Three reasons why Watford could frustrate Jose Mourinho even more
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How can the Hornets thwart Manchester United?
Watford have enjoyed a great start to the season, winning all four of their opening Premier League games and sit joint top with 12 points.
Manager Javi Gracia picked up August’s manager of the month award in recognition of this achievement. There have been many likening their blistering start to the heroics of Leicester City’s 2015-16 title winning campaign.
This might be a little hasty right now, but the bedrock of both teams is the consistency of their starting line-ups.
The Hornets host Man United this weekend and the Coral News Team look at how they can continue their fine form at the expense of Jose Mourinho.
Strike force firing
Much of the consequence of Watford’s high turn-over of players each campaign is the threat of losing one of their star men.
Former Juventus man Roberto Pereyra was the talk of some interest from Napoli in the summer.
However, he’s started this season in scintillating form, netting three goals in four games including two goals on the opening day against Brighton.
He will be the main threat for United to deal with. But his form has also inspired a rejuvenated strike duo of Troy Deeney and Andre Gray to lead the charge from the front.
Stable first XI
Leicester City built their success on a recurring starting eleven who all knew their jobs. Claudio Ranieri used only 23 players, including 11 who started at least 15 games.
Gracia has named the same side in all four league games and this tactic is paying off. The back-five has only conceded three goals and Will Hughes is becoming increasingly influential in midfield.
The recent return of Nathaniel Chalobah is a big boost and will add an alternative to the Abdoulaye Doucoure-Etienne Capoue midfield pairing.
Gerard Deulofeu will inject more creativity when he comes back from injury, but right now consistency is key.
Momentum
There is nothing quite like momentum in football, and Watford have that right now.
After Pereyra’s double on the opening day, there have been two winners in the last twenty minutes of matches, including in the comeback win over Tottenham.
The international break could derail some of this impetus but the players should come back in good spirits.
Manchester United lost back-to-back games before their 2-0 win over Burnley but are still not in full flow.
Whilst a loss for United wouldn’t be a fatal blow for Mourinho, the Hornets could cause a sting that will be hard to shake off.
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