Prodl Ruled Out, Star Returns: Strongest 3-5-2 Watford Line-Up To Face Manchester City

Predicted Watford Lineup To Face Manchester City

Watford will play hosts to Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City on the final day of the Premier League on Sunday at the Vicarage Road.

The Hornets recently confirmed that manager Walter Mazzarri will be quitting at the end of the season, following a poor run of results in the final leg of the season. Watford are winless in 5 games running and sit 16th in the table as a result. It is unlikely that they will register one against the Citizens, who are in great form.

Team News

Injuries are a headache for Mazzarri in his last game in charge, as defenders Younes Kaboul and Craig Cathcart have been ruled out. Christian Kabasele is also a doubt due to a hamstring injury, while Miguel Britos is working towards recovering from a calf strain to be able to feature on Sunday. Sebastian Prodl is suspended for the match.

Probable Watford Starting XI

Formation: 3-5-2

Heurelho Gomes (GK)

The 36-year old Brazilian has been the preferred option in goal for Watford. Unlikely to see that change on the final day.

Adrian Mariappa (CB)

Has been horrible in the past few games, but with the lack of options for Mazzarri, Mariappa will start on Sunday.

Miguel Britos (CB)

The Uruguayan is expected to be fit by Sunday afternoon to come in place of Sebastian Prodl who is unavailable due to suspension.

Jose Holebas (CB)

The third centre-half position will be taken up by Greek defender Jose Holebas. Will have a task on hands in dealing with Gabriel Jesus.

Nordin Amrabat (RM)

The right flank will be manned by Nordin Amrabat. The Moroccan will be in for a long day against the dangerous Leroy Sane.

Etienne Capoue (CM)

Having started in a much more advanced role against Chelsea in the midweek, Capoue will return into a midfield three for this tie.

Abdoulaye Doucoure (CM)

Will sit as the deepest of the three central midfielders to try and shackle the likes of David Silva and Kevin De Bruyne.

Tom Cleverley (CM)

And the final spot in the middle of the park will be occupied by Tom Cleverley. The former Manchester United man will want to put in a solid performance against his old rivals.

Daryl Janmaat (LM)

Dutchman Daryl Janmaat will take his place in an unnatural left wing-back role. While he can be a threat going forward, it is likely that he will be kept busy in his own half by the City attackers.

M’Baye Niang (CF)

The loan signing from AC Milan will be playing his final game for the Hornets and will want to sign off on a positive note.

Troy Deeney (ST)

Has been left out a lot in recent weeks, but the captain will need to be on the field if Watford are to put up a fight.

Here’s how Watford may line up: