Watford boss Tom Cleverley is facing a pleasant selection dilemma as his side returns to action after the international break, with a squad brimming with options.
While some players were away representing their countries, others enjoyed a well-earned rest or took the opportunity to sharpen their skills at the club’s training ground at London Colney. Cleverley now has the task of selecting a starting eleven based purely on merit, with a number of late summer signings staking their claim for a spot.
The end of the transfer window saw a flurry of activity for the Hornets, with several new faces arriving at Vicarage Road in the final days. Cleverley ensured that those who weren’t away on international duty used the break wisely, participating in extra sessions to better understand the team’s tactical approach.
“The players that joined us late in the window had a little bit more training time than the others, just because it’s important for them to understand how we play,” Cleverley told the Watford Observer. “Those messages are becoming more clear and consistent, and the new players are understanding what I expect of them.”
Healthy Competition for Starting Places
Cleverley emphasised the importance of competition within the squad, noting that even those not in the starting eleven play a crucial role.
“We have a fantastic team spirit and the lads who aren’t playing are helping get the best out of the ones who are, as well as having massive impacts from the bench,” he explained. “Those starting positions are not set in stone. It’s whoever deserves to play through training to their match performances.”
Cleverley knows that squad rotation will be crucial as the Championship season progresses. With the fixtures coming thick and fast, keeping players fresh while maintaining performance levels is a balancing act that could define Watford’s season.
“We’re coming into a part of the season where rotation will be key,” he added. “You have to be wary of not playing too many players who have travelled halfway around the world, but I don’t think we have too many who have too much of an issue with that.”
One player who may face some fatigue is Georgian midfielder Giorgi Chakvetadze, who has clocked up the most minutes during the international period. However, Cleverley remains confident that the in-form player will be able to handle the demands.
“Giorgi has had the most match minutes, but he’s in a good moment right now,” Cleverley said. “It shouldn’t affect us too much.”
Tough Test Against Coventry City
Watford’s next challenge comes in the form of a home match against Coventry City, a side Cleverley holds in high regard. The Hornets are currently sitting third in the 2024/25 Championship table, while Coventry languish in 17th making this a crucial encounter for both teams.
Cleverley, a former Manchester United player, expressed his admiration for Coventry’s manager, Mark Robins, another ex-United man.
“Coventry have got quality, and they’re a team that can hurt you, especially in possession,” Cleverley said. “Haji Wright is a player I really like, and they’ve had a lot of continuity with the manager, which helps in this division I think.
“I really respect Mark Robins, and I’ve enjoyed watching his teams over the years. I like how calm he is on the sidelines, and he portrays that calmness to his players. On their day they can beat anyone – but I think we fall into that bracket too.”
The Hornets will be hoping to continue their solid start to the season, with Cleverley looking to find the right balance between fresh legs and form, as the race for promotion heats up.
Writer’s View
Tom Cleverley’s approach to selection based on merit is a sign of his confidence in the depth of the Watford squad. The international break has allowed him to integrate the late summer signings more fully into his system, which could prove vital as the season wears on. His willingness to rotate and keep the players fresh bodes well for the challenges ahead, particularly in a long, gruelling Championship campaign.
With Watford pushing promotion and Coventry City seemingly one of the strugglers, the upcoming match is crucial. Cleverley’s admiration for Coventry’s style is evident, but Watford have shown they have the quality to match anyone on their day. The key for Watford will be maintaining consistency, especially with so many options available in the squad.
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