester City.
In this piece, we take a look at Kyle’s career to date, including spells with Everton, Blackpool and the FA.
Humble Beginnings
While still at Liverpool John Moores University, where he studied Sports Development and Physical Education, Kyle began his coaching journey at Blackburn Rovers as an academy coach at their Brockhall training ground.
His academy coaching journey would continue at Everton’s training facility at Finch Farm, before he moved to Blackpool and Bloomfield Road.
First-Team Coaching
It would be at Blackpool where Kyle would meet Edwards, while Head of Coaching with the Under-18s. Although Edwards moved on from the Seasiders, the pair would remain connected.
On their early meetings at Blackpool, Edwards said: “When I finished playing I was still living in Blackpool and I knew I wanted to go into coaching. Richie was working with Blackpool’s academy at the time and my first ever coaching session that I watched and I joined in with, he was taking the session.
“I did a little bit of finishing work at the end with the forwards. I didn’t do too much, but I learnt a lot from Richie. We stayed in contact after that and our paths didn’t cross again until the FA.”
In Kyle’s position at Blackpool, six youth-team players made their debuts across the Championship and League One.
Following two years in his role, Kyle would get his chance to prove himself on the first-team stage. Under Gary Bowyer and Neil McDonald, Kyle would become a coach and assistant manager.
In the 2016/17 campaign Blackpool would earn promotion from League Two through the play-offs, with Kyle playing a key role within the coaching staff.
Into The England Set-Up
Following the announcement that Kyle would be leaving Blackpool to join the Football Association in 2017, the Seasiders’ manager at the time, Bowyer, told the BBC: “[Kyle] has had a massive impact with his time here at the football club.
“When he spoke to me about [the role with the FA], I couldn't stand in his way. Chances like these are few and far between.”
Working within the England set-up, Kyle would take on a new role created by former Technical Director Dan Ashworth, known as an out-of-possession specialist.
Here he found himself working across England’s age groups, with the system being credited for the Three Lions’ World Cup wins with the Under-17s and Under-20s, and the European Championship triumph at Under-19 level in 2017.
Kyle would reconnect with Edwards at the FA, who had taken the role as an in-possession specialist coach.
The Duo’s Patience Yields Reward
After a restructuring at the FA following the Covid-19 pandemic, and a brief spell with the Canadian Women’s national team as an assistant coach, Kyle got the opportunity to return home.
Edwards and Kyle would go on to embark on their most recent journey with Forest Green Rovers. The pair would win League Two with 84 points after an impressive campaign where Kyle was a key part of executing their in and out of possession style, developed from the duo’s time with England.
Edwards On Kyle
Edwards is excited to get back to work with Kyle on the training pitch, explaining how the duo’s relationship complements their instructions on the grass.
“Richie is an expert on the grass,” Edwards said. “His main focus during our time at Forest Green Rovers was more of the out-of-possession work and he led with the set-pieces. He will be doing the same type of thing again, but we will bounce off each other on a daily basis.
“As well as getting involved with the problem solving out on the grass, he is someone who I can trust to speak to the players, and have one-to-ones or unit meetings. He is a real people person, so it’s not just his stuff on the grass, but it’s his expertise in dealing with people and building relationships that’s really valuable.
“It’s not just down to me, it will be the whole team who will try to build relationships and togetherness with all of the players and the staff. I will rely heavily on him for those things as well. I think he is an expert on the grass, but what he provides off it is just as valuable.
“I think your thoughts have to be aligned, but you haven’t got to have the same way of thinking, otherwise Richie would just say yes to everything I suggested. He is someone who will challenge me and he is comfortable in doing that. He is a really valuable member of my team and someone who I wouldn’t go into a job without.”
Photo Credits: Canadian FA and Blackpool FC
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Young Hornets striker Tiago Cukur came off the bench to make his international debut last night as Turkey maintained their 100 per cent record in the Nations League with a 2-0 victory over Lithuania.
Some of the videos that former goalkeeper Ben Foster posted on his YouTube channel were “disappointing” says Watford chairman Scott Duxbury – while he admitted he was also “disappointed” in some of the behaviour of former manager Roy Hodgson.
The first episode of Series 18 is ready for your ears. You can listen below, or by downloading the MP3 here. WATFORD BORN AND BRED (S18 E1) In April 2022, during a terrible season, there’s some good news to tell in Hornet Heaven. (20 minutes)
Academy starlet Jack Grieves is ready to further his progression after a successful 2021/22 campaign with the youth set-up and the first team.
The 17-year-old, who signed for his second spell at Watford in December 2020, enjoyed a productive season that started in the Under-18s but concluded with him being named as a substitute against Everton in the Premier League in May.
Grieves is no stranger to the concept of playing for the Golden Boys having watched from the stands as a supporter since he was young, but he also has the unique privilege of belonging to an impressive heritage of past Watford players under the Williams/Grieves surname.
Reginald ‘Skilly’ Williams, his great-great-grandfather, played almost 400 games for the Hornets, while ‘Reg’ Williams Junior (great-grandfather) and Daniel Grieves (uncle) also represented the Hornets – a legacy that Grieves treasures and appreciates.
“It’s really good and it’s something which I have taken a look at, and I have been told stories by my family members,” said Grieves.
“I use it as motivation to focus on what they have done and try to put my own stamp on that. Looking at what they have accomplished playing for the club is something that I want to achieve as well.
“It’s definitely something I think about, but I try not to think about it too much because I don’t want to add that sort of pressure. It’s something that I consider.”
As he has continued to develop, Grieves has called upon his uncle’s knowledge to supplement his playing experience. In addition, Grieves’ father Darren played football for Wimbledon which has become a useful asset of information.
He continued: “My uncle played in midfield and I have played in midfield a little bit this season as well. It has been nice to have a few chats with him and get his perspective on the game.
“He gives me a few tips on where I should improve or take on his experience and learn from how he played. He will give me those tips and extra help to aid me when I’m playing. I speak to him a lot.
“My dad was a centre-forward who played for Wimbledon. It’s nice to speak to him about what he has done as well. I don’t use it too much as competition, but when he tells me stories about his memories, I try to create the same thing on the pitch and take things from what him and my uncle have accomplished.”
Focusing on his journey, Grieves is looking to emulate his childhood dream of representing Watford’s first team.
Joining for his first spell as an eight-year-old and as a supporter of the club, he has always looked up to Hornets players past and present, such as Troy Deeney.
“When you’re growing up playing for the club you support, it’s everything you dream about – playing for the first team,” he said. “Being a part of the Academy for quite a long time is something that I’m quite proud of, and playing for the club is everything that I want to do. It’s been good growing up as a Watford supporter while playing at the club.
“I joined when I was eight years old and I then signed in November 2013, and I have a few memories of signing and coming home. I remember the first goal I scored against Manchester United - I didn’t know what to do with myself because I had been a Watford fan my whole life, and scoring at Vicarage Road where I had watched all these players play was quite a surreal moment.
“There are a few memories that I have as a fan [at The Vic]. Obviously, the play-offs and similar matches. The big one was when Troy Deeney scored against Leicester City at home, that was really good. Everybody my age as a Watford supporter idolised him as they grew up. I was playing as a striker so I would take things from his game and put it into mine. He was someone I definitely looked up to.”
Unfortunately, during his first spell Grieves would get released. Although disappointed, the dynamic forward showed an incredible amount of mental resilience to bounce back from the setback.
“It was a tough period for me and when they told me I actually broke down in tears because playing for Watford was everything to me,” Grieves recalled.
“My family were very important at that time, with my two brothers Ben and Ollie. My dad was helping me get better playing away from Watford, my mum helped me a lot with the mental aspect and my brothers were really important in keeping me going.
“Looking back on it now, it probably helped me. Taking time out was probably something that I needed to become the player that I am now. You can’t let it get to you too much because that will affect your performances wherever you go. I just got my head down and thought that I had to try and work my way back up.”
Following a few trials at other clubs, Grieves would eventually re-sign for Watford and once again don the yellow jersey. He explained how he reconnected with the club after nearly two years away.
He said: “I came back for a trial game and then they offered me an eight-week trial. When they told me that they would sign me on, it was a really good feeling being told that I was back with the club and teammates that I had seen before. Being back in that environment was really good.
“It was really emotional because I remember when they offered me my scholarship and my mum was crying and my dad was really happy. Seeing me go from struggling as a 14-year-old to getting that joy as a 16-year-old was really good for me.”
Now a fully-fledged part of the Watford set-up, Grieves impressively progressed up the youth ranks last season.
After a tough start due to injury the forward became a regular in the Under-18s team, featuring against Cardiff City and Chelsea in the FA Youth Cup, before earning his chance with the Under-23s, where he scored at Vicarage Road in a 2-0 victory over Wigan Athletic (March 30).
It culminated in Grieves earning a place in the first-team matchday squad against Everton (May 11) in the top-flight to round off an impressive 2021/22 campaign, although his hunger and drive remain as high as ever heading into the new season.
“I was at college when I was told [about Everton],” Grieves said. “I got back home and Omer [Riza] called me and told me that I needed to get myself down to the stadium for 6pm because I was going to be involved with the first team.
“Adrian [Blake, Under-18 teammate] and I were there together and they told us that we were on the bench. It was a really emotional day going from being released, to being on the bench in a Premier League game – it’s something I wouldn’t have even thought about at the start of the season.
“I called my dad straight away and I told him and he couldn’t believe it and thought I was joking at first! He just told me to calm down, stay relaxed and do my normal pre-game routine. I called my mum as well and she said the same thing, trying to calm me down because in that situation I was buzzing.
“It’s quite surreal from going from being in the stands and then you’re running down the touchline warming up. It was quite a weird moment for me because I’m used to sitting watching the players, and now I’m in that position. It’s quite surreal for me, but I really enjoyed it.
“I loved last season personally and I’ve exceeded most of the goals that I had. I want to take the momentum and flow from last season into the next one. I don’t want to take my foot off the gas, I want to keep pushing. I want to work towards playing in the first team, that’s the main goal.”
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Young players that have come from the Academy or those signed early in their careers who have then developed at Vicarage Road will form the basis of the way forward.
The Watford Observer has again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
Striker Joshua King only signed a one-year deal with Watford last summer and so has already left the club, while any potential transfer for former striker Richarlison would earn Watford a sell-on fee.
Chairman Scott Duxbury has said that agent Mogi Bayat has brought “quality players” to Watford but he has no exclusivity with the club.
After a busy few weeks of international action, the summer fixtures are gradually coming to a close with several Watford stars having enjoyed playing key roles for their countries.
Following the Super Eagles’ victory against Sierra Leone last week (June 9), forward Emmanuel Dennis was on the scoresheet as a dominant Nigeria beat São Tomé and Príncipe 10-0 (June 13).
The Hornet was introduced with 20 minutes left to play in the Africa Cup of Nations qualification Group A clash, and stepped up to take a penalty after winning it in the dying embers of the match, sliding the ball into the left-hand corner.
Dennis’ spot-kick ensured that the match will be recorded as Nigeria’s biggest-ever international victory, surpassing their previous best – a 10-1 win over Benin in 1959.
In the Kirin Cup third-place play-off, Francisco Sierralta’s Chile were overpowered 3-1 on penalties by Ghana (June 14). After a goalless game that saw Ghana receive two red cards, La Roja were unable to capitalise with Sierralta substituted in the 81st minute.
Elsewhere, after helping Norway kickstart their UEFA Nations League campaign on a high, Joshua King was an unused substitute as Norway beat Sweden 3-2 (June 12) to maintain their place at the top of Group B4.
In Group C1 fellow Watford forward Tiago Cukur was also an unused sub as Turkey saw off Luxembourg 2-0 on Saturday (June 11), moving them clear at the top of the ranks.
Finally, Dapo Mebude played 90 minutes as Scotland’s Under-21s drew 1-1 with Denmark (June 10) in Group I of the European Championship Under-21 qualifiers.
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Bookings for the next instalment of the Watford Premier Network are now open for businesses to secure their place.
Following last month’s popular event, which attracted dozens of business owners from across Watford and Hertfordshire, July’s event is shaping up to be equally as popular.
Powered by Network My Club and in collaboration with Watford Chamber of Commerce, WPN is for businesses looking to grow and to connect with other leading firms from Watford, Hertfordshire and beyond.
The networking lunch event will take place in The View lounge at Vicarage Road on Friday July 15, 12pm-2.30pm, and will hosted by popular matchday lounge host, Lee Partridge.
Tickets are £35+VAT, with Watford FC fans able to receive 20 per cent off by using coupon code WFCXWPN at checkout.
Tickets include a buffet lunch, unlimited tea and coffee, a guest list shared 24 hours in advance, lots of time to network and meet other attendees, and a guest speaker (TBC). All to the backdrop of the Vicarage Road pitch.
To secure your place, visit the event booking page on the Network My Club website here.
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Former Watford defender George Langston is “looking forward to kicking on now” after making a permanent move to Eastleigh.
In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they’ve played with or against.
Next to reveal his line-up is Watford and Sweden international Ken Sema, with his compatriots playing huge roles in his side...
GK: ALY KEITA
I played with him in Sweden with Östersunds and he has unbelievable feet!
DEF: KALIDOU KOULIBALY
He plays for Napoli and he’s a strong guy. He’s got good feet, he’s fast, with a good header. Kind of everything!
MID: KEN SEMA
I’ll go with myself; is that okay?! Hahaha of course! It’s my team; I have to play!
MID: MAIC SEMA
He’s my older brother and he currently plays for Norrköping. He’s on the left, I’m on the right.
FWD: ZLATAN IBRAHIMOVIĆ
Up top, I will go with the big man. I’ve played against and with him in the national team, so that is my five!
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Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards is eager to start work on the training ground pitches at London Colney ahead of the new season.
The 39-year-old is delighted to be in the dugout at Vicarage Road and is looking forward to commencing preparations with his squad once the summer break comes to a conclusion next Monday (June 20).
In a busy few weeks for the boss, who recently met with supporters, the media and club staff members, Edwards’ focus has honed in on the upcoming campaign, and he is excited to embed his philosophy and values on the grass.
“That’s the best part of the job,” said Edwards. “When you have been in football full-time since you were young, it’s all you really know, and being out on the grass on a daily basis and being around people is great. We want to get down to work and start trying to build our way.
“Just being around the players will give you energy and you can feed off that energy, that’s the best part about the job. You can do all the work in the world on the computer and get to know the players by looking at past games, but there might be things that we see differently that other people haven’t seen.
“We are looking forward to seeing the lads up close and personal. For us to be able to work with them is really important and we can’t wait for that.”
The Head Coach already has a key link to the Hornets having been handed his playing debut by legendary manager Graham Taylor at Aston Villa back in 2002. Edwards is more than aware of GT’s values having enjoyed that first-hand experience. As such, it is something that the former defender will look to embrace.
“When I was at Aston Villa, there were a lot of people at the club who were pushing us younger players, but Graham was the one with his job on the line,” he said. “Graham was brave and I have spoken to a few people about his values and his standards. My first meeting with him was a little bit of a telling off because my house was a mess!
“When working and playing for someone like Graham, as well as all the footballing side and tactics which you learn, he knew what was important and respect is something which I talk about a lot.
“All sorts of things come under respect - time-keeping, manners, being honest - and I think that is what he stood for. I think I was lucky to work under him and with a number of people throughout my career.
“I try to surround myself with people who have those similar values because being a good person, as well as being good at what you do, is really important. If you are good at what you do, you’re a good person, and you work really hard, then you have half a chance, and Graham Taylor was all of those things.”
As well as meeting staff from both the Trust and the club, Edwards, inspired by their warm welcome, got the opportunity to look around Vicarage Road and experience the legacy and history that the stadium is steeped in as it approaches its centenary celebrations.
Edwards continued: “It was brilliant to look around Vicarage Road. You get a grasp of the size of the club as soon as you come to the stadium and going out there and looking around – it’s a proper club! It gave me goosebumps and I was really excited at the thought of coming out for that first game at Vicarage Road. We want to try and do everyone proud this year.
“Coming to meet the staff was great and I had such a warm welcome from everyone. That was brilliant and I couldn’t ask for any more from anyone so far, I really couldn’t. Everyone has been so genuine and so warm. I get a real sense of that family environment.
“That first day when we were able to step out before the Leicester City game, the club had got my children kits and my eight-year-old boy on his birthday was able to come out on the pitch. That was special. Those are things that we will remember forever.
“It has been a really warm welcome and I feel at home already. I’m really looking forward to getting to know everyone better. It’s a bigger club so getting to know everyone’s names will probably take a little bit of time, but I’m looking forward to doing that.”
The family, one-club mentality that was fostered by figures like GT is something that Edwards will look to continue to build upon during his tenure in Hertfordshire.
While visiting The Vic, he got the chance to meet Watford FC Women’s captain Helen Ward, and he has also been in communication with key Academy staff members as he looks to further integration between each facet at Watford.
“To meet Helen [Ward] was great,” Edwards said. “I was lucky enough to get a few caps for Wales, but she is a proper Welsh legend. That was really good to meet her and get to know her a little bit, and I’m looking forward to building on the relationship and trying to help and be a part of this one-club environment. I know there is always more we can do to try and help and support the women’s game.
“With the Academy, I’ve got an ‘in’ there straight away because I know Jimmy Gilligan [Head of Technical Development] really well and get on well with him, and I’ve met Richard Johnson [Academy Director] a few times already and he is a great guy. They have said that they want to support us and we want to support them. We want to work together, and I know there are some good young players and they have some high hopes.
“It’s the way I know, working with young players. It’s the way I came through as a coach through academies. I know the value and the importance of the Academy and them supporting the first-team. I’m really looking forward to working with them.”
Top of the agenda for Edwards is creating an unbreakable bond with the Watford faithful. After meeting and being interviewed by the likes of the From The Rookery End podcast and WD18 fan channel earlier this month, the Head Coach is looking forward to building that rapport and delivering for the supporters, as the Hornets bid to return to the top-flight at the first time of asking.
“The supporters are the most important people at any football club,” Edwards explained. “They are here well before us, and they will be here a long time after us.
“They are the lifeblood of the club and we want to try and build a real support and connection with them. The one thing I can say is that win, lose or draw we will go and applaud them and thank the fans to recognise their support and commitment.
“All I ask really of the supporters is to get behind the lads. That’s it. We want that connection and relationship, so we are all together and going for the same goals. The positivity around the place is so important, I can’t stress that enough.
“I know there will be times when we will have to get them going with our performances and there will be times when we will need them. I’m really looking forward to meeting them properly. We want the supporters to have a team that they are proud to watch and they want to get behind.
“To meet some of the supporters’ groups was brilliant and it was a really good thing to do. We want to be honest and open with everyone. We are going to give everything we can for the club. It’s just whetted my appetite for getting stuck in.”
More On The Hornets’ New Boss
Edwards: New Watford Boss Meets Staff & Press As Vicarage Road Reign Begins
Edwards: Our New Head Coach’s Career So Far
Stats Buzz: Rob Edwards In Numbers
Rob Edwards: Watford Connections
Jackett On Edwards: “It’s An Excellent Appointment”
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Watford’s debt has reduced by £40million, what the club does owe is being repaid over the long term as part of a payment plan and loans from owner Gino Pozzo will “never” be called in. Hornets chairman Scott Duxbury wanted to make it very clear to fans that the club is not on the edge of a financial cliff, or even close to it.
At last week’s Annual General Meeting (AGM), EFL clubs approved a number of regulation changes that came into effect immediately. These include:
Substitutes
For league matches during the 2021/22 season, clubs were able to field three substitutes from seven nominated. For all league fixtures going forward, clubs will be allowed to name up to seven substitutes on their team sheet with no more than five being able to take part in the match. Each club is only permitted a maximum of three opportunities to make substitutions during the fixture and a club may make more than the one substitution at each of its three opportunities. Clubs may make substitutions at half-time and any substitutions made during this break will not count towards the maximum of three opportunities.
Colour Blindness Kit Clashes
A home club will now be able to wear its ‘away’ or ‘third’ kit where a clash may occur that would make it difficult for people who are colour blind to differentiate between the kits worn by both teams. The amendment also allows clubs to further ‘mix and match’ elements of their registered kits in order to avoid kit clashes. The EFL will also play a more active role in helping clubs identify where a potential ‘colour blind kit clash’ may occur to give them adequate notice so that all necessary arrangements can be made in advance.
Owners’ And Directors’ Test Disqualifying Condition - Hate Crime
The EFL has added an additional disqualifying condition in its Owners’ and Directors’ Test for those that have been convicted of a hate crime, which is defined as an offence that is considered to be aggravated in accordance with the Crime and Disorder Act 1998 and the Sentencing Act 2020.
Mandatory Articles
Clubs will now be required to include a mandatory article within their Articles of Association which states that the directors of the club may refuse to register the transfer of any share where:
i) the EFL has not confirmed its consent to the acquisition of control
ii) the EFL has not confirmed that that such person is not liable to be disqualified
iii) if registering the transfer of any share would cause the club to breach any other equivalent rule or regulation of another body such as the Premier League or the Football Association.
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When supporters who have watched Watford for five decades or more are debating on social media whether the 2021/22 season was the worst in the club’s history, it’s pretty clear that the disappointment of relegation was just the tip of the iceberg in terms of what went wrong.
Late last week, I sat down with Watford chairman and CEO Scott Duxbury for a no holds-barred interview.
Watford's sporting director Cristiano Giaretta has cautioned that player trading may not be as immediate and prolific as supporters might expect.
Several Watford stars donned their national team shirts in the latest flurry of competitive action, as Nations League and Africa Cup of Nations qualification matches continued following the opening bout of fixtures.
In Nigeria’s first qualifier for the 2023 edition of AFCON, William Troost-Ekong started in a 2-1 victory over Sierra Leone (June 9), with Emmanuel Dennis on the bench for the Super Eagles. Dennis will face São Tomé and Príncipe next on Monday (June 13) at 2pm BST, however Troost-Ekong has flown back to the UK after sustaining a groin problem.
For Adam Masina’s Morocco, Ayoub El Kaabi scored a late winner to secure a 2-1 victory for the Atlas Lions against South Africa on Thursday (June 9), as the Watford left-back started their first AFCON qualification match in Group K. The 28-year-old will miss Monday’s clash against Liberia (June 13) after picking up a foot injury.
Senegal maintained their 100 per cent record in the AFCON qualifiers with a narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda (June 7), as Liverpool’s Sadio Mané notched a 98th-minute penalty. After his previous attacking exploits in a 3-1 win over Benin (June 4), Ismaïla Sarr started and finished the match from the left flank, with the victory ensuring Senegal’s place at the top of their group for the moment.
DR Congo are still winless in the AFCON qualifiers after missing out to Sudan in a 2-1 loss (June 8). Hornets midfielder Edo Kayembe started the fixture before being substituted with 20 minutes to go.
Meanwhile, Hassane Kamara returned to action for Ivory Coast, as he helped maintain a clean sheet against Lesotho (June 9) in a 0-0 draw. Kamara’s side are currently top of Group H in the AFCON qualifiers.
Elsewhere, Joshua King played in the first half of Norway’s goalless draw with Slovenia (June 9), in Group B4 in the Nations League. The single point has placed King’s side at the top of the table going into Sunday’s (June 12, 5pm BST) fixture against Sweden.
In the Kirin Cup semi-final, Francisco Sierralta’s Chile were beaten 2-0 by Tunisia (June 10), with the Watford centre-half playing 90 minutes. La Roja will now play in a third-place play-off (June 14, 7.15am BST) against Ghana in Osaka.
Later this evening (June 10, 5pm BST), Dapo Mebude is set to take to the field in the Under-21 European Championship qualifiers as Scotland face Denmark at the Vejle Stadion.
Also, Watford Under-23 forward Tiago Cukur was an unused substitute in Turkey’s 6-0 demolition of Lithuania (June 7) in the Nations League, leaving them joint-top of Group C1 alongside Luxembourg.
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Twenty-four years ago, Watford were preparing for a season that was to be forever etched on the memories of those that witnessed it.
Twenty-four years ago, Watford were preparing for a season that was to be forever etched on the memories of those that witnessed it.
Having been promoted to the top-flight twice with Watford as a player - “I’m not sure the first one counts as I was only a schoolboy” - and once with Reading as a coach, Nigel Gibbs has first-hand experience of knowing what makes a successful promotion bid.
Watford FC’s Community, Sports and Education Trust recently held a celebratory graduation event at Vicarage Road for one of its leading programmes, Empower, to acknowledge the incredible work and progress displayed by the young people involved.
The six-month scheme aims to improve the mental health and wellbeing of nine to 12-year-olds through the use of physical activity, helping participants manage their emotions and understand their triggers, increase their resilience and protective factors and gain a further support network.
Each session is 90 minutes in length and begins with 60 minutes of physical activity, typically in the form of a sports session such as dodgeball, football, basketball, badminton or dance.
Following the physical activity, participants complete a 30-minute wellbeing workshop, which is a facilitated conversation between the young people, the Trust’s coaches and a NESSie psychotherapist.
Empower supports a number of young people, including those with low mood, anxiety, mild depression, ASD and bereavement.
Following the 24-week programme, the Trust invites the young people, along with parents/carers and staff, to a graduation session. This allows all the participants to be together for one last time to celebrate their achievements.
In April 2022, the latest graduation event took place at Vicarage Road, with the video below showcasing the ceremony.
The young people were presented with a certificate and a goodie bag for the tremendous efforts shown throughout the Empower programme.
Click HERE for more information about Empower, or to refer a child to the project email Jodine Williams at jodine.williams@watfordfc.com.
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Following the start of Rob Edwards’ reign as Watford Head Coach, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures surrounding his time as both a player and in management.
Playing Career
Before moving to the dugout to take on managerial duties Edwards enjoyed plenty of success as a central defender, during a playing career that lasted over a decade.
236 – career appearances. Edwards featured for Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers, Blackpool and more, occasionally taking on the captain’s armband.
15 – caps for Wales. Although born in Telford, Shropshire, Edwards would make several appearances for Cymru. Qualifying through his Welsh parents, the Hornets’ Head Coach made his debut against Azerbaijan in Cardiff during a 4-0 victory in the Euro 2004 qualifiers.
20 years and 3 days – Edwards’ age when he made his debut for Aston Villa. Having spent a few years within the Villans’ academy, the newly-turned 20-year-old was handed his debut by Graham Taylor in a 1-0 home win versus Middlesbrough.
5 – goals scored. Playing in the heart of defence meant that Edwards had limited goalscoring opportunities, but when he got a chance he would be sure to make the most of it. He even notched a late goal against his former club Wolves in 2008 to rescue a point for Blackpool.
111 – appearances for Wolves. Edwards spent four years in Wolverhampton where he would turn out the most times for a single club. He would play under Dave Jones, Glenn Hoddle and Mick McCarthy.
18,818 – minutes played during his career. A long-serving general and a leader on the pitch, Edwards would eventually take the natural step into management after retiring from the game in 2013.
11 – times Edwards was in the same matchday squad as Craig Cathcart. During the 2010/11 season, current Watford defender Cathcart joined Blackpool when Edwards was at the club. However, they were never on the pitch at the same time due to injury and because both players occupied the same position.
10 – occasions that he played against Watford. Edwards featured against the Golden Boys eight times in the league, once in the FA Cup and once in the League Cup. In those 10 matches, Edwards’ teams only won twice – 4-3 for Blackpool in the 2008/09 Championship season and 4-1 for Wolves in the FA Cup in 2007/08. He only featured against Preston North End (11) more than the Hornets.
Managerial Career
As well as enjoying a successful playing spell with teams like Wolves and Blackpool, the new Head Coach has earned a plethora of experience as a boss, including his League Two title-winning season at Forest Green Rovers and within England’s youth set-up.
84 – points at Forest Green Rovers during the 2021/22 campaign. This was the total that secured the EFL League Two title for Rovers. After a blistering season where Edwards’ side only lost twice in their first 32 matches, the Watford boss secured his first silverware as a Head Coach.
19 – clean sheets at Forest Green Rovers. Under Edwards, Rovers would look to gain supremacy using their formation as their starting block. Throughout the whole season, they only conceded 44 goals, placing them fourth-best defensively and second-best for shutouts.
74 – goals scored at Forest Green Rovers. Dynamic, fast and free-flowing football was the order under Edwards, ranking second highest in the league for strikes.
25.8 – average squad age of players featured at Forest Green Rovers. The fourth-youngest squad in the entire league, Edwards made sure to include youth in his plans throughout the title-winning campaign.
19 – players used during the 2021/22 Forest Green Rovers season. The lowest in the entire league, Edwards tended to stick rather than twist during his immensely effective season with the Gloucestershire-based outfit.
1,005 – number of crosses attempted at Forest Green Rovers. A key part of Edwards’ game plan was to get balls into the box to create dangerous opportunities for his strikers to pounce on. This is shown in the highest crossing statistic in League Two during that season.
1 – year as manager of Wolves Under-18s. In his first job in a dugout after hanging up his boots, the Watford boss enjoyed victories over Manchester United and Manchester City as he aided the development of Wolves’ up-and-coming youngsters.
730 – days involved in the senior set-up at Wolves. Following his success in the youth team, Edwards was promoted to a first-team coaching role by Hornets legend Kenny Jackett. Edwards spent 50 games under the Hornets Ambassador’s tutelage, followed by 33 under Paul Lambert and 17 with Walter Zenga.
43 – points with Wolves Under-23s during the 2018/19 season. After a spell as manager of AFC Telford United, Edwards was appointed as Head Coach of Wolves’ Under-23 side. In his first season in charge, he led them to the first division of Premier League 2 – the highest level of youth football in the country – before leaving for a role with the FA.
3 – League Two Manager of the Month awards. During the 2021/22 season with Forest Green Rovers Edwards won the gong in August, November and January. The Watford boss would go on to win Manager of the Year at the end of the season.
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Watford will be allowed to name up to seven substitutes and make five substitutions in the Championship next season following a change in EFL rules.
Several Watford stars donned their national team shirts in the latest flurry of competitive action, as Nations League and Africa Cup of Nations qualification matches continued following the opening bout of fixtures.
In Nigeria’s first qualifier for the 2023 edition of AFCON, William Troost-Ekong started in a 2-1 victory over Sierra Leone (June 9), with Emmanuel Dennis on the bench for the Super Eagles. The pair will face São Tomé and Príncipe next Monday (June 13) at 2pm BST.
For Adam Masina’s Morocco, Ayoub El Kaabi scored a late winner to secure a 2-1 victory for the Atlas Lions against South Africa on Thursday (June 9), as the Watford left-back started their first AFCON qualification match in Group K.
Like the Super Eagles, both sides bounced back from defeat in their previous match, with Morocco’s next fixture coming on Monday (June 13) against Liberia at 8pm BST.
Senegal maintained their 100 per cent record in the AFCON qualifiers with a narrow 1-0 win over Rwanda (June 7), as Liverpool’s Sadio Mané notched a 98th-minute penalty. After his previous attacking exploits in a 3-1 win over Benin (June 4), Ismaïla Sarr started and finished the match from the left flank, with the victory ensuring Senegal’s place at the top of their group for the moment.
DR Congo are still winless in the AFCON qualifiers after missing out to Sudan in a 2-1 loss (June 8). Hornets midfielder Edo Kayembe started the fixture before being substituted with 20 minutes to go.
Meanwhile, Hassane Kamara returned to action for Ivory Coast, as he helped maintain a clean sheet against Lesotho (June 9) in a 0-0 draw. Kamara’s side are currently top of Group H in the AFCON qualifiers.
Elsewhere, Joshua King played in the first half of Norway’s goalless draw with Slovenia (June 9), in Group B4 in the Nations League. The single point has placed King’s side at the top of the table going into Sunday’s (June 12, 5pm BST) fixture against Sweden.
In the Kirin Cup semi-final, Francisco Sierralta’s Chile were beaten 2-0 by Tunisia (June 10), with the Watford centre-half playing 90 minutes. La Roja will now play in a third-place play-off (June 14, 7.15am BST) against Ghana in Osaka.
Later this evening (June 10, 5pm BST), Dapo Mebude is set to take to the field in the Under-21 European Championship qualifiers as Scotland face Denmark at the Vejle Stadion.
Also, Watford Under-23 forward Tiago Cukur was an unused substitute in Turkey’s 6-0 demolition of Lithuania (June 7) in the Nations League, leaving them joint-top of Group C1 alongside Luxembourg.
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Ahead of the 2022/23 campaign the bulk of Watford’s playing squad will report for pre-season training on Monday June 20, with those who have been away on international duty returning a week later, on Monday June 27.
Pre-season matches will commence shortly thereafter, with a full list of fixtures set to be announced in due course.
The Hornets will find out their Sky Bet Championship fixtures for the fresh season on Thursday June 23, in a unique schedule impacted by this winter’s FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
The month-long break between November and December means the second-tier campaign starts earlier than usual, kicking off on the weekend of Saturday July 30.
The World Cup call-up period begins on Monday November 14, with the Championship season set to pause on November 12. Whereas the Premier League is set to restart on Boxing Day, the Championship returns on December 10, after the end of the World Cup group stage.
The Carabao Cup will commence on the week of August 10, and the second round will take place two weeks later, during the week of August 24. The Emirates FA Cup third round kicks off on the weekend of January 7, 2023.
The Sky Bet Championship campaign will finish on the weekend of Saturday May 6, with the play-off final scheduled in for Monday May 29.
Please note, all dates are subject to change.
For more information on key dates in the Championship, click HERE.
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Rob Edwards marked the start of his tenure as Watford FC Head Coach by meeting club staff and members of the press at Vicarage Road last week, as preparations for the 2022/23 season officially got underway.
The club confirmed the appointment of the 39-year-old last month, effective after the conclusion of the 2021/22 campaign, following his League Two title exploits at Forest Green Rovers.
Edwards joined Forest Green last summer following an exciting coaching journey that has seen him enjoy spells with the likes of AFC Telford United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and England, and he is now focused on steering the Hornets to an immediate Premier League return.
Ahead of pre-season training, the former Wales international took the opportunity to introduce himself to a number of people connected with the club internally and externally, and supporters can hear his early thoughts by following the links below…
From The Rookery End
Podcast presenters Mike Parkin, Jon Moonie and Jason Bailey spoke to the new Watford boss about a host of topics, including learning from Graham Taylor and Kenny Jackett and what his friends thought when he took the job.
The Athletic
Watford correspondent Adam Leventhal sums up his in-depth chat with Edwards in a detailed write-up, featuring the Head Coach’s career influences and how he hopes to have an impact on and off the field in Hertfordshire.
Click HERE to read the article (Athletic subscribers only).
WD18
Watch as presenters Jacob Culshaw and Sam Ucko sat down for a fun discussion with the former Aston Villa defender, who opened up about joining Watford, his coaching style and looking ahead to next season.
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Nottingham Forest’s Play-Off Final victory over Huddersfield Town meant that the Terriers completed the 24-team line-up for the 2022/23 Championship season. But what do we know about each of those teams?
The Watford FC Community, Sports and Education Trust’s highly-successful and established Active Watford and Three Rivers programme has secured funding to run from April 2022 to March 2025.
The programme is aimed at working with inactive people in Watford and the surrounding Three Rivers area who are at risk from cardiovascular disease and mild to moderate mental health issues, helping them lead more active lifestyles.
Funding will be provided by the Premier League Charitable Fund, the Professional Footballers’ Association, Watford Borough Council, Three Rivers District Council and NHS Herts Valleys CCG.
According to the UK Government, one in three adults in England live with a long-term health condition and they are twice as likely to be among the least physically active. However, evidence shows that regular physical activity can help prevent or manage many common conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers.
As part of the Active Watford and Three Rivers programme each participant gets a consultation where they explore the benefits of becoming more active, what is on offer in the local area and the support needed to reach the goals of a curated personalised plan to help them on their journey.
They also receive text-message support, opportunities to engage in activities and an app which has exercise and nutrition advice.
In six years the programme has helped to support over 2,000 people in the local area. In late 2021, over 900 consultations had taken place with 96 per cent of people classed as active after three months. This resulted in people’s life satisfaction ratings increasing by 125 per cent after taking part.
“The Active Watford and Three Rivers project has helped improve the quality of life for the town’s residents, through embedding physical activity into everyday lives,” said Elected Mayor of Watford, Peter Taylor.
“This tailored programme gives the guidance and support to help individuals overcome any barriers they face, by helping them find the motivation to be more active, and suiting it to the needs within their lifestyles.”
“Active Watford and Three Rivers is an important part of our service to support our residents to become more active,” added a spokesperson for Three Rivers District Council.
“The tailored guidance and support they receive is proven to help them on their journey to being more active and leading happier, healthier lives.”
With the new funding in place, one of the key new features of Active Watford and Three Rivers involves working regularly with GP surgeries to deliver Patient Engagement Events to help participants understand more about their health and how exercise can support it.
This is now being delivered online via webinars, with topics so far ranging from menopause to arthritis. Further presentations on cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease will be available later in the year.
In addition to the main programme, the Trust has just secured funding from Sport England to deliver fitness classes specifically to inactive women, to help them build their confidence to be more active which will be delivered at the Meriden Community Centre.
There will be a webinar hosted on Wednesday June 22 at 8pm, where people can voice their opinions on what they would like to see from the fitness session.
For more information on the Active Watford and Three Rivers programme click HERE, or contact Alison Goodchild by calling 07710 096398 or emailing alison.goodchild@watfordfc.com.
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The Watford Observer is again delighted to be teaming up with its friends at Watford Museum to take another journey back to the past to recall the key events and dates that helped shape the town’s future.
New Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards has already enjoyed a varied and successful career in management despite his relatively tender age of 39 years, following over a decade as a first-team player for several clubs.
With the Welshman having entered the Hornets’ dugout ahead of the 2022/23 season, here’s the backstory of the new man at the helm…
Solid Centre-Half
Born in Telford, Edwards’ career began at Aston Villa, coming through the youth ranks and making his debut in December 2002 as a 20-year-old. He was handed his first Villa appearance by Watford’s greatest ever to grace the touchline, Graham Taylor, in a win over Middlesbrough.
Edwards had loan spells at Crystal Palace and Derby County while contracted to the Villans, before moving permanently to Wolverhampton Wanderers in 2004 for a four-year spell.
Amassing a century of league appearances in old gold in the Premier League and Championship, Edwards played more games for Wolves than for any other side in his playing career. Injuries limited his stay, but he left a lasting impression on the club and its supporters.
Considering Management
Coaching was on the cards for Edwards from a younger age than many who venture into management, with the former defender citing Ian Holloway as an influence during his time at Blackpool after leaving Molineux.
Edwards was part of the only Blackpool team to have reached the Premier League and appeared for the Tangerines in the top-flight, but left to join Norwich City on loan and helped the Canaries to promotion; his second in two seasons.
Representing Barnsley for a season in the Championship and spending time on loan at Fleetwood Town and Shrewsbury Town a season later, Edwards hung up his boots amidst injury woes in 2013.
Throughout his whole career, Preston North End were the only side Edwards faced more than Watford, having played against the Hornets on 10 occasions.
Winning 15 caps for Wales, Edwards enjoyed a prosperous international career too, playing alongside current national team manager and Watford legend Rob Page.
Steps Into Coaching
While at Bloomfield Road with Blackpool Edwards first met Richie Kyle, who would later become his assistant at Forest Green Rovers and now Watford. The duo kept in touch, reuniting at the Football Association years later as coaches in the youth set-up.
Edwards gained experience at Manchester City and Wolves, learning from some of the game’s best managers and continuing to grow his own identity and mindset as a coach.
