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Javi Gracia to make 9 changes – Strongest 4-2-2-2 XI to face Arsenal

Predicted Watford line-up to face Arsenal in the Premier League

Watford were beaten on penalties by Tottenham Hotspur in the League Cup but Javi Gracia will be happy to have seen another positive performance from his side. The Hornets managed to clinch a win against Spurs in the Premier League but it’s the latter that ultimately came out on top in midweek.

Javi Gracia’s men return to the Premier League this weekend to take on an in-form Arsenal side who are currently flying high. The Gunners haven’t lost since their second week loss to Chelsea and will pose a massive threat against Watford. The Hornets are now winless in two games in all competitions and will be aiming for a win against Unai Emery’s side.

Team News

Troy Deeney should start this game despite not being fit and Javi Gracia will be boosted by his presence. Daryl Janmaat is out for six weeks due to a knee injury.

Probable Watford XI

Manager: Javi Gracia

Formation: 4-2-2-2

Ben Foster (GK)

Foster has been brilliant since making the move to Watford. He has already bailed them out a number of times.

Kiko Femenia (RB)

Kiko Femenia should start at right-back as Janmaat is out injured.

Craig Cathcart (CB)

Cathcart has looked good in central defence and will return to the fold for this match.

Craig Cathcart

Adrian Mariappa (CB)

Marippa should partner Cathcart against the Gunners.

Jose Holebas (LB)

Holebas’ set-piece deliveries need to be on point to break the deadlock against Arsenal.

Abdoulaye Doucoure (RCM)

One of the best players in the squad, Doucoure can do everything including passing, scoring and defending.

Etienne Capoue (LCM)

Capoue’s direct runs with the ball pose all sorts of problems in the opposition half and it could come handy in this game.

Will Hughes (RAM)

Hughes has flourished in Gracia’s sytem this season. The youngster has definitely stepped up his performances after receiving an extended role in the squad.

Roberto Pereyra (LAM)

The Argentine seems to have cooled off a bit but he is definitely a massive threat going forward.

Andre Gray (ST)

Gray scored a superb goal last time out and will now be aiming to maintain some form.

Read more: 1 goal and 4 assists – Watford’s veteran star could prove to be the game-changer for Gracia this season

Troy Deeney (ST)

Troy Deeney has been deemed fit enough for this game. He should lead the line for the Hornets.