Watford travel to Old Trafford this Saturday with qualification for next season’s Europa League looking a real possibility for the Hornets.
They currently sit in eighth position in the Premier League after a stellar showing in 2019, finding themselves a single point behind Wolves. In their last fixture Javi Gracia’s men saw off Crystal Palace to book their place at Wembley for an FA Cup semi-final clash with the Molineux club.
The hosts have also enjoyed a good spell in recent months, climbing back in to contention for the Champions League places. However, United have lost their last two matches. They were comfortably dismissed by Arsenal in the league before getting knocked out of the cup by Nuno Espirito Santo’s team.
Here’s the lineup Gracia could go with for the game.
3. Goalkeeper & Defenders
Ben Foster (GK) – After relegation with West Bromwich Albion last season, Foster switched to the Hornets to remain in the top flight. He has since demonstrated that this is the level he belongs at, making numerous vital saves for the Vicarage Road outfit and filling his defence with confidence.
Kiko Femenia (RB) – The Spaniard ousted counterpart Daryl Janmaat with his fine displays before a hamstring injury interrupted his progress. However, Femenia returned last month, winning back his place and showcasing his reliability at the back for Gracia’s side.
Craig Cathcart (CB) – An unsung hero in this Watford team, the former Manchester United centre-back has enjoyed an excellent campaign. His leadership qualities and experience have been crucial in helping the side secure some impressive victories.
Adrian Mariappa (CB) – Mariappa found himself out of favour in the early months of the season but has now established himself as a starter, offering both organisational skills and reliability to the backline.
Jose Holebas (LB) – Though he functions as a full-back, the Greece international is one of Watford’s most potent attacking threats. Wonderful crossing technique, an eye for goal and defensive solidity; Holebas has it all.
2. Midfielders
Will Hughes (RM) – The 23-year-old has been tipped for big things since breaking into the Derby County first-team six years ago and is now fulfilling his potential. He has developed well under Gracia, honing his passing and shooting abilities.
Etienne Capoue (CM) – The Frenchman opened the scoring against Palace, setting his team on their way to a fourth FA Cup semi-final this century. However, it was defensively where Capoue shone, breaking up Eagles attacks and helping to keep the eminent Wilfried Zaha at bay.
Abdoulaye Doucoure (CM) – Doucoure will have his work cut out for him on Saturday with Paul Pogba lining up in opposition. The pair have remarkably similar skill-sets, setting up an intriguing clash between two outstanding, highly-capable midfield powerhouses.
Roberto Pereyra (LM) – The Argentine is another who has quietly impressed for the Hornets. His link-up play with teammates, tireless work-rate and intelligent off-the-ball runs make him a handy player for any club to have in their ranks.
1. Forwards
Gerard Deulofeu (ST) – Although he is now 25 years of age, Deulofeu continues to improve. He has netted four goals in his last four Premier League games, whilst also exhibiting dangerous dribbling ability and a clear understanding of his role in Gracia’s system. United will need to be wary.
Troy Deeney (ST) – Watford’s captain is a horrible player for opposition defences to deal with. What he lacks in speed, he more than makes up for in physicality, dogged determination and unwavering self belief. Deeney will not be fazed by the household names littering the Red Devils’ squad.
Let’