Succeeding as Under-18 coach at Wolves, then Head Coach Kenny Jackett, one of Watford’s all-time greatest players, moved Edwards into the first-team coaching staff during his time at the helm, and became a major influence on him. Between Walter Zenga and Paul Lambert’s tenures Edwards held the interim manager’s post for two games also, and took up a permanent role with the reins at AFC Telford United a year later.
His hometown club provided a flavour of being the number one in what Edwards described as an “amazing experience”, but he then chose to join the FA as a coach with the Under-20s, specialising in ‘in-possession play’. Also leading the Under-16s and gaining attention for his impressive tactics, Forest Green came calling at the end of the 2020/21 campaign.
Flying Forest Green
Adapting seamlessly to a top-half League Two side, Edwards won the league’s Manager of the Season award in his first campaign in permanent charge of an EFL club. Complemented by Kyle as his assistant, who served as Out of Possession Coach at the FA, the pair took the division by storm using an attacking, three-at-the-back system, with only one team bettering the Gloucestershire side’s goalscoring exploits on their way to the title and promotion to the third tier.
Edwards’ next challenge is at Vicarage Road, tasked with taking Watford back to the Premier League at the first time of asking. Ready to occupy the dugout in pre-season and for the first game of 2022/23, he has already received a warm welcome from supporters in the final home game of the 2021/22 campaign against Leicester City, and has met club staff and members of the press at Vicarage Road.
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Rob Edwards marked the start of his tenure as Watford FC Head Coach by meeting club staff and members of the press at Vicarage Road last week, as preparations for the 2022/23 season officially got underway.
The club confirmed the appointment of the 39-year-old last month, effective after the conclusion of the 2021/22 campaign, following his League Two title exploits at Forest Green Rovers.
Edwards joined Forest Green last summer following an exciting coaching journey that has seen him enjoy spells with the likes of AFC Telford United, Wolverhampton Wanderers and England, and he is now focused on steering the Hornets to an immediate Premier League return.
Ahead of pre-season training, the former Wales international took the opportunity to introduce himself to a number of people connected with the club internally and externally, and supporters can hear his early thoughts by following the links below…
From The Rookery End
Podcast presenters Mike Parkin, Jon Moonie and Jason Bailey spoke to the new Watford boss about a host of topics, including learning from Graham Taylor and Kenny Jackett and what his friends thought when he took the job.
The Athletic
Watford correspondent Adam Leventhal sums up his in-depth chat with Edwards in a detailed write-up, featuring the Head Coach’s career influences and how he hopes to have an impact on and off the field in Hertfordshire.
Click HERE to read the article (Athletic subscribers only).
WD18
Watch as presenters Jacob Culshaw and Sam Ucko sat down for a fun discussion with the former Aston Villa defender, who opened up about joining Watford, his coaching style and looking ahead to next season.
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If Watford are to make an immediate return to the Premier League, then they will need to score goals, and plenty of them.
In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they’ve played with or against.
Next to reveal his line-up is Watford captain Moussa Sissoko, whose vast experience at international level shines through in his selected side...
GK: HUGO LLORIS
I’ve played with him for the France national team and at Spurs, and I think he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world. He shows his class every week.
DEF: CHEIKH M’BENGUE
He’s retired now, but we came up through the Toulouse academy together and he was like my brother. It was a dream to play for the first team alongside Cheikh, and I could always rely on him on the pitch as well.
MID: N’GOLO KANTÉ
Another player I’ve lined up with for France, he’s an amazing footballer and an amazing person. On the pitch he puts in everything for the team, and he’s proved he is one of the best midfielders in the world over the last few years.
MID: ANDRÉS INIESTA
When Barcelona were blowing everyone away he was one of their most important players. He had amazing technique, was a great team man, and he won everything there is to win at both club and international level.
FWD: KARIM BENZEMA
What’s he doing at Real Madrid right now is unbelievable. It’s not easy to succeed over there and there are a lot of strikers who have gone to Real and struggled, but he is flying. I hope he wins the Ballon d’Or before the end of his career, because he deserves it!
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10- João Pedro There’s going to be some selective interpretation here. So for me… the whole “most nutmegs in a season ever” thing in combination with relegation is the most damning indictment of our season, and particularly of our horribly “less than the sum of its parts” forward line. You can get away with stats […]
Reports that both Emmanuel Dennis and Joao Pedro could join Udinese this summer have been described as "utter rubbish".
The season may be over, but FTRE isn’t going anywhere!
One of the big stories of recent weeks has been the appointment of new Head Coach Rob Edwards, and we were recently lucky enough to spend some time with him at Vicarage Road. In this very special podcast, you’ll get to hear exactly what he said.
Mike, Jon and Jas chat to the new man about a host of topics including learning from Graham Taylor and Kenny Jackett, what his friends thought when he took the precarious job at WD18, his style of play and hopes and expectations for the new season.
Rob (as you’ll hear him insist we call him!) is open and honest and we think the chat will make for a great listen.
It’s a new era at Vicarage Road; this is your opportunity to hear directly form the man charged with making it a successful one. Welcome to Watford, Rob.
Come on you ‘Orns!
The Watford FC Community, Sports and Education Trust’s highly-successful and established Active Watford and Three Rivers programme has secured funding to run from April 2022 to March 2025.
The programme is aimed at working with inactive people in Watford and the surrounding Three Rivers area who are at risk from cardiovascular disease and mild to moderate mental health issues, helping them lead more active lifestyles.
Funding will be provided by the Premier League Charitable Fund, the Professional Footballers’ Association, Watford Borough Council, Three Rivers District Council and NHS Herts Valleys CCG.
According to the UK Government, one in three adults in England live with a long-term health condition and they are twice as likely to be among the least physically active. However, evidence shows that regular physical activity can help prevent or manage many common conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and some cancers.
As part of the Active Watford and Three Rivers programme each participant gets a consultation where they explore the benefits of becoming more active, what is on offer in the local area and the support needed to reach the goals of a curated personalised plan to help them on their journey.
They also receive text-message support, opportunities to engage in activities and an app which has exercise and nutrition advice.
In six years the programme has helped to support over 2,000 people in the local area. In late 2021, over 900 consultations had taken place with 96 per cent of people classed as active after three months. This resulted in people’s life satisfaction ratings increasing by 125 per cent after taking part.
With the new funding in place, one of the key new features of Active Watford and Three Rivers involves working regularly with GP surgeries to deliver Patient Engagement Events to help participants understand more about their health and how exercise can support it.
This is now being delivered online via webinars, with topics so far ranging from menopause to arthritis. Further presentations on cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease will be available later in the year.
In addition to the main programme, the Trust has just secured funding from Sport England to deliver fitness classes specifically to inactive women, to help them build their confidence to be more active which will be delivered at the Meriden Community Centre.
There will be a webinar hosted on Wednesday June 22 at 8pm, where people can voice their opinions on what they would like to see from the fitness session.
For more information on the Active Watford and Three Rivers programme click HERE, or contact Alison Goodchild by calling 07710 096398 or emailing alison.goodchild@watfordfc.com.
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It’s time for another edition of 100 Questions – the series which helps give our supporters an additional look into the minds of the Golden Girls’ squad.
While Helen Ward is someone that many fans will know a lot about already, her answers to the 10 questions selected at random will certainly give you a unique insight into Watford’s skipper.
For instance, who needs to see a comedian when you have the Hornets’ number 10? Find out more below!
International travel has been banned and we’re stuck in Great Britain. You have a two-week break, where are you going?
So, another pandemic?! I’m going to say West Wales. It’s beautiful, full of incredible scenery, food, and good people. Plenty for us to do and see.
You’ve been put in charge of the club’s media department for a week, how do you run things?
I’m going access all areas, behind the scenes stuff. I feel like that’s the content people like to see. Getting an insight into how a club works day-to-day and seeing the personalities of players and staff. A change from the usual game/training footage, you know?
You can only listen to one song for the rest of your life, what do you select and why?
Oooh that’s a tough one, at the moment our family song is The Nights by Avicii. We played it a lot on holiday and the kids love dancing to it and singing it. It’s got a cool message too, so I’m going to go with that one off the top of my head, though I’m sure I’d live to regret it soon enough!
As a now famous influencer, you are able to advertise anything in the world, what do you choose?
Would it be inappropriate to say chocolate?! I’m just thinking of the freebies to be honest! I would, of course, advise people to eat it in moderation. All about the balance, right?
You can ensure one conversation is always off limits, what do you never want to discuss ever again?
Season 2021/22. I don’t think I need to say much more about that.
You can create your perfect footballer using five players from the past or present, who and what do you choose?
Michael Owen’s finishing, Kevin De Bruyne’s passing range, Cristiano Ronaldo’s leap/aerial ability, peak Gareth Bale’s pace and power, and Lionel Messi’s feet. Not sure we can get better than that?
What is the one sporting profession that you admire the most for what they go through?
I’m going to say track and field athletes. I just think the levels of performance and the fine, fine margins between success and failure, and then to have to deal with that as an individual athlete must be so hard. The lack of funding and support as well. Their drive and determination to put themselves through tough, physical sessions is incredible and it’s usually fighting an uphill battle for support and recognition.
Your team is 3-0 down in a cup final and it’s up to you to give a motivational half-time team talk, what do you say?
Having been in a losing position a few times last season I should be well versed at this one! I mean, it depends on how the game has gone but I suppose it’s going to be trying to motivate everyone not to give up. To say that if one team can score three in a half, then so can we. I’d ask everyone to leave it all out there and believe in themselves and hope that the tide will turn! Emphasis on not conceding early would be in there too, and similarly, if we could get an early goal, who knows what could happen!
Name the three things that you like most about yourself/feel are your best qualities?
My best qualities… wow. I’d like to think I’m a fair person in that I consider others whenever I decide to do or say something and do my best not to hurt or upset anyone. I’d say I’m very loyal and will have the back of anyone in my corner, and I’m going to go bold here and say I’m top three (probably top one) in the team for being funny, but you need to get to know me first and then it’s the old ‘you’re quite funny, aren’t you?’ line.
You’re in New York and have two free tickets to any Broadway show, what are you watching?
I LOVE the theatre! I’d happily go and watch anything on Broadway I reckon but if I had to choose right now, I think I’d go for something like MJ The Musical. His music is something else and I reckon it would be unreal.
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Reports that both Emmanuel Dennis and Joao Pedro could join Udinese this summer have been described as "utter rubbish".
Supporters hoping to see new arrivals at Vicarage Road will need to stay patient for a while longer yet as all the signs are that nothing will happen for at least a week.
As someone who worked in professional football without ever being remotely good enough to kick a ball, I can testify that any job which allows you to feel part of the playing squad is dream come true stuff.
Reports emanating from the West Country suggest that if new Watford manager Rob Edwards is going to raid his former club Forest Green Rovers during the transfer window, then the player he may have his sights on is right wing-back Kane Wilson.
The Watford Observer has again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues of YBR! - Yellow Black & Red!
In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they’ve played with or against.
Next to reveal his line-up is Watford stalwart Tom Cleverley, whose vast experience at Vicarage Road and with England has influenced his selections...
GK: DAVID DE GEA
There’s Fozzy [Ben Foster] who is brilliant, and I trained with Edwin van der Sar who was amazing, but I never played against him so I have to go with de Gea.
DEF: RIO FERDINAND
He had the touch and class of a No.10, and the positional play and speed of a world-class centre-half.
MID: PAUL SCHOLES
He’s the best player I’ve played with or against. He’s the best player I’ve ever seen!
MID: STEVEN GERRARD
I played against him in the league and alongside him for England, and he was top drawer.
FWD: WAYNE ROONEY
Robin van Persie had the biggest stand-out season I’ve ever seen from a forward, but for his consistency I have to pick Rooney. He had unbelievable tenacity and technique. Rooney and Scholes had the best technique I’ve ever seen.
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Reports emanating from the West Country suggest that if new Watford manager Rob Edwards is going to raid his former club Forest Green Rovers during the transfer window, then the player he may have his sights on is right wing-back Kane Wilson.
In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they've played with or against.
Next to reveal his line-up is Austrian goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann, whose experience for club and country has influenced his selections...
GK: GIANLUIGI DONNARUMMA
I think at the moment, especially after the Euros last summer, he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
DEF: GIORGIO CHIELLINI
I’ll go with just the one defender, and another Italian in my team! I don’t have to say much about him – he’s been one of the best defenders in the world over the last 15 years.
MID: DAVID ALABA
That’s a bit of a tricky one because I could have put him in defence, or anywhere in my team to be honest! He’s a brilliant all-round player.
MID: XHERDAN SHAQIRI
He’s another great player. Shaqiri scores a lot of great goals, and he’s a lovely footballer to watch.
FWD: PETER CROUCH
Picking a striker is really tricky. People didn’t really see the footballing side of Peter that you’d want in five-a-side, but he wasn’t just big and able to head the ball – he was an unbelievable footballer.
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The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next up to take on the questions is Under-23s goalkeeper Alfie Marriott.
The 18-year-old, who joined the club back in May 2012, enjoyed a stellar loan spell with Kings Langley during the 2021/22 campaign, making a vital penalty save on the final day of the season to help the Kings escape relegation from the Southern League Premier Division South.
How would you describe your playing style?
When I was first starting goalkeeping, I used to look up to Manuel Neuer and take elements from his game and put them into my own. Recently, I have been looking at Marc-André ter Stegen more due to the way he plays with his feet and the way he makes those crucial saves. My style is about being confident on the ball and trusting in your ability that you can play out.
Favourite current Watford footballer?
Rob Elliot has helped me a lot over the years. Even recently, he was speaking to me about where my hands are just before shots and my set position. He suggested to move my hands one or two inches higher so I can get up quicker. He has helped me with the little things and they all make the difference.
Biggest influence?
I would say that my parents and Graham Stack have been hugely influential. My parents took me everywhere before I could drive, making sure I could get to the games and believing in me. With Graham, since my scholarship he has been a massive part of my experience. The way I have improved is immense and working with him every day has made me better and better.
Favourite football kit?
Last season’s blue goalkeeper kit at Kings Langley was really nice. There have been some decent kits and a few distinctive kits in the past. Watford had a really nice green goalkeeper kit not so long ago – I had some green boots and gloves to go with it!
Favourite boots?
It used to be Adidas but recently it’s Nike. Rob Elliot gave me an old pair of silver boots that he had. I bought some Nike Phantoms in red recently. I really just prefer the fit of them. In general, I don’t really mind the colour, but I favour the more ‘out there’, distinctive colours.
Favourite footballing memory?
Getting the scholarship and the FA Youth Cup run when we lost to Newcastle United away after beating Lincoln. Last season against Chelsea we should have won. Also, at Kings Langley I got Player of the Month earlier in the season and I’ve played in the FA Cup too.
Most talented teammate?
We have a few good players in my age range. Shaq Forde on the ball is really good, Ryan Andrews is as well. From my time at Kings Langley, Harry Crawford sticks out - he’s an attacking midfielder. He is a great player and you can see why he was an ex-professional at Southend United. Will Hoskins is another one – he used to play for Watford – and he’s very good.
Favourite things to do when not playing football?
I don’t get up to too much. I’m usually at home relaxing, watching TV or I’m at the gym. Nothing too adventurous. I go on FIFA with some of the lads from Watford, alongside other games. I listen to a lot of different music including D-Block Europe and his album, which is quite good.
Best footballing advice you’ve received?
Little things like treating every training session like it’s your last. You never know when that last training session is going to be. You have to show everything that you are capable of. You have to give it your all. Even being on time is hugely important – in fact being on time is late, being early is on time.
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Getting To Know: Adian Manning
Getting To Know: Ethan Goulding
Getting To Know: Hamzat Balogun
Getting To Know: Harvey Peters
Getting To Know: Jonathan Macaulay
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The man who gave new Watford manager Rob Edwards his first senior coaching role – Kenny Jackett – says “the players will know exactly what he wants” at Vicarage Road.
An exciting opportunity has become available at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a Kit Manager to be a part of our forward-thinking team responsible for providing all aspects of kit management for the First Team and the Academy, ensuring all day-to-day duties are completed and the correct kit and equipment is provided for all fixtures.
The role will be based at the club’s Training Ground in London Colney and will include evenings, weekends and home and away fixtures.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Previous kit management experience in a professional football club or equivalent environment
- Previous inventory management experience
- Heat press experience
- Valid full UK driving licence due to the driving requirement of the role, between all sites and other stadiums
- Strong organisational and administrative skills
- Excellent communication & management skills
- Excellent time-management skills
- The ability to work effectively under own initiative and also as a member of a team
- Hands-on approach with a can-do attitude
- Ability to multi-task in a fast-paced, ever-changing environment
- Ability to remain calm under pressure
- Ability to anticipate and prioritise workload
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Kit Manager
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full-Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 12noon, Sunday June 19 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Watford Football Club is delighted to announce a long-term partnership with leading global energy management and net zero consultancy ClearVUE in a strong collaboration to support the Hornets’ ambition to achieve net zero.
The club aims to be a leader in the drive to decarbonise and improve sustainability standards within the football industry, which is why the selection of ClearVUE - an innovative energy management and net zero consultancy, part of international B2B energy consultancy, Global Procurement Group (GPG) - makes perfect sense with the eyes of the world focused on sustainability.
GPG has consistently grown its global operations to over 800 people today, with offices across three continents in Gateshead (HQ), Newcastle, Leeds, France, Malta, India and the USA.
The agreement comprises of net zero consultancy, awareness training and support on government legislation, as well as the installation of ClearVUE’s energy management systems at the club’s Vicarage Road Stadium and London Colney Training Ground.
These systems will provide Watford with insightful data which will inform on where, when and how energy is being used. This data allows the Hornets to put in place carbon reduction strategies. Reducing energy use will lead to a reduction in carbon emissions and associated costs – something Watford FC is completely committed to.
Watford FC’s Head of Procurement and Sustainability, Tarang Panchal, said: “We have the vision, the passion, and commitment to pursue net zero and play our part in reversing the climate emergency. But we realise the road to net zero, without a knowledgeable partner, would be an insurmountable task.
“It’s been hard to find a partner that not only aligns with our sustainability and net zero ambitions, but also has the expertise and knowledge to guide us on the net zero journey. We can’t stress enough the importance of finding the right partner, but with ClearVUE, we are confident we have the right partner to help us drive towards our longer-term objectives.”
Dan Smith, Director of Energy Services at ClearVUE, said: “At ClearVUE our ambition is to mitigate the damage businesses inflict on our climate - and ultimately reduce their carbon emissions to preserve our planet and create a more sustainable future. Our mission is to provoke and inspire change for the better by enabling businesses - through our technology - to understand how their operations and behaviour affect the climate.
“By enabling businesses to understand exactly how, where, and when they are emitting carbon, they can begin to address their impact on our planet.”
Paul O’Brien, Watford FC’s Commercial Director, concluded: “We are very excited to embark on this journey over the next decade and get Watford FC to net zero. This is a family club at the heart of the community and always has been. Our hope is that one day when people look back at history, it is our generation they will credit for pioneering the transformation towards a greener, cleaner and more sustainable planet.
“We firmly believe that our partnership with ClearVUE will allow us to do our part in tackling the climate crisis, leaving the world a better place for future generations to come.”
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Several Golden Boys have been involved in international fixtures over the past week, with a feast of further competitive and friendly action yet to come across the month of June.
Nigeria completed their second exhibition match in preparation for the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, losing narrowly to Ecuador 1-0 in New Jersey, USA, on Friday (June 3).
William Troost-Ekong made a second start in two matches, with Emmanuel Dennis coming off the bench in the second half, but the Super Eagles were unable to respond to an early free-kick from former Hornet Pervis Estupiñán.
Looking ahead, the Watford duo will take on Sierra Leone and São Tomé and Príncipe in their opening AFCON qualifier group games, on June 9 (5pm BST) and June 13 (2pm BST) respectively.
Morocco were defeated 3-0 by the United States in Cincinnati on Thursday (June 2), with Adam Masina playing the full 90 minutes. Like Troost-Ekong, Masina’s attention now turns from friendly to qualifying action, as his nation face South Africa on Thursday (June 9) and Liberia next Monday (June 13), with both games due to kick off at 8pm BST.
Joshua King helped Norway kickstart their UEFA Nations League campaign on a high, picking up two wins from their opening two games away at Serbia and Sweden.
King played the first half of the Lions’ 1-0 win against Serbia on Thursday (June 2), and came on for the final 15 minutes against Sweden on Sunday (June 5). Norway will hope to retain their place at the top of Group B4 after their home games against Slovenia and Sweden on June 9 (7.45pm BST) and June 12 (5pm BST).
DR Congo were frustrated by a resolute Gabon side on Saturday (June 4), with Watford midfielder Edo Kayembe playing the second half for the former. Despite the Leopards’ dominance in possession, winger Shavy Babicka’s first-half strike made the difference in the first Group I game of the AFCON qualifiers.
Next up for Kayembe is Sudan on Wednesday night (June 8, 8pm BST).
Ismaïla Sarr’s Senegal will look to make it two wins out of two in Group L of the same competition after a 3-1 win over Benin on Saturday (June 4).
Sarr won a penalty after an hour of play, rounding the goalkeeper and getting caught as he looked to convert from close range. He gave the ball to Sadio Mane, who completed his hat-trick from the spot.
Rwanda are next up for the reigning champions, with the match taking place on Tuesday (June 7) at 8pm BST.
Making a second appearance for his country, Cucho Hernández donned the yellow of Colombia in a 1-0 win over Saudi Arabia on Sunday (June 5), coming on for ex-Watford striker Luis Suárez. Hernández played the full second half in Murcia, Spain.
Elsewhere, Francisco Sierralta was an unused substitute as Chile fell to a 2-0 friendly defeat against South Korea on Monday (June 6). Sierralta and La Roja will now look ahead to taking part in the Kirin Cup semi-final against Tunisia on Friday (June 10).
Dapo Mebude played 88 minutes for Scotland’s Under-21 side, playing out a 0-0 draw with Belgium on Sunday (June 5). Denmark are next up on June 10 as Mebude and Scotland look to climb up Group I of the European Under-21 Championship qualifiers, currently sitting fourth in a five-team group.
Meanwhile, Hassane Kamara is set to play a part in Ivory Coast’s second international game of the summer - a clash with Lesotho on Thursday (June 9, 6pm BST). Kamara missed the Elephants’ 3-1 win against Zambia on Friday (June 3) due to exams.
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If the anticipated high turnover of players at Vicarage Road comes to fruition this summer, then it is going to make it harder for Watford to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
Former Watford captain Robert Page reflected on “an unbelievable feeling” after guiding Wales to a first World Cup appearance for 64 years.
The big question of the summer – red shorts or black shorts – still hasn’t been answered...yet.
In the Dream Team series, the Golden Boys name their best five-a-side team consisting of players they've played with or against.
Next to reveal his line-up is Austrian goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann, whose experience for club and country has influenced his selections...
GK: GIANLUIGI DONNARUMMA
I think at the moment, especially after the Euros last summer, he’s one of the best goalkeepers in the world.
DEF: GIORGIO CHIELLINI
I’ll go with just the one defender, and another Italian in my team! I don’t have to say much about him – he’s been one of the best defenders in the world over the last 15 years.
MID: DAVID ALABA
That’s a bit of a tricky one because I could have put him in defence, or anywhere in my team to be honest! He’s a brilliant all-round player.
MID: XHERDAN SHAQIRI
He’s another great player. Shaqiri scores a lot of great goals, and he’s a lovely footballer to watch.
FWD: PETER CROUCH
Picking a striker is really tricky. People didn’t really see the footballing side of Peter that you’d want in five-a-side, but he wasn’t just big and able to head the ball – he was an unbelievable footballer.
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There’s a regular round on the BBC quiz Have I Got News For You where the panellists are given a number of headlines with some of the key words blanked out, and they have the opportunity to replace them for humorous effect.
Former Watford player of the season Sebastian Prodl has retired from professional football.
Supporters have stayed loyal to Watford despite the miserable Premier League relegation being fresh in the mind, with some 12,000 season ticket holders renewing for the 2022/23 Championship campaign.
Watford FC’s all-time record appearance maker and goalscorer Luther Blissett has been awarded an OBE for services to football and charity in the Queen’s Jubilee birthday honours list.
The 64-year-old progressed through the Hornets’ youth ranks and went on to score 186 times in 503 outings during three separate spells at Vicarage Road, after making his initial debut in the 1975/76 season.
A key part of Watford’s rise from the Fourth Division to a second-placed top-flight finish in 1982/83, Blissett became the Hornets’ first senior England international and scored a hat-trick on his full debut against Luxembourg in 1982.
Besides his exploits in yellow the former striker also turned out for the likes of Bournemouth, Bury and Italian giants AC Milan during a glittering playing career, while he later served under Graham Taylor as part of Watford’s coaching staff after hanging up his boots.
Blissett is a patron of the Sporting Memories Foundation, a charity that tackles dementia, loneliness and depression through the power of sport, while his commendable community work also includes working alongside elected mayor Peter Taylor to raise money during the Covid-19 pandemic, and more recently helping to support Ukrainians in need due to the war with Russia.
Being recognised on the honours list - which usually coincides with the Queen's birthday but this year also marks the 70th anniversary of her reign - comes after Blissett was granted the Freedom of the Borough of Watford last year.
From everyone at Watford FC, congratulations Luther!
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August 30 will officially mark exactly 100 years to the day that Watford played their first match at Vicarage Road, and the club will be marking the occasion in a number of ways.
Last season’s top scorer Emmanuel Dennis currently looks the most likely departure from Vicarage Road of those players expected to leave following Watford's relegation from the Premier League.
Ben Foster has said he is open to the idea of working as a second choice goalkeeper in the Premier League after leaving Watford this summer.
Emmanuel Dennis continues to attract interest from Premier League clubs, as his future seems increasingly likely to be away from Vicarage Road.
Angolan international Lucas Joao looks almost certain to leave Reading this summer, and Watford are one of the clubs seemingly interested in signing the 28-year-old.
A Watford legend and one of the town’s favourite sons is “immeasurably proud” after being recognised in the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee birthday honours.
After a year in his role as Academy Director, Richard Johnson is pleased with the progress he has overseen during the previous 2021/22 campaign.
In a successful season of Academy football, the Under-18s concluded their campaign unbeaten in their final six matches, while a few Under-23 players, including Shaq Forde and James Morris, earned call-ups to the first-team, with the duo making their debuts against Leicester City in the Emirates FA Cup in January.
Alongside the older age groups, the Under-15s progressed to two finals in both the Floodlit Cup and the Poolfoot Cup, while the Schoolboy Programme continued to go from strength to strength. Johnson believes that the Academy has made big improvements on and off the pitch in the past year, with the assistance of Jimmy Gilligan as Head of Technical Development.
“It’s gone really quickly and it seems like such a long time since I arrived,” said Johnson. “It’s been a great experience, and Jimmy [Gilligan] and I work really well together. It’s been fantastic having him around with his experience.
“On and off the pitch the Academy is moving in the right direction. Off the pitch we are now fully staffed. The club have really backed me in getting good people on board in the sports science and medical departments. The overall Academy structure is in a really good place. Although it’s been quite stressful at times on and off the pitch, I have thoroughly enjoyed it.”
A key component of the success that the Academy has experienced recently is the exponential development in the squad, as more players get a chance to feature in higher age groups.
“We have made great strides in the development of some of the players,” Johnson continued. “When I first arrived the Under-23s had a few older players, whereas now we have changed the playing roster and are progressing players through the ranks.
“The players who are capable in the Under-18s are now featuring in the Under-23s. You’ve seen that with Ryan Andrews, who signed his first professional contract recently. He is only 17 and he has predominately played in the Under-23s.
“The Schoolboy Programme as well – when Jimmy and I first came in, we spent most evenings in the Dome getting to know the younger players.
“It’s been really rewarding for us to have seen the development. We have another exciting prospect in Adrian Blake who has predominately been in the Under-18s, but at the back end of the season he stepped into the Under-23s and hasn’t looked out of place – he is still only 16.
“In that respect, there are lots of positives on the pitch. Alfie Marriott, who went to Kings Langley on loan as a first-year scholar, ended up getting Player of the Season. That experience of playing men’s football at such a young age can really help with the development.”
For Johnson, a former Hornets midfielder, his priority is producing players that can go on to have a career in football, whether at Watford or elsewhere. He believes that the Academy has made a significant step in bridging that transition.
He said: “If you look at our mission statement, it’s about players reaching their academic aspirations first, and we are focused on that. Preparing them for a life outside of football, it’s really important to me and Jimmy. Not everyone is going to go on and play for Watford, but we can prepare players to get to a level where they find it.
“I went through it as a player and it spurred me on. That’s the hardest part - when you have to sit down with players and parents and have that difficult conversation that it might not work out here, but don’t give up.
“It’s a big thing in football now with the transition from club-to-club or club to a new industry. It’s something we are really trying to focus on to support the boys not just while they are here, but when they leave and go on their next journey. That is really important for us as a club. If a player’s future isn’t at Watford, then we will do everything we can to find them a new club.
“The overall picture is to prepare the boys for life. This season we have bridged that gap with several players making their first-team debuts, and others who have left finding new clubs. It was a spotlight on the Academy that we are heading in the right direction.”
Ahead of the fresh season under new first-team Head Coach Rob Edwards, and as Vicarage Road marks its centenary year, Johnson is excited for the future.
“What a great achievement to reach 100 years and it’s going to be kicking off with Elton John’s concert at the stadium,” he added. “I have many fond memories of coming here as a 16-year-old and making my debut at 17. The club has given me everything I have in football and gave me the opportunity.
“It’s great to see and it’s a fantastic club in terms of family and community spirit, and it’s only going to get stronger as it goes on. I only just remember my first goal at the stadium back in 1994! Looking back there have been some great memories at The Vic and lots more to come.
“Rob Edwards is coming in who has a history of developing youth with his experience with the youth system at England. If we can continue to bridge that gap and get some more players involved with the first-team in pre-season, it will certainly bode well for the Academy moving forward.”
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The last time I set foot in the Watford Observer offices was way back in 1998. They were still in Rickmansworth Road, and seeing that space is now occupied by an entire housing estate made me realise just how long ago it was.
With Italy celebrating Festa della Repubblica today (June 2), we take a look at five Italian players who have had a significant impact on the Hornets during their careers…
Filippo Galli
Arguably the most decorated player to have ever turned out for the Hornets, Filippo Galli joined the club with five Serie A titles and three Champions League victories to his name. Although he might’ve only featured for one season at Vicarage Road, his desire and tough-tackling approach were huge assets in 2001/02.
Signed by fellow Italian Gianluca Vialli, Galli joined as a veteran of the game at 38-years-old but featured 29 times. He was runner-up for Player of the Season in his only campaign with the Golden Boys, taking on the captain’s armband sporadically. Despite an unremarkable season, Galli stood out as a composed general in defence, notching his only goal against Walsall.
Marco Cassetti
A vastly experienced defensive conductor, Marco Cassetti had earned five caps with Italy before moving to the Hornets in 2012. The versatile Italian was equally adept at playing full-back or centre-half, even featuring at right-wing on several occasions. During his first season at Vicarage Road, Cassetti played over 40 times including three appearances in the Championship play-offs.
He would earn himself seven assists, the highest figure for a Watford defender that campaign, and he would also play the third-most minutes as the Hornets finished third. The following season would be more difficult, but Cassetti would still play over 30 games, departing Watford at the end of the campaign.
Gabriele Angella
A centre-half with a unique finishing ability, Gabriele Angella spent three years at Vicarage Road. On his home debut Angella fired two past Bournemouth in a 6-1 victory and the Italian defender would notch five more goals that season, finishing third in the goalscoring ranks at Watford despite his position as a protector.
During the following 2014/15 campaign Angella helped Watford secure promotion to the top-flight, featuring over 30 times in a more than productive season. He spent his final year at Watford on-loan at Queens Park Rangers before returning to Italy and Udinese. The defender still plies his trade in Serie B for A.C. Perugia Calcio, who finished eighth in the league during 2021/22.
Stefano Okaka
Stefano Okaka joined the Hornets from Anderlecht at the start of the 2016/17 season, bringing with him an imposing presence on the pitch. The Italian striker struggled with injuries upon arriving at Vicarage Road, but would notch his first two goals against Everton in a 3-2 victory. He would score against Southampton and Chelsea under compatriot manager Walter Mazzarri before the end of the campaign.
Injuries would continue to plight his spell at Watford, after he made a bright start to the following season with a goal against Liverpool in a 3-3 draw. He would depart for Udinese on-loan helping them avoid relegation, eventually making the move permanent after 39 games in yellow.
Fernando Forestieri
As a dynamic and versatile forward Fernando Forestieri regularly played a key role in Watford’s successes during the early-to-mid 2010s. The Argentine-born footballer chose to represent the nation of his parents, Italy, making appearances for the youth teams in the early stages of his career.
Originally, Forestieri joined the Hornets on-loan from Udinese, but would go on to make the move permanent in January of 2013 as he became a cult hero, striking and assisting at important times, including goals against Huddersfield and Leicester.
The passionate player would continue to feature in yellow throughout the following years, hitting a hot-streak during the 2013/14 campaign and scoring just 28 seconds after being substituted on against Bolton Wanderers in the 2014/15 promotion season.
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Watford FC Women can now confirm the players that have either retired or been released following the conclusion of the 2021/22 season.
After more than 100 appearances for the Golden Girls over three separate spells, Emma Beckett will be leaving the club.
The midfielder, who also featured at centre-back, had a penchant for highlight-reel goals in her time with the Hornets, and played a key role in helping the club to earn promotion via upward movement.
Another departing is Rosie Kmita, with the left-sided player retiring from football in order to focus on other ventures.
Since joining in 2020, Rosie was a regular presence in the Watford side, going on to make 30 appearances and scoring five times, including a hat-trick against MK Dons.
Anaisa Harney will be moving on after being with the club for several seasons. Like with Emma and Rosie, she played her part in Watford’s return to the second tier.
The striker netted six times for the Hornets, including the dramatic equaliser against Crystal Palace back in October.
Also leaving is Jenna Legg. Having signed in the summer, the midfielder would go on to make 18 appearances in her time here, which included a goal away at Sunderland in March.
Another regular in the squad to depart is Mia Smith. The goalkeeper provided competition to Georgie Ferguson and featured six times in all competitions, and she won the FAWC Save of the Season for her stop at home to the Lady Black Cats.
Having progressed from the Development Team to the First Team, Gemma Biggadike would go on to make her debut with the Golden Girls in 2021/22. She went on loan to MK Dons in January and will now be seeking further opportunities at the senior level.
Rounding off the released list is Shauna Vassell. The full-back joined in January 2022 and made three appearances in the second half of the campaign.
Additionally, Watford can confirm that the following will not have their services retained as a player, however the club is committed to supporting their return to full fitness.
This includes: Chiara Meola, Georgia Clifford, Leanne Bell and Rubie Smith. All of whom have played their part with the Hornets.
Finally, players on dual-sign agreements will be returning to their parent clubs. The likes of Corinne Henson, Morgan Rogers, Teyah Goldie and Juliet Adebowale-Arimoro all made an impact during their time with the Golden Girls.
We would like to thank the departing players for their efforts and wish them all the very best for the future.
The full lists can be found below.
Retired: Rosie Kmita
Released: Anaisa Harney, Emma Beckett, Gemma Biggadike, Jenna Legg, Mia Smith, Shauna Vassell
Offer of continued access to rehab: Chiara Meola, Georgia Clifford, Leanne Bell, Rubie Smith
Dual-sign expired: Corinne Henson, Evie Gane, Juliet Adebowale-Arimoro, Morgan Rogers, Teyah Goldie
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As Watford FC’s preparations for the 2022/23 season get underway, the clock continues to tick towards the 100th anniversary of the club’s first match at Vicarage Road, on August 30.
To mark the milestone, 100 years after the Hornets were held to a goalless draw by Millwall with 8,618 in attendance, the club and its supporters have been creating a range of exciting and informative content over the past year, with the commemorative theme set to run throughout the upcoming campaign on the club website, social media and other platforms.
During 2022/23, we’ll be looking through supporters’ greatest memories of the stadium and what it means to those who have attended matches and non-footballing events over the last century. Recounts, pictures and videos will be shared, showcasing some of the most iconic moments to take place at our home.
A Vic 100 book will also be published, alongside an exhibition at the Watford Museum, an online memory bank, stadium signage and more.
As we celebrate 100 years at The Vic, on the pitch the Golden Boys will be tasked with creating more unforgettable memories in the fresh Sky Bet Championship season, with new Head Coach Rob Edwards at the helm.
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It was a fantastic strike that won Watford FC Women’s Goal of the Season, with Anne Meiwald’s effort at home to Liverpool being voted the winner. The defender was certainly pleased to win the award.
“Obviously I’m pretty happy,” she told watfordfc.com when asked about her initial thoughts. “It’s not every day that a centre-back manages to win Goal of the Season, so I’ll take it.
“I knew it was in as soon as I struck the ball, it was one of those perfect moments. I just saw the space to drive into and my first touch was good, I didn’t see many options bar the top-right corner so I thought I’d give it a go, and thankfully it went in.”
Considering the nature of the strike, it’s no surprise that it ranks right at the top of Anne’s list. The Vicarage Road surroundings also made it just that little bit more special.
“It’s number one by a long way,” the centre-back revealed. “I’m not sure any goal will ever top that one – especially with it being at Vicarage Road and with the home crowd behind me.
“Usually I score headers, so to score from outside the box with my weaker foot, it’s definitely more rare!
“It’s never fun to lose, but playing at The Vic is always amazing and I’ll never forget the roar from the crowd when it went in. It’s such a unique feeling and one I hope to repeat.”
Averaging a goal just under every eight games since joining the club, it’s something that the defender has in her locker. The 27-year-old feels she can continue to be a threat in attacking areas.
“It’s something I feel I can definitely improve on,” explained Meiwald. “I want to be able to contribute at both ends and help the team in as many ways as I can.
“Hopefully I’ll be able to contribute with a few more goals like this one.”
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Our Watford FC Women Development Team will be hosting trials soon (Tuesday June 21 & Thursday June 23), and you can register your interest now!
The young Golden Girls currently play in the FA WNL Reserve South East Division, enjoying plenty of successful results on the pitch in recent seasons.
A clear pathway is also on offer to the first team, with that being especially noticeable in the last campaign. Six players earned game time with the senior side, while a number of others also earned call-ups to the matchday squad.
A One Club philosophy is in place. The team trains in top class facilities, inside the Dome at the Watford FC training ground.
Trials are open to those aged 16-23 and an expression of interest form can be found towards the top of this article.
Please note that this is not an open trial – should your application be successful, we will get back to you with further information nearer the time.
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All at Watford FC were deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of Cliff Vassiliou, a long-time Hornets supporter whose relationship with the club goes back many decades.
Cliff’s family have issued an open invitation to anyone who would like to join them in paying their respects, with the funeral set to be held on Thursday June 23. The service is due to start at 1pm at All Saints Church in Croxley Green, followed by a committal at Woodcock Hill Cemetery in Rickmansworth (2.30pm), and a reception at Harefield United FC on Breakspear Road (3.30pm).
More information about the funeral can be found on a website set up in Cliff’s honour HERE, while a JustGiving page raising funds for Peace Hospice Care - who provided Cliff with support during his final days - can be accessed HERE.
Richard Johnson, Watford FC Academy Director and former player, paid tribute to Cliff:
“So sad to hear the news that Cliffy has passed away,” he said. “I have personally known Cliff since I was a youth team player here at the club. He absolutely loved the football club and he represented everything the club was about.
