Watford are heading into the international break in the worst possible mood. Liverpool absolutely thrashed them on Sunday as the Reds were rampant at Anfield and the final 6-1 scoreline does not completely justify the dominance the Reds had in the game. However, Watford’s position in the league table after 11 game weeks is quite formidable and it is safe to say that the club is in the right hands.
After Watford’s disastrous defensive display against Liverpool, Walter Mazzarri will be a concerned man during the international break. The club needs serious reinforcements at the back and it is quite evident. Swedish media house Fotbollskanalen are reporting that Watford are closely monitoring the progress of Pontus Jansson who is right now plying his trade for Championship side Leeds United on loan from Serie A side Torino.
Pontus Jansson has quickly won the Leeds fans’ hearts and has rapidly gained cult status among fans. The Swede scored his first goal for the Whites in the weekend’s 3-2 win against Norwich.
Jansson is 11 games into his season-long loan at Elland Road and Leeds have the option to buy him from Torino for a fee in excess of £3m once Jansson completes his 20th appearance.
Watford signing the Swedish defender will be a bit difficult considering that Leeds will have the first opportunity to get him on a permanent deal. Looking at how he already made it to Leeds’ fans’ hearts, it seems that he will opt to make his move permanent at the Elland Road. However, the Swede can bring a sense of freshness and solidity at the heart of Watford defence.
Jansson is a no nonsense defender and has been one of the best defenders in the Championship this season. Leeds have collected 22 out of the last available 30 points and are now sixth in the table in the Championship. The reason behind their good performance of late is their solid defending. The duo of Kyle Bartley and Pontus Jansson has kept out a defender like Liam Cooper out of the side which speaks volumes about their individual ability.
Thanks to his big frame of 6 ft 5 in, the 25-year-old excels in the air which is evident from his 3.7 aerials balls won every game. With 1.8 tackles, 2.8 interceptions and as many as 9.5 clearances made every game, Jansson looks to have everything to solve Watford’ s defensive problems. Still only 25, he still has his best days ahead of him and can be a big success if Watford manages to bring him at Vicarage Road.
