Why veteran striker Troy Deeney must stay put at Watford this summer

Watford must make a fresh start next season under Javi Gracia. Richarlison was one of the Hornets’ best players last season but he has joined Everton for a fee of around £40million.

However, Gracia has signed the likes of Ken Sema, Marc Navarro, Gerard Deulofeu and Adam Masina this summer and have considerably strengthened their weaknesses.

Regardless, to develop further, the club must hold on to their best players. The Hornets failed to do so with Richarlison but they can make amends by retaining Troy Deeney’s services.

Deeney has been linked with a move away from the club all season. Cardiff were interested in signing the veteran striker but they have cooled their interest (h/t Sky Sports).

Deeney is an integral member of the Watford squad and he will be key to their successes in the upcoming season. Over the years, he has established himself as the Hornets’ go-to man at various situations.

In times of need and desperation, Deeney always stands tall for the Hertfordshire-based outfit and they must prevent him from leaving this summer.

The 30-year-old has made a total of 309 appearances for the club and is their all-time leading goal-scorer with 105 goals. The striker has been through thick and thin with the team and yet, he has stuck by their side.

Deeney also played a crucial role in Watford’s Premier League return, scoring one of the most dramatic goals in the playoff final against Leicester City a few years ago. He was one of the driving forces behind their return to England’s top-tier.

He is their leader and the man they often turn to in times of collective desperation. Despite not being the goalscoring machine he once was, the striker managed to score 5 goals and provide 2 assists in 29 appearances last season.

But there’s more to his presence than just racking up goals. His voice and authority will be crucial to other players in the dressing room.

Deeney will be a source of inspiration for the current Watford team. His existence in the dressing room will make a massive difference to the squad. Hence, Gracia must retain the 30-year-old’s services beyond this season. Deeney will certainly play a huge role for the Hornets as they must aim to perform better than last year.