Watford 
The Odds – (Via-William Hill)
League Winners: 14/1
Promotion: 11/2
Relegation: 8/1
The Background
The Italian job continues but even without Zola at the helm for the Hornets. Patience ran out with the Italian on the 16th of December and so Guiseppe Sannino took over on the 18th in a quick turnaround of managerial staff. Originally a very strong start was on the horizon with Hornets only losing two games in their first 11. Sannino’s introduction was another which hardly set the league alight but instead steadied the ship. A 13th place finish was solid, but a stark contrast to last season’s exploits.
The Transfers
The return of Matej Vydra from Udinese on loan is a welcome one to Hornets fans where as other business sees ex-Spurs keeper Heurelho Gomes join the club. Defender Gabriel Tamas signs from Doncaster Rovers as well as other defender Craig Cathcart from Blackpool, pacey winger Lloyd Dyer arrives from Leicester City and Hungarian midfielder Daniel Tozser joins from Parma on loan.
The Star Man
DEENEEEYYYYYY! The sound that all Hornets fans will want to hear commentators making next season and not just on a DVD or youtube clip of the play-off semi finals. Troy Deeney is easily one of the most important players in the Hornets squad and his 25 goals were the difference this season between a mid-table finish and a major struggle. The big man has been linked with every club under the sun but as time passes by, it looks increasingly likely that he will remain at Vicarage Road.
The Gaffer
Giuseppe Sannino has a reputation for employing a defensively minded side which are strong and stable, but Watford have the players to attack so he’s forced into attacking. He is seen as an organised manager that drills his team well, but often has a problem with allowing his team to sit back on a lead which causes problems. He is a stern character who won’t be taken for a fool (even if Harry Redknapp didn’t have a clue who he was) with clear experience in man management. Expect his fiery passion transfer to his players from the touchline.
The Fan – Matty Hicks
Thoughts on last season?
It was a bit of a reality check after the 12/13 season were we played such free flowing attacking football, seemed to run out of ideas. The issue was perhaps a combination of not enough striking options, ie no real pacey striker, being found out and targeted by other teams. Too many players to keep happy, didnt have a consistent starting XI.
Hopes for this season?
Promotion, simple as that, believe we have the players to do it and fully expect us to be in the mix.
Fears for this season?
The ever increasing quality in the league, and manager that is unproven in England may not be up to it.
Player to look out for?
Abdi, last season had long spells out injured, when he was fully fit we were a different team. I am also very excited to see Vydra back.
Rate your manager out of 10?
Wasn’t great last year, was unable to change our fortunes but seems to have us well organised. Maybe a 7.
Away day you are most looking forward too?
Easily Bournemouth, last season was an incredible atmosphere, decent ground and nice town.
Where will you finish?
2nd, fully expect to see the fast free flowing football return, the calibre of player we boast should see us well in the mix. Easy right?