“He always spoke about the values and the community spirit that Graham Taylor entrenched in every player that played for the club. He was a massive advocate of the Academy and he used to speak with me at every home game where he used to bring club legend and Hall of Famer Tom Walley.
“Cliff will be sorely missed and on behalf of everyone involved with the Academy I would like to send our condolences to his family and friends. RIP Legend.”
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There were plenty of memories to cherish from the 2021/22 season, despite Watford’s relegation from the Premier League.
Having earned victories over the likes of Manchester United, Everton and Aston Villa, the Golden Boys found the target in impressive fashion on several occasions last term.
Of their 37 goals scored in all competitions, top goalscorer Emmanuel Dennis contributed 10, all of which came in the Premier League. Also among the biggest hitters were Cucho Hernández, Ismaïla Sarr and Joshua King on five each, and fellow attacker João Pedro on four.
Fifteen of the best from the Hornets’ campaign are included in the video above, with five favourites listed below.
Cucho Hernández v Aston Villa, August 14 2021
Scoring less than a minute into his Watford debut, Hernández’s triumphant introduction to Vicarage Road will be remembered for many years to come.
The Colombian, signed in 2017 but only arriving in Hertfordshire last summer after several loan spells, was already a familiar face to supporters keeping tabs on his development in Spain, but few could expect an impact as instant as his elegant, curled effort against the Villans.
Hernández beat Emiliano Martínez to make the scoreline 3-0 just 49 seconds after being brought off the bench, netting a goal which would ultimately prove the difference after the visitors scored twice to reduce the arrears late on.
Joshua King (2) v Everton, October 23 2021
A well-worked team goal that gave Watford the lead at Goodison Park, Joshua King’s second of three goals scored against former club Everton may be the pick of the bunch in a game which ended 5-2 to the Hornets.
Juraj Kucka’s lofted pass to João Pedro allowed the Brazilian to flick over his own head into space down the right flank, an area Dennis quickly occupied. Without needing a touch to settle the ball, the Nigerian diverted it into King’s path inside the box.
King controlled the pass excellently, slotting the ball past Jordan Pickford with composure and heading straight to the jubilant away fans, celebrating what would go on to be Watford’s first-ever win at Goodison Park.
João Pedro v Manchester United, November 20 2021
An unforgettable way to score his first Premier League goal, João Pedro calmed a nervy end to the home fixture against Manchester United in November. To put Watford 3-1 ahead, the Brazilian darted in behind, receiving possession from Dennis and lashing home at the near post.
Dennis would cap off the game minutes later to make it 4-1, but it was João Pedro’s goal that swung momentum in the Hornets’ favour and set up one of the club’s greatest-ever home wins.
Emmanuel Dennis v West Ham United, December 28 2021
Watford’s top marksman scored an impressive array of goals in the 2021/22 campaign both home and away, but his early strike against West Ham may have been the most skilful.
Patiently awaiting the space to shoot, Dennis’ dummy saw former Hornet Craig Dawson slide to the floor, providing the 24-year-old with space to unleash a rocket with his right foot which flew into the top corner.
Cucho Hernández v Arsenal, March 6 2022
Alongside his debut goal and clinical finishes against Manchester City and Southampton, Hernández accumulated an enviable shortlist of strikes in his first season at Vicarage Road.
His acrobatic effort against Arsenal at home was judged to be a cut above the rest upon the campaign’s end, winning the Goal of the Season award.
Minutes after Martin Ødegaard’s opener looked to have shell-shocked the hosts, Hernández produced a moment of magic to bring the two sides on level terms. Dennis wasn’t able to find a gap in the Arsenal backline, but saw Kiko Femenía’s overlapping run in his peripheral vision, cleverly flicking to his teammate who looped a cross into the 18-yard box.
Hernández, shuffling into position to connect, arched back and struck the ball in mid-air, converting the bicycle kick and wheeling away in celebration.
The game may have ended in defeat for the Golden Boys, but Hernández’s goal will remain a stand-out memory of the afternoon.
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Playing in front of his native country’s supporters at senior level will be an “amazing experience” says Tiago Cukur, who was awarded his maiden call-up by Turkey ahead of this summer’s UEFA Nations League fixtures.
A valuable season of development both on loan and at Vicarage Road has seen the Dutch-born striker earn a place in Stefan Kuntz’s squad to face the Faroe Islands on June 4, Lithuania on June 7 and June 14, and Luxembourg on June 11, with all games kicking off at 7.45pm BST.
The Watford Under-23 forward has represented Turkey at Under-17 and Under-21 level prior to his senior call-up, and spent the first half of this season on loan at Sky Bet League One side Doncaster Rovers.
Cukur, signed in January 2021 following his departure from AZ Alkmaar, spoke proudly of the moment he received word that he would be involved in June’s fixtures.
“The first-team manager called me a couple of weeks ago and told me I would most likely be in the squad, so I knew then but had to wait until it was confirmed and I saw my name on the list,” Cukur explained.
“Me and my family are over the moon. It has been a rollercoaster of a year for me, obviously going out on loan and it not going very well, then coming back and playing in the Under-23s and then making my way into the first-team squad at the end of the season and then topping it off with the call-up for the senior squad for the national team, so obviously it's great news for me and my family.
“I'm going on Friday but it feels like I have to wait for another three weeks! The days are going really slow. I'm really excited and can't wait to start.”
The 19-year-old scored once for Doncaster in the first half of 2021/22 in a difficult spell for his on-loan club. Returning to Watford and earning a spot on the first-team bench, Cukur has gained plenty from his experiences this season.
“I think I learnt a lot from my loan even though it didn't go well,” Cukur admitted. “Especially the mentality side of football, being away from home and my family not being there, I’d have to sort things out myself. I got to know myself way better and I took that on board when I came back to Watford and I feel like it helped me a lot.
“Training with the first-team here has been a great experience as well. All the players were helpful and I was able to chat with them in the hotel before the Everton and Leicester games. I got to know them more and learnt from their experiences in their careers so far.”
Turkey are looking to gain promotion to League B in the Nations League, where they take on the three teams in their group home and away. Cukur hopes to make an impact on the pitch for the 'Crescent Stars', but also relishes the experience of being involved in the Turkey camp.
“I think the players we have got in the squad, the experience that they have, I think I will learn a lot even in training and off the pitch in the hotel from just being around them,” said Cukur. “Speaking to them will be a great couple of weeks of learning for me. Hopefully I can take that into next season and take something from it.
“Even with the Under-21s games in Turkey we always had a couple of thousand watching and now with the first-team, even with the countries we are playing against, we will still have 50 to 55,000 screaming Turkish fans, so it will be an amazing experience.”
Focused on his international fixtures but keeping an eye on pre-season, Cukur is looking to return to Watford fit and firing, with the aim to impress new Head Coach Rob Edwards.
Cukur added: “I'll be coming back into pre-season trying to show everything I have got and try to earn the chance to show the club, the supporters and the manager what I can do.”
Doncaster Rovers picture credit: AHPIX
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The end of the 2021/22 season sees goalkeeper Ben Foster depart Watford FC after six years at the club over two spells.
Having made 207 appearances, played a vital role in two promotions and occupied the sticks in the Hornets’ most successful Premier League season to-date, Foster leaves a fan favourite and one of the club’s greatest to wear the number one shirt.
On a trip down memory lane, Foster reflected on his career in yellow by looking at photos of some of his best moments, important people and significant events from his time at Vicarage Road.
To watch the full video, where Foster talks emotionally about his time at Watford and sends a final message to the Hornets’ supporters, click above.
Tony Coton, Watford legend and former Manchester United goalkeeper coach
“I had just signed for Man United and Tony Coton, the goalkeeper coach, just grabbed me and said ‘there’s a good chance that you’ll be going straight out on loan this year, we need you to play first-team football and we’ve got a few options’.”
First Watford profile picture, August 2005
“It was a good season. It got off to a really rocky start - it was a bit of a whirlwind for me, I had just signed for Manchester United, moved from home, and it took me about two months to find my feet - but from that moment on we didn’t look back and ended up with a fantastic play-off final win at the Millennium Stadium.
“That season we were favourites to get relegated - the season before the team had scraped through in the last few games. First game of the season, defeat to Preston, but you could see that we had a style of play that suited our players, and we had a bit of optimism about the season.”
First local derby v Luton Town, January 2006
“When I was that age I didn’t appreciate the importance of local derbies and how much they meant to the club and the fans. I’ve looked back on that game before, and I can remember how hostile it was. Even on the coach going to the stadium, fans were chucking stuff at us.”
Championship play-off final, May 2006
“The noise, the volume and energy of our team compared to their team, they were just looking at us and we were jumping around going crazy. There was only going to be one winner that day, it was a wicked day.”
Alec Chamberlain, former Watford goalkeeper and coach
“Chambo’s the man. It wasn’t even about the effect he had on me in football, it was in general life. I learned so much from Alec, his wife Jane and their kids now, we still see them all now. He taught me so much about being a good person. I was so lucky to have someone like Al there from day one.”
Watford Player of the Season, May 2007
“That year ended in relegation but it was such a big season for me, I was busy all year long! I got the Players’ Player of the Year award as well - the Player of the Year award is always nice but the Players’ Player, it’s your peers, and that’s a special feeling.”
Watford return, July 2018
“I had just spent eight years at West Brom and it had become my home, so to leave was a big thing for me. I had grown roots there. Early on we knew Watford were interested in trying to re-sign me and if I was going to leave, they were one of the only clubs I would leave for. It was such a good decision - from day one it was top class.”
Heurelho Gomes, former Watford goalkeeper
“It’s a lot easier to settle in when you’ve got someone like Gomey [Heurelho Gomes]. He’s literally the nicest man ever, always happy, he’s the glue in the changing room. Some of the saves he used to make in training, he was incredible and one of the best guys to work with every single day.”
Sheffield United saves, December 2019
“You can’t have one of those as your best save! The best saves are when you’ve read them and you flick it onto the post. I’m not sure what my best save is. It looks incredible but it just hit my knee and went over the bar.”
GK union with Daniel Bachmann, 2020/21 season
“That’s the goalie union. We’re all very like-minded people. What was really special about seeing Dan do that last season was the fact that he’d been waiting in the wings for so long.
“It was so nice to see Dan able to grasp it with both hands. Next season we know the club is in safe hands with Dan Bachmann in goal.”
Final Watford profile picture, July 2021
“The last four years have probably been the most enjoyable of my career. Coupled with my age, I’ve learned to thoroughly enjoy it. My family will always be Watford fans and I’ll forever keep an eye on Watford and hopefully come down and watch the lads in the future.
“The connection I’ve had with the Watford fans, they can see I enjoy giving them time, talking to them and making sure I’m with them. I can honestly say the Watford fans, from my first day, have been absolutely top class and it’s been a pleasure and an honour to play for Watford at Vicarage Road and I’m going to miss them all.”
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Watford's season may be over, but several Hornets will still be in action for their national teams in June in friendly, qualifying and UEFA Nations League competition.
A maiden call-up has also been awarded to a promising academy forward.
Kicking off their international games a few days earlier than their fellow Hornets, William Troost-Ekong and Emmanuel Dennis have been called up to represent Nigeria in two friendlies before playing the first two group stage games of the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
Meetings with Mexico and Ecuador on May 29 (1.10am BST) and June 3 (1.30am BST) respectively precede the competitive matches against Sierra Leone (June 9, 5pm BST) and Mauritius (June 13, 2pm BST).
Adam Masina has a similar schedule, facing the United States (June 2, 1.30am BST) in a warm-up game before taking on South Africa at home in the first group game of Morocco's AFCON qualifiers (June 6, 8pm BST). After that, it's a trip to Liberia for the second competitive fixture (June 13, 8pm).
Joshua King's summer of football starts on the same day as teammate Masina, with the forward earning a call-up for Norway.
Hoping to replicate a hat-trick completed the last time he wore national colours, King is involved in four UEFA Nations League matches.
He begins with away matches at Serbia (June 2, 7.45pm BST) and Sweden (June 5, 7.45pm BST). Home games against Slovenia and Sweden follow in the competition on June 9 (7.45pm BST) and June 12 (5pm BST).
DR Congo have called-up midfielder Edo Kayembe for their qualifiers also, against Gabon on June 4 at 5pm BST and away at Sudan four days later, kicking off at 8pm.
Also in Africa, Ismaïla Sarr returns to the national fold for Senegal having scored a penalty in March's decisive World Cup qualifier against Egypt. The winger will hope to make his mark again against Benin (June 4,) and Rwanda on June 7, with both games kicking off at 8pm BST.
Two South American Hornets commence their international fixtures on June 6. Francisco Sierralta's Chile face South Korea in a friendly on June 6 (12noon BST) before taking part in the Kirin Cup four days later.
If Chile beat Tunisia in the cup's semi-final on June 10 (7.15am BST), they will take part in the final on June 14 against Ghana or hosts Japan.
Meanwhile, Cucho Hernández could pick up a second Colombia cap this June after his impressive performances at club level earned him a call-up to face Saudi Arabia in a friendly on June 6, kicking off at 6pm BST.
Former AFC Wimbledon loanee Dapo Mebude will join up with Scotland's Under-21 side for clashes with Belgium and Denmark on June 6 and June 10, hoping to reach the Under-21 European Championships.
Watford Under-23 striker Tiago Cukur has been awarded his first call-up to Turkey's senior side for their Nations League fixtures.
Cukur, 19, is in the squad for four fixtures, kicking off at 7.45pm BST on each day. A home meeting with the Faroe Islands on June 4 begins the run of games, followed by a trip to Lithuania on June 7 and Luxembourg four days later. Then hosting Lithuania on June 14, Cukur will be hoping to win his first senior cap after appearances in the Under-17 and Under-21 sides.
Fellow Under-23 JJ McKiernan will also be joining up with his national team, representing Northern Ireland Under-21s against Spain [June 3, 1pm BST] and Lithuania [June 7, 4pm BST].
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The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next up to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Adian Manning.
The 18-year-old joined the Hornets in 2012 and featured regularly for the Under-18s and Under-23s during the 2021/22 campaign, including against Chelsea and notably scoring against Cardiff City in the FA Youth Cup.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’d say I’m a box-to-box midfielder. I can play in a deeper role, but I can also move into an attacking position and be creative. I can play anywhere in the midfield. I look up to Moussa Sissoko, Sergio Busquets and Luka Modrić.
Favourite current Watford footballer?
I really like Sissoko. I think he is a fantastic player and since he has come to Watford he has shown his quality. You can see in matches he is very dominant. We spoke briefly when the Under-23s played the first team in a match. I also like Ismaïla Sarr and Emmanuel Dennis.
Biggest influence?
My mum, to be honest. Since I was very young she’s been instrumental in my career, taking me to training every day, encouraging me and giving me that extra belief. Even now she asks me about how my football is going because I’m in digs and she can’t really see me train.
Favourite football kit?
I really like Ajax’s third kit from the season just gone, the Three Little Birds-inspired one. The Watford red away kit from 2021/22 really sticks out, as well.
Favourite boots?
That’d have to be the Puma Futures in pink - they’re great.
Favourite footballing memory?
As a player getting to play against Newcastle in the FA Youth Cup earlier in my career - we went far and did really well. From a watching point of view, when Troy Deeney scored that winner against Leicester in the play-offs in 2013, that was amazing. I’m originally a Spurs fan so the Ajax second-leg semi-final in the Champions League in 2019 is up there, too. That was unbelievable.
Most talented teammate?
Hamzat Balogun. The way he carries himself is amazing - he is so professional on and off the pitch. He brings a different kind of energy to our game, which I really like. Me and him connect well on the pitch. When your full-back is on the ball you need to always be an option for him, especially as a midfielder, so it’s very important to have a good connection with him.
Favourite things to do when not playing football?
I like to spend time with family, and do a little bit of gaming here and there with some of the other Watford players. I listen to Toosii a lot, and I play a lot of FIFA Ultimate Team. It’s great and is something to talk about because everyone plays it. We’re all just competitive to see who can get the better players and who’s best at the game. I’ve also been watching the newest season of Money Heist, recently.
Best footballing advice you’ve received?
Deeney once said: “The real pressure is my mum working three jobs. Football is not pressure.” That’s one of the best things I’ve heard.
More From This Series
Getting To Know: Ethan Goulding
Getting To Know: Hamzat Balogun
Getting To Know: Harvey Peters
Getting To Know: Jonathan Macaulay
Getting To Know: Charlie Davis
Getting To Know: Adrian Blake
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Having recently been named as the Golden Girls’ Player of the Season after an impressive first campaign with Watford, Amber-Keegan Stobbs’ performances certainly made an impression on the fans, and she’s thankful for their support.
“I’m really proud,” she told watfordfc.com when asked about winning the award. “I was surprised, but I’ll take it as it’s an honour.
“I’m incredibly grateful for those that voted, and I was buzzing with it. It means a lot that it was voted for by the supporters, they’ve been great this season so to have it be decided by them was such a bonus.”
While described as a midfielder in all of the promotional material for the vote, Amber-Keegan showed her qualities in several different positions and roles in 2021/22.
“I came in as an attacking midfielder, and you can see from the signing interviews that there were jokes about finally playing in that position,” she revealed. “However, I am always someone that is happy to play anywhere, I have done it at most of my clubs.
“I’ll always play where the team needs me to and give 100 per cent in any of the positions. Centre-back is a new one, but I must say, I don’t hate it!
“These experiences have pushed me to adapt and learn, and that’s how you grow on and off the pitch.”
It’s not only on the pitch that Stobbs has made an impact with the club, as she also took on a leadership role with the Hornets.
“I have loved being able to show my leadership skills and be vice-captain for this group, again it’s one of the biggest honours,” she explained.
“Sometimes you have to get the group in and roll up your sleeves together, which we did multiple times over the course of the season.
“With the season we had, I’ve learnt so much and feel that I’ve grown as a person and a player, so I’m really grateful for that.”
It’s now almost a month since the last match of the campaign. While the final outcome is still tough to take, the 29-year-old is proud of the efforts that she and the squad put in.
“I’m not sure the dust has settled, it still really hurts,” said Stobbs. “I suppose you have to tell yourself it’s happened now, and Watford as a club and us as individuals have to bounce back, football can be that way.
“I am proud of my efforts and can hand on heart say I gave it everything, just like the group. We had a tough season, but you can’t question the effort we put in and what we’ve been through.
“We had such a mixed bag of experience and ages, and a good bunch of players. Lots of people had to change positions and adapt to help the team, unfortunately we were hit with a lot of injuries.
“The players that helped us before their injuries, they were still a massive influence and helped us through until the end. It’s not just great to have played with this group, it’s great to be a part of the team with them.”
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Watford have announced that academy product Ryan Andrews has signed his first professional contract with the club.
Young Watford defender Ryan Andrews has signed his first professional contract with the Hornets, putting pen to paper on a new two-year deal at Vicarage Road that includes the option of a further year.
The promising right-back, who was born in Watford and joined the club in 2012, enjoyed a productive 2021/22 campaign, progressing from the Under-18s set-up to become a regular fixture in the Under-23s team, with his natural pace and dynamism key to his game.
A delighted Andrews said: “It has been a long time coming and I think over the years I have worked hard for this moment, so it’s a good milestone for me and my family. I’m really proud of how far I’ve come - it has always been on my mind to get a professional contract, but it’s just the start and the first step to becoming the person I want to be.
“It has been a good experience at Watford so far, and I have come a long way. When I first joined I wasn’t a right-back, I started as an attacker. I feel like over the years I have had to change my game and I think the coaches have helped a lot.
“It was a gradual change and as the game became more tactical, that’s when I thought I would be a good defender because I had pace. Even though I’m a defender now, I like getting forward because I can use all the things that I learned when I was younger.”
The 17-year-old established himself as a mainstay in Omer Riza’s Under-23s team during the recently-concluded season and has enjoyed challenging himself in the higher age group, having also featured in FA Youth Cup matches against Chelsea and Cardiff City with Tom Hart’s Under-18s side.
“The FA Youth Cup games are always good because you are playing in front of fans,” Andrews explained. “It is a different situation and sometimes you are under the lights. It’s a different experience for all of us, but at the same time, I feel like those games are when you progress more because you have the atmosphere behind you.
“I feel like that and my time with the Under-23s has helped me a lot, and even though I’m young I don’t think that has stopped me. I just kept my head down and if I played well and did the basic things first, I knew that I could maintain my place with the Under-23s and always progress and improve my game.”
For Andrews, inspiration and motivation have never been far away as his father, Wayne, enjoyed plenty of success during his own football career that spanned 15 years; including 37 games with the Golden Boys in the late 1990s.
The up-and-coming full-back credits his family for his successes and particularly relishes the friendly competition between him and his father.
“He [Wayne] has helped me a lot - not just with the footballing side of things, but the mental side as well,” he continued. “He has been in the same position as I have so he knows where I’m coming from and gives me little tips with things I can work on.
“Between me and him, we know the love and we have always had the conversation about whether he is going to be better than me or I’m going to be better than him! He just wants me to be as good as I can be. Either way, he is always proud of me.”
With an eye on the future, Andrews is looking forward to the start of the fresh 2022/23 season and making an impression on new Head Coach Rob Edwards.
He added: “That’s always the aim - to try and get as far as I can in pre-season. I feel in pre-season you can always show what you’ve got because it is a test to show the new Head Coach who has come in.
“It’s a fresh start for everyone to show what they’ve got. That’s the best time to get my head down and concentrate on myself. I feel like it is [a new start] here because you are playing for someone new, who hasn’t seen much of you. If you can get in the eyesight of them, you can always change their mind.”
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Watford’s season may be over, but for a handful of Hornets there has been plenty to play for over the past few days with their temporary sides.
Elsewhere, a number of Golden Boys are away representing their countries, with a feast of mouth-watering international fixtures set to take place over the next couple of weeks.
On-loan playmaker Philip Zinckernagel won promotion to the Premier League with Nottingham Forest on Sunday afternoon, beating Huddersfield Town 1-0 at Wembley in the Championship play-off final.
The hotly-contested encounter was separated by an own goal from Terriers defender Levi Colwill on the stroke of half-time, with Zinckernagel playing 74 minutes.
This is the second promotion for the Dane in two years, having finished second with the Golden Boys last term in his first season in England. The former Bodø/Glimt forward leaves the Tricky Trees with seven goals and 10 assists in all competitions, having played 50 games across the campaign.
Also on the hunt for promotion, Adalberto Peñaranda’s UD Las Palmas are into the play-offs in Spain’s second division. An impressive run of late-season form saw the Canary Islands-based outfit win their final five games, avoiding defeat in their last 11 games in La Liga 2.
Peñaranda last featured on May 6 in a 1-0 win over CD Mirandés, and has made 19 appearances this season, scoring twice. Las Palmas face local rivals CD Tenerife in the two-legged semi-finals, taking place on Wednesday (June 1, 8pm BST) and Saturday (June 4, 8pm).
On international duty, William Troost-Ekong’s Nigeria were narrowly defeated by Mexico in a friendly in the early hours of Sunday morning. El Tri saw off the Super Eagles 2-1 in a competitive match played in the United States, with the Watford defender captaining his side. They face Ecuador on Friday (June 3, 1.30am BST) in another friendly before kicking off their Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
To see which other Hornets are representing their nations in the coming days, click HERE.
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Joao Pedro is set to stay at Watford for the upcoming season, the Watford Observer understands.
Nottingham Forest's promotion to the Premier League has created uncertainty around the future of Philip Zinckernagel.
Moussa Sissoko has told Watford fans "the sun will shine again soon" in a message shared via social media.
Danny Rose and Ozan Tufan had debut seasons with the 'Orns to forget, while others like Imran Louza showed plenty of promise
Watford teenager Tiago Cukur has just been called into the senior Turkey team and could star for the Hornets in the future following a loan spell with Doncaster Rovers
Watford goalkeeper Daniel Bachmann has spoken about being linked with a move to Manchester United this summer and admitted that there was contact about a possible transfer
William Troost-Ekong has already scored an own goal for Nigeria as he and many other Watford stars represent their countries this summer
Derby County captain Tom Lawrence has just been relegated from the Championship and his contract expires soon amid reported interest from Watford and other clubs
From a 5-2 away win at Everton, to the day Rob Edwards was introduced to the Watford fans, there have been a few good moments for the Hornets despite a difficult season
Watford midfielder Moussa Sissoko named Tottenham Hotspur goalkeeper Hugo Lloris in his team while tipping Real Madrid star Karim Benzema to win the Ballon d'Or
Watford winger Joseph Hungbo has been on loan with Ross County and he has certainly proved his worth in Scotland last term and now wants to repeat the trick in the Championship
Watford are early favourites with the bookies to win the Championship in the 2022/23 season.
We can now reveal the winners of Player of the Season and Goal of the Season for Watford FC Women.
It wasn’t an easy decision for the supporters to make, with plenty of great candidates for both awards, however after having your say, two different players take the honours.
Player of the Season went to Amber-Keegan Stobbs, who had a tremendous impact in her first season with the Golden Girls.
Having signed in the summer, the midfielder was made vice-captain, and wore the armband several times over the course of the campaign.
She led by example throughout and was an almost ever-present in the league, featuring in 20 of the 22 games, starting 19 of them.
Her versatility was on full display, playing in almost every position. That included a spell at centre-back towards the end of the season, where she continued to impress in a more unfamiliar role, showing her importance to the team.
For Goal of the Season, it would be Anne Meiwald’s brilliant strike at home to Liverpool that ended up victorious.
The centre-back has always been capable of popping up with a goal or two during her time at the club, but there’s no doubting that this was her best in a Watford shirt.
Picking the ball up 40 yards from the opposition goal, Meiwald drove forward and then unleashed an unstoppable left-footed effort from outside the penalty area, which arrowed into the top right corner.
It was a stunner that had the Vicarage Road crowd on their feet, as the Hornets came incredibly close to pulling off a dramatic comeback against the eventual league champions.
Congratulations to both players for winning their respective awards and for their displays during 2021/22.
A quick word also to all of the nominees for their fine efforts – you can still watch back the original videos for Player of the Season and Goal of the Season under 'Watch Now'.
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Reaction to an appalling terrorist attack in Manchester, a building collapse in Bushey and a snub to Watford ahead of the Olympics were among the stories making our headlines five and ten years ago this week.
Saturday May 28 marks 10 years since the Watford FC Community Sports & Education Trust opened the Cedars Youth & Community Centre in Harrow, a site that has allowed the local community to have access to state-of-the-art and sustainable facilities.
The Harrow centre, which saw crime drop by a quarter in its first year since opening and a significant reduction in anti-social behaviour, provides an area for over 1,000 people a week to exercise, socialise and learn.
A £4.2 million grant in 2012 allowed for the opening of the site, which regenerated the old Cedars Youth Centre into a world-class youth and community facility.
An outdoor 4G Astroturf pitch, an indoor sports hall, a social space, music studios, an IT suite and community gym are among the facilities available to the public, all whilst using environmentally-friendly features like the recycling of rainwater, solar energy and natural lighting.
The late great Graham Taylor, who worked closely with the community from his first day as Watford manager to long after retirement, was full of praise for the centre, when attending its opening a decade ago.
“It’s a fantastic community hub – so revolutionary,” said Taylor.
“This place has everything for adults and children and I am incredibly proud about what has been achieved. Cedars is a perfect example of how, through our Community Sports & Education Trust working in close partnership with an organisation as forward-thinking as Harrow Council, we can really make a difference to those around us.”
Richard Segalov of Harrow Council saw first-hand the positive impact Cedars has on the area, particularly at a school-age level.
“There are a number of secondary schools in the area and there was an issue with the local community which was picked up by the local press, of alleged poor behaviour by large numbers of young people from the schools who would gather outside the shops,” said Segalov.
“The shopkeepers were concerned by the noise. They felt threatened and it was affecting their income. The Cedars Centre took the initiative to open up their facilities free of charge at school closing time to encourage the students to come down here to use the facilities.
“Sometimes there would be 70 or 80 kids from the schools, using the facilities, playing football, engaging them with the centre staff in a positive way. It quickly faded as a local issue as well as obviously helping the Centre to promote some of its other activities and engage with the local community.”
Attracting Royal attention, the centre was awarded the Gold Level of the London Youth Quality Mark by the Duke of Edinburgh in 2016, who visited to present the award.
Cedars continues to serve the community and provides a safe space for around 1,300 children and adults to lead positive and active lifestyles every week, becoming a staple of the local area.
For more information on Cedars and the activities offered at the centre, click HERE.
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Ismaila Sarr has been called up to represent Senegal next month, despite missing Watford's last three matches with a knee injury.
Following the conclusion of the 2021/22 Premier League season, Watford FC can confirm that five first-team players have left the club.
Goalkeeper Ben Foster has been released at the end of his contract, bringing the curtain down on a storied Hornets career which saw the 39-year-old feature for the club over 200 times during two seasons on loan between 2005 and 2007 and after re-signing permanently from West Bromwich Albion in 2018.
Defender Nicolas Nkoulou – who made three league appearances after signing in October 2021 – and forward Andre Gray – who spent the last campaign on loan at Queens Park Rangers – have also departed upon the expiration of their deals.
Juraj Kucka has chosen to activate a release clause in his contract, bringing an end to his one-season stay in Hertfordshire, while fellow midfielder Peter Etebo has returned to parent club Stoke City following his loan spell at Vicarage Road.
We thank the departing players for their contributions and wish them the best of luck for the next steps in their careers.
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Joseph Hungbo wants to make an impact at Watford next season after an impressive spell on loan at Ross County.
It was a tale of two left-backs for the Hornets this season as most of the Watford team struggled to impress in a Premier League campaign that ended with relegation
The 'Orns squad begins to take shape ahead of a new era under Rob Edwards as key players like Ben Foster and Juraj Kucka leave the club
Ivorian left-back Hassane Kamara has been linked with a summer exit of late, but a move is understood to not be close
Outgoing Watford boss Roy Hodgson is willing to talk to his replacement Rob Edwards, but will not be making the first move.
The 'Orns boss revealed that his goalkeeper was likely to play his last home game at Vicarage Road against Leicester City this Sunday
The former England manager spoke about his time with the Foxes forward when they both represented the Three Lions as the 'Orns prepare for their final Premier League game at home
The current 'Orns boss spoke about the man who will replace him next season ahead of his club's match against Leicester City in the Premier League this weekend
Watford have revealed their new home shirt for next season, with images containing new head coach Rob Edwards.
Match Info
- Watford v Leicester City
- Premier League
- Vicarage Road
- Sunday May 15, 2pm BST
Officials
- Referee: Jarred Gillett
- Assistants: Lee Betts, Timothy Wood
- Fourth Official: Peter Bankes
- VAR: Michael Salisbury
- Assistant VAR: Natalie Aspinall
Opposition
The teams have met twice this season already, with Leicester earning a 4-2 win in snowy conditions in the league before triumphing 4-1 in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup in January.
In the Premier League Brendan Rodgers’ men had been on a run of five games without victory until Wednesday night (May 11), when they beat Norwich City 3-0 on home soil to move up to 10th in the table.
In Europe, the Foxes beat the likes of Rennes and PSV Eindhoven en route to the Europa Conference League semi-finals, but they ultimately missed out on a spot in the showpiece as a result of a 2-1 loss to José Mourinho’s Roma over two legs.
For more on the opposition, click HERE.
Key Stats
- Watford have lost just two of their last 11 home league games against Leicester City (W7, D2), and are unbeaten in their last four (W3, D1).
- The Foxes are looking to complete the Premier League double over Watford for just the second time, previously doing so in their 2015/16 title-winning campaign.
- This exact fixture finished 1-1 the last time it was played (June 2020), despite Ben Chilwell opening the scoring for Leicester in the 90th minute. It’s one of just two Premier League games to finish 1-1 despite being goalless going into the last minute, along with Arsenal v Liverpool in April 2011.
For the full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Leicester City In Numbers.
Team News
The Hornets’ João Pedro will be assessed ahead of the match. The Brazilian picked up a knock during Wednesday’s goalless draw with Everton but it is hoped he will be available for the Foxes’ visit.
Hassane Kamara is available having served a one-match suspension following his sending off at Crystal Palace, and Kwadwo Baah has returned from international duty with Germany Under-19s.
Nicolas Nkoulou (groin) has returned to training and could be available this weekend.
Kiko Femenía and Joshua King are both still suffering from sickness, while Tom Cleverley (ribs), Emmanuel Dennis (knee), Shaq Forde (ankle), Cucho Hernández (hamstring), Juraj Kucka (knee), Imrân Louza (knee) and Ismaïla Sarr (knee) all remain sidelined by injury.
For Leicester City, defender Wesley Fofana could return, while goalkeeper Danny Ward is in contention as well.
What Are They Saying
Roy Hodgson, Watford manager:
“The really pleasing thing [against Everton] was the team unity and the team spirit, and the fact that everybody was doing their level best to do what we have been asking them. The way they played the other night is what we have been preaching from the very first day, and of course we have seen it before in other games.
“I’m really happy to give those boys that played against Everton another go. If anything, they deserve it. I’m not crying or bleating about the situation – I’m actually quite looking forward to it.
“If the team was to pull the victory off against Leicester City it would be a tribute to them, and I would be delighted.”
Brendan Rodgers, Leicester City manager:
“He’s such a role model for us all, Roy. He’s proven over many years that he’s a top-level coach. I’ve always enjoyed our conversations when I’ve met him, and I’ve always learned from him. If you look at Roy’s career, it’s been phenomenal.
“It’s this stage of the season where, whatever the game or opponent, I always want us to have the mindset to push right to the very end. It’s irrelevant what the other team brings. We want to play to a high level and to the tempo that we did in the second half [v Norwich].”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 21
Drawn: 18
Lost: 32
Last Six:
January 2022: Leicester City 4-1 Watford (Emirates FA Cup)
November 2021: Leicester City 4-2 Watford (Premier League)
June 2020: Watford 1-1 Leicester City (Premier League)
December 2019: Leicester City 2-0 Watford (Premier League)
March 2019: Watford 2-1 Leicester City (Premier League)
December 2018: Leicester City 2-0 Watford (Premier League)
Golden Flashback
Matěj Vydra's double and Troy Deeney's memorable strike secured Watford's place in the play-off final after a 3-1 victory in 2013.
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The Hornets boss spoke to the press about a number of topics ahead of the game against his Leicester City this weekend, including Jamie Vardy, Rob Edwards and more
Following the recent completion of Season Ticket renewals, Watford FC is pleased to provide details of the next phases of the 2022/23 Season Tickets timeline, as detailed below.
The ‘Ask The Family’ opportunity will run first, between Monday May 16 and Sunday May 22. This allows existing Season Ticket holders to add family members – who are on the club’s Official ST Waiting List – to their existing Season Tickets group. Contact should be from the existing Season Ticket holder.
Afterwards, we’ll take a couple of days (Monday May 23 – Tuesday May 24) to close down the current season and refresh our systems ready for 2022/23.
This then provides the opportunity for the annual ‘Seat Movement Window’ between Wednesday May 25 and Friday May 27, when you’re welcome to enquire about relocating within the stadium. There’s no charge for this service, other than if you’re moving into higher price-category seating.
For both the ‘Ask The Family’ and ‘Seat Movement Window’ phases, contact will need to be in-person or over the phone to ensure we’re able to offer a personal service in helping with what are sometimes quite detailed requests.
If your ‘Ask The Family’ request relates to a family member with a disability, or your seat move request is a result of a change in your stadium access requirements, please contact the club’s dedicated Disability Access Team in the first instance: email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com or call 01923 496262.
Once the ‘Seat Movement Window’ closes, we’ll then offer new Season Tickets to those on the club’s Official ST Waiting List by way of outgoing phone calls and emails.
All of this will be completed before the Sky Bet Championship fixtures are published on Thursday June 23, ahead of the season start date of Saturday July 30.
Everything above is detailed in timeline format on the pdf accessed by clicking HERE.
Please get in touch with the Supporter Services team should we not have covered any specific information you may need.
In-person or phone callers (01923 223023) are welcome between 9am and 5.30pm Monday to Friday, or you can email the team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
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Manager Roy Hodgson is hoping to use Watford’s previous contest against Everton as a platform to build on, as his side play Leicester City in the penultimate match of the Premier League season on Sunday (May 15, 2pm KO).
The 74-year-old believes the Hornets can take positives from Wednesday evening’s goalless encounter against the Toffees (May 11), in which they ended an 11-game losing streak at home despite being forced into wholesale changes due to injury.
Hodgson is hoping to go one better than a draw in front of the Watford faithful, and admits he has a unique feeling going into a fixture that marks his final outing at Vicarage Road before retirement.
“It’s always a strange feeling when the season comes to an end whatever the circumstances, but there is no doubt this one feels worse in some respects,” said Hodgson.
“Partly, that’s because the team is relegated and that’s not a nice feeling to live with, but also knowing that this retirement will be the serious retirement and I won’t get tempted back again.
“The really pleasing thing [against Everton] was the team unity and the team spirit, and the fact that everybody was doing their level best to do what we have been asking them. The way they played the other night is what we have been preaching from the very first day, and of course we have seen it before in other games.”
As for Sunday’s opponents Leicester City, one of their key attacking outlets will be Jamie Vardy who notched two goals against Norwich City in his previous match. Hodgson is well aware of the striker’s strengths having managed the 35-year-old during his spell as England boss.
“He was excellent to coach,” Hodgson said. “Jamie Vardy is a guy who really is what you see – his enthusiasm, his work rate, his desire and talent of course. You don’t play for England without talent.
“I think he was unfortunate because his major strength is running behind people and stretching defences, and we often played against packed defences where there was no space to run behind. I found him a joy to work with and was always pleased to see him because he has that smile on his face.
“It’s a credit to him really because his start meant that he came into that cauldron that little bit later. He has come in with that incredible enthusiasm and dynamism.”
With injuries still presenting a challenge to Hodgson and his backroom staff following the latest team news, the Watford boss trusts the other talented players at his disposal to demonstrate their quality against the Foxes.
“I’m really happy to give those boys that played against Everton another go,” he added. “If anything, they deserve it. I’m not crying or bleating about the situation – I’m actually quite looking forward to it.
“For me, watching the game the other night was one of the more enjoyable experiences I’ve had here at Watford. They played together and did it with plenty of determination and guts. It might be somewhat of a pity for them if they suddenly found themselves taken out because some of the players were coming back.
“If the team was to pull the victory off against Leicester City it would be a tribute to them, and I would be delighted. I’ve learnt certainly one thing in my 75 years; you can dream, hope and say all the right things in press conferences but, there is only thing that really counts and that is when the referee blows his whistle on a Saturday afternoon and you are facing the 11 players in front of you.”
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João Pedro will be assessed ahead of the Hornets’ final home game of the season against Leicester City this Sunday (May 15, 2pm KO).
The Brazilian picked up a knock during Wednesday’s goalless draw with Everton but it is hoped he will be available for the Foxes’ visit.
Hassane Kamara is available having served a one-match suspension following his sending off at Crystal Palace, and Kwadwo Baah has returned from international duty with Germany Under-19s.
Nicolas Nkoulou (groin) has returned to training and could be available this weekend.
Kiko Femenía and Joshua King are both still suffering from sickness, while Tom Cleverley (ribs), Emmanuel Dennis (knee), Shaq Forde (ankle), Cucho Hernández (hamstring), Juraj Kucka (knee), Imrân Louza (knee) and Ismaïla Sarr (knee) all remain sidelined by injury.
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Beryl Bikes are offering an End of Journey bay discount for Watford’s final home game of the season against Leicester City this Sunday (May 15, 2pm KO), encouraging supporters to travel to Vicarage Road in an active and sustainable way.
