Why Watford’s Ship Has Slightly Steered Off Course

Watford started off their inaugural Championship campaign post-relegation in considerably solid form, picking up 13 points from their opening six matches. In those first six matches, which included victories over Middlesbrough, arch-rivals Luton Town, Derby County, and Blackburn, Watford only conceded twice. In their most recent three matches (at the time of writing), Watford haveContinue reading “Why Watford’s Ship Has Slightly Steered Off Course”

VAR: Is Football Better With Or Without It?

In Watford’s recent draw against Bournemouth, the main talking points post-match surrounded center-back Lloyd Kelly. In the match’s opening minutes, he put in a challenge on Ismaïla Sarr which was objectively reckless and cynical, and was nothing short of a textbook red card. Referee Tim Robinson reached into his pocket and pulled out a yellowContinue reading “VAR: Is Football Better With Or Without It?”

A Different Kind of Three Points: Player Ratings After Watford’s Victory Over Blackburn

Up to this point in the season, Watford had found success through tremendous defensive displays. The main worry surrounding the squad was whether goals could be scored at a much higher rate. This match, Watford’s attack was free-flowing, with the defense a bit more concerning. Then again, Blackburn are the league’s top scorers up toContinue reading “A Different Kind of Three Points: Player Ratings After Watford’s Victory Over Blackburn”

Departures, Signatures, Returners, and Retention: An Analysis of Watford’s Most Noteworthy Transfer Window in Years

Since promotion in 2015, Watford’s transfer windows have looked the same, with the incomers being more notable than the departures. This window, the roles were reversed – or so it seems.  Watford had their usual player shuffle with Udinese, as well as lodged interest in some high-quality players. But now, Doucouré is on Everton, LuisContinue reading “Departures, Signatures, Returners, and Retention: An Analysis of Watford’s Most Noteworthy Transfer Window in Years”

How Watford and Udinese’s Unique Relationship Has Ultimately Yielded Success

There are three certainties in life: death, taxes, and transfers between Watford and Udinese.  When discussing this symbiotic relationship, it is important to take note of the status of the clubs before and after the Pozzo family’s takeover of Watford. Giampaolo Pozzo has owned Udinese since 1986, whereas Gino Pozzo, Giampaolo’s son, helped save WatfordContinue reading “How Watford and Udinese’s Unique Relationship Has Ultimately Yielded Success”

Adaptability At The Forefront: How Ivic Has Steadied A Sinking Ship

During Vladimir Ivic’s days as manager for PAOK Salonika and Maccabi Tel Aviv, he found success using a 4-3-3 formation. In his 91 matches in Israel, he averaged an impressive 2.25 points-per-game. Also telltale of his initial triumphs as a manager is the fact his Maccabi Tel Aviv side averaged 3.5 goals scored per 1Continue reading “Adaptability At The Forefront: How Ivic Has Steadied A Sinking Ship”

Troost-Ekong Signs For Watford: What To Expect From The International Captain

Watford have confirmed the signing of 27-year-old center-back William Troost-Ekong from Udinese. The deal sees the captain of the Nigerian International Team join Watford on a 5-year contract. Watford and Udinese, both of which are owned by the Pozzo family, had been in talks about a move regarding Troost-Ekong for a couple of weeks. RobertoContinue reading “Troost-Ekong Signs For Watford: What To Expect From The International Captain”