Watford Super Fan delivers verdict on Everton clash
This is part of a regular series from our panel of Super Fans on upcoming Everton games. Ahead of Everton’s game against Watford in the Premier League, we caught up with Hornets Super Fan Watford Fanzine.
Everton play host to Watford on Saturday looking to get back to winning ways after losing to West Ham last weekend.
The Toffees will have Richarlison available and it remains to be seen whether or not Rafa Benitez decides to start him.
Watford, on the other hand, are on the back of a drubbing against Liverpool, and new manager Claudio Ranieri will be looking to prove a point.
Ahead of the game, we caught up with one of the Watford season ticket holders to see what his feelings are ahead of this clash.
What have you made of Everton’s start this season?
Everton always seem to be a hot and cold team by Premier League standards. The summer recruitment seemed somewhat understated compared to recent years but in eighth position, the Toffees cannot be considered as anything but an established side in this league.
Which players have impressed you?
At his age, Andros Townsend seems to have really hit a purple patch. Also, Demarai Gray seems to be fulfilling his potential, while Watford old boy Doucoure had found some good form before his injury.
What are your thoughts going into the game against Everton?
As ever, Watford are the underdogs by some distance. Everton’s pedigree will make it a very tough proposition. A point would be fantastic after the shambolic display against the Toffees’ cross-city rivals.
What does Ranieri need to do to win the tactical battle v Benitez?
Ranieri is still learning about his squad. He needs to have established a formation that makes us difficult to beat and get the best out of our counter-attacking players. Not an easy task with the defensive injuries we have at the moment.
One player from Everton you would realistically like playing for Watford?
Watford haven’t replaced Abdoulaye Doucoure who is a class act. He has it all. Realistically, someone like Fabian Delph or Alex Iwobi would be more attainable with our limited budget.
Your score predictions for this clash?
I’ll go for 3-1 to Everton. Man for man Everton are by far the better side. A consolation goal from former Blue Josh King would be fitting given his recent spell on Merseyside.
Win needed
With all due respect to Watford, this is a game that Everton cannot afford to drop points from.
If they are to better last season’s finish, then they must pick up maximum points from matches against teams battling relegation.
Watford are still trying to sort themselves out under a new manager so Benitez must use this as an opportunity to motivate his side even further.
Anything can happen in football, but the Toffees look to be strong favourites for this one.
Everton have to make Goodison Park a fortress again and that starts by winning their next few games at home.
In other Everton news, the club has been handed an injury boost with a ‘Fantastic’ player returning to training along with Richarlison
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