An environmentally friendly way to get around Watford, Beryl Bikes offer easily accessible bikes for hire, stationed at 72 different bays across the town.
Riders can download the Beryl app and start their journey, with 10 minutes off every ride finished at the Watford General Hospital or Vicarage Road Shops bays between 12pm and 1.30pm on Sunday, as marked with a 'P' on the map below.
Available for all Watford users, the offer can be redeemed on all pedal bikes, with one redemption per person.
To find out more information about Beryl, and to see where every bay is stationed around Watford, click HERE.
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The latest Hornets injury news is in ahead of their match against Leicester City at Vicarage Road with Joao Pedro a doubt for the game as Watford's injury list grows
Ben Foster will be leaving Watford at the end of the season, Roy Hodgson has confirmed.
Joao Pedro joins Watford's injury list ahead of their final home match of the season against Leicester City.
The final home match of the season is next up for the Hornets, as we welcome Leicester City to Vicarage Road this Sunday (May 15, 2pm KO) in the Premier League.
Ahead of what promises to be an enticing encounter, we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the fixture...
Previous Meetings
Watford have lost just two of their last 11 home league games against Leicester City (W7, D2), and are unbeaten in their last four (W3, D1).
The Foxes are looking to complete the Premier League double over Watford for just the second time, having previously done so in their 2015/16 title-winning campaign.
This exact fixture finished 1-1 the last time it was played (June 2020), despite Ben Chilwell opening the scoring for Leicester in the 90th minute. It’s one of just two Premier League games to finish 1-1 despite being goalless going into the last minute, along with Arsenal v Liverpool in April 2011.
Key Players
Joshua King and Emmanuel Dennis scored for Watford in their 4-2 defeat against Leicester in the reverse fixture – the last Hornets player to score home and away league goals against the Foxes in the same campaign was Danny Webber, in the 2004/05 Championship season.
Norway international King has scored three goals in his last five Premier League games against the Foxes, with all three of his strikes coming from the penalty spot.
Leicester’s James Maddison has been involved in six goals in his six meetings with Watford in all competitions (4 goals, 2 assists) – against no side has he been involved in more in his English football career.
Since 2014/15, only Harry Kane (40) has been directly involved in more Premier League goals against newly-promoted sides than Jamie Vardy, while he’s scored 16 goals in his last 14 games against such teams.
The Dugouts
Leicester City boss Brendan Rodgers has won five of his six Premier League meetings with Watford manager Roy Hodgson (D1).
The 74-year-old Hornets boss has taken charge of 380 top-flight matches, while Rodgers has managed 281 times.
Hodgson has faced Leicester City four times, winning twice and drawing once, and scoring eight goals.
Opposition Stat Attack
Maddison has had 31 shots on target this season – the most for the Foxes. The English midfielder is in the top 10 for strikes on target this season in the Premier League.
Harvey Barnes is top for assists in the Leicester City squad with eight, and is seventh overall in the league.
The winger is also top for dribbles attempted in the Foxes’ squad with 72, while Maddison is top for crosses attempted at 111.
Defensively, Çağlar Söyüncü leads the way for clearances (112) and blocks (27), while Wilfred Ndidi is top for interceptions (42).
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Watford FC are back at Vicarage Road for Sunday’s fixture against Leicester City (May 15, 2pm KO) in the Premier League - the team’s last home clash of the season.
All at the club are delighted to have welcomed fans back once again for the 2021/22 campaign, however it is vital that everyone works together to keep matchdays safe.
Covid-19 Guidance
Watford FC and the Premier League continue to urge fans to follow public health guidance to keep each other safe on a matchday, while there are some simple steps supporters can take to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19:
• Be responsible and do not travel if you have Covid-19 symptoms.
• Wear face coverings in indoor settings like The Hornets Shop and crowded areas.
• Continue to regularly wash your hands and avoid unnecessary contact with commonly-touched surfaces. There are hand sanitisers placed around the ground for everyone's use.
• If possible, take a Covid-19 test on a matchday to check there is no risk of passing on the virus.
• The best way to protect yourself and others from Covid-19 is to get vaccinated.
Earlier Matchday Arrival
We appreciate the efforts of supporters who are arriving earlier than usual in order to attend the match on time. We continue to encourage supporters to get into the habit of arriving earlier than you currently do; that’s if you’re someone that regularly reaches us with less than half-an-hour to go until kick-off.
The clock-style graphic below gives a visual representation that the ideal latest arrival point to the stadium is over half-an-hour before kick-off time, please.
‘The First 45’ Offer
To encourage earlier arrivals, those who like a draught pint at The Vic will be able to take advantage of the ‘First 45’ offer. For the first 45 minutes after the turnstiles open (12.30pm to 1.15pm), you’ll be able to buy draught beer at £4 per pint from all kiosks.
Note: this offer applies only to draught Budweiser and Camden Pale Ale.
Other Important Matchday Information
Ticketing
Fans can now use Apple Wallet or Google Pay to store their NFC (Near-Field Communication) matchday and season tickets. Click HERE for details on how to add your ticket to your mobile device.
The Supporter Services team have worked closely with a number of fans who have experienced difficulty with downloading or using their tickets in order to make their entry into the ground as easy as possible. We strongly encourage anyone who has any questions to get in touch with the club directly by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com or calling 01923 223023 so these can be resolved.
To quicken the flow of fans into the ground, we would ask that supporters prepare their phones before reaching the turnstiles. Your NFC pass will remain live for 90 seconds once it is opened from your digital phone wallet, so if you are scanning more than one pass from your device, you may need to close and re-open the wallet.
Dedicated ticketing staff will be on hand at the turnstiles, as well as at the Ticket Information pods, to provide further assistance on the day to anyone who needs it.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
Increased Security And Bag Checks
There will again be an increase in our security operation this weekend, in particular with searches and bag checks at the turnstiles. In order to reduce the potential for delayed access into the stadium, supporters are asked to arrive as early as possible, and to refrain from bringing bags any larger than A4 size. Security checks upon arrival are in place for all bags.
Pitch Invasions
A reminder that any spectator who enters the field of play will be handed over to the police and dealt with accordingly.
Supporter Code Of Conduct
Ticket holders must comply with the Supporter Code of Conduct to help keep their fellow fans safe. The Watford FC Supporter Code of Conduct is available HERE.
Working Together
Please follow directional signs and follow all instructions given by stewards or other stadium staff to ensure everyone's safety. Please be respectful to those around you, avoiding queues where possible, hugs, high-fives and unnecessary close contact with people you don't know.
Parking
There are a variety of parking options for supporters on home matchdays.
As well as renewing our partnership with leading car parking operator CitiPark to offer discounted matchday parking in the Church, Gade and Sutton car parks, supporters are now able to reserve parking spaces in the Holywell Primary School, Watford Grammar School For Boys or Westfield Academy car parks on a match-by-match or seasonal basis, thanks to a new partnership with Event Support Team.
Click HERE for more information.
Here To Help
Our Supporter Services team are here to help with any queries you may have.
You can get in touch by emailing supporters@watfordfc.com, or via Twitter (@WatfordFCHelp).
On matchday, fans can seek assistance from the team of Vicarage Roadies. The team are dressed in green and are armed with the tools and knowledge to answer all the common queries we receive. They are here to help their fellow Hornets, so if you see a member of the team, please take the time to say hello!
Thank You
Thank you to everyone for your patience and assistance.
Click HERE for FAQs related to Premier League Covid-19 protocols.
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The Hornets manager speaks to the press as his team get ready to face the Foxes at home in the Premier League this weekend
The 'Orns veteran midfielder discussed his time out of the team this season after he returned to play in the draw with Everton earlier this week
The Hornets welcome Leicester City to Vicarage Road for the penultimate match of the season, this Sunday (May 15, 2pm KO) in the Premier League.
The reverse fixture in the top-flight took place at the King Power Stadium on November 28, and it was an end-to-end encounter, concluding 4-2 in the Foxes’ favour under a blanket of snow.
As we count down to this weekend’s clash, here is everything you need to know about our upcoming opponents…
Recent Form
The Foxes have met the Hornets twice this season already, with the teams’ most recent clash coming in the New Year in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup. The match finished 4-1 to the hosts at the King Power and saw Watford play a rotated squad, with a handful of players - including Shaq Forde - being handed their first-team debuts.
Leicester’s cup run would come to an end in the following round, with the 2020/21 champions suffering a 4-1 defeat at the hands of Nottingham Forest. Back in the top-flight, Leicester had gone five matches without a win before beating Burnley and Leeds United in back-to-back victories in an attempt to get their season back on track.
Despite defeat to Arsenal in their next match (March 13) Leicester then enjoyed a fruitful spell in the league, securing wins over Brentford and Crystal Palace either side of a draw with Manchester United.
Brendan Rodgers’ men would then go on a run of five games without victory, but they bounced back in style on Wednesday night (May 11) with a 3-0 triumph over Norwich City on home soil to move up to 10th in the table.
European Success
The 2015/16 Premier League champions began their European season in the UEFA Europa League, but fell out of that competition after failing to qualify from the group stage. As a result of finishing third the Foxes booked their place in the Europa Conference League knockout round, and faced off against Danish side Randers in the play-offs – winning 7-2 over two legs.
Next up in the last 16 were French side Rennes, who they managed to beat 3-2 on aggregate despite losing the second leg, securing their place in the quarter-finals of the tournament. After a goalless first leg, the Foxes beat PSV Eindhoven 2-1 in the Netherlands and progressed to the final four of the competition where they were to face Roma.
However, it would be one step too far for Rodgers’ team who would miss out on the final, with José Mourinho’s Italians earning a 2-1 victory over two games. After a 1-1 draw at the King Power the second leg proved pivotal, with Tammy Abraham’s goal separating the sides.
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Rob Edwards will be joined at Watford by his assistant from Forest Green Rovers, Richie Kyle.
Watford and Everton played out an uneventful 0-0 draw as the Hornets ended their dismal run of home defeats.
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of Young Hornets about their journey in and outside of football.
Next up to take on the questions is highly-rated midfielder Ben Smith.
The 18-year-old joined the Hornets in 2012 and has featured for both the Under-18s and the Under-23s this campaign. He also took to the Vicarage Road pitch in pre-season, playing against West Brom.
How would you describe your playing style?
I’m a central midfielder that likes to get on the ball and dictate play. I prefer playing in the deeper positions, like a number four, so I can get on the ball and try to control possession. I really like the way that Mateo Kovačić plays, he is quality and I try to take parts out of his game.
Favourite current Watford footballer?
Tom Cleverley has so much experience from playing Premier League football, and he knows what it takes to be consistent and sustain that sort of level. He is 32 now but is still playing in the best league in the world, and he has also done it at the highest level of the game with England.
Biggest influence?
My mum, dad and sister have obviously been huge in supporting me alongside other members of my family who watch all my games. My grandad [former QPR and Spurs winger Roger Morgan] as well because whenever he comes to watch he is completely honest with how I’ve played, which is obviously what I need to get better. I have a frame of his England shirt and cap in my room, which is motivating.
Favourite football kit?
As a Watford supporter I would say the 2020/21 all-white away shirt. I played in that a couple of times and really liked it.
Favourite boots?
I’ve always been a bit of a Nike man. I would say the Phantom Venoms - I had four pairs of them at one stage! There was a volt blue colourway which I have used, which was really nice.
Favourite footballing memory?
Coming into the first-team in pre-season against Brentford and West Brom. Of course, the West Brom game was at The Vic so it was good to come on in front of the supporters. That was a good all-round experience. I played in the Brentford game in the morning, went straight to Vicarage Road, didn’t think that I would come on and was warming up like you usually do, and then I got called down. The difference in intensity is massive, so I try to take that into the games I’m playing in the academy. It was a good learning curve to see the difference in physicality.
Most talented teammate?
I would say Ryan Andrews. He has come on massively and he is very athletic. He is a full-back who can defend but also put in a good ball. A lot of it is about trust because I know he has the athleticism to attack and defend.
Favourite things to do when not playing football?
Recently I’ve been out on the golf course quite a bit because I’m trying to get back into golf. I go out with Freddie Moriarty, Will Hall and Alfie Marriott, and we do 18 holes. We’re alright, but our focus is on football.
Best footballing advice you’ve received?
Football is a game of opinions. Play for the little boy that started playing football. I think it can be easy to get carried away with the pressure of things. Play to enjoy it because you’ll be more confident, and you’ll play better.
More From This Series
Getting To Know: Harvey Peters
Getting To Know: Jonathan Macaulay
Getting To Know: Christos Batzelis
Getting To Know: Charlie Davis
Getting To Know: Adrian Blake
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Making his first league start of the season, Dan Gosling thought Watford demonstrated character in their goalless draw with Everton at Vicarage Road and hopes the team can finish on a high in the Premier League.
Describing ‘a really difficult season’ from a personal perspective, Gosling felt the players who entered the fray in place of injured and unwell absentees put in a strong performance, as the Hornets picked up a first home clean sheet of 2021/22.
“It’s a shame it’s come a little too late,” Gosling said.
“The team talk before the game has been about playing for the shirt, playing for pride and playing for ourselves, and trying to do yourself and your family proud. That’s what we’ve got to play for and we did that to a man.
“There were a lot of changes and the boys that came in were fantastic. I think if we showed a little bit more of that character over the course of the season it might have been different.”
Gosling has worked hard from the sidelines to ensure he can be available when called upon to step into the side, and was pleased to return to the fold.
“It’s been a really difficult season, but what I do is train hard every day, keep my mentality right and stay professional, and that’s what I’ve done all season,” Gosling explained. “I’ve had to bide my time but it’s a start, and a step in the right direction for myself personally.”
Ending the season on a high note is a priority for the 32-year-old, with Leicester at home next up on Sunday [May 15, 2pm KO].
Gosling added: “We have to end the season well, especially here at home. We’ve been poor all season, I don’t know why, so to end with three points on Sunday it’ll be a massive boost to the fans and the club.
“I know it’s very late in the season but if we can play for pride, get three points and go to Chelsea it will be a good end to the season.”
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Former Watford striker Marvin Sordell will feature as a special guest on this Thursday’s edition of Inside The Hive (May 12, 7-8pm BST), to reflect on his time in yellow and answer supporters’ questions.
Academy graduate Sordell, who scored 27 goals in 83 appearances for the Hornets before departing for Bolton Wanderers in 2012, will join host Michael Kurn and Golden Boys legend Tommy Mooney in the studio.
You can send in your questions to him on social media using #InsideTheHive. Sordell will also pick the latest player to be added to our Greatest Watford XI.
Elsewhere on the show, we take a look at the important work being undertaken by the Watford FC Community Sports and Education Trust as part of Mental Health Awareness Week, and Golden Girl Gemma Biggadike takes on the 60-Second Challenge.
Also, the studio panel will preview our final home match of the season against Leicester City (Sunday May 15, 2pm KO).
This week’s show will be streamed on YouTube and Facebook, as well as on our website and app, from 7pm to 8pm BST.
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A few talking points from the draw against the Toffees as the departing 'Orns talks about the new head coach
Roy Hodgson felt his injury-stricken Watford side stepped up to the plate and impressed in their 0-0 draw with Everton on Wednesday night, as several players made the most of their opportunity in the starting XI and impressed the manager and supporters with committed efforts.
While neither team was able to make a decisive breakthrough, Hodgson was delighted with the level of work-rate, “honesty and integrity” shown by a Watford side with seven changes from the weekend’s defeat to Crystal Palace, with Samuel Kalu making his first start, Dan Gosling playing his first league game since August and returns to the starting line-up for Jeremy Ngakia, Ken Sema and Adam Masina.
“I don’t know that I expected to see anything other than an honest performance, but I think the players could have been forgiven if they didn’t give that performance,” said the Watford boss.
“I thought the honesty and integrity of many players who haven’t played much in my time in the club, against a team with an awful lot to play for, was excellent. I thought we dealt with that extremely well and I think we deserved the result.
“I can’t praise the players enough for what they’ve done tonight, and a few of them would be more than entitled to have moaned or been reluctant, but that wasn’t the case. The same for the crowd – I think they could have justifiably said ‘you haven’t given us anything this year’, but I think we saw that we have given some structure, we have some players that have performed.”
The Watford support was consistent throughout, as all four stands produced a vibrant atmosphere which spurred on the Golden Boys for the full 90 minutes.
Hodgson noted that despite an 11-game run of defeats at Vicarage Road, which ended against the Toffees, he never thought the supporters had made it a hostile environment for the Hornets.
“I’d like to thank the crowd for their support,” Hodgson continued. “They’ve been good throughout – they’ve been patient. I’ve never felt throughout my time here, even in the bad times, that the crowd were going to make it hard for us, which might have been the case because we haven’t given them what they wanted.”
The solidity in defence and consistency throughout gave Hodgson further belief that Watford have improved, and now calls on the team to produce a similar performance in the final home game of the season against Leicester on Sunday [May 15, 2pm KO].
Hodgson said: “With so many absentees tonight, they can be really proud against a team desperate for points for their own survival.
“I think the structure of the team has been okay for a while, even verging on quite good. But unfortunately we’ve had the tendency to make mistakes and teams have scored against us without necessarily dominating us. We made mistakes tonight but nothing like we have in previous games.
“It would have been sad if a performance like that would have been punished by a mistake costing us the game. We went about it the right way and it was obviously appreciated by the crowd. I didn’t know how they would react, they might have voted with their feet, but they came, and they supported us in an extremely good way. Maybe that encouraged the players as well, because they showed they are a team that isn't far from being a good Premier League team, and that was shown today.
“I'd now like to see two more performances like we gave tonight. They're showing there's always something to play for. It won't be easy against two top teams but I've taken a lot of heart from what I've seen tonight.”
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Ben Foster felt that Watford's much-changed team could hold their heads high after ending their record run of home defeats on Wednesday.
Watford manager Roy Hodgson has described the appointment of Rob Edwards as a step in the right direction for the Hornets, after it was announced he would be taking over as head coach in the summer.
Rob Edwards has agreed a two-year deal to become the new head coach of Watford after leaving Forest Green Rovers.
On Episode 46 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford's 0-0 draw against Everton at Vicarage Road on May 11, 2022, their first point in almost two months. Also: Rob Edwards is the new gaffer on the street at Watford FC. And: How introspective will the Watford FC board be this summer? Follow You Orns! (Twitter) at https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC and the new Watford Supporters Collective on Twitter (new Twitter account - @WSCHornets_ ): https://twitter.com/WSCHornets_
Episode publish date: May 12, 2022.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
FYI: The You Orns! shop: https://youorns.com. Watford news and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
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Watford are now hopeful that they will appoint Forest Green Rovers boss Rob Edwards as their new head coach the Watford Observer understands.
The Watford players brought into the starting XI against Everton can “hold their heads high” according to goalkeeper Ben Foster, following a spirited performance in the Hornets’ draw with the Toffees.
The goalless encounter saw seven enforced changes to the Golden Boys’ line-up, with the likes of Dan Gosling, Ken Sema and Samuel Kalu introduced as a result of several injuries.
Foster felt the integration of new talent added to the work-rate of the team at Vicarage Road, who were buoyed by the positive atmosphere produced by the Watford faithful.
“It was nice having a change of personnel in front of me, and the lads that stepped in can hold their heads up so high,” said Foster, 39.
“The crowd turned up and were fantastic yet again. I’m so happy for the lads in front of me, it was such a different team, but the fight they showed was top class and I think everybody can be proud of what they did.
“You know what you’re going to get from the guys, they’re going to give 110 per cent every single game and that’s exactly what they showed tonight. It was nice to see them working hard, for the team as a collective, and it’s no surprise that we got something from the game when you’ve got players working their socks off for 100-odd minutes.”
A cagey affair saw chances few and far between. Foster was forced into an excellent save to deny former Hornet Richarlison in the second half, but the ex-England international played down the stop and admitted he had little to do all evening despite making five saves.
“It was 50/50 really,” Foster continued.
“They probably had the best chance but other than that it was a bit of a quiet evening for myself and I don’t think Jordan [Pickford] had many saves to make either. It was two teams who didn’t really want to push for the win so we probably cancelled each other out.
“I was going that way anyway and managed to claw it [Richarlison’s shot] away. We’d have been distraught if that had gone in, it would have been a bit like Crystal Palace where we felt it wasn’t a penalty.”
The season’s final home game sees Watford host Leicester City on Sunday (May 15, 2pm KO). Foster is keen to send the supporters home happy from Vicarage Road and highlighted their committed backing of the team.
He felt the fans played a major part in the improved performance against their Merseyside opponents under the lights, and was pleased to help put an end to an 11-game run of defeats at The Vic.
“The fans have turned up week after week and gone away with nothing but a loss,” Foster said. “It was so important that we put a big effort in tonight, and everyone should be proud of themselves, the fans especially.
“Leicester don’t worry us, we have to give it a go and hopefully give the fans something to cheer about and get a win.”
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The 'Orns boss had plenty to say after his team hosted the Toffees in the Premier League at Vicarage Road
Roy Hodgson was pleased with Watford's "honest performance" as they ended their run of home defeats with a goalless draw against Everton.
A goalless draw at home after being relegated is no cause for celebration, but Watford were finally able to draw a line under their awful record-breaking run of defeats at Vicarage Road with a 0-0 stalemate against Everton.
The full Hornets team to face the Toffees in the Premier League has been named by Roy Hodgson
Watford have this afternoon confirmed that Rob Edwards will become the club's new head coach following the end of the season after his exit from Forest Green Rovers
Watford have announced that Rob Edwards will be their new head coach after the conclusion of the current campaign.
Watford Football Club is delighted to confirm the appointment of Rob Edwards as its new Head Coach, effective after the conclusion of the current 2021/22 season.
Rob had a contractual provision allowing him to leave Forest Green Rovers at any time to discuss employment opportunities at other clubs and the Hornets are delighted to confirm our discussions concluded today.
Rob joined Forest Green Rovers as Head Coach in 2021, where his attractive brand of football took the Gloucestershire side to the top of Sky Bet League Two – winning the division earlier this month for the first time in the club’s history. His efforts were recognised by the EFL when he collected the League Two Manager of the Season award.
His debut in the professional game came just after his 20th birthday and was handed to Rob by none other than the late, great Graham Taylor OBE for Aston Villa in December 2002. A successful playing career including the likes of Wolverhampton Wanderers and Blackpool was cut short by injury after just over a decade.
Rob quickly moved into coaching roles, initially within the Wolves academy. He led the Under-18 and Under-23 sides, while also experiencing an interim spell in charge of first-team affairs in 2016.
Success with Wolves’ Under-23s saw Rob win promotion to the Premier League 2, the highest division in English youth football, and his stock rose further as both Head Coach of England’s Under-16 side and a coaching role in the Young Lions’ Under-20s set-up.
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HertsLive provides updates from Vicarage Road as the Hornets face the Toffees in the Premier League
League Two champions Forest Green Rovers have confirmed that head coach Rob Edwards has left the club, with the manager being strongly linked with Watford
Forest Green Rovers have confirmed the departure of head coach Rob Edwards, who is on the brink of being appointed Roy Hodgson's replacement at Watford.
Match Info
- Watford v Everton
- Premier League
- Vicarage Road
- Wednesday May 11, 7.45pm BST
Officials
- Referee: Mike Dean
- Assistants: Darren Cann, Dan Robathan
- Fourth Official: Andy Madley
- VAR: Michael Oliver
- Assistant VAR: Sian Massey-Ellis
Opposition
Though things looked promising initially, it was a somewhat tough start to life as manager of the Toffees for new boss Frank Lampard at the start of 2022. Everton beat Leeds United in just Lampard’s second match in charge, but followed that result up with four straight defeats in the league.
They would avenge those earlier losses with a last-gasp Alex Iwobi winner against Newcastle United at Goodison Park in March. Despite defeat in an engaging Merseyside derby against Liverpool, Everton had previously beaten Manchester United and they have since won their last two matches against Chelsea and Leicester City. They currently sit 16th in the table with a fixture in hand – a point above Leeds who currently occupy the final relegation position.
For more on the opposition, click HERE.
Key Stats
- Watford won the reverse fixture against Everton 5-2 in October and are looking to pick up consecutive league victories against the Toffees for the very first time.
- Everton have lost three of their last four Premier League away games against Watford, though they did win 3-2 on their last visit to Vicarage Road in February 2020.
- The Hornets have scored five goals against Everton in the Premier League this season – only versus three sides have they netted six or more goals in a single Premier League campaign (8 v Cardiff in 2018/19, 6 v Chelsea in 2017/18 and 6 v Aston Villa in 2015/16).
For the full statistical breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: Everton In Numbers.
Team News
João Pedro faced a late fitness test after missing Saturday’s Crystal Palace match with a minor groin problem. The forward trained earlier in the week and is hopeful of being involved against the Toffees, as is fellow Brazilian Samir, who was withdrawn at Selhurst Park with a minor knock.
Tom Cleverley is doubtful after being forced off at the weekend with a blow to the ribs, while Kiko Femenía and Joshua King are both suffering from illness and may miss out.
Ismaïla Sarr and Emmanuel Dennis are major doubts with knocks sustained against the Eagles, while young forward Shaq Forde is suffering with an ankle injury he picked up in training.
Definitely unavailable are Juraj Kucka (knee) and Cucho Hernández (hamstring), while Nicolas Nkoulou (minor groin problem) is also absent but should be okay for the Leicester match on Sunday (May 15, 2pm KO).
Imrân Louza (knee) had surgery earlier in the week and will be out for the rest of this season.
Hassane Kamara serves a one-match suspension following his sending off on Saturday, and Kwadwo Baah is away on international duty with Germany Under-19s.
For Everton, Yerry Mina (calf), Donny van de Beek (groin) and Ben Godfrey (quadriceps) are definitely out, as are Nathan Patterson (ankle) and Andros Townsend (ACL) who will be absent for the remainder of the season.
Vitaliy Mykolenko is available however, after coming off during the Toffees’ win over Leicester with cramp.
What Are They Saying
Roy Hodgson, Watford manager:
“I think you appeal to their [the players] pride and sense of professionalism [as motivation]. We’ve lost so many players that we find ourselves in the middle of an injury crisis. There’ll be an opportunity for some players to come in and make their case that perhaps I should have been picking them.
“I’ve got a strong opinion of him [Lampard] as a player, he played for me for England and was a wonderful player so I have the greatest admiration for him as a player.
“His managerial career started very well at Derby County, he did brilliantly. He did well at Chelsea but wasn’t given a particularly long spell to really show what he could do, and now at Everton, in this situation he finds himself in, he is showing all of the signs of having the qualities needed as a manager to pull the team out of the fire.”
Frank Lampard, Everton manager:
“The only message for us – although we enjoyed the weekend and it was a game that got us out of the relegation zone – is that it is very dangerous to relax.
“Every game in the Premier League is dangerous - especially away from home, we found that out for a while. It changed at Leicester, but the minute you think you’ve cracked it, you’ll struggle.
“There is a good feeling in the group from winning back-to back games and in terms of confidence we are ready to go again. To underestimate Watford would be our biggest danger.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
Won: 6
Drawn: 4
Lost: 22
Last Six:
October 2021: Everton 2-5 Watford (Premier League)
February 2020: Watford 2-3 Everton (Premier League)
October 2019: Everton 2-0 Watford (Carabao Cup)
August 2019: Everton 1-0 Watford (Premier League)
February 2019: Watford 1-0 Everton (Premier League)
December 2018: Everton 2-2 Watford (Premier League)
Golden Flashback
A Stefano Okaka brace and a Sebastian Prödl goal was enough to beat the Toffees 3-2 back in December 2016.
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Young Watford defender Mattie Pollock will feature as a special guest on this Thursday’s edition of Inside The Hive (May 5, 7-8pm BST), to reflect on a successful loan spell at Cheltenham Town and answer supporters’ questions.
The 20-year-old, who made 39 appearances in all competitions during his temporary stay at Whaddon Road and helped the Robins to a 15th-place finish in League One, will join host Michael Kurn and Watford legend Tommy Mooney in the studio. You can send in your questions to him via the YouTube comments section and on social media using #InsideTheHive.
Elsewhere on the show there’s exclusive, behind-the-scenes insight from the academy medical team during a 2-1 win for the Under-23s against Barnsley, while autistic Watford fan Kai Purvis - who now feels comfortable supporting the Hornets from the stands thanks to his experiences in the Sensory Room - shares his story.
Also, Christian Kabasele and Derek Agyakwa discuss the importance of education following last week’s Show Racism the Red Card event at Vicarage Road, and Golden Girl Megan Chandler takes on the 60-Second Challenge.
This week’s show will be streamed live on YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, as well as on our website and app, from 7pm to 8pm BST. You can also find it on our recently-launched Twitch page.
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Year five and six students from two local schools enjoyed the opportunity to engage with members of Watford FC’s playing staff at a racism educational event held in the Sir Elton John Suite at Vicarage Road last week.
The club’s Community Sports and Education Trust partnered with Show Racism the Red Card - the UK’s leading anti-racism educational charity - to deliver an afternoon packed with activities including a workshop, a film screening, and a question-and-answer session with academy defender Derek Agyakwa and Golden Girls captain Helen Ward, while Women’s Joint Head Coach Laura Dyer and Watford legend Luther Blissett were also in attendance.
Show Racism the Red Card, established back in January 1996, utilises the high-profile status of football and football players to help tackle racism in society, and both Agyakwa and Ward were impressed with the levels of understanding demonstrated by the pupils from How Wood Primary and Laurance Haines School - two of the schools the Trust works with on its Premier League Primary Stars programme.
Agyakwa, who is of Ghanaian descent and grew up in the Netherlands before joining the Hornets, said: “It was a really enjoyable, thought-provoking afternoon, and the kids contributed some really good questions.
“I was asked about how I would react if someone was racist towards me, which I had to really think about, so it was a really valuable session for us as players, as well as for the students.
“These sorts of education sessions are essential, because I think racism in general is largely about a lack of knowledge. I didn’t have anything like this when I was younger, and I definitely think it’s one of the most powerful tools in helping eradicate the problems we’re still seeing today.”
Ward said: “It’s vital to get into the minds of these young people and discuss these topics, because they’re the next generation and they’re going to become a big part of society in the future.
“I still think there’s more that can be done to tackle racism, but having been involved with Watford FC for most of my life - as a fan, a player, and a member of staff - I know how powerful events like this are, and how well football can be used as a platform to project such messages.”
Following the Q&A session the students were thrilled to have autographs signed and photos taken with their Hornets heroes, and Karen Stephanou, the Trust’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Lead, agrees with Ward that the event is a great example of how football can be used to help tackle societal issues such as racism.
She added: “Partnerships with charities like Show Racism the Red Card, and sessions such as this, serve as a great example of how we can collaborate to deliver key messages to the next generation.
“As a football club we are a role model, and the badge helps us engage with the community. Among our other initiatives we want to make kids aware at a young age that it’s not okay to be racist and that everyone is different, and hopefully they’ll take that message home and learn that it’s okay to challenge racist behaviour going forward.
“There were lots of smiling faces at The Vic and I think everyone enjoyed the event. As well as learning valuable lessons the children loved the chance to sit in the Sir Elton John Suite at a Premier League club and chat to some of their favourite players. It was a great day all round.”
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Roy Hodgson has confirmed that he will not be at Watford beyond the end of this season and says the job could be his last as a manager.
Lionel Messi and Argentina are due at Watford's London Colney training facility later this month, ahead of their 'Finalissima' match against Italy.
There had been many noteworthy encounters throughout the 1981/82 campaign, but for the sheer significance of the match, the Watford players had probably not appeared in a more important game then when they played Wrexham.
This was the night on which, after 100 years of existence, Watford had the chance to reach the First Division of English football.
The maths was straightforward. The Hornets were in second place with three games to go, in the days when the top three went up. One last push, one last win over Wrexham at The Vic and nothing could stop Graham Taylor and his side from marching into the top-flight.
Going into that game, promotion was all but inevitable. Even if Watford fell short against the Dragons, their rivals would have to conjure up something pretty special to elbow their way past the Golden Boys.
This was a group that knew all about clinching promotion, having done it in the Fourth and Third Divisions in the past. It was a team that included Luther Blissett and John Barnes – footballers with more than enough talent to step into most top division teams.
It was a special side where each player knew his job, a side that blended youth and experience, and was destined to clinch promotion. They were utterly focused on claiming the ultimate prize come season's end. And then there were the visitors, Wrexham, hovering on the brink of the relegation zone, having scored just two goals in six games.
But Watford didn’t underestimate the challenge and refused to lose focus, even if the fixture seemed favourable.
The opening to the game was as frenetic as you would have expected. Wrexham retreated deep into their own territory in the hope of securing at least a point from the evening, while Watford poured forward in search of that crucial first goal.
Chances came and went, but after 33 minutes Nigel Callaghan fed captain Pat Rice down the right. His cross was perfectly played, and Ross Jenkins rose highest to fire a header into the back of the net.
Collective relief spread around Vicarage Road, but following the interval, Wrexham were a far more potent threat. The relief dispersed as soon as it had arrived as the crucial second goal refused to arrive. There was no opportunity for that release of tension.
And then, finally, after 89 minutes it happened. A neat combination between Barnes and Wilf Rostron, and Jenkins was there waiting at the near post to place the ball past the goalkeeper. The strike was followed by bedlam in the stands and eventually on the pitch.
Once a sense of normality had been restored and the action restarted, the referee blew the final whistle, and the ground was once again awash with yellow and red as it was made official – Watford were in the First Division for the first time in their history.
It was quite an evening of celebration, replicated in the final home game of the season four days later against Leicester City, as the Watford faithful celebrated not just promotion, but the victory in the FA Youth Cup against Manchester United.
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Under-23 duo Adrian Blake and Ryan Andrews were pleased to get a victory in the final match of the season against Barnsley, with Omer Riza’s side winning 2-1 at Vicarage Road on Tuesday (May 3).
The Tykes took the lead after the interval, before a resilient Watford scored two goals in the final 10 minutes to secure the three points in the PL Professional Development League that lifted them to seventh in the south division.
Blake, who notched the all-important winner with a composed finish into the bottom corner, was delighted to get his first goal for the Under-23s, especially at The Vic.
“It’s been a long time coming,” said Blake, 16. “To finally score, at the end of the season, was amazing. I came on, I showed spirit, I got the goal, and we kept pushing.
“We were dominant and the boys stuck to the task. There were elements of the game we could’ve done better, but to come from 1-0 down to win the game 2-1 is brilliant.
“It was good to end the season at The Vic. The results have been up and down this season but it’s good to end on a win.”
Right-back Andrews was equally impressed with the team’s desire to push on following Barnsley’s opener, and felt that guile and poise were key to the fightback.
“It was important to remain composed because we knew if we lost the ball high up the pitch we’d get hit on the counter-attack,” Andrews said.
“I thought it was a good game. We dominated the first half and we went in at half-time knowing that we couldn’t start slowly in the second half. I think we had our moments where we gave the ball away in transition, but overall I thought the game was good.
“We had to finish the season off strongly. It was great to finish off at the stadium, so we wanted to go out with a bang and thankfully we managed to do that.”
On his personal development, Andrews has been pleased to play a role with both the Under-18s and the Under-23s this season, thanking coaches Riza and Tom Hart for their faith in progressing him.
“I think I’ve come a long way this season,” he said. “From pre-season, I just got my head down, and then from there, I’ve evolved into being part of the 23s.
“They’ve [Riza and Hart] been very important. They’ve had faith in me and trusted me to play for the 23s, so I’m very grateful to them.”
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All eyes are on Selhurst Park this weekend as Watford travel to Crystal Palace in the Premier League (May 7, 3pm KO).
In the reverse fixture, the Eagles beat the Hornets 4-1 at Vicarage Road as Roy Hodgson faced his former side for the first time since departing.
As we count down to the encounter, here is everything you need to know about our upcoming opponents…
Impressive Form
The Eagles have enjoyed a decent run of form in the top-flight since their victory at The Vic in February. In the eight matches since, Palace have only lost two games, against Leicester City and Newcastle. Highlights of their current run include a point against high-flyers Manchester City, and a 3-0 win against London rivals Arsenal.
More recently, Patrick Vieira’s side are unbeaten in their last two matches in the Premier League, after a goalless draw with Leeds United and a 2-1 victory over Southampton, with Wilfried Zaha notching a late winner to secure the three points.
Crystal Palace are currently ranked 12th in the league and are pushing to enter the top-half of the table. They are currently only two points off Newcastle in 10th with a game in hand.
FA Cup Success
Alongside a productive league campaign, the Eagles have enjoyed an impressive run in the Emirates FA Cup. After beating Stoke City 2-1 in the fifth round of the competition, Vieira’s Palace took on Everton in the quarter-finals.
It would be a notable show of force as Palace beat the Toffees by four goals without reply at Selhurst Park. Goals from Marc Guéhi, Jean-Philippe Mateta, Zaha and former Hornet Will Hughes secured their place at Wembley Stadium and in the final four.
The semi-finals would prove to be one step too far, as Chelsea comfortably beat Crystal Palace 2-0 despite a valiant effort from the Eagles.
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These were the jubilant scenes 40 years ago tonight when thousands of Watford fans celebrated on the Vicarage Road pitch and in the pond after the Hornets clinched promotion to the top tier of English football for the very first time.
Watford forward Cucho Hernandez has resumed individual training this week, as he continues to work on his recovery from a hamstring injury.
Watford Under-23 Lead Coach Omer Riza praised his side's character after they came from behind late on to beat Barnsley at Vicarage Road.
Cliff Holton scored the last of his unforgettable 42-goal league campaign on this day in 1960, in the club’s historic Division Four season.
The Hornets had never tasted the feeling of promotion before in their near-40 years as a Football League club, but entered the 1959/60 season with a newfound confidence and superstition. Not only did Championship-winning Holton move into the centre-forward role having served as an excellent defender the season prior, but Watford opted to ditch the blue for their now familiar yellow strip.
Holton, nicknamed the ‘Big Fella’, was in defence for the opening three games of the season, with three consecutive losses prompting the position change. To say the former Arsenal forward didn’t look back would be an understatement. The club’s penalty taker scored in a 3-1 win over Crewe Alexandra, and helped the Hornets hit Oldham for six before another storming display against Hartlepool which ended 7-2.
Prolific in cup competition too, Holton netted twice in a thumping of lower league side Wycombe Wanderers and played a key role in Watford’s run to the fifth round of the FA Cup, losing ultimately to Sheffield United in a replay. His total outside of the league was a respectable six goals.
As if Holton hadn’t set the bar high enough, he proceeded to score a hat-trick on back-to-back days over Easter against Chester and Gateshead. Promotion was then sealed with a win at Workington, courtesy of another Holton goal.
“We want Cliff!” echoed around Vicarage Road on the season’s final day, Holton on 41 goals and up against Walsall. Inevitably, he scored again, taking the tally to 48 in all competitions in just 52 games. Strike partner Dennis Uphill certainly deserves credit too for the Golden Boys’ first promotion since before the 1920s, chipping in with 36 of his own.
A serial goalscorer, Holton would reach 105 goals in 166 appearances for Watford before joining Northampton Town, where he would replicate his excellent form and enjoy promotion with the Cobblers and Crystal Palace in the space of three seasons. Iconic strikers have followed in the footsteps of the Oxford-born attacker at Watford, but very few have managed to match his impact in front of goal at Vicarage Road.
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League campaigns are coming to an end for our on-loan Hornets, with exciting battles at either end of the table concluding in England and abroad.
The Championship promotion fight is hotting up and Danish playmaker Philip Zinckernagel is at the centre of it all with Nottingham Forest.
