Predicted Watford line-up to face Newcastle in the FA Cup
Since the 2-1 defeat to Manchester City in December, Leicester have only lost one game, which was against Chelsea. Since the defeat to Chelsea on 27th December, Watford have gone on a 5-game unbeaten streak, having notched up two wins and three draws in all competitions.
They currently find themselves at 7th place in the league with 11 points separating them from the 7th spot. But progress to the final rounds of the oldest running football club competition in the world could be the silver lining of their season.
Team News
Kiko Femenia picked up a knock last week in the draw against Burnley, which will probably keep him out. Abdoulaye Doucoure, Craig Cathcart, Will Hughes and Sebastian Prodl all remain doubtful for this fixture although they could all still feature.
Probable Watford XI
Formation: 4-2-2-2
Manager: Javi Gracia
GK – Ben Foster
Foster is an experienced Premier League keeper and has displayed over the last few games that he has still got enough left in the tank to be a top keeper.
RB – Daryl Janmaat
With tons of English football experience to his name, expect the Dutchman to replace the injured Femenia and come into the squad ahead of Marc Navarro.
RCB – Adrian Mariappa
Whenever he does play, he looks quite solid and expect him to keep his place for the game against Burnley. Defended well in the win against Crystal Palace.
LCB – Christian Kabasele
With Cathcart a doubt for this game, Kabasele would be the first choice to come in and replace him ahead of Miguel Britos and Prodl.
LB – Jose Holebas
Capable of some amazing goals as we’ve already seen this term, expect the Greek full-back to start this crucial game for Gracia’s side.
RCM – Tom Cleverly
This former Manchester United academy graduate has impressed since returning from his long spell on the sidelines. Since Doucoure is still recovering from his knock, expect Tom to start.
LCM – Etienne Capoue
By creating a very clear understanding with Deeney over the last 2 seasons, he has been an important player in the midfield and will be key in dictating the pace of this game as well.
RAM – Ken Sema
He has shown himself in a good light over the last few weeks and even scored a goal in the process. He is slowly becoming an important part of Gracia’s plans.
LAM – Roberto Pereyra
By far the deadliest player on the pitch, Pereyra has the potential to change the game with just a small movement of his feet.
RF – Gerard Deulofeu
Often deployed just off Deeney, he will be expected to hang around the big striker to collect the knockdowns and win second balls. His dribbling will be a nuisance to the Magpies defence.
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LF – Troy Deeney
Watford’s target-man, Deeney is a goalscorer above everything else and while he can assist the build-up play, expect Deeney to have an extra predatory instinct in this game.
