Verdict: Watford win.
Best odds: 5/4
Bookmaker: Bet365
Watford are set to welcome Southampton to the Vicarage Road on Tuesday evening in a game that could have significant impact on both clubs as the season enters its final month.
Watford
The Hornets have ceased to be a surprise anymore. Those who follow the Premier League closely will tell you that there’s nothing to feel strange about in terms of their recent successes. This term, not only are they in a great position in the league table, fighting to finish seventh and enter the Europa League qualifications, but they have also made it into the FA Cup final where they will face the current defending league champions Manchester City.
But that aside now, they sit eighth on goal-difference at the moment, behind Everton who have the same number of points (49); but Watford have this game in hand. It is absolutely crucial for them to make the most of it.
Team News
To the dismay of manager Javi Gracia, striker Troy Deeney is unavailable for this clash through suspension. The Watford captain was sent off last Monday against Arsenal for apparently elbowing Lucas Torreira.
Midfielder Roberto Pereyra is a doubt due to a hip injury which made him miss the win over Huddersfield on Saturday.
Southampton
Since Ronald Koeman left St. Mary’s and went to Everton, no manager lasted for more than a year at Southampton. Five months ago, they sacked MArk Hughes and appointed Ralph Hasenhuttl, and so far his record has been a rather colorful one – eight wins, five draws, eight defeats.
There can be no doubt, however, that Hasenhuttl has brought improvement in the way the team plays, and given time he may yet create another formidable Southampton squad – such as has too often been pillaged by Premier League’s top clubs.
Like Watford, the Saints desperately need points too, but for very different reasons. They sit in 16th place, just five points above the relegation zone (36) , and they won’t be safe until they reach the mark of 40 or Cardiff City fail to win an upcoming game – whichever comes first.
Team News
Defender Jannik Vestergard is a doubt having picked up a minor knock that kept him out against Newcastle at the weekend, while midfielder Mario Lemina, who marked his return after five months out with a goal against the Magpies, will be hoping to play again.
Conclusion
It will certainly be a tough contest with both teams needing points, but given the respective positions they find themselves in at the moment, as well as the overall quality in their ranks, Watford should have this one in the bag when referee Mike Dean blows the final whistle.
Verdict: Watford win.
Best odds: 5/4
Bookmaker: Bet365
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