The Watford loanee scored the winner against already-promoted Fulham last Tuesday and played 70 minutes of the Tricky Trees’ 5-1 win over Swansea City at the weekend.
All eyes are on Tuesday night’s penultimate Championship clash for Forest against AFC Bournemouth. Zinckernagel’s side will go second in the table with a win against their opponents, who are currently occupying the position.
Elsewhere in the second tier, Andre Gray’s spectacular volley against Derby County was awarded Queens Park Rangers’ Goal of the Season. The Jamaica international, who has nine goals to his name this term, was also nominated for the league’s award.
League One’s season ended on Saturday afternoon, providing Mattie Pollock, Dapo Mebude and others with a last chance to pull on the shirt of their temporary sides.
Pollock has experienced his first full season at third-tier level, operating at centre-half for 39 games in all competitions for Cheltenham Town. The Robins closed out their season with a 2-2 draw against Cambridge United to secure a 15th-placed finish in a promising campaign for 20-year-old Pollock.
Dapo Mebude’s AFC Wimbledon were ultimately unable to escape relegation to League Two and fell to a 4-3 defeat to Accrington Stanley at the weekend. The 20-year-old attacker notched an assist at Plough Lane in an entertaining encounter, closing out his first campaign in England having joined Watford from Rangers last summer.
Watford duo Daniel Phillips and Pontus Dahlberg also finished their seasons in the bottom four, having played for Gillingham this term.
Hoping to avoid the drop in the Netherlands, goalkeeper Maduka Okoye’s Sparta Rotterdam scored a crucial late equaliser against AZ Alkmaar. The Eredivisie side are three points from safety with three games to go, including a hotly-anticipated clash with PEC Zwolle, who are also currently on 26 points.
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Ex-Watford player John Eustace is the bookies' current favourite to take over from Roy Hodgson at Vicarage Road at the end of the season.
There are occasions where effort and hard work unfortunately aren’t rewarded. That was the case as the Golden Girls left everything out there against Coventry United at Vicarage Road, but a stoppage-time goal saw the team relegated.
Joint Head Coaches Armand Kavaja & Laura Dyer were understandably very disappointed afterwards, but none of that disappointment could be levelled at anyone associated with Watford, where pride was a more suitable description.
“No, not at all,” Kavaja told watfordfc.com when questioned if he couldn’t have asked for much more. “Really proud of the girls, especially for the last two months, to be honest for the whole season.
“They’ve been grafting, doing everything we’ve asked, which is all you can ask from anyone really. They’ve listened and taken the information on board.
“Then they go into the game and they’re resilient, structurally sound, we suffocated them in a way, but then allowed them to get opportunities.
“We did say free-kicks and crosses from wide areas were probably where they were going to threaten, and unfortunately it was just one free-kick too many.
“If you’re going to lose a game to any goal, that’s the goal to lose it to, because it’s an outstanding free-kick. Fair play to Coventry and well done to them, but gutted for ourselves and the girls.”
It was a mood that Dyer agreed with, having seen exactly what all the players had put in to get to this point.
“It’s a hard one to take,” she said. “The players that we’ve got in there are players that have fought every single day, every minute, every kick.
“That’s something that hurts, we know it’s hurting them, we’re seeing it today. As Armand said, we’re truly proud of what they’ve done, especially over the last couple of months, but again, the season as well.
“There have been hurdles that they’ve had to jump over, and they’ve done that, it’s just a shame that today has ended the way it has.”
One noticeable aspect of the entire campaign has been the team spirit throughout. Whatever setbacks there have been, everyone has stuck together.
“They are a fantastic team,” revealed Dyer. “There are individuals in there, they all give you something different, and the togetherness they’ve shown has been unbelievable.
“The way they’ve clicked and grown as a unit is something we’re immensely proud of as staff, just to see them go out there fighting for each other.
“The group is fantastic, and I know I’ve thoroughly enjoyed being with this group and seeing what they can do, some absolutely unbelievable characters in there and it just hurts right now.”
There will be a little bit of time to take everything that’s happened in, but preparations for next season will begin soon, and Kavaja knows this team is capable of bouncing back.
“We’ve just got to rebuild, get together, see who we would like to keep,” he said. “Obviously [that’s] the majority of the girls, and rebuild from this group that we’ve got here, because they know our values and what we want from them. Hopefully whoever comes in, fits in with those values.
“Hopefully having gone back into the Championship will make us stronger, better experience. It was a difficult pre-season I would say, not knowing what league we were going to be in, and then starting a bit later with the recruitment and so on.
“Hopefully now we’ll have a chance to prepare properly for the National League and come back up.”
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Watford will learn of their Championship schedule next month, with EFL league fixtures being announced on Thursday, June 23.
Watford FC Women captain Helen Ward felt immense pride with the Hornets’ fight against Coventry United on the final day of the FA Women’s Championship season, but admitted bad luck and poor spells during the season were behind the team’s relegation to the National League.
Ward felt the Golden Girls executed their game plan effectively and potentially deserved to claim a vital point to stay in the second tier, but Mollie Green’s free-kick in second-half stoppage time made the difference, keeping the Red and Greens in the division at Watford’s expense.
“The manner of today’s defeat is what’s hard to take,” said Ward, 36. “I feel like that was the only way they were going to score today. The girls put everything into it. To a player I can’t fault anyone, but it’s not all about today, it’s the games that have led up to today that have put us in this position.
“We stuck to our shape really well, we were organised and disciplined, and put on some really good performances out there.
“We knew they were going to come at us today and knew they needed to win it so it was always going to be ‘backs to the wall’ to an extent. We can all be proud of the way we’ve played today but we’re really disappointed.”
The narrow defeat means a first relegation for Ward and Watford since 2018, when the Hornets dropped out of the then-WSL 2. Now with access to better facilities and more closely connected to Watford FC as a whole, Ward backs the team to fight for immediate promotion next term.
The striker also gave a mention to the supporters attending the game in the Lower Graham Taylor Stand, who provided a positive and loud atmosphere throughout, staying long after the final whistle to show their appreciation for a committed and tireless performance.
“It’s raw today but we’ll learn, we’ll reflect and hopefully we’ll keep the majority of the group together and give it a good go next season,” the Wales international explained.
“I’m under no illusions, the National League is a really competitive division, there are some really good teams and I think that shows in the FA Cup, they come up and have competed with Championship-level sides.
“It’s not going to be easy but compared to 2018 when we went down last time, we’re in a much better place. The only way is up and I know we have the full backing of the guys behind us. It’s not going to be easy, Watford will be a lot of teams’ cup final next season and it’s going to be a different kind of pressure to this year.
“If we can keep the core group of players together and the staff as well, we can have a successful season.
“It’s been a rough season with lots of ups and downs, we’ve dealt with a lot of injuries and it’s been a tough season. I can be proud of the team today and the fans were fantastic. I’d like to thank them.”
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Moussa Sissoko has blamed a "very poor" second half for the defeat to Burnley that has left Watford all but relegated from the Premier League.
Mollie Green’s 35-yard free-kick deep in stoppage time saved Coventry United and relegated hosts Watford in an incredible match at Vicarage Road.
Captain Moussa Sissoko rued Watford’s second-half showing against Burnley, after a promising first-half display was undone by late Jack Cork and Josh Brownhill goals that saw the Clarets snatch a 2-1 win at Vicarage Road.
The Hornets’ 11th successive home defeat in the Premier League leaves them 12 points adrift of safety and on the brink of relegation, with Sissoko admitting the result was “very painful” to take.
“We had two different halves,” said the Frenchman. “In the first half we did very well, showed good spirit, commitment, desire and attitude. We scored a good goal but should have scored more.
“The second half was very poor - we didn’t play, and we didn’t create enough. We could have scored again on a few occasions but didn’t.
“In the Premier League one goal isn’t enough, it doesn’t matter who you are playing, and unfortunately we fell short.”
While the drop now looks likely the final four games of the season present the Golden Boys with a chance to turn around their poor run of form, with Sissoko tasked with lifting the mood in the dressing room.
Sissoko added: “We knew about the dangers Burnley possess and it was difficult to keep a clean sheet, but we conceded twice. We could have done better and the mood is now very low.
“As a team, and as a club, we’re in this together. The next few days will be tough, but as professionals we have to give our best until the end of the season and finish well.”
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Ray Lewington has said that both he and manager Roy Hodgson will not walk away from Watford before the end of the season.
Four talking points from the 'Orns home game against the Clarets as they fall to a defeat that all but guarantees their relegation down to the Championship
On Episode 44 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford's 2-1 defeat against Burnley at Vicarage Road on April 30, 2022 in the Premier League as Watford's inevitable slide to the Championship ensues. Also: What the Watford Football Club board must do next. Plus: Watford Women in a massive game against Coventry United. And: The evil of censorship of constructive views by football fans on social media. Follow the new Watford Supporters Collective on Twitter: https://twitter.com/WSCHornets. Latest article: Alienation Of Some Or Any Watford Supporters Hurts Watford FC - https://bit.ly/3K4JGrV
Episode publish date: April 30, 2022.
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FYI: The You Orns! shop: https://youorns.com. Watford news and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
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Watford put themselves on the brink of relegation to the Championship with a late collapse at Vicarage Road against Burnley.
Hornets Ambassador Filippo Galli joined the panel to discuss his favourite Watford moments on Thursday’s edition of Inside The Hive (April 28), as well as answering questions sent in by supporters.
You can watch the full episode above, in which Galli features alongside Hornets legend Tommy Mooney and studio host Michael Kurn.
Galli On...
Joining Watford:
“For me it was like a dream come true. I always loved English football’s atmosphere. To sign for Watford was something that was really unbelievable to me. To come to Vicarage Road was fantastic. Unfortunately, the season was disappointing, but to play in England for Watford was great and an experience I will remember forever.”
Ray Lewington:
“He was like an older brother to me. He was really close to the players and he was really helpful.”
Big Games:
“They are always something a player wants to play in. To prepare for a big game is easy because you are focused. To prepare for a game like the Champions League final is really easy. You don’t need the coach to push you in the training sessions. Everything is much easier. The pitch always shows the truth. If you are well prepared, you can succeed. When you lose in a competition like the Champions League, it is a big pain.”
His Best Moment At Watford:
“When I arrived for the first time at Vicarage Road, I met the people at the club. That was a really important moment. I felt at home from the beginning.”
His Favourite Moment In His Career:
“Probably when we won the final in Athens against Barcelona 4-0 in 1994. It was the third Champions League, but the first I played in the starting XI. That was the best moment. The first Italian Championship win was really great as well. We went on the bus to the San Siro surrounded by the supporters.”
His Toughest Opponent:
“Diego Maradona. If you let him face you with the ball at his feet, it was impossible to stop him. You had to try and anticipate him. When you ran next to him, he was very strong and not just good with his feet. He could keep you away from him.”
His Best Teammate:
“Ray Wilkins was, for me, fantastic. He was young when he moved to AC Milan but he was a great person to me. I had fantastic teammates and I was really lucky to play with some great players, especially at AC Milan during those times.”
The English Game:
“I had always been attracted by the atmosphere. The first game I watched in England was Coventry against QPR. I remember when I was young, I had players in my mind like Mick Channon and others. I’m a fan of all leagues in England.”
Settling Into England:
“In the beginning it was really hard because the intensity was always so high – during the matches and the training sessions. Here in England the intensity of the game and opponents were really tough. In a few games I got used to it. I tried to do my best and be focused day after day. When you are 38 or 39 you need to train to have a great style of life.”
His Current Role At Parma:
“I’m Head of the Methodological area. We try to give the teams from the academy the same style of play. We try to give them advice and control the training sessions. We try to develop professional players. We have many players from abroad and different regions. We try to help them build their identity and connect them to their community.”
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Assistant manager Ray Lewington admitted a lack of confidence contributed to Watford’s agonising 2-1 defeat at home to Burnley, with the result leaving the Hornets on the brink of relegation from the Premier League.
Having dominated the opening stages at Vicarage Road, Watford took the lead in the eighth minute through a James Tarkowski own goal, while Juraj Kucka and Emmanuel Dennis were among those in yellow to go close to adding to the tally.
Ben Foster made a string of fine stops to keep the hosts in front before former Hornet Jack Cork headed in an equaliser in the 83rd minute, with Josh Brownhill following up soon after to snatch the points for Burnley to aid their own battle for survival.
Having seemingly been in control for much of the clash, Lewington explained how the mental side of Watford’s game let them down in the latter stages, with the “fear factor” something the 65-year-old has noticed since he and boss Roy Hodgson arrived at the club in January.
“The result was a massive disappointment today, especially given we had a really bright start,” Lewington said. “At half-time we were pleased - we were playing well and the crowd were behind us.
“We needed a second goal, but we didn’t get it. During the break we emphasised the need to avoid dropping off to protect the lead, but unfortunately human nature took over. We haven’t got a great deal of Premier League experience, and you saw the fear factor that exists at home today.
“We dropped deeper and deeper and had a lot less of the ball, and we made mistakes which allowed them to score two goals. Today’s result is as much about us dropping off as it is about other failings elsewhere.
“The confidence is very low, and that comes from losing games. It was low when we got here, they have done better in some of the games since but we’ve missed chances and you can’t do that in the situation we’ve been in.”
The result leaves Watford 12 points adrift of safety with four games of the season remaining, meaning maximum points are required as well as results elsewhere to go their way if they are to produce an unlikely escape from the drop.
Lewington acknowledged the bleak situation but insisted he and the team will give their all until the very end of the campaign, with a trip to Crystal Palace next up on Saturday May 7 (3pm KO).
He said: “It would need something spectacular now, obviously. We’ve got to play for our pride now, perform, and give our best for the players themselves and for the supporters.
“We’ve got four games left and the most important thing is that we don’t drift away. We’ll keep working and the results and the table will take care of themselves.
“We’d like to thank the fans for their continued support. They’ve been magnificent and kept going for us despite the situation, and hopefully we can give them something to smile about before the season’s done.”
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The 'Orns assistant manager offered up his explanation after his side collapsed late on again at home in the Premier League
The 'Orns assistant spoke to the press, with Roy Hodgson unwell, after seeing his side fall to defeat at Vicarage Road against the Clarets
Ray Lewington has blamed Watford's fear factor for a record 11th consecutive home defeat that almost certainly will see them relegated at the end of the season.
Watford’s relegation fate is all but mathematically confirmed after they capitulated in the last ten minutes to lose 2-1 at home to Burnley and suffer a new top-flight record 11th consecutive defeat at Vicarage Road.
Join us live from Vicarage Road as Ray Lewington speaks to the press after his team lose against Burnley
Six years before Watford and Bristol City battled it out for the Division Two title on the final day of the season, the Hornets and the Robins faced off in the same league in a game of different significance.
Luther Blissett would step out onto a football pitch as a Watford player for the final time, capping off an unbelievable career in yellow spanning three spells and 503 competitive appearances.
The record goalscorer and appearance maker had come a long way since making his debut 16 years earlier against Barnsley, a prolific 18-year-old forward from the youth ranks, spearheading a Watford side which climbed through the divisions, all the way to a second-placed finish in the top tier.
For a game with low stakes, an entertaining encounter ensued. On-loan Robins forward Andy Cole opened the scoring only for Jason Drysdale to equalise soon after.
Cole doubled his tally in the second half to restore the visitors’ lead before a defensive error allowed Darren Bazeley to bring the sides level for the third time that afternoon.
Trevor Putney’s low, placed shot had just enough power to ripple the net and put Watford ahead for the first time in the game after a spell of dominance from the Golden Boys, with an enjoyable game turning crazy after the hour-mark. No fewer than three Bristol City players, Ray Atteveld, Wayne Allison and Mark Aizlewood, saw red for a mixture of mistimed fouls and poor language directed at officials.
If the game needed any more action, Blissett’s introduction from the bench would provide exactly that. The almost inevitable took place with three minutes left of normal time when Blissett, as he had done 185 times before that, found the target, a thumping header at the back post.
Not the only Watford legend and loyal servant to get in on the act, Nigel Gibbs then added gloss to the scoreline with a stoppage-time rocket from range on the same day he picked up his Player of the Season award, netting one of only five goals scored for the Golden Boys in over 400 appearances.
Blissett marked an end to his unforgettable Hornets career in style, adding to an already emphatic legacy at the club on his final game.
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Watford’s automatic promotion from Division Two was confirmed before the Hornets rocked up to Craven Cottage in a partying mood on this day in 1998, but the title was at stake with first-placed Bristol City in action away at Preston North End.
The Hornets’ disappointing draw with Grimsby Town a week earlier had seen the Robins edge ahead in the title race, leaving Graham Taylor’s side in need of a better result than their Somerset rivals to clinch the top spot.
Away supporters carrying portable radios packed the Thameside stadium, eagerly awaiting updates from Deepdale while keeping a close eye on the action.
Steve Palmer completed his one to 14 set of shirt numbers too, listed as number nine for the season’s climax.
Gifton Noel-Williams’ opener caused chaos in the Watford end when he effortlessly slotted home Micah Hyde’s low cross from close range, putting the Hornets on top on 34 minutes.
Fulham were in a promotion battle of their own slightly lower in the table, searching for a spot in the play-offs and equally awaiting results from elsewhere, but Ray Wilkins’ side faltered in front of goal despite having a grip on the game in the first 45.
Those in the know quickly diffused the scoreline in the other game among the away stand as Preston led City 2-1, adding to an already-confident group of supporters and buoying Taylor’s side on the pitch.
It was far from a smooth journey to the title in the second period, however. Fulham’s Paul Peschisolido had a goal disallowed before Peter Beardsley’s strike counted minutes later. Watford were still ahead of Bristol City, but barely.
Knowing a goal against the Hornets in either game would spell an end to their title hopes, Watford took the league into their own hands. A lofted Darren Bazeley cross found the head of Alon Hazan, who selflessly nodded back into the box for Jason Lee to convert, right in front of a sea of yellow.
Both sides could celebrate after the game, with other results confirming Fulham’s place in the Division Two play-offs.
Bristol City couldn’t turn around the deficit in Lancashire and handed the title to Watford on the final day. Supporters entered the pitch to join their heroes in celebration, safe in the knowledge that Watford were a league-winning, Division One side next season.
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The full Hornets team to face the Clarets in the Premier League has been named by Roy Hodgson
HertsLive provides updates from Vicarage Road as the Hornets face Burnley in the Premier League
Christian Kabasele has called on his Watford teammates to provide the fans with something to be proud of.
Ray Lewington has thanked the Watford fans for sticking by their team during what has been a dismal season back in the Premier League.
The Hornets manager was absent from the club's press conference this week due to illness, but his assistant stepped in to address questions about Hodgson's future
Watford CEO and chairman Scott Duxbury has described the club's performance on the pitch this season as "unacceptably poor".
With Roy Hodgson unwell, the Hornets' assistant coach spoke to the press about the club's poor form at Vicarage Road with Burnley next up
Watford's World Cup bound players have this evening found out who they will be playing at the tournament finals in Qatar this winter, following the draw.
Watford forward Cucho Hernández has won both the Stake Player of the Month and Goal of the Month awards for March.
The 22-year-old enjoyed an impressive month in yellow, stepping up for Roy Hodgson’s side as they continue to battle fiercely to maintain their status in the Premier League.
Hernández notched three goals and one assist in just three games during the month of March, with his goal involvements coming against Arsenal and Southampton.
The striker earned Player of the Month by showcasing his never-ending energy, intense speed and his technical ability on the ball.
In a competitive poll, the striker was chosen by fans ahead of midfielder and captain Moussa Sissoko, plus women's players Amber-Keegan Stobbs and Megan Chandler.
Hernández also took the prize for the best strike of the month with a stunning effort against Arsenal.
Kiko Femenía delivered a delightful ball into the box and the 22-year-old produced a spectacular bicycle kick to beat Aaron Ramsdale in between the sticks for the Gunners, sending the Watford faithful into raptures at The Vic.
The goal received universal acclaim, being nominated for the Premier League Budweiser Goal of the Month for March.
It was the Colombian’s fifth goal of the season and the first of the month, beating his brace at Southampton and strikes from Moussa Sissoko, Rosie Kmita, Chiara Meola and Jenna Legg.
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Having previously shared 2022/23 Season Ticket prices, the Hornets can now provide further guidance about supporters’ chance to take advantage of the club’s Early Renewal Offer from Wednesday April 6.
Renewals are available via your ticketing account at tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023, or in-person.
Click HERE to access the Season Ticket 2022/23 Renewals Guidance document, which provides step-by-step information, split out by the payment methods available.
There is also a separate section about applying any Ticketing Account Credit you may have held against your Fan ID record.
The final pages of the pdf contain the pricing matrix previously published – for easy reference – as well as some additional information supporters may find useful, particularly with reference to changes in price categories and other matters the club are commonly asked about.
As a reminder, the best possible Season Ticket price, with a discount of at least seven per cent, is available between April 6 and April 17 inclusive. You are welcome to change how you pay, if for example spreading your payments over a 12-month interest-free Direct Debit arrangement would better suit your current circumstances.
Thank you once again for your loyal support. We’re hoping to see many thousands of you taking advantage of the Early Renewal Offer – leaving plenty of time to back Roy and the boys for the final few games of this season.
Watford FC Supporter Services Team contacts:
supporters@watfordfc.com
01923 223023
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The Golden Girls will host Durham Women FC at Kings Langley this Sunday (April 3, 3pm KO), looking to make it back-to-back home wins in the FA Women’s Championship.
While the Hornets narrowly lost up at Sunderland in their last fixture, it was a fantastic victory over London City Lionesses at The Vic, when the team last had home advantage.
With the 2021/22 campaign coming towards the final stages, it’s a big stretch of the season coming up. Your support is crucial, and has played a huge role throughout, so be sure to get behind the side this weekend!
Fan Guide
We’ve put together a guide for the upcoming match with all the information you’ll need ahead of your trip to Kings Langley.
We look forward to welcoming you to The Orbital Fasteners Stadium.
Views from the Joint Head Coach
While it wasn’t the result the group will have wanted last weekend, Armand Kavaja has been pleased with what he’s seen ahead of the Durham encounter.
“They’ve worked really hard this week,” he told watfordfc.com. “We’re pleased and positive with how they’ve been, especially over the last 3-4 weeks.
“They’ve only grown, but you can see that it’s hurt them a little bit [the Sunderland game] and they want to prove that they’re working hard and can also get a result this weekend.”
It’s undeniably an important time on the pitch right now. The Joint Head Coach is looking at games individually and knows exactly what needs to be done.
“We try not to let them think about it as a month or the games remaining,” explained Kavaja. “We always talk about making sure you play the match ahead of you and also playing the game not the occasion.
“We know where we’re at, we know what we’re competing for. We all know that’s a challenge but it’s important we take the games and play the teams that come up, stick to what we’ve been speaking about and our goals.
“Last game, we kind of got a bit too excited and felt we could really get at Sunderland. It’s important we stick to the game plan throughout, making sure we don’t concede goals early and staying in it, because we’re starting to score goals later on, which is really pleasing to see.”
It seems like a long time ago since Watford returned to the Championship away at Durham on the opening day. Kavaja is prepared for the challenges that they’ll bring on Sunday.
“It’s difficult to assess it from the last game, because we’re a different beast, and they’re probably a different beast as well,” he revealed. “Having looked at them a little bit, they’re obviously quite a good footballing team, the majority of the group has been together for a while.
“We must stick to what we spoke about. We need to obviously deny central areas and space in behind, then pick our moments when we can go at the opposition. We don’t have the luxury at the moment to have everybody fit and available to do what we want to do, so we have to do that and stay compact.
“They like to hit the diagonal passes or try and go in behind, so we’ve got to minimise those areas that they can hit and hopefully we can pounce on any mistakes they might make, as they are a bit expansive from what we’ve seen.”
Finally, the coaching staff know what an impact the supporters have. Kavaja is looking forward to having home comforts again.
“We’re always excited to play at home,” he said. “We get the fans there and everybody’s supporting us.
“We’ll always get a buzz, whether that’s at Vic Road or Kings Langley.”
Opposition
Durham Women were formed in 2014 as a merger between South Durham & Cestria Girls and Durham University, going on to compete in the inaugural season of WSL 2 in that same year.
Durham and Watford had identical records back in 2014, with the Wildcats narrowly pipping the Hornets to sixth with a marginally better goal difference.
That was then followed by a seventh-placed finish the following year. The fact that’s still their worst WSL 2/Championship placing to date, tells you all you need to know about how strong they’ve been since.
They were remarkably consistent over the next three full seasons, finishing in fourth every time. In recent years, they’ve managed to improve on that even further. Durham ended up in third on a points per game basis in the curtailed 2019/20 campaign, as the best defensive record in the division saw them competing right up there towards the top.
That didn’t change when things got back underway in the following season. The Wildcats were again stingy defensively, only conceding 15 goals in 20 games, the joint-best in the division. It resulted in a new record finish, as only two losses all campaign saw them end up in second place.
It appeared that they would challenge again this time around as they came flying out of the traps, winning six of their first seven games, with only Watford managing to score against them in defeat.
Things haven’t gone how Durham would have wanted after that. For the first time in a long while, they’ve been struggling to earn three points in matches on a consistent basis, only being victorious in 25 per cent of their last dozen Championship fixtures. They’ve failed to find the net in their last three and will be eager to try and put that run to an end this Sunday.
It’s a very consistent squad for the side from the North East, with numerous players having played most or all of their seasons since formation. Three of those - Beth Hepple, Sarah Wilson and Ellie Christon - have made well over 500 appearances combined.
Hepple is also their leading scorer with more than 80 goals for the club. The Golden Girls will be aware of the threats she possesses from previous meetings and will know she’ll need to be watched closely at the weekend.
Ticket Information
You can purchase tickets in advance up until two hours before kick-off via our online site.
All sales from that point onwards will be from inside the clubhouse at Kings Langley FC.
Prices are as follows: £12 adults, £5 concessions (65+, student, under-18). A £2 discount is available if you're a Watford FC Season Ticket holder.
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It wasn't just first-teamers Ismaïla Sarr and Joshua King thriving on the international stage, with some of the Under-23s and Under-18s representing their countries at youth and senior level in recent weeks.
Kamil Conteh continues to make landmark appearances this season, with the midfielder making his senior debut for Sierra Leone.
Two months after his first appearance in the senior squad for Watford, coming off the bench against Leicester City in the FA Cup, Conteh donned his national colours for the first time in AFCON qualifiers.
The 19-year-old played the full 90 for Leone Stars in a 3-0 defeat to Togo on March 23, going on to play half an hour of their 1-0 win over Liberia. Rounding off a successful international break, he played the full game in a 2-1 win over the Republic of the Congo.
In Under-21s action, Tiago Cukur made another appearance for Turkey, his fifth at that level. The striker played the full game in a 2-0 win over Scotland.
Meanwhile, Andi Janjeva was an unused substitute as Kosovo Under-21s played out a goalless draw with Slovenia.
Christos Batzelis represented Albania Under-19s for two games, both against Kosovo, while Welsh defender George Abbott started all three of his country’s Under-17 internationals, defeats against Slovenia, Turkey and Serbia.
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Watford have confirmed that academy player Shaq Forde will continue with first team training from Monday.
Match Info
- Liverpool v Watford
- Anfield
- Premier League
- Saturday April 2, 12.30pm BST
- Yellow home kit, green goalkeeper kit
Officials
- Referee: Stuart Attwell
- Assistants: Marc Perry, Timothy Wood
- Fourth official: Tony Harrington
- VAR: John Brooks
- Assistant VAR: Simon Bennett
Opposition
Liverpool have bridged the points gap between themselves and Manchester City in the Premier League to mount a serious title challenge in 2021/22.
The Reds have lost just once in the top-flight since their October meeting with Watford, and could go top with a win over the Hornets in the early kick-off. To add to their impressive showing in the league, Jürgen Klopp's side won the Carabao Cup last month and are in the final eight and four of the UEFA Champions League and FA Cup respectively.
Key Stats
- The Hornets have won eight points from their six Premier League away games under manager Roy Hodgson (W2 D2 L2), as many as they had from their previous 17 on the road in the competition (W2 D2 L13).
- Liverpool have won 12 of their 13 home league games against Watford, with the exception being a 1-0 loss in August 1999 - that is their only loss in 16 home games against the Golden Boys in all competitions.
- The Reds are unbeaten in their last 18 league games at Anfield (W14 D4) since a 1-0 loss to Fulham in March 2021.
Team News
Watford manager Roy Hodgson has an almost fully-fit squad to pick from ahead of the Anfield trip.
Defender Nicolas Nkoulou is available for the clash, with the 32-year-old back in full training after completing his recovery from a long-term hamstring injury.
Liverpool defender Trent Alexander-Arnold is back in full training ahead of Saturday's match, with a possibility of making the team. Midfielder Naby Keita is a doubt however.
What Are They Saying?
Roy Hodgson, Watford manager:
“I think the competition for places has become hotter. I was happy with Cathcart, I was happy with Cleverley, and Dennis, Sarr and King, but the other players that have come in have made me think.
“That’s good going forward. We need to keep these players fit, keep the competition going, but most important of all this club needs spirit.
“Every time you play a team like Liverpool away from home you know the odds are stacked against you. There’s no secret to how good they are or why they’re good, the quality of their players and the quality of their work. All we can do is hope that we’re able to produce a performance on the day that will give us a result.”
Jürgen Klopp, Liverpool Head Coach:
“If we viewed this [as an easy game] we wouldn't have that many points. Man City are the same. The good thing is my team never care about their league position. They listen to me. I am honest in meetings and don't make a team sound stronger or weaker than they are.
“We have to surprise Watford with intensity - it is not an easy weekend for City or us.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
- Won: 6
- Drawn: 4
- Lost: 25
Last Six:
October 2021: Watford 0-5 Liverpool (Premier League)
February 2020: Watford 3-0 Liverpool (Premier League)
December 2019: Liverpool 2-0 Watford (Premier League)
February 2019: Liverpool 5-0 Watford (Premier League)
November 2018: Watford 0-3 Liverpool (Premier League)
March 2018: Liverpool 5-0 Watford (Premier League)
Golden Flashback
Tommy Mooney was the hero for Watford at Anfield, netting the only goal in the Hornets' victory over Liverpool in 1999.
Listen Live
Join host Jon Marks and Hornets legend Tommy Mooney for free live commentary from Anfield by heading to www.watfordfc.com/live from 12.15pm BST.
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Watford defender Kiko Femenía is excited and ready for the challenge this weekend as the Hornets travel to Anfield (Saturday April 2, 12.30pm KO) to face Liverpool.
The 31-year-old is under no illusions about the difficulty of the task that awaits him in Merseyside, as Watford go head-to-head with a title challenger.
After an important victory against Southampton before the international break, Femenía believes it is important to continue that momentum going into the encounter against the Reds and the final part of the season.
“I think for the group, the way we were working these last few weeks, we had come from a bad run of form, and I think that game at Southampton gave us more confidence when it came to our performances,” said Femenía.
“We went into the break with that calmness too which is good after a year that has also been a pretty tough season. And now we face the final straight with maximum confidence and certainty that we're going for the three points, no matter who the opponent is because we need the points more than anything else.
“We've still got a lot of points to win and we're right in there. In other words, it's more about gaining confidence in the game, feeling comfortable, feeling that we can beat any team and also our ambition. I think ambition is the key to winning games and if we go out to win, we're going to win a lot of them.”
The Golden Boys experienced a similar Premier League campaign during the 2019/20 season, however Femenía is adamant the Hornets have learnt from the trials of the past.
He believes Watford will use that knowledge gained to overcome their current challenges, viewing it as a positive as they fight to retain their top-flight status.
Femenía explained: “The comparison I would make is that at that time [in 2019/20] we were outside of the relegation zone, and it wasn't until the end that Aston Villa, who were below us, pulled us down and I think the same thing could happen this season.
“Now we are the ones at the bottom and them above. They are the ones who have to watch out, so that we don't catch them, and they have to be more scared than us. We are already at the bottom so we have to win games and, in the end, I think that could be the difference from that year to this.
“Now we are the ones who are at the bottom winning games, we are the ones who can climb up and bring another team down and I think it is in our hands to do that.
“I think for the Premier League, that’s why it's the best league in the world, because anyone can beat anyone. If you try to calculate the numbers, it's useless. We have to go game by game to try to get the three points and on May 22 we will see where we are.”
Femenía, who joined the Hornets in 2017, made his debut for the club against Liverpool, in a 3-3 draw. The Spaniard recently reached the proud milestone of more than a century of Premier League appearances and is looking forward to creating more memorable top-flight moments in the future.
“My favourite moment was day one,” Femenía began. “I always said that my dream was to play in the Premier League and since I signed my contract here at Watford, I was able to fulfil one of the dreams I had as a footballer. Then in these five years I've had a lot of good days at the club.
“Last year being able to go up to the Premier League again and the fact that every day I am part of this club, this team and playing games in the Premier League, for me, is an achievement, so I am very happy to be here.
“The club also trusted me when I needed it most. I had a hard time years ago and I think this club gave me that confidence as well and I owe them a great deal of affection.”
A key part of Watford’s success in the final part of the season will be under the tutelage of manager Roy Hodgson. The 74-year-old only arrived in January, but his ideas and philosophy have made a good impression on the squad, according to Femenía.
“He hasn't been with us for long, but I think the team has improved in certain aspects,” he added. “We're adapting to his ideas, the ideas that he has and for the players, for all of us to understand more or less what the coach wants.
“I think that's the way forward. I think we're quickly getting used to his idea of playing and in the end, if we all understand what the coach wants and we all join our efforts, we're going to get a lot of positive results.”
The 31-year-old has featured in every match under Hodgson when he has been available for selection, contributing by making darting runs forward and key tackles in defence.
He currently has five assists to his name which is the joint best return in the squad, one more than his previous campaign – which was his prior assist record in a Watford shirt. The full-back has enjoyed the freedom to deliver important crosses and is hopeful of more to come.
He said: “You're always happy to provide assists or to score goals, so I'm happy. The important thing is the team. I wish I could swap these assists for climbing three or four positions higher, but in the end I contribute the best I can to the team and help everyone.”
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Liverpool and Anfield await Roy Hodgson’s Watford on Saturday following three weeks without a game for the Hornets, as the Golden Boys hope to replicate their last performance on Merseyside, a 5-2 victory over Everton.
The Carabao Cup winners present a tough test for Watford, but with several players on either side buoyed by successful international breaks, it could make for an intriguing encounter.
Kiko Femenía & Sadio Mané
Scoring a penalty alongside international teammate Ismaïla Sarr to qualify for this winter’s World Cup, Senegal star Sadio Mané will no doubt return to England with a spring in his step ahead of a reunion with the Watford winger this weekend.
The attacker, who has played across the front three this season, scored the winner in Liverpool’s last Premier League game at Anfield, a 1-0 victory over West Ham United. Mané is the club’s third top goalscorer with 12 so far this term, putting him joint-fourth in the league standings.
A livewire up front, Mané also has the fifth most shots on target in the division (31). If Mané lines up on the left flank, Kiko Femenia will be tasked with quelling the threat, and making an attacking impact of his own.
Femenía may force Mané to help out his side’s defence if the Spaniard makes his trademark driving runs on the right, and with five assists, the Reds need to stop the right-back from getting in the position to cross and pass.
Cucho Hernández & Andrew Robertson
Potentially taking place on the same side, another clash out wide will see the in-form Cucho Hernandez seeking to get the beating of Scotland captain Andrew Robertson.
Hernandez scored two decisive goals in the Hornets’ last fixture, a 2-1 away win at Southampton, and popped up with a delightful strike against Arsenal a week earlier.
Also grabbing an assist for Sissoko that game, the Colombian attacker has proven effective since coming into the side under Roy Hodgson, with only Emmanuel Dennis (nine) scoring more than his five in yellow this season.
Robertson is considered one of world football’s best in his position, having played a key role in Liverpool’s Premier League and UEFA Champions League triumphs in recent years.
Liverpool and the Premier League’s second-highest assister (11), Robertson is also third for the Reds in clearances (41), making him a danger in defence and attack.
Moussa Sissoko & Thiago Alcântara
An intriguing match-up in the middle, two experienced players will battle it out for control in Moussa Sissoko and Spanish international Thiago.
The duo first faced off when representing their former clubs in the Champions League, as Thiago’s Bayern Munich saw off Tottenham Hotspur.
Thiago has been on the winning side in every Premier League game he’s started this season, while Sissoko is a constant for Watford, playing more minutes than any other Hornet.
Sissoko has shown another side to his game recently too, scoring in back-to-back home games against Crystal Palace and Arsenal.
As the two sides vie for control at 12.30pm this Saturday, it will be interesting to see which of the midfielders comes out on top.
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Shaqai Forde has been recalled from his loan spell at Kings Langley, with the 17-year-old to join first-team training from Monday (April 4).
The forward has enjoyed a productive spell with the Kings notching two goals, an assist and winning a spot-kick in three games at the Orbital Fasteners Stadium during February and March.
Forde, who made his debut for the senior team against Leicester City in the Emirates FA Cup, is looking forward to continuing his development after his successful loan move to Kings Langley, learning much under the guidance of manager Chris Cummins.
“I feel like it’s helped me massively,” Forde said. “I’ve learnt that I can’t hold onto the ball as much because the players I’m up against come flying into challenges. It’s helped me learn when to move the ball quicker and when to hold on to it.
“It’s helped me learn when to dig in deep. We’re playing for three points and at the end of the day, it’s people’s livelihoods on the line. It’s helped me learn about that winning mentality.”
Watford manager Roy Hodgson has been impressed with the 17-year-old and believes now is the right time for Forde to step into the senior squad.
“Forde has been training with us during these three weeks while the international players have been away and he has made a big impression,” Hodgson explained.
“I think that he is undoubtedly a player who, if he continues to progress in his game as he seems to be doing in recent times, has the capability of really making a mark. He is a goal scorer, there is no doubt he has the desire to do well, and we thought that if he is going to progress further then he needs to be testing himself out all the time against players who are going to make life a lot harder for him.
“He is young and will find it difficult playing against Premier League players, but I think that’s the way forward for him. His technical ability is good enough for him to handle that and he certainly is very keen to get the opportunity, and I believe it’s the right time to give him that opportunity.
“Now it’s up to him between now and the end of the season to try and make some sort of impression and make certain that when the squad is being put forward for next year, his name will be amongst them.”
Forde scored in the most recent Under-23 victory against Wigan Athletic (March 30) and has been a key member of the squad since making the step-up from the Under-18s earlier in the season.
The 17-year-old’s focus is now on the future and he has enjoyed learning from the senior team throughout the international break.
“It’s been a great experience training with the first team,” Forde continued. “Every day I’ve been learning new things and trying to learn little bits off everyone. It’s been a great experience and Roy [Hodgson] has been excellent with me.
“He has always given me tips of what to do better and gets on to me when I need to liven up a bit. He gives me the praise when needed. They have all been excellent to be fair and it’s been a really enjoyable experience.”
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The Golden Girls return to Kings Langley this weekend, hosting Durham Women in the FA Women’s Championship on Sunday (April 3, 3pm KO). Looking or planning to attend? Here’s everything you’ll need to know ahead of your visit.
Getting To The Ground
Train
If arriving by train, the Orbital Fasteners Stadium is within walking distance of a couple of stations. Apsley on London Northwestern Railway is the closest – just a 15-20 minute walk away.
Also within walking distance is Kings Langley station (on the same line), which is approximately a 25-30 minute walk away, with the route taking you through the town centre.
The usual service is approximately one train every hour, although the exact minute of these does vary ever so slightly.
A full timetable and further information on journey times/future engineering works can be found here.
Due to the ongoing pandemic, we would highly advise checking that your service is running before you travel.
Arrivals at Apsley station within three hours of the match starting are as follows…
From London: 12:23, 13:21, 14:21
From Hemel & further north: 12:28, 12:47, 13:46
Timings from Apsley station within three hours of the match finishing are as follows…
Towards London: 17:46, 18:46, 19:44
Towards Hemel and onwards: 17:19, 18:19, 19:19
Car
If travelling by car, please note there will be no parking available at the stadium, unless you are using the disabled section. Parking is readily available in the town centre and by the surrounding areas around the ground.
We recommend using Langley Hill Car Park (WD4 9HD) or The Nap Car Park (WD4 8ET). These are in the town centre, 24 hours and a 10-15 minute walk from the ground. Parking is also free.
The postcode of the ground is WD4 8BS. If wishing to plan your journey via Google Maps, you can do so here.
If you require disabled parking, please email womens.marketing@watfordfc.com and this will be sorted for you.
Bus
The 501 bus runs from Watford High Street and other locations around the Watford area, stopping just two minutes from Kings Langley FC (Coniston Road stop).
Services run every hour with timings (from High Street Stop B) as follows: 12:00, 13:00, 14:00
Please note that after the game, the last service back to Watford is at 17:32.
You can also get the 501 if you live in areas such as Hemel, Berkhamsted, Tring and Aylesbury. A full timetable can be found here.
Tickets
These can be purchased online, at the Vicarage Road ticket office, or over the phone (01923 223023). Online sales will stay up until two hours before kick-off.
Information on ticket office opening hours can be found here.
We strongly advise you to buy in advance if possible.
If you can’t do so and need to buy on the day, you will have to go to our ticketing station which is inside the clubhouse. Stewards will be on hand to direct you on the day.
Tickets are priced at £12 for adults and £5 for concessions*. These are both reduced by £2 if you’re a Watford FC Season Ticket Holder.
*Concessions are as follows: 65 and over, full-time students and 18 and under.
Arrival/Entrance
Kick-off is at 3pm. Those who have purchased tickets in advance or who have complimentary tickets will be able to enter via the turnstiles.
We recommend an earlier arrival time where possible. If buying on the day, please allow plenty of time.
If needing to access the disabled section, the entrance point to the left of the turnstiles will be opened for you.
Dogs
If you have a dog, these are more than welcome at the ground, however we do please ask that you keep them on leads.
Stay Safe
While the wearing of masks is encouraged, it is not compulsory while at your seat watching the game. We do ask that while walking around and using the indoor areas of the stadium, that you do wear a face covering, unless you are exempt.
We are pleased to confirm that it will now be possible to interact with the players and coaching staff after the match has finished. You can do so by the advertising hoardings.
Stands
For those who would rather watch the match sitting down, a seated stand is available on the side. For those who wish to stand, uncovered terracing is available on the side and behind both goals.
A disabled area is available – this is covered and raised above pitch level.
Please note: Due to red zone restrictions, the covered terracing on the side will not be accessible to supporters. The seating behind the goal is also no longer available.
Football Welcomes
Our matchday against Durham is dedicated to Amnesty International’s ‘Football Welcomes’. We’re delighted to be supporting the campaign, which runs throughout April.
Watford FC Women, along with football clubs across the country, will be welcoming refugees and people seeking asylum.
The campaign is now in its fifth year and celebrates the contribution players from a refugee background make to the game as well as highlighting the role football can play in bringing people together to create more welcoming communities for refugees.
Food & Drink
A burger van will be open serving a range of food and drinks, this will take both cash and card. Drinks and snacks are also available in the clubhouse.
Matchday Programme
Our 44-page programme will be available to purchase for just £3. It includes a feature with Corinne Henson, information on our opponents Durham, a Junior Hornets section for all our young fans and much more!
Please note: These will be on sale from inside the clubhouse.
Any Other Questions
Is there anything you want to know that hasn’t been covered here? Feel free to message us on any of our social media accounts (Twitter, Facebook and Instagram, and we’ll get back to you as soon as possible.
Ticketing Reminder
You can purchase tickets in advance to Sunday's match online, all the way until two hours before kick-off.
We recommend doing so, however if you do need to buy on the day instead, you will be able to do so from inside the clubhouse at Kings Langley FC.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Orbital Fasteners Stadium.
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Roy Hodgson wants Watford to view tomorrow's game at Liverpool as an opportunity to perform on one of football's biggest stages.
Hornets boss Roy Hodgson made clear his feelings on the new Premier League rule regarding substitutes, but also added to the doubt over his long-term future
Watford manager Roy Hodgson has outlined how important the Hornets' attack will be as his men look to avoid relegation from the Premier League this season
The Hornets boss had plenty to say in his press conference ahead of the match with Liverpool this weekend, including the latest injury news and how Watford will approach the game at Anfield
Roy Hodgson has said that players like Ismaila Sarr will be pivotal in Watford's search for Premier League safety.
As part of Watford FC’s celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, throughout March we’re speaking to individuals connected to Watford about the importance of women in football and their experiences within the game.
For the final piece of the series, we spoke to Watford FC Marketing Manager and male ally, Owen Arnold.
Working behind the scenes in a diverse marketing team at Watford Football Club, Owen Arnold is not only heavily involved in promoting Watford FC Women and campaigns to support female fans, but he also plays a part in the Equality, Diversity & Inclusion side of the club.
Alongside continuing to build Watford’s presence as a Premier League outfit, Owen helps to ensure the women’s side is given exposure, and supporters are made to feel welcome, regardless of gender, sexuality or ethnicity. He feels Watford have a clear responsibility.
“The most important thing to remember is that the game of football is for everyone,” Owen explained. “As one of the 20 Premier League clubs, Watford carries a responsibility to create an environment at both home and away games which is inclusive to all types of supporters.
“Our key objective is to make sure we remove barriers to entry for all new supporters coming to Watford, and we create great experiences to keep fans coming back for more. We have worked incredibly hard in recent years to continually push the message of ‘Watford Welcomes’, as it relates to all of the teams and supporters within the club and we believe that this creates an inviting environment as the club continues to grow in the local community and worldwide.
“Fans relate to Watford and football in general for varying reasons, and there must be an understanding from clubs that there is more than one way that fans enjoy their matchday experiences. Football clubs are increasingly relying on fan engagement strategies to connect with differing demographics and need to cater to all the wants and needs of these demographics. If stadiums don’t feel safe, we might miss out on connecting with the next generation of Hornets supporters.
“Watford lives by the motto ‘The Original Family Club’ – but this isn’t just a tagline, it’s an ethos of the football club backed up by actions rather than words.”
As mentioned by supporter Frances Lynn in another piece part of this month’s WHM series, the Women of Watford FC (WOW) supporters’ group launched at the beginning of the 2021/22 campaign, born out of a desire to make women feel comfortable enough to attend Watford matches on their own or with female companions, regardless of whether men are going too.
The EDI team at Watford FC supported this, and now works closely with WOW, not just on content pieces, but on a day-to-day level and on matchdays.
“Having female voices is very important,” Owen continued. “I am a big believer that for us to truly understand the issues at hand, we must communicate openly with groups such as Women of Watford to get a full understanding of the current climate of matchday goers and their concerns. We work closely with these groups to support them because if you’re experiencing these issues first-hand then you’re in a far better position to make suggestions as to how to create positive change to make the matchday experience more inclusive for all.
“The club can shout from the rooftops about how the match-going experience has become safer over time, however the best way to actually showcase this is to have relevant groups confirm this through their own channels. As a club, we can also help by highlighting the great efforts of these groups and increasing awareness to other supporters that these groups exist to hopefully encourage match attendance for those less comfortable.”
Communication with a broad and diverse range of supporters helps to ensure safety at matches, but it isn’t the only way Watford strives to make Vicarage Road a safe place.
“In October 2019, the club launched the We campaign, which was born from racial abuse suffered by families of our players during the FA Cup semi-final win against Wolves,” Owen explained.
“Off the back of a lack of support from governing bodies and social media companies to help, the club announced the launch of our own anti-discrimination campaign, in conjunction with the Hertfordshire Police hate crime unit in a bid to combat racism and discrimination. Fast forward a few seasons and the We campaign has developed into a club-wide message which in part helps to create a safer matchday experience for all supporters.
“In the past few seasons, the We campaign work undertaken by Dave Messenger, the club’s EDI & Disability Access Officer, and the Supporter Liaison Officers, has really taken off. We have created text lines to report abuse at Vicarage Road and on away days, the system of placing yellow cards by the seats of offenders has meant an increased awareness of poor behaviour during games, and increased We campaign messaging on a matchday - including on the front and back-facing LED boards, big screens and around the concourse areas - highlights ways to report issues for supporters.”
Through the ‘Getting to Know You’ survey, it is clear the hard work is paying off. The statistics show that 72 per cent of supporters know of the We campaign. To help improve awareness further, the club plans to extend the reach of the campaign by introducing ‘We Allies’ ahead of the 2022/23 season, asking supporters to become advocates of the campaign, and helping to promote it among their fellow Hornets.
“Most importantly, there remains constant dialogue between fans and the club to ensure concerns are heard and actionable outcomes can be developed. We also support external initiatives as much as we can to communicate support towards fans of the club and further afield,” Owen said.
Owen, the marketing team and Watford Football Club seek to empower and promote women’s achievements all year round, but celebrations like International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month especially provide an opportunity to shine a light on an under-promoted area of the sport.
Owen continued: “It’s so important. The purpose of these dates are to highlight women’s achievements, recognise challenges, and focus greater attention on the key issues and how to overcome them. As a club, we use these events to showcase the work done by the club and supporters of the club, as we believe that to overcome issues faced there needs to be an understanding of the issues at hand.
“Often we create content pieces to increase awareness with the help of various club supporter groups, and promote these across our own channels which have a worldwide reach. We also give additional support to our women’s team in order to help them grow and reach new audiences. We have often been the leader in the football world when it comes to women’s team exposure – becoming one of the first teams in the UK to have the women’s team lead our kit launch campaign in 2019/20, and again in 2021/22.”
The role of Marketing Manager has an added significance at Watford Football Club due to its notable history. In the 1980s, Watford became the first club to advertise for a Marketing Manager, and the role went to Caroline Gillies. At a time when the female presence behind the scenes at football clubs was limited, Watford blazed a trail with the likes of Caroline and Ann Swanson playing vital roles in the running of the club.
“To flourish in any field, you need to have a variety of voices behind the scenes to get the full picture on any decision making,” Owen said. “In recent years, there has been better representation of females working in football, however there is still work to be done. Clubs are a representation of their community and therefore the work we do for the football club must represent this – particularly with the history and ethos passed down from previous generations.
“Watford can boast a sizeable female presence on their staff in key positions and have been trailblazers in the past, under the broader stewardship of Caroline Gillies helping Ann Swanson to become the true driving force behind the Junior Hornets programme. In very recent times, Watford announced the renaming of the Family Stand to the Ann Swanson Family Stand, one of a small number of clubs to have a stand named after a woman.”
As well as working in football, Owen is a supporter, and understands he has a responsibility as a male ally on a matchday to call out abuse and avoid creating an aggressive atmosphere.
“The best thing that male football fans can do is to support the groups which have been created to manage a safer matchday environment and show compassion to understand where the need for these groups comes from,” Owen said.
“Support can come through taking part in the events which these groups organise, or helping to spread the message and challenging poor behaviour when they see or hear it in the stadium. By understanding these issues, men can become better suited to passing along these messages to others and creating a positive communication chain.”
More From This Series
- Hornets Supporter Amy Stanton
- Junior Hornets Patron Ann Swanson
- Watford & Wales Striker Helen Ward
- Women Of Watford FC Member Frances Lynn
- Sensory Room Host Collette Sturgess
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March was a month of spectacular goals and stand-out performances from both the men’s and women’s Watford sides.
Voting is now open for the Stake Player of the Month and Goal of the Month awards, with four nominees for the best individual, and seven strikes to choose from.
Supporters can select their favourite for the prizes by clicking HERE.
Voting closes on Friday (April 1) at 5pm BST. The winners of the two awards will then be revealed in due course.
Four Players Up For POTM Award
Cucho Hernández produced an exemplary selection of performances during March, including a Man of the Match display during the 2-1 victory at Southampton.
It’s fair to say the Colombian enjoyed a prolific month, with the 22-year-old directly involved in four goals in his three Premier League appearances during March. His first strike came in quite spectacular, flying fashion against Arsenal, before he played provider by delivering a great pass for Moussa Sissoko’s late goal.
To round off the period, Hernández scored two more impressive goals against the Saints – the first from a tight angle and the second volleyed past Fraser Forster in emphatic style.
The Hornets’ captain Sissoko led by example during March, regularly producing consistent performances. The Frenchman capped off an impressive display against Arsenal with a goal moments before the final whistle.
Watford FC Women’s Amber-Keegan Stobbs is nominated for the award after a fruitful month for the Golden Girls. The versatile star was a key part of the victory over London City Lionesses, and played a huge part in controlling matches from the defence as a leader – even making an important goal-line clearance against Sunderland.
The next nominee, Megan Chandler, formed a strong unit with Stobbs throughout March, with Chandler producing reliable and composed performances. Strong in the tackle and solid in defence, the 28-year-old has been a consistently reassuring presence for the Golden Girls.
Seven Strikes Nominated For GOTM Gong
The first of three impressive strikes from Hernández saw him wow the watching Watford faithful, as he produced a mesmeric bicycle kick to beat Aaron Ramsdale in between the sticks for Arsenal. In a sign of approval, Hernández’s strike was nominated for the Budweiser Premier League Goal of the Month award.
In the same encounter, Sissoko showed incredible composure to shield possession from Ben White and poke the ball past Ramsdale to score the Hornets’ second of the afternoon.
The next nomination saw Watford’s intense pressing catch Southampton off-guard, gifting Hernández the chance to open the scoring. Despite Forster leaving the goal vacant for the Colombian, he still had it all to do and produced a remarkable finish from a tight angle.
In his final goal listed for the prize, Hernández would go on to double the Golden Boys’ lead against the Saints with an exquisite first-time volley, after receiving a pin-point looping ball from Juraj Kucka.
Also nominated is Rosie Kmita’s fantastic goal against Bristol City. Found in space and with plenty of time, Kmita remained imperturbable and unleashed a venomous strike into the top-right corner of the net.
In a hugely important victory for Watford FC Women, Chiara Meola’s strike was the difference against London City Lionesses in front of a record-breaking Vicarage Road crowd. Meola tapped the ball into the net after a fantastic driving run and assist from Adekite Fatuga-Dada.
To conclude the glut of goals on offer, Jenna Legg notched late on against Sunderland, quickly pouncing on a loose ball from a set-piece to head home for the Golden Girls.
You can watch all the goals below to decide your overall favourite.
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Roy Hodgson expects a difficult test at Anfield on Saturday (April 2, 12.30pm KO) as Liverpool host the Hornets in the Premier League, but he insists a positive team spirit and competition for places can aid his side in the battle against relegation.
Three weeks have passed since the last first-team game, a successful 2-1 outing at Southampton. With the full squad training together for a week before some departed to represent their countries, Hodgson and his players have had plenty of time to continue their work in London Colney.
The win over the Saints saw Christian Kabasele make his first start under the former England boss, and Juraj Kucka return to the fold, with both impressing. That, coupled with strong performances from João Pedro and Cucho Hernández, has Hodgson excited, with a wealth of options in the squad and an increase in ‘spirit’.
“I think the competition for places has become hotter,” Hodgson explained. “I was happy with [Craig] Cathcart, I was happy with Tom Cleverley, and [Emmanuel] Dennis, [Ismaïla] Sarr and [Joshua] King, but the other players that have come in have made me think.
“That’s good going forward. We need to keep these players fit, keep the competition going, but most important of all this club needs spirit!
“If Watford survive this year, it will be partly because the players have shown themselves to be good enough, but it will be because the spirit is good, and they’ve really wanted it.
“You can try to transmit spirit, but it’s got to come from the group itself, it’s got to accept it and build on it. If we do survive, it’s because the spirit at the club has been very good.
“Every time you play a team like Liverpool away from home you know the odds are stacked against you. There’s no secret to how good they are or why they’re good, the quality of their players and the quality of their work. All we can do is hope that we’re able to produce a performance on the day that will give us a result.”
On the injury front, there is plenty to be positive about, with internationals returning free from ailment.
“We’ve not had many injuries, we’ve been pretty fortunate,” Hodgson explained. “We have pretty much a full complement. Young Kwadwo Baah is still recovering from an ankle injury but should train next week. We have one or two players suffering from a bout of sickness that affects their tonsils, so they've been missing from training this week, but they’ll all be available ahead of the weekend.
“We always try to work on things in training, and it’s a constant process of trying to improve the way we defend and attack. It’s been good to have some time with the players in that respect but we’ve had to accept that some of the players we’d like to have involved have been away on international duty.
“We had a week with everybody which was useful in terms of helping to prepare. Now like anyone else we only have a couple of days.
“Our players have come back from Africa, they’ve been with us today but not in a position to train so we’ll only have tomorrow morning in terms of absolute preparation, but that’s the same for everyone else - Liverpool will be in exactly the same position as we are.”
Watford’s next opponents can go top of the league with a win, with Hodgson acknowledging that the Golden Boys have to be at their best to pick up a result on Merseyside.
If the Hornets are to defy the odds, Hodgson will need his attackers to be in a rich vein of form. Sarr scored in Senegal’s penalty shoot-out win over Egypt to secure World Cup qualification earlier this week, while Joshua King bagged a hat-trick in Norway’s 9-0 thrashing of Armenia.
“It’s great when they go away, and come back fit, but it’s even better when they come back like Sarr, celebrating that his team has now qualified for the World Cup and Joshua King celebrating a good game with a hat-trick to boot,” said Hodgson.
“[Sarr’s] been recovering today. His chances of being involved are okay, as long as he shows us tomorrow that he’s recovered from 120 minutes, and both games.
“It’s been a hard journey for him playing for Senegal, but a very successful one, so that’s buoyed his spirits I’m sure.
“I’m pretty certain he’ll put his hand up tomorrow to be asked to come into the starting line-up, and as far as I am concerned, a player of his quality will be very important for the club if we are going to pull ourselves away from the relegation zone, because you can’t do it without players of that quality.”
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Roy Hodgson is hoping Watford can "surprise the football world" at Liverpool this weekend.
The latest Watford injury news is in as a number of players return from international duty ahead of the clash with Liverpool this weekend in the Premier League at Anfield
We are pleased to reveal that Helen Ward and Morgan Rogers have been called up to Wales’ squad for their upcoming 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup qualifiers.
The Welsh will play two games in April, as they look to put themselves in a good position to potentially qualify for the final tournament in Australia and New Zealand.
While it’s a big international window for the team, there could also be a couple of very important landmarks from an individual perspective.
Having played at several age-ranges at youth level, Rogers has since progressed to the senior set-up. The 19-year-old will now be hoping to earn her first cap.
After a long and successful career so far, Ward already has 99 caps to her name. Wales’ record goalscorer is now only one appearance away from reaching three figures for her country.
There’ll be two opportunities for the Golden Girls’ captain to reach that significant and hugely impressive milestone, with matches on April 8 and April 12.
It’s a key one first up. Wales are currently in a play-off spot in Group I (second place), and they’ll take on the leaders France in Llanelli.
While a goal late in each half saw Les Bleues just end up victorious in the reverse encounter, Ward, Rogers, and the rest of the team will be looking to turn that around and secure a huge result in front of a vocal home crowd.
It’s then off to Nur-Sultan in Kazakhstan. Wales triumphed 6-0 in the reverse fixture back in September and will be confident of returning home with three points, despite the distance and time-zone challenges.
Rogers and Ward will both head off to the Welsh camp after Sunday’s fixture against Durham, and all at Watford FC would like to wish them the very best of luck with their country.
Photos: FA Wales
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Watford are back in action following the break for the international fixtures, and are on the road as they head north to Liverpool.
Ahead of another mouth-watering clash at Anfield this Saturday (April 2, 12.30pm KO), we take a look at some of the stats, facts and figures that surround the Premier League encounter.
The Dugouts
The Hornets have won eight points from their six Premier League away games under manager Roy Hodgson (W2 D2 L2), as many as they had from their previous 17 on the road in the competition (W2 D2 L13).
Hodgson was previously in charge of the Reds between 2010 and 2011, and this will be the 19th time a manager who has previously taken charge of Liverpool in the Premier League will face them at Anfield in the competition.
Just one of the previous instances has ended in a victory (D3 L14), with that coming for Hodgson while at West Brom in April 2012.
This will be Jürgen Klopp’s 250th Premier League match as a manager. The Liverpool boss will become the 26th to reach this milestone in the competition. This will be Hodgson’s 374th match in the English top-flight.
Previous Meetings
Liverpool have won 12 of their 13 home league games against Watford, with the exception being a 1-0 loss in August 1999 - that is their only loss in 16 home games against the Golden Boys in all competitions.
The Reds are unbeaten in their last 18 league games at Anfield (W14 D4) since a 1-0 loss to Fulham in March 2021.
Watford have taken just four points from their last 30 available against Liverpool in the Premier League (W1 D1 L8), drawing 3-3 in August 2017 and winning 3-0 in February 2020 (both at Vicarage Road).
Key Players
Cucho Hernández has been directly involved in four goals in his last three Premier League appearances (3 goals, 1 assist), more than he managed in his first 19 games in the competition (2 goals, 1 assist).
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has been directly involved in 11 goals in just seven Premier League games against Watford, scoring nine and assisting two. The Egyptian averages a goal or assist every 57 minutes against the Hornets, the fourth-best ratio one player has against a club in Premier League history (minimum 600 minutes against that opponent).
Ismaïla Sarr has had a hand in three goals in three Premier League games against Liverpool (2 goals, 1 assist), although all three goal involvements arrived in Watford’s 3-0 win over the Reds in February 2020.
Opposition Stat Attack
The Reds’ top goalscorer in the league this season is Salah (20 goals), with the forward also leading the way in the top-flight. The Egyptian is also top for Liverpool’s shots on target (54).
Trent Alexander-Arnold has 11 assists to his name, topping the rankings for both Liverpool and the Premier League.
Liverpool goalkeeper Alisson has the joint-most clean sheets in the league this season, level with his Brazilian compatriot Ederson of Manchester City.
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Watford will have Nicolas Nkoulou available for their trip to play Liverpool at Anfield this weekend.
The Hornets manager speaks to the press as his team get ready to face the Reds away in the Premier League this weekend
Watford manager Roy Hodgson has an almost fully-fit squad to pick from ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Liverpool (April 2, 12.30pm KO), with those players who have been away on international duty set to be assessed at the London Colney training ground today (Thursday March 31).
Defender Nicolas Nkoulou is available for the Anfield clash, with the 32-year-old back in full training after completing his recovery from a long-term hamstring injury.
Nkoulou has been working with the team since the 2-1 win at Southampton last time out, and he made his return to match action for the Under-23s on March 15.
Elsewhere, Kwadwo Baah has been out on the grass this week while working with the medical team one-on-one, with the 19-year-old progressing well in his recovery from an ankle problem.
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Premier League clubs are reportedly set to vote on the potential of five substitutes being allowed for matches in the 2022/23 season but had that rule come in this season, some Hornets stars may have enjoyed a better season
The Watford Observer has again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues.
An exciting opportunity has become available within the academy at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a Head of Education to be a part of a forward-thinking team, responsible for providing leadership and management of the academy’s education department in pursuit of maximising the academic performance of all academy players.
You will play a key role in organising the delivery of the education programme across all age groups, ensuring the provision reflects the strategy and performance targets set out in the club’s Academy Performance Plan. In addition, you will ensure scholars are appropriately supported in respect of the Scholar Education Programme (SEP) Apprenticeship, and support the delivery of a comprehensive Life Skills and Personal Development Programme.
You will play an active part from a wellbeing perspective, supporting the transition of players arriving and departing, working closely with the Player Care & Safeguarding Officer. The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to London Colney or the surrounding areas, and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- Qualified Teaching Status (QTS)
- Experience of working with young people within an educational setting
- Experience of building and maintaining strong working relationships, both internally and externally
- Valid FA Safeguarding Certificate or equivalent
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- This role will have regular contact with children, and it is therefore required by law to have a DBS Enhanced Criminal Record Check with children’s barred list check
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Head of Education
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 12noon, April 18 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com, or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Premier League clubs look set to be allowed to make five substitutions from the start of next season, according to reports.
Watford hero Micah Hyde will feature as a special guest on tonight’s edition of Inside The Hive (March 31, 7-8pm), to discuss his time with the Hornets and to answer supporters’ questions.
Hyde, who joined the Golden Boys in 1997 and spent seven years at The Vic, will join host Michael Kurn and club legend Tommy Mooney in the studio, and you can send in your questions to him via the YouTube comments section and on social media using #InsideTheHive. Hyde will also choose the latest player to be inducted into the Greatest Watford XI.
Elsewhere on the show, there will be an exclusive interview with Hornets striker Emmanuel Dennis, and Juraj Kucka visits a local school to hand over books donated by Watford fans as part of a Children’s Book Drive held ahead of the recent Arsenal home game (March 6).
Also, there will be behind-the-scenes action from the ePremier League Grand Finals last weekend (March 26-27), and Flo Fyfe is next to take on the 60-Second Challenge.
Finally, you’ll get the chance to see who has been nominated for March’s Player and Goal of the Month awards, and the studio panel will look ahead to this weekend’s fixtures as the men travel to Liverpool (April 2, 12.30pm KO), and the women face Durham (April 3, 3pm KO).
This week’s show will be streamed live on YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, as well as on our website, from 7pm to 8pm BST. You can also find it on our recently-launched Twitch page.
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Jack Grieves seems to have a knack for scoring at Vicarage Road, and the 17-year-old duly marked his first start for Watford’s Under-23s by adding to his tally at the home of the Hornets in Wednesday’s (March 30) 2-0 win over Wigan Athletic.
The mazy forward prodded home the second goal to cap an impressive display by the young Hornets, two minutes after Shaq Forde had fired the hosts in front early on in the second half.
Having previously notched hat-tricks at The Vic in both the Under-12 and Under-13 age groups, Grieves joked about his consistently impressive form in the first-team arena, while expressing his pride at reaching the latest milestone in his Golden Boys career.
“I’ve scored a couple of hat-tricks here before,” he smiled. “It’s always nice to play at the stadium and to grab a goal, even if I did get lucky off the keeper! I probably could have scored earlier actually, if I’d anticipated the situation better.
“I thought we started well. We had a lot of good chances in the first half, and we knew the first 10 minutes after the break would be very important. We knew we had to keep it simple, let the forwards do what they do best, and we managed to get two good goals and hold on well for the win.
“It’s always nice to represent the team you support in the stadium you’ve grown up watching them play in, and to score and get the win at the next level up is just a brilliant feeling.”
Having featured off the bench for the Under-23s on several occasions, Grieves is hopeful of building on his first appearance in the starting XI before the season is complete.
Omer Riza’s charges have five matches left of the current campaign and with a trip to Bristol City next up on Tuesday April 5, Grieves is keen for further progress from an individual and team perspective in the coming weeks.
He added: “I’ve had a few sessions with the Under-23s now. I’m still getting used to the intensity of it, but I think I’m growing into it. It was nice to get a start today which I haven’t done before, and it’s now about fully proving myself at this level.
“The main thing is about how the team perform. We need to take the momentum from today into the next few games, and get as many points as we can from the last five games.”
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Watford Under-23s beat Wigan Athletic 2-0 in an appearance at Vicarage Road on Wednesday afternoon.
It was another hotly-contested round of fixtures (March 29) as the international break concluded with important places at the 2022 Qatar World Cup up for grabs.
A feast of Watford players featured in key roles for their countries, and when Morocco and DR Congo met the Hornets had representatives starting for both nations.
Following a 1-1 draw in the first leg, Adam Masina and Imrân Louza secured their place at the World Cup after a 4-1 Morocco victory [5-2 on aggregate] in the second leg, with Edo Kayembe lining up opposite his club teammates. Masina started the match at left-back and Kayembe began in midfield, while Louza remained amongst the substitutes.
Elsewhere, Ismaïla Sarr played a vital role for Senegal as they got past Egypt in a tense affair that went all the way to penalties. After a 1-0 Egyptian victory in the first leg, it would take only four minutes for Senegal to level the score on aggregate, but the match went all the way with the scoreline deadlocked.
Sarr remained on the pitch for the full 120 minutes, stepping up to take Senegal’s third penalty which he powered past the Egyptian goalkeeper to open the scoring in the shootout. One of this weekend’s (April 2) opponents, Liverpool’s Sadio Mané, scored the winning penalty to secure Senegal’s place in Qatar.
Following a tight first leg that ended goalless, Nigeria and Ghana met for the decider at the Abuja National Stadium. All of Watford’s representatives started the match as William Troost-Ekong, Emmanuel Dennis and Peter Etebo took to the pitch.
Arsenal’s Thomas Partey scored the opener for the away side before Watford’s Troost-Ekong levelled from the penalty spot. However, despite the Super Eagles pressing hard for a winner, Ghana advanced to the World Cup on the away goals rule.
In Europe, Joshua King produced a spectacular display as the Hornets striker scored a hat-trick for Norway in a 9-0 triumph over Armenia in an international friendly. King’s first was from the spot to double the lead before he headed in Norway’s fourth and notched his third, and Norway’s sixth, from a set-piece on the hour mark.
The Golden Boys’ centre-half Craig Cathcart played 90 minutes as Northern Ireland lost 1-0 to Hungary in an exhibition match in Belfast, with Roland Sallai’s strike proving to be the difference.
Meanwhile, full-back Hassane Kamara started his first match for Ivory Coast since November 2021 against England at Wembley Stadium. Despite putting in a commendable display, the 10-man visitors lost 3-0 to the Three Lions.
Daniel Bachmann started between the sticks for Austria against Scotland in another exhibition tie. It was an enthralling game, with Scotland scoring two before Austria responded with two late goals to level the match.
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Watford defender William Troost-Ekong has apologised on behalf of his Nigerian teammates after the Super Eagles failed to gain qualification to the Qatar World Cup.
Three weeks without Premier League action for Watford ends this Saturday lunchtime, when they take on Liverpool at Anfield (April 2, 12.30pm KO) in search of three more points in the fight against relegation.
October 16 saw Jürgen Klopp’s Reds win 5-0 at Vicarage Road in the reverse fixture, with goals from Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, as well as a Roberto Firmino hat-trick.
As we look ahead to the trip north, here is everything you need to know about our opposition…
Inspired Form
Liverpool are currently the most in-form team in the Premier League, winning their last six league games, scoring 15 and conceding just one goal. Reviving their title charge and closing the gap on league leaders Manchester City, the Merseyside outfit are just one point behind Pep Guardiola’s charges, and would go top with a win against the Hornets.
The Reds have lost just once in the Premier League since their last clash with Watford, a narrow 1-0 defeat to Leicester City on December 28. The only other loss in all competitions was against Inter Milan in the UEFA Champions League, but the 1-0 scoreline ensured they would progress to the quarter-finals of the competition 2-1 on aggregate thanks to their away win three weeks prior.
League Cup Glory
March garnered Liverpool’s first silverware of the season when they beat Chelsea on penalties in the Carabao Cup. A highly-entertaining 0-0 draw took the game to the wire, and Liverpool’s flawless shoot-out, where all 11 penalties were successfully converted, sealed victory.
Still in the mix in all of their competitions, the Reds have another Wembley trip in the diary, facing Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-finals in mid-April. Benfica await them in Europe for a two-legged quarter-final tie, spelling a busy few weeks ahead for Klopp’s men.
High-Profile Signing
Luis Díaz touched down on Merseyside in January to add to an already potent Liverpool attack. The Colombian winger, signed from FC Porto, has already netted twice in the Premier League.
Meanwhile, defensive duo Nathaniel Phillips and Neco Williams have made Championship loan moves, to AFC Bournemouth and Fulham respectively.
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Watford's Ismaila Sarr scored in a penalty shootout as Senegal booked their place at the Qatar 2022 World Cup at the expense of Egypt.
Watford striker Emmanuel Dennis has called on his Nigeria teammates to "drop blood and sweat on the pitch" as they face Ghana in an all-or-nothing World Cup qualifier showdown in Abuja this evening.
William Troost-Ekong has backed his Watford teammate Emmanuel Dennis to score vital goals for Nigeria, as they go in search of World Cup qualification this evening.
Cucho Hernandez has spoken about trying to make his mark in the Premier League with Watford after spending the last four years out on loan.
Watford's game away at Liverpool this weekend will be refereed by Stuart Attwell, the Premier League has confirmed.
Sunderland scored twice in three second-half minutes to see off Watford 2-1 in the FA Women’s Championship.
Watford's Ismaila Sarr returned to action on Friday evening as Senegal were beaten 1-0 in the first of their two World Cup play-off legs against Egypt.
Wembley Stadium paid tribute to Watford and England superfan Kevin Norman at the weekend.
Watford summer transfer target Josh Doig has spoken about speculation over his future and said he is "enjoying football" at Hibernian for the time being.
Ismaila Sarr is back in training with Watford after missing out on their last three matches with a hamstring problem.
Hornets full-back Hassane Kamara and Watford FC Women’s midfielder Adekite Fatuga-Dada will feature in the studio for this evening’s edition of Inside The Hive (Thursday March 17, 7-8pm), to answer supporters’ questions and talk about their respective seasons so far.
Kamara joined Watford from OGC Nice in January and has impressed in just a short period of time, while Fatuga-Dada is the longest-serving player in the Golden Girls’ squad, regularly appearing in the starting line-up.
Both will join host Michael Kurn and Hornets legend Tommy Mooney during this week’s show. You can send in your questions to the duo via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, using the hashtag #InsideTheHive.
Elsewhere, there is an exclusive matchday vlog from the Junior Hornets away day to Southampton, and Tom Stokes of Hashtag United, who is Watford’s representative at the upcoming ePremier League grand finals, takes on the 60-Second Challenge.
Plus, the studio panel will analyse and give their reaction to the victory on the south coast against the Saints last weekend (March 13).
Tonight’s show will be streamed live on YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, as well as on our website, from 7pm to 8pm GMT. You can also find it on our recently-launched Twitch page.
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With St Patrick’s Day celebrations taking place across Ireland and the world, we look back at five Irish Hornets who have donned the yellow of Watford.
John McClelland
Northern Ireland captain while at Watford, uncompromising defender John McClelland was a solid addition to Graham Taylor’s arsenal when the centre-half signed from Rangers in 1984.
McClelland’s experience stopped a leaky Watford defence from shipping goals in the top-flight and he spent six years at Vicarage Road, winning Player of the Season in his debut campaign in England.
McClelland played 53 times for his country, including against Luther Blissett’s England. The defender has the unique distinction of being the first player to play professionally in all four British home nations.
Emma Beckett
A current Hornet, experienced midfielder Emma Beckett is a full international for the Republic of Ireland, first joining up with the nation of her maternal grandparents in 2015. The Midlands-born playmaker has been at Watford since 2019, re-signing after an initial spell from 2007-2009.
Scoring an excellent free-kick against Coventry United in December, the playmaker has been a key part of the Golden Girls side this season.
Peter Kennedy
Left-sided dangerman Peter Kennedy was crucial to Watford’s rise from the third tier to the Premier League in the 1990s. Kennedy topped the scoring charts for the Hornets in his first season as the Golden Boys secured the league title, and played 49 times in the following campaign, where Watford reached the top-flight under Graham Taylor.
Kennedy won 20 caps for Northern Ireland between 1998 and 2004, during which time he spent three years with Watford and another three at Wigan Athletic.
Rob Elliot
Hornets shot-stopper Rob Elliot joined Watford on a free transfer last season, and made his debut for the club against Stoke City in the Carabao Cup earlier this campaign.
The 35-year-old turned out for the likes of Charlton Athletic and Newcastle United before signing for the Golden Boys. Elliot has four caps for the Republic of Ireland, and is eligible for the nation through his father.
Craig Cathcart
The only Northern Ireland international in the current first-team squad, central defender Craig Cathcart is the longest-serving Watford player at the club, having signed permanently in 2014.
Initially joining on loan in 2009, Cathcart has played 178 times in the top-flight in a Watford shirt and is still a regular for his country, for whom he made his debut in 2010.
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Cucho Hernández's brace in Sunday's 2-1 win over Southampton has been rewarded with the Colombian earning a spot in EA Sports' FIFA 22 Team of the Week.
Each week, EA Sports selects a team of 23 players to receive an upgraded Team of the Week version of their Ultimate Team card, based on real-life performances from the previous weekend.
The 22-year-old forward is in flying form for the Hornets, netting two first-half goals at St Mary's to pick up the award, including a well-timed volley at the back post.
Hernández's performance clearly caught the eye of many, as EA Sports have awarded the winger a 'featured' Team of the Week card, picking up a double upgrade on his statistics on the game.
With Hernández joining fellow attackers Ismaïla Sarr, Joshua King and Emmanuel Dennis with 'in-form' cards, as well as special cards available for João Pedro and Peter Etebo, Watford supporters can now assemble an impressive Hornets side on the game.
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Watford academy player Andi Janjeva has spoken of his pride after receiving a call up to represent Kosovo.
The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of young Hornets about their journey inside and outside of football.
Shaq Forde, who is next to take on the questions, was born in Watford and joined in 2012. The forward has impressed this season, spending time with both the Under-23 and Under-18 squads.
In January 2022, the 17-year-old made his debut for the first team against Leicester City in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup.
How would you describe your playing style?
Creative, powerful and always looking to go forwards. I don’t have a preference where I play if I’m honest, I just try to help out the team.
Favourite current Watford footballer?
I really like Ismaïla Sarr and João Pedro especially.
Biggest influence?
My brother and my parents have been important. They are always supporting me no matter whether I’ve had a good game or a bad game. Even when things are good, they keep me level-headed, keeping my spirit up.
Favourite football kit?
I’d say the Brazil away kit when they won the World Cup in 2002, the blue one. For Watford I really liked the red away kit from the 2017/18 season with the black and white stripe.
Favourite boots?
Adidas F50s are my favourites. They are quite old now and they don’t sell them anymore, but I’m looking to get hold of them soon.
Favourite footballing memory?
Scoring against Cardiff City in the FA Youth Cup is always nice, and so was my Under-23s debut last season against Millwall where I got a goal and an assist in the second half. Also making my first-team debut away at Leicester.
Most talented teammate?
Ryan Andrews and Adian Manning are great. With Ryan I like the fact that he is always looking forwards or to play into the midfield. He’ll support the attack making overlapping runs which can make it easier for me to cut inside when I play on the right. He can keep clean sheets as well. With Adian, when me and him play together, we have great chemistry on the pitch and we understand what we are good at and what we’re going to do. We don’t even have to speak about it, it just flows together naturally.
Favourite things to do when not playing football?
Chilling at home or going to places like the cinema. I really like watching Money Heist on Netflix – I finished that all in one day! I listen to American rap as well.
Best footballing advice you’ve received?
Even now my parents just tell me to enjoy playing football because when you enjoy something that is when you’re at your best. Just enjoy it, work hard and the right things will happen to you.
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Exciting opportunities have become available within the academy at Watford Football Club.
We are looking to recruit a number of football coaches, that can demonstrate the ability to design, deliver and review coaching sessions in line with our curriculum for academy players. You may be required to coach evenings and weekends, as well as be expected to attend and contribute to regular Continuous Professional Development (CPD) events that take place throughout the season.
