Watford and Leicester City will face off on Saturday with their fortunes somewhat reversed this season. Although the Hornets are far away from the top, they have managed to exceed expectations and better their last season’s performances till now. But Leicester City have not been able to gather any sort of momentum in the league and are currently languishing in the 14th position, just 2 points better off than Hull City who are in the relegation zone.
Leicester have been impressive in the Champions League but have failed to replicate it in the Premier League. Ranieri will see this fixture as a must win one, as will Mazzarri. Watford are a confident bunch and will be looking to put behind the setback against Liverpool where they were thrashed 6-1.
TEAM NEWS
WATFORD
Heurelho Gomes has a chance of recovering from his knee knock. Sebastian Prodl has been passed fit having shaken off an abductor strain, while Stefano Okaka (hamstring) may also be available to return. Jose Holebas is suspended. Craig Cathcart (groin), Kenedy (knock) and Isaac Success (leg) remain out for the Hornets.
LEICESTER CITY
Danny Drinkwater and Demarai Gray have taken part in training and will undergo late fitness tests. Kasper Schmeichel (hand) remains sidelined along with Nampalys Mendy (ankle).
PREDICTED LINE-UP
WATFORD (3-5-2)
Gomes; Kaboul, Prodl, Britos; Janmaat, Zuniga; Pereyra, Behrami, Capoue; Deeney, Ighalo
LEICESTER CITY (4-4-1-1)
Ron-Robert Zieler; Simpson, Huth, Morgan, Fuchs; Drinkwater, King; Albrighton, Mahrez; Slimani, Vardy
KEY MEN
WATFORD
TROY DEENEY
The duo of Odion Ighalo and Troy Deeney have failed to click this season and if Watford are to sustain their form they have to step up considerably. Deeney has looked good though and it seems to be a matter of time before he translates them into goals. Etienne Capoue had made up for the lack of goals initially with his surprise goal burst which enabled the Hornets to take a footing in the League. Deeney will be a key factor in the match as his movement and pace is deceptive and will cause Huth and Morgan problems.
LEICESTER CITY
JAMIE VARDY
The England international has been poor for his club till now. He has looked off the pace and his touch has been heavy all season. One of Leicester’s main reason for success was the formidable and prolific partnership of Vardy and Mahrez. Both of them have looked off-colour and it is about time they step up. With a goal against Spain in his kitty, it is hoped that Vardy starts his ascent this match onwards.
BETTING ODDS
