Watford’s 100% record is about to come up against yet another stern test as this Saturday at 17:30 (BST) they host Jose Mourinho’s Manchester United who are still looking to establish a real consistent form.
Watford will no doubt be in high spirits as before the international break they were triumphant 2-1 over travelling Spurs.
Javi Gracia’s men fought hard to keep their perfect start to the season alive and have no doubts they will fight just as hard against United this weekend.
United have shown a real mixed bag so far this season; beating Leicester 2-1 on the opening day but then losing twice on the trot to Brighton and Spurs respectively.
TEAM NEWS:
Before the break they defeated Burnley 2-0 in a game where they never really had to reach top gear.
Gracia will no doubt be planning on changing Watford’s starting XI as little as possible, keeping the striker partnership of Deeney and Gray up top.
Only two players will ineligible for Watford this weekend and that is Tom Cleverly and Gerard Deulofeu.
According to BBC Sport, Luke Shaw has a real chance of starting for United against Watford after his concussion against Spain in last weekend’s UEFA Nations League game for England.
The FA guidelines state a player should wait 14 days after a concussion before playing again but if seven different criteria are met then players can return before this deadline.
United have hinted on their official club website that Dalot may be in for his official debut this weekend however.
Fellaini also picked up a knock during the international break and it is unclear whether he will be available this weekend.
WHAT THE MANAGERS SAY:
“For me, it's a very good team,” said Watford boss Javi Gracia. “Last season they were second in the table and for me it's a very good team, a very good coach and it will be a very demanding game."
Speaking about the current run of form Gracia put things in perspective for fans.
“In this moment, the results help us to feel we can do it, but it's only a feeling because you have to do many things to win,” said Gracia.
“We need to manage situations, we need to play well, run a lot and fight a lot."
United boss Mourinho was in high spirits during his conference as h made light of his very public fall last week.
However, when it came down to this week’s opponents he was very complimentary of his hosts this Saturday:
"They've had a fantastic start. 12 points is great for them, good victories at home, strong performances. It's a very good start."
BETTING ODDS/PREDICTION:
This is a real tough game to predict as you never know what you might get with United, whether we will see a familiar Mourinho masterclass or a Jose breakdown.
Either way, one thing is for certain Watford will not be easy to beat, I’m predicting a 2-2 draw between the two sides which is 13/1 with Paddy Power so £10 will return £140 including stake.
Or if you don’t trust me on the score line and want to just go with the draw that’s at 12/5 this weekend.
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