The successful candidates will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, and flexible to the requirements of the role and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford, London Colney or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- Minimum Level 3 UEFA B coaching licence.
- FA Youth Award.
- Knowledge of the PMA System.
- Valid FA Safeguarding Certificate.
- Previous experience coaching in an Elite Sports Environment.
- Valid FA Basic First Aid for Sport (BFAS) / Valid FA Emergency First Aid in Football (EFAiF).
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role.
The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Casual Worker - Academy Foundation Phase Coach (U9-U12)
Rate Of Pay: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Casual Worker Agreement
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 12noon, March 31 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, copies of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to Adam Balletta, adam.balletta@watfordfc.com or by post to Adam Balletta, Watford Football Club Training Ground, UCL Sports Ground, Bell Lane, London Colney, Hertfordshire, AL2 1BZ.
3. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
4. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
5. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Human Resource department at Watford Football Club.
We are currently looking to recruit a HR Officer, to be a point of contact for all club HR matters and to provide a comprehensive HR service which ensures that all employees, workers and volunteers are equipped with relevant policies, processes, practices and systems in order to foster a high-performance culture.
The role will be varied and will cover a wide variety of employee-related matters, it will therefore require an individual that has a proven track record as a HR generalist. In addition, the role will also work closely with the club's EDI Lead, to support the club's on-going commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- CIPD Qualified, minimum level 3, or verified equivalent experience in a similar role.
- Minimum 3 years of experience working within a HR role.
- Proven track record as a HR generalist.
- An understanding of HR legislation.
- Experience of using HR Information Systems.
- Recruitment and Selection experience.
- Experience of designing and writing HR policies, procedures, offers and contracts of employment.
- Knowledge and experience around Equality, Diversity and Inclusion.
- Strong organisational and time management skills. The role requires a pro-active, thoughtful, and structured approach whilst being flexible and responsive to meet the changing demands of the business.
- Able to deal with sensitive and confidential matters in a professional manner.
- A team player who is passionate about what they do and takes pride in getting the best out of others.
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role.
- Understanding of the club's commitment to EDI & Safeguarding.
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: HR Officer
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Vicarage Road Stadium
Type: Permanent Full Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 12noon, March 31 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com, or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Recently-announced Hornets Ambassador Kenny Jackett discussed his footballing memories in yellow and his career since leaving the Hornets on Friday’s edition of Inside The Hive (March 11), as well as answering questions sent in by supporters.
You can watch the full episode above, where the Hornets hero is joined by host Michael Kurn and fellow Golden Boys legend Tommy Mooney.
Jackett On…
Graham Taylor:
“As a person, he was a genius of a man. I played with him for ten years and was assistant manager for four. It was an interesting contrast because when you’re playing you are focusing on your own career, and you don’t think about the bigger picture, but coming onto the staff and working with him – I have to say both times he came into the club he stood the club on its head. He was so clever and quick.
“Some of his assessments after a game would be fantastic. He had an instant recall of the whole game and every detail, and I would have to watch the video six times! He was very clever and quick and a genius of a man.
“The first time here he had more time and really did build the club on and off the pitch. He was a fantastic influence. The second time he came through he picked it up really quickly. The belief in the squad at that time, he created an atmosphere and we had fantastic forward momentum for the club. He had a fantastic ability of getting hold of a room full of players and getting everyone to push in the right direction. He was a really talented man.”
Winning Promotion To Division One:
“That was terrific, coming through as a youth-team player and getting into the first team at 18 was during the time we were coming through the divisions. To get up to the top division and finish second was a big one for someone who had been a supporter.
“For myself at 15 to have been on the terraces watching it, suddenly at 18 you’re playing in the top division. That year we beat Arsenal and Spurs away within a few weeks and they were the big scalps we really wanted. Going into every season we felt we could achieve something. None of us had any experience. We had either come through the youth policy or the lower divisions.”
Being A Supporter And Playing For Watford:
“It was surreal and of course my family were all local. It was surreal but I was very proud to have made it. I think I started training here aged 12 and then I think I got through. I came into a team with some excellent senior professionals. We had so many good players coming through and the side just kept on improving.”
FA Cup Final In 1984:
“I look back on it with some fondness. It showed the journey that Watford had been on and how far they had come to get to the cup final. We played against a very good Everton team and maybe it knocked us a little bit more than it should’ve. When you look at it in the bigger picture it shows how far we had come and we wanted to push on from there.”
UEFA Cup:
“It was a different type of football and the first time we had played in Europe. I was playing for Wales by then, so I had quite a broad range of experience and it was different. We took on some big clubs and had a really good run in that particular competition. The big thing was it was a first for Watford and we were proud to get there.”
His Favourite Watford Memories:
“There are a few to be honest with you. It’s hard to just say one. As assistant manager, the 1999 win at Wembley was special, getting to the Premier League. It was a fantastic moment. In 1982/83 we finished second and beat Liverpool on the last day - to do that was a big day.”
His Favourite Managerial Memory:
“Again, there are different ones. Going to Swansea and getting promotion because it was very early for me to be honest. I needed to be successful and needed to do it.”
The Secret Behind Finishing Second In The Top-Flight:
“Well firstly you need good players. It’s not ever a secret. That particular side was an excellent team. John Barnes was the best player in the country, and he didn’t get that national recognition until he went to Liverpool, but for three or four years here he was fantastic.
“Luther [Blissett] was up there with him, in the England team and top of the goalscoring charts. Nigel Callaghan was up there with those guys as well. We had a very good team and that is the big thing. As a club, we had a few years to build that side up and when John Barnes left it was difficult to reach the heights.”
His Favourite Memory At Vicarage Road:
“For atmosphere, we beat Southampton 7-1 in the League Cup and we had lost 4-0 in the first leg, and we came back. After extra-time we won 7-1 and after each goal the atmosphere in the stadium just built up – it was electric.”
Taking Inspiration From GT:
“Yes, I do absolutely. What it teaches you is that you must be yourself or players will see through you. For some players you won’t be for them and that’s fine, but you have to be yourself and work it out through your own personality and strengths. Nobody could replicate what Graham Taylor did. There wasn’t anybody like him. I picked up things from him that I still use now.”
Glenn Roeder:
“He was club captain for a spell and then the manager in quite testing times. He always conducted himself with fantastic dignity and had respect for everybody at the club. As I got to know him well, he had such a key sense of humour.”
His Entry In Watford’s Greatest XI, Nigel Callaghan:
“He was slightly overshadowed by Barnes and Blissett but for people who were watching Watford at the time, they would realise that he was just as good and just as important to us. His delivery was fantastic, Tommy [Mooney] would’ve loved to have played with Callaghan at his peak because you knew that ball was coming into the box. He had a fantastic set-piece delivery and got some key goals. He was an excellent wide right player, and his early crossing was as good as anyone in the country.”
The Watford Supporters:
“They are very special and being a local lad, I still have friends who live in the area and Watford is our club and it always will be. For many of the ex-players, you still see them locally and it’s a fantastic link. When you have grown up in the area, you get to know the supporters.”
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Andi Janjeva is “delighted” to have been called up to the Kosovo Under-21 national team ahead of their qualifying games for the 2023 UEFA European U21 Championship later this month.
The Watford Under-23 defender, who had previously been invited to Kosovo’s Under-19s, will be in the squad as they play a double-header against Slovenia’s Under-21s on March 25 and March 29, with the first game taking place at the Fadil Vokrri Stadium in Pristina - Kosovo’s national footballing venue.
The 19-year-old joined the Hornets in 2011 and is extremely proud to have been given the opportunity to play for Kosovo, with his family hailing from the European country.
“It’s always been a dream of mine to represent Kosovo since I was young,” said Janjeva.
“Where I’m from is something that I take a lot of pride in. I think it’s a big achievement and hopefully, this is the start of my progression into the first team because that’s the ultimate dream.
“I was delighted to receive the news especially because it’s been a couple of years since I’ve been with them, so to be called back into the squad is a great feeling. It shows that I’m being looked at and they value me quite highly.”
Janjeva, who received the call from the Director of the Kosovo Football Association, explained how he reacted to the news of his call-up.
“Straight away I told my parents of course,” he said. “They love seeing me play for Kosovo, especially my family back home.
“My grandparents and my cousins still haven’t had a chance to see me play a live game, so hopefully they can be there to watch the first game at home.”
The centre-back is now fully focused on using the call-up to further his progress as a footballer and continue his momentum.
“For my development it’s very good because this is the European Championships,” he added.
“It’s a big tournament, and hopefully if we manage to qualify that would be a very big achievement, not just for myself, but for the whole country because you get a chance to play some big names from big countries.
“Both matches against Slovenia are going to be tough, but I think we have loads of talent in our team so I think we will do really well.”
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The Premier League relegation battle looks set to head for the wire with most teams in the bottom half of the table still looking over their shoulders.
As part of Watford FC’s celebration of International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month, throughout March we’re speaking to 'Women Who Make The Vic'. Several female figures connected to Watford will be discussing the importance of women in football and their experiences within the game.
For the second piece of the series, we spoke to Junior Hornets Patron and founder of the Family Enclosure, Ann Swanson.
There are women who have helped to ‘Make The Vic’ in countless roles at Watford FC, but few can boast the impact that Ann Swanson has had since the first time she set foot inside Vicarage Road.
Putting smiles on the faces of supporters young and old to this day, Ann’s lasting legacy, which started in the 1970s, means that many who wouldn’t have become part of the Watford faithful have done so, and continue to be today.
In founding the innovative Family Enclosure at Vicarage Road, Ann created a safe space for families at a time when football matches were not necessarily welcoming, attending every game and acting as chaperone, organiser and supporter all at once on a matchday.
Amazingly, considering what has become of Ann’s hard work, she was very reluctant at first to attend a Watford match.
“My husband used to bring my two small children to matches,” Ann recalled. “One Saturday he couldn’t, it was Watford v West Ham. At first, I insisted I wasn’t going! Anyway, I came and got hooked.
“My daughter was a Steve Sherwood fan, she was only three or four, my son was a Ross Jenkins fan, so I thought about who I could watch, and decided on Luther [Blissett]! From that day on, me and Luther were close.
“Another time I was coming up to the Hornets Shop and Ian Bolton was in front of us. ‘Mummy, it’s Ian Bolton, go and talk to him!’ my kids said. Ian stopped and spoke to us, and we’re friends to this day. That was another pull towards Watford!”
The next step was when Ann began working at the club, initially in the promotions team.
“In the programme one week they were advertising for a part-time rep and the kids wanted me to apply,” she explained. “I saw Sue Chalk and because she knew me I didn’t really have an interview, I got the job. And the rest is history.
“I spent 16, 17 years at Watford, going from this job to that job to another job, it was wonderful.”
Although Ann fulfilled a number of roles, it was with the supporters that she found her calling. Watford were undergoing changes in order to become more friendly for fans, in keeping with the ‘Original Family Club’ image the Hornets are known for today. Ann led the charge, and is proud to say that it had a profound effect.
“It was a shambles when we first came in, the dog track and all of that,” Ann admitted. “We certainly helped to change it, we being me, Graham Taylor and Sir Elton John, doing the Family Stand and encouraging women. I don’t think it was a good place for women, I certainly didn’t feel it when I first came.
“I was an ex-copper so that helped me, and I had done nursery nursing so I knew how to handle kids, so I was very lucky, but I think going around to other clubs and encouraging women to come was good. I remember pregnant women coming into the Family Enclosure, bringing prams with babies in. I like to think that was the beginning of a new era.”
Over the years, Vicarage Road has been a place welcome to people of all ages, genders and backgrounds. Ann is delighted to see the increase in women attending matches.
Ann continued: “I certainly think from when I first walked up Occupation Road, to getting the Family Enclosure when I left in 1993, very much so. Many more women. They’d come on their own or bring their kids without their husbands, and for me that’s what it was all about.
“We certainly didn’t have many problems here. If anybody said the wrong word in the enclosure I was on them like a ton of bricks! Graham [Taylor] sat in front of me and he’d just turn and point them out.”
Celebrating women is something Ann holds in high regard, both at a supporter level and behind the scenes. Having worked at Watford FC and played a key role in the development of the club, she knows the importance of women’s involvement in the game.
She said: “I think women are hugely important. If you look at the supporters coming in, there are lots and lots of women that come in now with their kids - when I first started you didn’t see them. I think it’s great more and more are attending.”
Recently named Watford FC’s Junior Hornets Patron as part of the programme’s refreshed offering, and having attended Watford’s win over Southampton as part of the ‘Junior Hornets Away Day’, Ann is back making her mark at Vicarage Road.
As recognition of her vital contributions to the foundations of the club, the Family Stand has been renamed ‘The Ann Swanson Family Stand’. Honoured to be given the stand, Ann is focused now on ushering in a new generation of Hornets supporters.
“It’s wonderful and I’m so so proud,” said Ann. “When they got me on the pitch [at half-time during the home clash against Brighton], I thought it was just about being a patron of the Junior Hornets, I was delighted.
“When they said they were going to name the stand after me, it was the biggest honour I could get.
“I do think children are so important to the club. You see them all coming in with their hats and in full colours, I think, ‘you are our future’. If somebody can take them and say, ‘this is how we expect you to behave at a football match’, I think it’d help keep football a happy place.”
More From WHM
Celebrating Women’s History Month: Hornets Supporter Amy Stanton
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Watford faced a familiar foe on their path to the Emirates FA Cup final in 2019, with a packed-out Vicarage Road in full voice to will the Hornets on to Wembley against Crystal Palace.
Nearly three years on from a heartbreaking defeat to the Eagles in the semi-finals of the same competition, a buzz surrounded this quarter-final clash. Under the beaming sun and with anticipation building, a ticket to the famous arch gave both teams reason to put out strong sides.
Current Watford boss Roy Hodgson occupied the away dugout for the match, eager to reach the first cup semi-final of his English career.
“When you get this far in the competition, you see the Wembley towers in front of you and you dream of getting there,” said Hodgson. “So you know how important it is to give a good performance on the day. It’s never easy going away from home, to a Premier League club, but we’ve got this opportunity and I hope the players will do their level best.”
Marred by the absence of Wilfried Zaha through injury, the Palace players were urged to win the game for their talisman and give everything on the pitch.
Watford went into the game with confidence, the Rookery roaring behind Vicente Guaita’s goal to calm any nerves. Palace had started strongest but the backing of the Vicarage Road faithful had seen the Golden Boys grow into the game, fashioning more chances and winning an abundance of corners. After the initial handful of deliveries failed to make an impact, one finally made its mark.
Guaita batted clear the cross, but the ball fell fortuitously for Craig Cathcart to divert back across goal. Opening up to power home, Étienne Capoue turned the ball in to give Watford the advantage after 26 minutes.
The visitors had their backs to the wall for much of the first 45, having to fight off the Hornets’ advances from left and right, but battled back into the action in the second period. Now controlling possession and enjoying attacks on the right flank, they got their reward when Michy Batshuayi pressed relentlessly to dispossess Adrian Mariappa, slotting past Heurelho Gomes and doing his best to silence the home support with his celebration.
On 77 minutes, with the two teams vying for a way in, Andre Gray was brought into the fray as Javi Gracia’s side searched for a winner. Gray would only need one minute.
Roberto Pereyra’s excellent lofted pass in behind the visitors’ defence deserves huge credit in the goal, but Gray showed a striker’s instinct to dart ahead of his man, meeting the ball on the volley to convert.
Many expected a nervy end to the game as Watford sought to retain their place in the final four. Instead, the Golden Boys continued to test the Palace backline, showing no signs of letting the pressure grow.
In the dying seconds, Palace earned a last chance at changing the tide when Aaron Wan-Bissaka won possession on the edge of the Watford box, but his shot flailed wide and condemned the south Londoners to defeat.
Gomes was emotional at full-time, having played what appeared to be his final game at The Vic. There wasn’t a dry eye in the house as he soaked in the joy of victory with his family, a chorus of “Heurelho Gomes Baby” ringing out around the ground.
Watford’s cup fairytale would eventually end in the final at the hands of Manchester City, but memories of the cup run, especially their subsequent 3-2 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in the semi-final, will be passed on for generations to come.
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Hassane Kamara insists Watford still believe they can achieve their goal of Premier League survival this season, following their important win over Southampton on Sunday.
The Premier League has confirmed its UK live TV selections for the remainder of April, with Watford FC not picked for transmission.
Therefore, the away match at Liverpool on Saturday April 2 (12.30pm KO) is the only Hornets fixture set to be shown live in the UK next month - by BT Sport.
The club’s home clashes against Leeds United (April 9), Brentford (April 16) and Burnley (April 30), as well as the trip to Manchester City (April 23), will remain Saturday 3pm kick-offs.
A new date for the home Premier League clash against Everton – likely to be in May following postponement due to the Toffees’ progression into the Emirates FA Cup quarter-finals – will be confirmed in due course.
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Adrian Blake expressed his delight at earning his first full 90-minutes in the Under-23 squad, after featuring in a 2-2 draw against Charlton Athletic on Tuesday afternoon (March 15).
It was a prolific opening to the encounter as both sides scored two goals early on, with Tiago Cukur and Jimiel Chikukwa etching their names onto the scoresheet for the Hornets.
Despite a goalless second half Blake came closest to breaking the deadlock, hitting the side-netting from close range after an impressive run from deep.
The 16-year-old was happy with his contribution and is looking forward to more games in the Under-23 squad.
“It was a tough game today at 2-2,” said Blake. “It was a hectic start and back and forth during the first half, but I thought the boys did well and we fought until the end.
“I wasn’t expecting [the frantic opening]. We went a goal down, but Tiago [Cukur] scored to make it 1-1, we brought it back and the boys did really well. I thought I was going to score at the end, but overall it was great.”
The forward has regularly featured and contributed to both Omer Riza’s Under-23s and Tom Hart’s Under-18s this season.
Blake has enjoyed the challenge that he has been presented with and is looking forward to using this momentum to further his development.
“The Under-18s to the Under-23s is a big transition,” he explained. “[Omer] Riza told me to express myself today. I’ve come from the Under-18s, and it’s been a good transition.
“Riza told me to play my normal game, don’t think about anything and play how I usually play.
“I think I’ve done well, and I have adapted. Obviously, the Under-18s are doing really well now, but I’m enjoying my time with the Under-23s.
“Even just Omer giving me the chance to join the Under-23 squad and showcase my ability, I have to thank them a lot.”
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the academy at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Lead Analyst to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing video analysis and IT support to all academy staff and players.
The successful candidate will play a key role in the filming of all academy games and training sessions, provide analysis of players and teams across all age groups as guided by coaching staff, prepare video feedback for use at team de-briefing meetings and individual player meetings, and support academy management with collation of statistics relating to the academy productivity targets and KPIs.
The role will be based at the club’s training ground in London Colney and will include working across all academy ages (U9s to U23s).
Applicants should ideally live local to London Colney or the surrounding areas, and be UK/EU residents or non-residents with a valid UK work permit.
You must have:
- Bachelor’s Degree (minimum of upper second class) in Sport and Exercise Science or sports-related discipline
- Holds a Prozone Performance Analysis qualification
- Experience of using industry software (SportsCode, Prozone etc.) and video editing programmes (iMovie, Final Cut Pro etc.)
- 3-5 years of experience working in a sports setting with youth athletes
- Be able to work effectively in a team environment and operate effectively as part of a multidisciplinary support team
- Have an excellent understanding of football tactics and performance
- Valid FA Safeguarding Certificate or equivalent
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
- Understanding of the club’s commitment to EDI & safeguarding
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Academy Lead Analyst
Salary: Dependent on qualifications and experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 12noon, April 6 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com, or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Tickets for Watford's upcoming home fixtures against Brentford (Saturday April 16, 3pm KO) and Burnley (Saturday April 30, 3pm KO) will go on sale to fans in Home Group A at 12pm tomorrow (March 15).
Both games are Category C matches, with all 18 & Under tickets available for £5 throughout the stadium.
Tickets are available to purchase from tickets.watfordfc.com, over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office at Vicarage Road.
Read below for key information, including on-sale dates, ticket prices and more.
On-Sale Dates
- Home Group A
12pm, Tuesday March 15 * Home Group B
12pm, Wednesday March 16 * Home Group C
12pm, Thursday March 17 * Home Group D
12pm, Friday March 18 * General Sale*
10am, Saturday March 19**
*Home Group D sales (for Season Ticket holders wishing to purchase additional tickets for friends or family members who have not attended a game before) are NOT available online. Season Ticket holders wishing to take this opportunity during that sales window should contact us by phoning 01923 223023 or visiting the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office in person.
**The Supporter Services & Ticketing Office will be open from 10am until 4pm on Saturday March 19 to facilitate bookings and enquiries when these fixtures become available to general sale.
Ticket Prices (Category C)
Rookery Stand & Lower Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £16
- Full-Time Student: £12
- 18 & Under: £5
Family Stand:
- Adult: £30
- 65 & Over: £16
- Full-Time Student: £12
- 18 & Under: £5
Sir Elton John Stand:
- Adult: £32
- 65 & Over: £18
- Full-Time Student: £14
- 18 & Under: £5
Upper Graham Taylor Stand:
- Adult: £34
- 65 & Over: £20
- Full-Time Student: £16
- 18 & Under: £5
NFC Mobile Tickets
All tickets this season will be issued as NFC (Near Field Communication) Mobile Tickets.
This will ensure quick, safe and secure access to Vicarage Road Stadium for supporters on matchdays.
Other methods of ticket delivery will only be available in exceptional circumstances.
For all information relating to NFC mobile ticketing and entering the stadium, click HERE.
How To Download Your NFC Mobile Ticket To Your Device
For Apple Devices:
- From Safari, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”.
- On the screen that opens click “Next”, then choose “Automatically Select” followed by “Done”.
- Your pass is now downloaded to your Apple Wallet. Tap on the pass to open it.
NOTE: The official Watford FC App is NOT needed to purchase, download or access NFC Mobile Tickets.
For Android Devices:
- Ensure Google Pay is downloaded to your device and is set as your default payment option.
- From the web browser on your Android device, head to tickets.watfordfc.com and log in with your Fan ID to your ticketing account.
- Once logged on to your account select “Tickets” from the drop-down menu which displays from your name & Fan ID in the right-hand corner of the screen.
- Select the relevant ticket by using the tick box and then select “Download NFC Mobile Ticket”. When prompted, select “Open App”.
- Your pass is now added to Google Pay. Tap on the pass to open it.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in-person at the Supporter Services & Ticketing Office.
If you believe you should be eligible for a wheelchair/ambulant disabled space but are not able to access these seats online, please email disabled.supporters@watfordfc.com.
For more information on claiming a free personal assistant ticket, please see our Access Statement.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete the consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
Matchday Parking
Watford FC has partnered with Event Support Team (EST) to make matchday parking available to supporters for the 2021/22 season.
Parking is available throughout the town in various car parks and spaces can be viewed and purchased HERE.
Visit the site, select a match and choose your preferred parking site for a season pass or individual match.
Click HERE for more information.
Covid-19 Information
We encourage supporters to continue to do all they can to minimise the risk of passing on Covid-19. There are some simple ways supporters can help keep each other safe on a matchday:
- Be responsible and do not travel if you have Covid-19 symptoms
- Wear face coverings in indoor and crowded areas
- Continue to regularly wash your hands
- If possible, take a Covid-19 test on a matchday to check there is no risk of passing on the virus
- The best way to protect yourself and others from Covid-19 is to get vaccinated
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The Watford Observer has again teamed with its friends at the Watford Treasury to share stories from previous issues.
Nicolas Nkoulou made his first appearance in a Watford shirt since November on Tuesday afternoon when he played in the Under 23s 2-2 draw against Charlton Athletic.
Watford FC is pleased to offer its loyal Season Ticket holders the chance to renew for 2022/23 at prices that represent a saving of at least seven per cent.
“Our decision reflects the increasingly uncertain economic climate for everyone,” said Hornets’ Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury.
“It’s been a tough time for people and we are keen the club should acknowledge this.”
This ‘Early Renewal Offer’ will be available between Wednesday April 6 and Sunday April 17 inclusive to the club’s whole estate of Season Ticket holders.
The usual wide range of payment options (including the 12-month rolling Direct Debit introduced this time last year) will continue to be available to all renewers.
After the ‘Early Renewal Offer’ ends, Standard Renewal Prices – unchanged from season 2021/22 – will be available between Tuesday April 19 and Saturday April 30 inclusive.
Renewals will then be suspended with further information made available once the current campaign concludes.
Added Duxbury: “There’s only one more game to be played before Season Ticket Renewals begin, so we’re hoping supporters will act swiftly and then join Roy, Ray and the players for what’s going to be a massive run of matches in April and May.
“We’d like to thank everyone for their continued support this season and hope you’ll be keen to take us up on our renewal offer before giving your fullest possible backing towards our push to retain Premier League status.”
Further detailed Renewal information, including a set of FAQs, will be published nearer to the April 6 on-sale date.
Click HERE to access a Season Ticket Renewals pricing matrix for the 2022/23 season.
Watford FC Supporter Services Team contacts:
supporters@watfordfc.com
01923 223023
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Kenny Jackett is the latest former Watford star to be confirmed as a Hornets Ambassador, joining an array of glittering talent involved with the programme.
The epitome of a one-club man, Jackett grew up a stone’s throw away from Vicarage Road, joining Watford at the age of 14. From his parents’ house, he was raised in the silhouette of The Vic’s floodlights with aspirations of wearing yellow for his club – like his father before him, Frank Jackett.
His dreams would become reality, making his debut aged 18 against Sunderland at the end of the 1979/80 league campaign. But Jackett would make his name the following season, cementing his place in Graham Taylor’s famous Watford side of the 1980s.
He would play a key role in the promotion to the First Division from the left side of either the defence or midfield, capable of exploiting the opposition using his cultured and composed approach on the ball.
Following his elevation to the top-flight, Jackett played 41 times and scored four goals as the Hornets finished second in the league in the 1982/83 campaign, in what is still heralded as one of the finest achievements in Watford’s history.
In total, Jackett would make 428 appearances for the Hornets, including starting the 1984 FA Cup final against Everton, and five matches in the UEFA Cup.
Jackett would remain loyal until a knee injury cruelly brought his footballing career to a close, with the-then 28-year-old finishing eighth in the all-time appearance list for Watford in all competitions.
Alongside a successful career with the Golden Boys, Jackett earned a record 31 caps for the Welsh national side – only England’s John Barnes could equal that international statistic while an active member of the Watford squad.
Following his retirement, Jackett remained in the coaching set-up at Watford and would eventually become manager of his boyhood club in 1996, after GT had returned as general manager.
After stabilising the club during the 1996/97 season, Jackett returned to a coaching role and, with GT taking on the managerial reins once again, he helped guide the Hornets to two consecutive promotions – including one to the Premier League.
On the latest episode of Inside The Hive, Watford’s midweek show, Jackett reminisced on his time at Vicarage Road and explained how proud he is to become a Hornets Ambassador alongside other icons from throughout the club’s history.
“I want to say thanks for the invitation, it’s a great list of players,” said Jackett. “I’m honoured to be joining it and I’m looking forward to taking part as well. It’s a privilege to be on the list.
“The big thing for me was that I was a Watford lad, born and bred in Watford. I played for my hometown club and from my mum and dad’s house, you could see the floodlights. Coming here as a supporter and then being able to play for the club was fantastic.
“I was coming through as a youth team player and getting through to the first team at 18 during the time we were coming through the divisions. Getting up to the top division and finishing second was a big one for somebody who had been a supporter like myself.
“From 15 years old being stood on the terraces watching it, and then suddenly at 18 playing in the top division, it was surreal. My family are all local as well, so I was very proud to have made it.”
Hornets Ambassadors
To find out more about the Hornets Ambassadors – and to read the profiles of the former players already announced – click HERE.
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While the Hornets couldn’t quite manage to secure a hard-earned point at Bristol City Women on Sunday (March 13), Assistant Coach Laura Dyer was very pleased with what she saw from the side.
“I think the performance was top drawer from the girls,” she told watfordfc.com afterwards. “They came out here and they grafted.
“We tweaked a few things in training this week and you couldn’t fault their togetherness, and that was one message we kept getting through to them when we were in the changing room at the start.
“We need to be together, we need to be committed, and we need to be on this journey together, and I think that was shown today. It’s just about now building on the performance and hopefully getting that result.”
With a number of enforced changes to the backline and a lack of goals in recent weeks, most neutrals would have probably had this down as a comfortable victory for the side second in the table; Watford certainly made sure that wasn’t the case.
“The girls have stepped up,” said Dyer. “People playing out of position, it showed that they want to be out there and wearing that badge.
“It just goes to show the versatility that we have in this team as well, it’s absolutely spot on and we know they can be called upon when needed. It was honestly superb from everyone throughout.
“I think everyone celebrated that one! [Rosie’s goal]. It was about time that we were clinical with our chances. Could we have had more? One hundred per cent, but just to get that first one is something to build on. It was absolutely superb and what a great strike from Rosie as well.”
While disappointing not to come away with something, the mood after the game was understandably of a more positive nature, with the squad now looking forward to a big match-up against London City Lionesses at The Vic next.
“The mood in the camp is really high,” explained Dyer. “It’s now about this upcoming week and everyone’s excited for the game.
“What do we need to do as coaching staff to make sure that the girls are prepped and kind of pushing on? We’re saying that the performances are fantastic, it’s now about whether we can get the performance and the result.
“We want as big a crowd as we can get down there [for London City], because the support for us is what drives us on. We can do so much from the sidelines, and the team can do so much, but we want the supporters to be with us on this journey.”
Next Up: London City at The Vic!
The Golden Girls are back in action this Sunday (Mar 20, 2pm KO), playing at Vicarage Road for the fourth time this campaign.
If that’s not enough to get excited about, you could potentially be eligible for a free ticket to the game too.
All Watford FC Season Ticket holders and Arsenal match buyers are eligible for a complimentary ticket. Get yours today!
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Watford have offered season ticket holders the opportunity to renew their tickets at a reduced rate, due to the "uncertain economic climate".
Cucho Hernandez scored twice to give Watford a crucial 2-1 win over Southampton at St Mary's and boost the Hornets' Premier League survival hopes.
Our on-loan Hornets continue to thrive at their temporary clubs, with goals, clean sheets and important contributions aplenty across the weekend’s games.
Andre Gray was awarded Man of the Match for his role in Queens Park Rangers’ 2-1 win at Luton Town on Sunday.
Gray won and scored the equalising penalty at Kenilworth Road to help his side back into the game. Dribbling into the box from the right wing, his quality on the ball saw him beat the Hatters defenders before being brought down.
Clinical from the spot, Gray placed his effort and went on to play 78 minutes in Bedfordshire. Defender Rob Dickie grabbed the decisive goal on 83 minutes, sending Gray’s side back into the play-off places at the expense of their opponents.
Also in the Championship, Domingos Quina has been in inspired form since joining Barnsley in January, playing a part in two results last week.
The Portuguese playmaker rifled in an excellent shot against Stoke in midweek, in a game which ended 1-1.
Quina received possession on the left, searching for space on the edge of the box. Ending up on the right, the 22-year-old cut back onto his left foot, curling a dangerous strike into the far corner.
The midfielder featured next against Fulham, the club he spent the first half of the season on loan at, putting in another good shift at Oakwell in another 1-1 draw.
It was a good weekend for Watford goalkeepers. Alongside Ben Foster’s impressive display against Southampton, Pontus Dahlberg returned to the starting XI for Gillingham, keeping a clean sheet in a 1-0 win over old side Doncaster in League One. In the National League South, Myles Roberts also kept an unblemished record for Concord Rangers in his game versus St Albans City at Clarence Park, winning 1-0.
In the Southern League Premier Central, Adian Manning found the target for the first time at Biggleswade Town on Saturday, scoring in a 2-1 defeat to Nuneaton Borough FC. Meanwhile, Manning’s Under-23 teammate Jimiel Chikukwa has returned to Watford from a loan spell at Maidstone United.
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Chloe Bull’s double and assist proved too much for Watford, as Bristol City kept themselves within touching distance of leaders Liverpool at the top of the FA Women’s Championship table with a 3-1 win.
An exciting opportunity has become available within the Grounds Maintenance department at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Senior/Skilled Groundsperson to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing a pitch maintenance programme and to ensure delivery of excellent playing surfaces at the club's Training Ground based in London Colney.
The role will be based on a 40-hour week which will include evening, weekend and matchday hours and will be based at our Training Ground facilities in London Colney, however there may be a requirement at times to work at our Vicarage Road Stadium.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to London Colney or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- NVQ Level 2 in sports turf or equivalent
- Spraying certificates (or working towards)
- Experience of people management
- The ability to work to tight deadlines
- Excellent time keeping and organisational skills
- Ability to work in a team and using own initiative
- Willing to work unsociable hours which will include evenings and weekends, and have a flexible approach to tasks
- Understanding of the club's commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
For the full job advert click HERE.
For the full job profile contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Senior/Skilled Groundsperson
Salary: £26,000 - £30,000pa depending on experience
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 12pm, March 31 2022
Interview Date: Week commencing April 11 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com, or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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Ben Foster felt Watford could have inflicted more damage on Southampton during their 2-1 win at St Mary's on Sunday.
Rosie Kmita was on the scoresheet for the Golden Girls at the weekend against Bristol City (Mar 13), as the team came close to coming away with a result against tough opposition.
“There are loads of positives to take from the game,” she told watfordfc.com afterwards. “We created loads of chances for ourselves.
“We had some great chances, obviously the next step now is about taking them. We’re really proud of the performance we put in, once again the score doesn’t reflect it, but that’s football.
“We knew what we wanted to do. We understood our roles, especially defensively, and I think we really implemented that in the game, so we’re proud of ourselves for that.”
While there wasn’t any reward for the encouraging display, the play in attacking areas certainly bodes well for the weeks ahead.
“If we take more risks going forward and get a few more players in the box, we know we can score goals now and create good chances,” explained Kmita. “I think we’ve taken loads of confidence from today.
“I wish that the goal could have impacted the score, but at least we managed to get a goal today which is positive.”
It was a weird balance of positivity and disappointment after the match, with the players leaving the pitch having given everything against one of the best sides in the Championship.
“They’re a top side, but we kept ourselves in the game for a long time,” said Kmita. “The third goal didn’t come until the very last minute.
“I’m disappointed and don’t know what to say, because it’s really frustrating for us. It still feels a little bit fresh the loss, a tough one.”
The Hornets will now look to take this improved performance and do even better in the next encounter – it’s a big one, as the team are back at The Vic, hosting London City Lionesses on March 20 (2pm KO).
“We very much are,” said Kmita when asked about looking forward to playing in front of a large crowd at Vicarage Road.
“I think if we play like we did today at The Vic, then we’ll definitely be able to get the result, so I’m really excited for next week.”
FREE Tickets For London City Game!
Are you a Watford FC Season Ticket Holder? Or did you purchase a ticket to the recent Watford v Arsenal game?
If so, you can watch the Golden Girls' upcoming encounter against London City Lionesses at The Vic free of charge!
It's sure to be an exciting match, so don't miss out, and get your tickets today!
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Roy Hodgson admits he will not have much chance to work with his side between now and their game at Liverpool,..
On Episode 39 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford's 2-1 win at Southampton on March 13 in the Premier League.
Episode publish date: March 14, 2022.
FYI: The You Orns! shop: https://youorns.com. Watford news and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
Watford gave themselves renewed hope of surviving the Premier League drop with a 2-1 win at Southampton yesterday.
A Cucho Hernandez brace gave Watford a win at Southmpton and renewed hope in their hunt for Premier League survival. Here's the highlights from the match.
The 'Orns manager spoke about his front three and what he wants from them as he side claimed a key win over the Saints
Cucho Hernandez and his Watford teammates are feeling calmer ahead of the international break after two goals from the Colombian earned them a much-needed win away at Southampton.
Read every word the Hornets boss said after his side beat Southampton 2-1 at St Mary's, with two goals from Cucho Hernandez helping Watford to a vital three points
Roy Hodgson praised match-winner Cucho Hernandez after his brace gave Watford a much-needed victory away at Southampton and said he hopes that between now and the end of the season, he can help the striker develop as a player.
The player ratings are in after the Hornets beat Southampton in the Premier League, with Cucho Hernandez netting twice for Roy Hodgson's men to secure a vital win at St Mary's
Join us live from St Mary's stadium as Roy Hodgson speaks to the press after his team's match against the Saints
Watford gave their Premier League survival hopes a much-needed shot in the arm with a hard-fought 2-1 win away at Southampton on Sunday.
The full Hornets team to face Ralph Hasenhuttl's men in the Premier League has been named by Roy Hodgson
Watford need a reaction at St Mary's today as they face Southampton in the wake of their 4-0 defeat at Wolves.
Watford take on Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday (February 12, 3pm KO), as the Hornets look to build momentum following an encouraging performance against West Ham United on Tuesday night.
A significant amount of time has passed since the Golden Boys played the Seagulls in the second game of the 2021/22 season. Shane Duffy and Neal Maupay made the difference at the American Express Community Stadium back in August, and the south-coast side currently occupy 9th place in the league table.
Let’s take a look at what has changed since the last fixture between Watford and Brighton…
Impressive League Form
Brighton are one of three teams in the Premier League who are unbeaten in their last five top-flight games, and have only lost four games all season – only Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea have fewer losses.
They are only six points off the European places and under Graham Potter have enjoyed a productive fifth straight season in the Premier League, a record for the Seagulls.
Some of the highlights of their season include a late leveller at Stamford Bridge after not scoring against the Blues in seven meetings in west London – a record that stretched back to 1967.
In addition, a 2-2 draw at Anfield against Liverpool caught the eye, and a new-found consistency in the league has put the Seagulls in a fantastic position to make it a sixth season in a row in the top-flight.
January Dealings
Two signings came through the door at the AMEX Stadium, with 18-year-old Kacper Kozłowski joining from Pogoń Szczecin, and 25-year-old Deniz Undav from Union Saint-Gilloise. Both arrivals were then loaned back out to Union SG, the Seagulls’ sister club.
The more significant business transpired in the departures section as Dan Burn swapped the south coast for the north-east, as the Newcastle United fan joined his boyhood club. The centre-back featured in every game but two he was available for this season, and will be missed in the back-line.
Burn might not be the only one to make the move to Tyneside from Brighton. Dan Ashworth recently resigned as Brighton’s technical director and is expected to join Newcastle as they look to bolster their backroom staff.
Recent Form
After beating West Brom in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup and three back-to-back 1-1 draws in the league against Chelsea, Crystal Palace and Leicester City, Brighton went out of the FA Cup after losing to Tottenham Hotspur 3-1 in the fourth round.
The Seagulls have only won once in the Premier League during 2022. The 3-2 victory came against Everton, with an important double from Alexis Mac Allister and a headed strike from the recently departed Burn, securing all three points.
Despite this, Brighton remain a huge threat under manager Potter and will look to cause the Hornets problems when they travel to Vicarage Road later this week.
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Peter Etebo is nearing a return to first team football with Watford following a quad injury sustained in September.
Watford manager Roy Hodgson has no fresh injury concerns following Tuesday night’s narrow 1-0 defeat at West Ham United.
Midfielder Peter Etebo continues to edge towards a return to match action following a quad injury sustained against Newcastle United in September.
The 26-year-old is meeting with his surgeon in Finland later today (February 10), and hopes to return to England tonight and resume training with the team tomorrow.
Elsewhere, goalkeeper Rob Elliot is fit and available after nursing a minor injury, and young forward Kwadwo Baah (foot) has returned to full training following a three-month spell on the sidelines.
Long-term absentee Nicolas Nkoulou is progressing well in his recovery from a hamstring problem, with the defender continuing his rehab work at the London Colney training ground.
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There was something almost inevitable about Odion Ighalo’s late double at Griffin Park on that bitterly cold Tuesday night in February 2015.
Watford were desperate for a win against promotion rivals Brentford yet found themselves trailing with a quarter of the match to play. An early red card for the hosts had done anything but open up the game and Troy Deeney even had a penalty kick saved as the resilient Bees battened down the hatches.
But when you’ve got a striker in the kind of form Ighalo was in 2014/15, you always have a chance to turn things around. The Nigerian was on a run of nine goals in seven games ahead of the trip to west London and he was about to make in 11 in eight.
“When this run kept coming, I was happy because it gave me more confidence, gave me more relaxation to keep playing even when I missed a chance, because I knew another was going to come,” recalled Ighalo.
“I was just doing my job, working hard and getting the goals. The team winning is the first priority, so that’s what is always in my head. As a striker you want to score goals, but I just wanted to make sure Watford won games. But the goals kept coming, and I kept taking them, so I was happy! When you’re a striker and you score goals, it gives you more confidence, it gives you more edge that you believe in every game you’re going to score.”
Slaviša Jokanović’s side had been pressing from the off and went close through Ben Watson before Jake Bidwell was sent off for a challenge on Miguel Layún. Andre Gray then latched onto a route-one ball and finished emphatically to put the Bees ahead before David Button saved Deeney’s spot-kick. Watford continued to press forward though and, despite all indications this might just be ‘one of those nights’, there was still a feeling that surely the Hornets would score.
“Brentford were a good side, they played good football,” said Ighalo. “I remember Andre Gray scored for them. We were losing 1-0 and we got a penalty, Troy missed it and he was not happy. We were putting so much pressure on them, attacking, playing forward and waiting for the moment. I now realise in the game we had started being hasty and were missing some chances, but we kept going because we believed we were going to score in that game.
“The way we were playing then, me and Troy Deeney were two physical strikers, we were strong; he was bullying them, and I was running in behind. We knew we were always going to have a chance, it’s either going to fall for Troy or fall for me. We believed in every game we played we were going to have two or three chances and it was just a matter of us converting it.”
Ighalo’s belief was well placed, and so was he when Juan Carlos Paredes floated a cross into the six-yard box for a typical poacher’s goal. This was a game Watford could not afford to lose yet the mentality of the players was to win, as evidenced by the muted celebrations and rush to get the ball back to the centre circle.
“I got a goal with a header and it was 1-1,” he said. “When I scored the equaliser, you can see me and Troy were rushing to the ball in the net to pick it up and take it to the centre, because we believed we could score again and win the game. The game kept going, we were looking to win that game because it would boost our chance of getting promotion to the Premier League. We were doing everything we could to get a goal.”
After plenty of huffing and puffing, Watford’s persistence finally paid off in the first minute of injury time. Substitute Matěj Vydra crossed towards Ighalo near the penalty spot who, despite pressure from his marker, volleyed into the corner of the net. It was the kind of finish you only attempt when confidence is flowing and Ighalo admitted he was in two minds over whether to take it on.
“Suddenly in the dying minutes a cross came in from Vydra and I just tapped it in,” he said, doing himself a great disservice, considering the quality of the finish. “The way the ball came I had two seconds to think; one mind said I should just control the ball and play it, one mind said I should just hit it from that place. That’s why I say it was like a tap in! I know it’s difficult to hit the ball from that place. I’m happy I did what I did, with instinct, and the ball went in straight away. I remember vividly, I still have that video on my phone and sometimes see it when I go through my videos and watch my goals from Watford.”
Ighalo’s strike sent the away fans in the terraces wild and he was quick to run towards them, performing the trademark celebration his supporters got to know so well as another huge step was taken in the journey to the Premier League.
“It was a marvellous night; the fans were going crazy,” he said. “Celebrating with the fans was special, because Watford fans loved me. Even in my bad times, they still supported me, sang my name and chanted for me. It’s good to have these kinds of fans and this kind of support. When you score a goal at home you know Vicarage Road will be shaking, and when we travelled away you knew the fans would turn up in numbers to support the team. I miss those crazy days when you score a goal, run to the fans and everything is bubbling. I had a wonderful time at Watford. My story would not be complete in my career, my life, without mentioning Watford.”
More In This Series
- Smith v Preston (2008)
- Anya v Barnsley (2013)
- Cleverley v Nottingham Forest (2009)
- Graham v Norwich (2010)
- Shittu v Reading (2007)
- Byrne v Middlesbrough (1991)
- Miller v Wycombe Wanderers (1997)
- Kennedy v Luton Town (1997)
- Palmer v Bournemouth (1998)
- Guedioura v Cardiff City (2014)
- Deeney v Stoke (2015)
- Doyley v QPR (2009)
- Slater v Rotherham (1997)
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The new Hornets manager speaks to the press as his team prepare to face the Seagulls in the Premier League this weekend
Hashtag United’s Alex Shaw and Tom Stokes will represent Watford FC at the ePremier League Grand Finals, after winning the club playoffs.
In a competitive double-elimination knockout tournament, Shaw beat AIABA 5-1 in the Xbox final, while Stokes beat GanglePS 11-9 over two legs on PlayStation in a hotly-contested encounter.
The Hornets last won the competition back in 2020 as Tom Leese, who was also with Hashtag United at the time, beat Marc Marley 2-1 in the Grand Final to be crowned ePremier League champion.
This season’s Grand Finals will take place at Here East in the Olympic Park, Stratford, on March 26 and 27, and will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, the Premier League YouTube channel, and EA SPORTS FIFA’s official Twitch channel.
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The new 'Orns left-back has taken to Premier League life brilliantly since arriving from Nice in the January transfer market
Tickets for Watford FC Women's home clash with Sheffield United Women at the Orbital Fasteners Stadium, Kings Langley, will go on-sale on Monday (February 14, 9am GMT).
The Hornets host the Blades on Saturday March 5 at 7.30pm in the FA Women's Championship.
Season Ticket holders for the Men's side can get a discount on tickets for the fixture, as detailed below.
All seating is unreserved.
Ticket Prices
Adult: £12 (£10 for Men's Season Ticket holders)
65 & Over: £5 (£3 for Men's Season Ticket holders)
Full-Time Student: £5 (£3 for Men's Season Ticket holders)
18 & Under: £5 (£3 for Men's Season Ticket holders)
Tickets are issued as print at home tickets.
Wheelchair & Ambulant Disabled
Wheelchair and ambulant disabled tickets are available, with a free personal assistant if required.
Our new ticketing system allows supporters to purchase these tickets at tickets.watfordfc.com, as well as over the phone on 01923 223023 and in person at the Supporter Services and Ticketing Office.
Under-18s
Supporters aged under 14 cannot attend without an adult (over 18) accompanying them. Supporters aged under 18 but over 14 wishing to attend without an adult must complete a consent form HERE and return it to the Supporter Services team at supporters@watfordfc.com.
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An exciting opportunity has become available within the Football Operations Team at Watford Football Club. We are looking to recruit a Football & Scouting Co-ordinator to be a part of a forward-thinking team responsible for providing support to the Sporting Director and Football department, with all administration duties required to meet the needs and smooth running of the scouting network.
You will play a key role in organising our network of international scouts, arranging travel, match tickets, updating the scouting system and creating and managing a central filing system in relation to players and match reports.
The successful candidate will enjoy working as part of a team, be enthusiastic, hardworking, and be flexible to the requirements of the position and the business.
Applicants should ideally live local to Watford or the surrounding areas and be a UK resident or non-UK resident with a valid UK work permit, and ideally have experience working within a similar role.
You must have:
- Minimum two years administration experience
- Excellent understanding of the following languages: English, Italian and Spanish
- Excellent IT skills, with experience of MS Office or similar
- The ability to communicate concisely, assertively and effectively with various professional disciplines and at all levels of an organisation
- The ability to work effectively under own initiative and also as a member of a team
- An ability to adapt quickly, be flexible in the face of change and solution orientated
- An ability to maintain absolute confidentiality
- Able to work unsocial hours when required to meet the demands of the role
- Understanding of the club's commitment to EDI & Safeguarding
- Full UK driving licence or ability to travel to various locations due to the demands of the role
- The necessary Disclosure and Barring Service check will apply to this post
You would ideally have, but not vital:
- First-hand experience of football administration at a club level
- A working knowledge of rules and regulation at all levels of the game
- An understanding of the principles of managing information
- Experience of working to deadlines, in a high pressure environment
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills
Download the full job advert by clicking HERE, or contact HR Admin at hradmin@watfordfc.com.
Employer: Watford Football Club
Job Title: Football & Scouting Co-ordinator
Salary: £21,000-£23,000pa
Location: Watford Football Club - Training Ground, London Colney
Type: Permanent Full Time
Passport/Visa: Must be eligible to work in the UK
Closing Date: 12pm, Thursday March 3 2022
Interview Date: Week commencing March 14 2022
Application process:
1. Please download and complete an application form located on the club website under the careers section.
2. Please send completed application form, cover letter detailing why you would be suitable for the role, a copy of all relevant qualifications, right to work in the UK documents and your CV via email to hradmin@watfordfc.com, or by post to HR Admin, Watford Football Club, Vicarage Road Stadium, Watford, Hertfordshire, WD18 0ER.
3. If you require information in regards how to complete the application form please refer to ‘Application Form guidance notes’ which can be found on the club website under the careers section.
4. Please note depending on the role and if shortlisted reference request may be taken up prior to interview.
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With the Senegalese star returning to England as an AFCON champion, Roy Hodgson will need to fit him into the 'Orns team ahead of a key Premier League match against Brighton this Saturday
Elisha Sulola’s double inspired Charlton Athletic to a 3-0 win over struggling Watford at the Oakwood.
Hornets Ambassador Heurelho Gomes will join us live from Brazil for this week’s edition of Inside The Hive (7pm, Thursday February 10), to answer supporters’ questions and update us on what he’s been up to since leaving Watford.
The former goalkeeper, who made more than 150 appearances for the Golden Boys, will feature alongside host Michael Kurn and Hornets legend Tommy Mooney. You can send in your questions for Gomes via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook, using the hashtag #InsideTheHive.
Elsewhere on the show, we’ll be taking a closer look at the great work undertaken by Watford’s Community, Sports & Education Trust, ahead of Saturday’s Community Trust Awareness Matchday during their 30th anniversary year.
Also, Ken Sema will take part in the 60-Second Challenge, and the show will look ahead to the weekend as the men prepare to face Brighton, and the women get ready for a showdown at home to Lewes.
This week's show will be streamed live on YouTube, Twitter and Facebook, as well as on our website and app, from 7pm to 8pm GMT. You can also find it on our recently-launched Twitch page.
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Hassane Kamara insists Watford cannot be satisfied with their display against West Ham United last night because they ended up on the wrong end of the scoreline.
It’ll be a busy international break for some of the Golden Girls’ players, with a trio of the squad called up by their countries.
The three will be available for selection against Lewes this weekend, before heading off to represent Wales and England respectively.
Helen Ward and Morgan Rogers will be off to warmer climates as the Welsh senior side take part in the Pinatar Cup in Spain.
Photo: FAW / Kunjan Malde
The tournament will see them playing games on February 16, 19 and 22. Scotland will be their first opponents, with subsequent match-ups depending on the results in the competition.
Also travelling out to Spain will be Teyah Goldie, as the England Women Development Phase squad play in the Marbella International Tournament.
The team will have matches on February 17 and 22, playing against their counterparts representing Finland and Denmark.
All at Watford FC would like to wish the three players the very best of luck on international duty.
Coming Up
Don't miss the last match before the international break, as the Golden Girls host Lewes FC Women at Kings Langley (February 13 - 3pm KO).
You can buy in advance now, with the chance to win tickets to Watford's Premier League encounter with Brighton if you purchase two or more by Friday morning!
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On Episode 32 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford's 1-0 loss at West Ham. Also: The necessity of a tactics shift for Watford v. Brighton this Saturday. And: The new You Orns! giveaway of a Hassane Kamara Watford home shirt. (To enter the giveaway before Friday Feb 11, 2022 go here: https://bit.ly/3GPfcIV)
Episode publish date: February 9, 2022.
FYI: The You Orns! shop: https://youorns.com. Watford news and stories: https://youornswfc.wordpress.com.
Subscribe to the You Orns! YouTube channel: https://bit.ly/3h2hZnd
Follow You Orns! on Twitter: https://twitter.com/YouOrnsWFC
Follow You Orns! on Instagram: https://instagram.com/YouOrnsWFC. #WatfordFC
This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app Support this podcast: https://anchor.fm/omar-moore8/support
We can officially confirm two changes to the Golden Girls’ fixture list in the FA Women’s Championship.
The London City Lionesses game that was postponed in January has been re-arranged, this will now place on Sunday March 20.
This will also be played at a different ground. We’re pleased to confirm that the fixture will be held at Vicarage Road, with a 2pm kick-off.
There has also been one additional change. Due to a clash with the Watford v Arsenal match-up in the Premier League, the league encounter against Sheffield United has had to be rescheduled.
That match will now take place on Saturday March 5 (7:30pm KO), it has also been switched to Kings Langley FC.
Information on ticket sales for both games will be posted here first on watfordfc.com.
Next Home Match
One fixture that hasn't changed is our upcoming home game against Lewes FC Women this Sunday at Kings Langley (February 13, 3pm KO).
Tickets are currently on sale, and there's a chance to win tickets to Watford v Brighton in the Premier League if you purchase two or more by Friday morning!
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Every time Watford Football Club owner Mr Gino Pozzo decides to change his football manager he immediately receives lots of criticism from fans writing letters to the editor (‘Stop the madness’, Watford Observer, January 28).
Ismaila Sarr is due to return to Watford today after playing his part in Senegal's African Cup of Nations success.
Tom Cleverley feels encouraged by Watford's performances in their last two matches, while admitting that on paper things are looking "worrying".
Recent arrival Hassane Kamara admitted Watford must continue to improve under new manager Roy Hodgson if they are to prevail in the battle against relegation, following Tuesday night’s narrow 1-0 defeat at West Ham United.
The 27-year-old completed the full 90 minutes of the hotly-contested encounter under the lights, as Jarrod Bowen’s deflected second-half strike ultimately proved the difference at the London Stadium.
Having joined the Hornets from Nice last month, Kamara has started each of the club’s last four top-flight games, and has played a key role in a stern defensive unit that has conceded just once in Hodgson’s two matches in charge.
But while he is buoyed by the marked improvements in the backline, the Ivory Coast international believes the team has to now start firing at the other end of the pitch to help turn better displays into points.
“We need to do more,” he said. “Before we were conceding lots of goals and in the last couple of matches we have been a lot better defensively, but we need to start scoring now because we’ve only taken one point.
“If we don’t score, we can’t win, and we need to start picking up points because we need them. The goal was unfortunate tonight but things like that happen when you’re in a relegation fight.
“Though we played well we can’t be content with the performance because we didn’t pick up any points. We need to play well both defensively and offensively to pick up the points we need.”
Kamara has enjoyed his time in Hertfordshire since linking up with the Golden Boys in early January, and thanked the 2,437 Watford fans in attendance at West Ham who he feels could prove vital in the remainder of the season.
And after quickly settling into Premier League life the Saint-Denis-born star is focused on helping ensure top-flight football remains at Vicarage Road next season.
He added: “I want to thank the supporters, who were great again. We need the fans because it’s not easy to win games, and with them behind us it really does feel like we are 12 men.
“I’ve really enjoyed my time at Watford so far. The Premier League has been tough to get used to because you have to concentrate all the time in all areas of the pitch, but this is where I want to be.
“Watford gave me the opportunity to play in the Premier League, and as a team we’ll do everything we can to stay there.”
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The Hornets manager had plenty to say after losing to the Hammers, read every word here
Watford were beaten by a deflected Jarrod Bowen away at West Ham United after limiting the home side to half chances and pot shots.
Tom Cleverley believes there are genuine reasons for optimism if you look beyond the harsh reality of Watford’s recent run of results.
Speaking after tonight’s 1-0 defeat at West Ham, the midfielder drew encouragement from the nature of the performance on an evening when Roy Hodgson’s men probably deserved more.
“It was a strong performance,” said Cleverley. “If you look back at those two performances we’ve just put in, it’s probably the highest level of consistency we’ve had all season.
“We could’ve come away with at least a point today. It wasn’t to be but I think we can take plenty of heart from how resilient we are and the quality we showed in glimpses. We’re feeling a bit hard done by, but we can’t feel sorry for ourselves.
“We feel a lot more confident in our shape [since Hodgson’s appointment] but we have to try and get a complete performance and we’ve not managed to score in those two games, so we can’t forget about the other side of our game.
“We’ve got plenty of quality in the team but we’ve just not managed to have the complete performance and added a goal to our strong game tonight, but it’s a solid base to build from.”
The Hornets are without a win since November and have only scored once in five, but they’ve looked a more disciplined, cohesive unit during Hodgson’s two games at the helm – tonight’s defeat and Saturday’s goalless draw at Burnley.
“They’re worrying stats on paper but the last two performances can give us massive heart for the rest of the season,” said Cleverley.
“If we play with that level of performance in the last 16 games, we’ve got every chance. The run we’re on is not good enough and we need to pick up, but the consistency in the last two games has given me personally a lot of heart.
“One game is not the be all and end all. It’s going to be a certain number of points over the course of a season. We’ve got a lot of big, winnable home games from now until the end of the season and I think that could be the key.”
Cleverley claims the Hornets’ new manager, and his assistant Ray Lewington, have taken the team back to basics over the past fortnight, an approach that resulted in Watford’s first clean sheet of the season at Turf Moor at the weekend.
“He [Roy] has been brilliant along with Ray since they’ve come in,” said Cleverley, who also revealed he enjoyed cutting onto his right foot this evening in a left-midfield position he occasionally occupied under Hodgson for England.
“They’ve really simplified what they want from the shape of the team and Roy’s record alone must give the players confidence.
“I don’t think he’s ever been relegated from the Premier League and he’s had bags and bags of experience, so that alone gives the players confidence that we can do it.”
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Roy Hodgson hailed his charges despite Tuesday night’s 1-0 defeat at West Ham United under the lights, with the Watford boss content that each of his players had put 100 per cent effort into the hard-fought encounter.
Jarrod Bowen’s deflected strike midway through the second half earned the Hammers the spoils at the London Stadium, though the Hornets threatened their Champions League-chasing opponents on several occasions and could easily have emerged victorious on another day.
While the likes of Ben Foster and Hassane Kamara impressed at the bottom end of the pitch, Joshua King and Emmanuel Dennis were lively up front, and Hodgson believes there were plenty of signs of encouragement to take away.
“It’s a harsh way to lose the game with such a fierce deflection, but we mustn’t feel sorry for ourselves,” he said. “I can’t ask for more than what the players put in tonight.
“It was an unfortunate goal and up until that point I thought the game was evenly poised and that we’d been defending very well. It was hard for us after that because we had to go in search of an equaliser, but overall I’m pleased with what I saw tonight.
“It’s important not to forget we were playing a team with a lot of confidence. We have to dust ourselves down, accept it wasn’t our night, and be happy with the fact I can already see our stamp on the team.”
A midweek clash in the capital marked Hodgson’s second match in charge of the Golden Boys, and with just one goal conceded so far he is buoyed by the strength of the defensive unit under his tutelage.
While the 74-year-old highlighted the impact of some of Watford’s January additions, he also recognised the value of having Dennis back at his disposal following suspension, and thinks the Nigerian together with the soon-to-be-returning AFCON winner Ismaïla Sarr can help fire the club to Premier League safety.
He said: “Samir and Kamara have been really important for us as new additions. I cringe when I hear people saying you’ve been working hard on defence because all teams do, but I’m happy with the result of the work we’ve been doing.
“But I know we’re not only going to win games by doing the defensive side of things better. We need to improve at both sides of the game. It was good to have Dennis back and we’ll have Sarr back soon as well, who’s going to be important.
“I thought we had attacking threat today and I’m not concerned about that end of the field. Perhaps we didn't produce that golden goal chance, but I'm sure we will as we work more.”
A home clash against Brighton & Hove Albion on Saturday (February 12, 3pm) offers Watford a quick chance to bounce back from defeat, and Hodgson is hopeful of earning a first win of 2022 that could provide vital momentum in the relegation fight.
He added: “I’ve been in equally bad positions before as a manager and we have to look at the players. They’ve shown they care, and that’s really important.
“They worked hard tonight physically and on the principles we’re trying to encourage. They’ve got to maintain that, but I do believe we have lots of positives to take into Saturday, and ultimately enough to keep ourselves safe.”
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The Hornets boss was keen to emphasise the training ground efforts of his team despite the disappointing loss
Roy Hodgson has said he felt sorry for his Watford players after their narrow defeat away at West Ham United and said they deserved something from the match.
Watford were beaten by a suckerpunch away at West Ham United, as Jarrod Bowen's deflected goal divided the sides 1-0 at full time.
Join us live from the London Stadium as Roy Hodgson speaks to the press after his team's match against the Hammers
HertsLive provides updates from the London Stadium as the Horners take on the Hammers in the Premier League
Roy Hodgson believes Joao Pedro has the makings of an "exceptional" player and has urged Watford to nurture his talents to make sure he has every opportunity to fully develop.
Match Info
- West Ham United v Watford
- London Stadium
- Premier League
- Tuesday February 8, 7.45pm GMT
- BT Sport
- Yellow home kit, black shorts
Officials
- Referee: Martin Atkinson
- Assistants: Lee Betts, Richard West
- Fourth Official: Simon Hooper
- VAR: Paul Tierney
- Assistant VAR: James Mainwaring
Opposition
David Moyes’ West Ham are currently fifth in the Premier League and into the fifth round of the FA Cup. The Hammers have enjoyed a thoroughly successful season in league and cup competition so far, also advancing to the knockout stages of the UEFA Europa League.
Tribute
Watford FC have accepted an offer from West Ham to join their players and staff in wearing pink armbands to celebrate the life of their supporter Isla Caton, a seven-year-old girl who died recently from a rare cancer.
Key Stats
- Three of Watford’s five Premier League wins over West Ham have come away from home, winning in 2006/07, 2016/17 and 2018/19. Their seven away Premier League games against the Hammers have alternated between a defeat and a win each time, losing 3-1 in July 2020 on their last visit.
- West Ham have lost just one of their last 11 midweek (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) Premier League games (W6 D4), going down 2-0 at Arsenal in December.
- In Michail Antonio’s last seven Premier League starts against Watford for West Ham he’s scored a brace (Sept 2016), been sent off (Feb 2017), assisted a goal (Feb 2018), been yellow carded (Dec 2018), assisted (May 2019), scored (July 2020) and assisted (Dec 2021).
For a full stats breakdown, check out Stats Buzz: West Ham In Numbers.
Team News
Roy Hodgson has no fresh injury concerns following the draw at Burnley last weekend. Emmanuel Dennis is back having served a one-game suspension, and long-term absentee Nicolas Nkoulou remains out.
Michail Antonio is back for the hosts, but Manuel Lanzini and Arthur Masuaku may miss out.
What Are They Saying?
Roy Hodgson, Watford manager:
“To get a point away from home at a difficult venue like Burnley has got to be seen as a step in the right direction for us. I think it was important after having seven or eight days working with the players, trying to establish a relationship with them and getting them to understand some of the principles we think will be important going forward. It was really nice to see that they could take that into the game and produce the result. There are no negatives from that game but it is a small step along the way.
“I thought their discipline, their desire [satisfied me], I’ve used the word resilience and I’ll use it again, you need that in those conditions against a well-drilled Burnley team who have been doing what they do so well for so many years. It asked a lot of questions of some of the players who haven’t had much experience in the Premier League, so I was very pleased with the way they went about their business.
“[West Ham’s season] has been excellent, I’m not at all surprised. I know the way David works, and the members of his staff. He’s a very good manager and has found himself a club that is taking full advantage of his management skill.”
David Moyes, West Ham manager:
“I don't think I’ll be [managing when I'm 74]! All I can say is that his love for the game is incredible, and to have any level of success or longevity you have to have a huge love of the game. Roy has shown he’s got that.
“If there's anybody who can help Watford stay up, Roy Hodgson would be the name I’d pick. He’s a really good coach and someone who’s managed at all different levels. Watford have given themselves a really good chance of staying up.
“Right away he made an impact. When you’re not doing well, you have to stop conceding goals, because scoring goals is never easy. Defensively, in his first game, he got them organised and they got a good clean sheet.”
Head-to-Head
Overall:
- Won: 21
- Drawn: 13
- Lost: 46
Last Six:
December 2021: Watford 1-4 West Ham United (Premier League)
July 2020: West Ham United 3-1 Watford (Premier League)
August 2019: Watford 1-3 West Ham United (Premier League)
May 2019: Watford 1-4 West Ham United (Premier League)
December 2018: West Ham United 0-2 Watford (Premier League)
February 2018: West Ham United 2-0 Watford (Premier League)
Golden Flashback
Watford overcame a 2-0 deficit in 2016, with goals from Odion Ighalo, Troy Deeney, Étienne Capoue and José Holebas earning an excellent 4-2 away win.
Listen Live
Join host Jon Marks and Hornets legend Tommy Mooney for free live commentary from the London Stadium by heading to www.watfordfc.com/live from 7.30pm GMT.
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Following Watford’s goalless draw with Burnley in Roy Hodgson’s first match in charge, the Hornets will be looking to go one better as they face West Ham United this evening (February 8, 7.45pm KO).
Ahead of the important clash at the London Stadium, we take a statistical deep dive into the facts and figures that surround the encounter.
Previous Meetings
Three of Watford’s five Premier League wins over West Ham have come away from home, during the 2006/07, 2016/17 and 2018/19 campaigns.
The Hornets’ seven away Premier League games against the Hammers have alternated between a defeat and a win each time, losing 3-1 in July 2020 on their last visit.
The home team has lost four of the last five Premier League meetings between West Ham and Watford.
The Golden Boys have found the back of the net in eight of their last nine away games against West Ham in all competitions, with the only exception in this run coming in February 2018.
Key Players
Joshua King has scored more Premier League goals versus West Ham than any other current member of the Watford squad (5), with King only netting more goals against Everton (8) in the competition.
West Ham’s Mark Noble has scored six Premier League goals against Watford, his most against a single opponent. Five of those have been penalties with only Alan Shearer ever scoring more penalties against a single opponent in the Premier League (7 v Everton).
Duo Michail Antonio (5 goals, 4 assists) and Jarrod Bowen (5 goals, 4 assists) have each been directly involved in nine Premier League goals at the London Stadium this season – no player has been involved in more home goals in the competition so far this term.
Emmanuel Dennis netted in the reverse fixture, which saw Watford lose 4-1. The last Hornets player to score both home and away against the Hammers in the Premier League was Gerard Deulofeu in 2018/19.
The Dugouts
Watford boss Hodgson and West Ham manager David Moyes have taken charge of a combined total of 970 top-flight matches.
Hodgson and Moyes have faced each other a total of 12 times with the Hornets manager winning three of the games (D2 & L7).
The 74-year-old has come up against the Hammers on 18 different occasions (W6, D5 & L7).
Opposition Stat Attack
Declan Rice has attempted the highest amount of passes in the West Ham squad in both the opponents’ half (681) and his own half (519).
Bowen leads the way with seven assists to his name while Antonio is West Ham’s top goalscorer with eight.
Former Watford defender Craig Dawson has completed the most clearances (70) and blocks (26) for his side.
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Watford’s club playoffs for the ePremier League tournament are to take place on Wednesday (February 9).
After two months of online qualifiers, seven FIFA players on Xbox and eight players on PlayStation will compete in a double-elimination knockout tournament for the chance to represent Watford at the ePremier League Grand Finals in March.
The Finals of the competition will be broadcast live on Sky Sports, the Premier League YouTube channel, and EA SPORTS FIFA’s official Twitch channel.
Amongst those competing for the chance to represent the Hornets in the tournament are Hashtag United’s Alex Shaw and Tom Stokes.
Keep an eye on Watford’s social channels to see who will be representing the club in the Grand Finals.
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Following on from Saturday's 0-0 draw with Burnley, Roy Hodgson is not expected to make too many changes for Watford's trip to West Ham United.
“Fantastic”, “brilliant”, “what a difference” are just some of the email and messages I have had about the facelift and upgrade of the Vicarage Road subway from George Street to Vicarage Road in Watford FC colours, celebrating the club, some of its legends and history.
Roy Hodgson believes avoiding Premier League relegation is tougher now than it ever has been, as he prepares to take his Watford side to East London to face West Ham United this evening.
After a couple of encouraging performances in previous outings, there was understandably an element of disappointment for Gifton Noel-Williams reflecting on the Golden Girls’ 3-0 loss at Charlton Athletic.
“It wasn’t the result [we wanted] but the thing for me, not the performance either,” he told watfordfc.com afterwards. “If you look at the first half, it wasn’t the performance level that we’ve given in the last two games.
“Instead of being on the front foot we were a bit hesitant and reactive to things that were happening.
“I’ve got to give full credit to the girls because second half they came out and that was easily an opportunity to fold, to get on the blame game. Instead, they got together and worked out what we were going to try and do.
“If you saw the second half you would say it was pretty even, in fact, we probably had a little bit more of it. It’s something to build on for the next game, but I’m here today and very disappointed with the result and the performance in the first half.”
It was a clinical first 45 from the hosts, as they led by three at the break. Charlton also opened the scoring early on, which made the task harder against an outfit that had kept seven consecutive clean sheets prior to Sunday.
The Interim Head Coach had mixed feelings about his side’s reaction to those goals.
“I’m asking the girls to play, but not asking them to take certain risks or to do certain things,” said Noel-Williams. “I want us to play football the way it should be done.
“It’s one of those things that kind of happens in football. It’s disappointing because that was the one thing we didn’t want to do, give away a sloppy goal early in the game.
“We spoke about it and in the games we played before, we’ve made sure that it hasn’t happened. So, it’s a bit disappointing but football’s football and that’s why we love it so much, these things happen.
“The reaction wasn’t that bad after the first goal, getting on it again. Then as you saw, the reaction after the second goal was a bit poor. We got back in at half-time and reacted the right way for the second half.”
A triple substitution was made at the interval, which included bringing Shauna Vassell on for her debut. Development Team player Adenya Henry also came on in the second 45 for her first appearance, too.
“It’s always hard when you come on as a sub and you’re losing,” explained Noel-Williams. “I thought Chiara [Meola] and Shauna came on at half-time and they did well. Chiara did some bits that were really good and some bits that she can improve on.
“Seeing Adenya out there making her debut was wonderful, that’s probably the plus of the day. It’s good when young players can make their debuts and get a taste of first-team football.
“I’m a positive person, you can give me a glass that’s empty and I’ll still find a way to say we can make it full at some point. There are positives to come from it, but overall, I’m going to be driving home disappointed.”
Next up for the Hornets will be a home match against Lewes FC Women on February 13. As always, Noel-Williams will be meticulous in his analysis and preparation.
“Every game you’ve got to watch the videos, look at the games,” he said. “You’ve got to do it with a hot head, so it’s just happened today, and I’ve got a hot head right now.
“I’ll watch it again with a cooler head, and then again with an even cooler head. I’ll do my analysis, we’ll get with the girls and go through it.
“Then after Tuesday, we’ll put the game away and we’ll be looking forward to Lewes on Wednesday and Thursday. It’s the same as we’ve done in the past, it’s nothing new.
“It’s just about learning, the players have to learn, we have to learn. I have to learn with the players, how do I get the best out of them? How can I get this team to score goals? How can I make them be more free and creative? How can I release the shackles where they have the freedom to go out and have shots and score goals?
“Those are things that me and the coaching staff have to look at. What have we done wrong and what can we do better from the coaching staff point of view, and I’m hoping that the girls are doing the same thing, they’re watching the video thinking ‘what can they do better?’
“If we’re all thinking the same thing, then we will get better with hard work.”
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On Episode 31 of the You Orns! podcast host and lifelong Watford FC supporter Omar Moore reviews Watford's 0-0 draw at Burnley, the first Watford clean sheet in the Premier League since February 2020. Plus: Watford Women have a tough day at the office against Charlton. Also: Borehamwood upset Bournemouth in the FA Cup and there's a Watford connection in Lloyd Doyley. And: A preview of West Ham v. Watford at London stadium.
Episode publish date: February 7, 2022.
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Watford manager Roy Hodgson will have Emmanuel Dennis back for Watford's Premier League clash with West Ham after his suspension.
Ben and James are back to discuss all things Watford including the long-awaited relegation showdown against Burnley which ended in a 0-0 draw.
Watford take on West Ham United on Tuesday evening (February 8, 7.45pm KO), as the Hornets look to build on a goalless draw against Burnley in Roy Hodgson’s first game as manager.
It has been just over a month since the two sides last faced off, with the Hammers running out 4-1 victors at Vicarage Road in late December thanks to goals from Tomáš Souček, Saïd Benrahma, Mark Noble and Nikola Vlašić.
With the Hornets keen to pick up three points on the road against tough opposition, let’s take a look at what has changed since the last fixture between Watford and West Ham…
FA Cup Wins
The east-London outfit are still in cup competition, having advanced from the fourth round last weekend in the FA Cup.
January saw the Hammers beat Premier League opponents Leeds United 2-0 at home in the third round, with Manuel Lanzini and Jarrod Bowen on the scoresheet.
The fourth round proved to be slightly more complicated, with David Moyes’ men narrowly overcoming non-league side Kidderminster Harriers in extra-time.
The National League North side went 1-0 up and looked certain to have caused an historic upset, but goals in second-half stoppage time and extra-time from Declan Rice and Bowen respectively were enough for the visitors to scrape through.
Quiet January
While the Hornets bolstered their ranks with four new arrivals, it was a less busy January window over at the London Stadium.
There was no first-team business in the winter window at West Ham, but academy graduate Conor Coventry ended his Peterborough United loan early to switch to MK Dons. Centre-back Frederik Alves departed permanently, returning to his native Denmark to join Brøndby.
Recent Form
West Ham have played four games in the Premier League since their trip to Vicarage Road, with mixed fortunes in January. The Hammers started the year with consecutive league wins either side of their FA Cup third-round tie, beating Crystal Palace 3-2 and Norwich City 2-0.
A Jack Harrison hat-trick was enough for Leeds United to claim 3-2 victory at the London Stadium on January 16, and the Irons then suffered a narrow 1-0 loss to Manchester United, with Marcus Rashford winning the game in the dying minutes at Old Trafford.
Despite two defeats in a row Moyes’ side lie in fifth, a point behind the Red Devils in fourth.
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In a piece written after Watford's promotion last season, Peter Morgan looks back on the chain of events that culminated in that wonderful afternoon at Wembley Stadium in 1999.
There were a couple of Golden Girls debuts at the weekend, one of those seeing recent signing Shauna Vassell make her first appearance for Watford.
The full-back thought there were positives to take away from the weekend’s game, despite losing 3-0 on the road to an impressive Charlton Athletic side.
“I think it was two different games in two different halves,” she told watfordfc.com afterwards. “I’d say the first half they had a bit more of the ball, expressed themselves a bit more and obviously got the three goals.
“Second half we definitely played the ball around and should have come away with a bit more than the 3-0 loss.
“We definitely fought to the end and we didn’t give up. I think that we could have got a goal or more out of that second half performance.”
Having come on for the second 45, the recent addition was excited at having made her debut for the club and is now looking forward to further action.
“It feels great to get back on the pitch and just get the feel for things again,” Vassell revealed. “It was good to make my debut today.
“I can’t wait to get back playing, get some more minutes in the tank and keep going with the girls.”
Although it wasn’t the Hornets’ day, attention will soon switch to the upcoming fixture, with Lewes visiting Kings Langley on February 13.
“We’ll just move on to the next games,” said Vassell. “Hopefully get some points from those, [starting] next week at home against Lewes.
“Get back on the training pitch, brush up on things that could have been better today, just work from there and get some points next week.”
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Roy Hodgson has no new injury concerns for Tuesday night’s clash with West Ham United (7.45pm KO), and is hoping to see his side build on their performance during Saturday’s 0-0 draw against Burnley at Turf Moor.
The Hornets picked up their first clean sheet of the season in difficult conditions in Lancashire, and Hodgson felt there were “no negatives” in his first game as Watford manager.
With Emmanuel Dennis back from his one-game suspension ahead of a visit to the London Stadium, the Englishman is looking forward to seeing Watford’s top scorer in action after spending two weeks watching him closely in training.
“The injury situation is very good, we have a large complement of players available,” Hodgson confirmed.
“The only ones definitely not available are [Nicolas] Nkoulou, Rob Elliot is nursing a small injury and Ismaïla Sarr, who played last night. We don’t know as of yet what time he will be returning. The Sporting Director is in contact with them, I haven’t had a chance to speak to him but I hope it is good news when I do.
“To get a point away from home at a difficult venue like Burnley has got to be seen as a step in the right direction for us. I think it was important after having seven or eight days working with the players, trying to establish a relationship with them and getting them to understand some of the principles we think will be important going forward. It was really nice to see that they could take that into the game and produce the result. There are no negatives from that game, but it is a small step along the way.
“I thought their discipline, their desire [satisfied me]. I’ve used the word resilience and I’ll use it again, you need that in those conditions against a well-drilled Burnley team who have been doing what they do so well for so many years. It asked a lot of questions of some of the players who haven’t had much experience in the Premier League, so I was very pleased with the way they went about their business.”
Sarr started Sunday night’s AFCON final, playing 70 minutes as his native Senegal lifted the trophy in Cameroon. Hodgson watched the match and is looking forward to seeing the winger return to the club’s London Colney training ground, bringing his international form back to Hertfordshire.
“We hope so! It’s a great achievement for Senegal to win the tournament for the first time, I was really happy for him,” he said. “It’s great to see them win but now we do badly need him back with us. The earlier we can count on him playing in our team the better.”
The winger’s return and Dennis’ availability prompted suggestions of how the duo fit into Hodgson’s system. The manager believes the Hornets can be flexible and cater to both players in various formations, and hopes they can provide important contributions in the fight against relegation.
“We’re not wedded to 4-4-2, we’re not wedded to the way we went about the job against Burnley, we just felt that to get the result against Burnley we needed that type of compact shape,” Hodgson explained.
“We played a lot of 4-3-3 at Crystal Palace, it might well turn out that with the players here 4-3-3 might turn out to be a better formation for us than the 4-4-2 we went with the other day, and we might even find ourselves playing 4-5-1 sometimes.
“The thing I will be least anxious to change is a back four because we have some very good full-backs at the club. It won’t affect our principles; the way I shall be asking people to work defensively in a 4-3-3 won’t change from what I was asking for the other night and the same goes for going forward.
“I’m looking forward to seeing Ismaïla and working with him; I've seen Emmanuel in training and I’m looking forward to seeing him in the game.
“I’m hoping that the obvious talent of these players and the fact that they have scored goals this season will continue because we’re going to need goals. There’s no way that we’re going to go through 17 games and hope to win 1-0. These players are going to be asked to step forward, take responsibility and do what the club has brought them into the club to do.”
Hodgson has faced off against David Moyes on several occasions, with both men having taken charge of over 1,000 games during their managerial careers. The Watford boss was full of praise for tomorrow’s opponent, and the Hammers’ 2021/22 season so far.
He said: “It’s been excellent, I’m not at all surprised, I know the way David works and members of his staff. He’s a very good manager and has found himself a club that is taking full advantage of his management skill.”
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