Watford manager Tom Cleverley may be forced to shuffle his defensive pack for the final game of the Championship season, as both Mattie Pollock and James Morris are doubts for the visit of Sheffield Wednesday to Vicarage Road.
Pollock, who has featured more than any other Hornets player this term, and Morris, who has made 18 league appearances, were both forced off during the recent 2-1 defeat to Blackburn Rovers. Morris exited shortly before the equaliser with a knock, while Pollock departed deep into stoppage time, leaving Watford with 10 men after all substitutions had been used.
Watford Face Late Fitness Calls
The severity of either player’s injury has not been confirmed, but with little riding on the fixture — both sides are locked in a battle for a mid-table finish — Cleverley may opt not to risk the pair. Should that be the case, Watford would be without two of the three centre-backs who started at Ewood Park, offering a potential opening for the visitors.
Sheffield Wednesday, who have shown strong form on the road, could capitalise. Only four Championship clubs have secured more away points than the Owls this season (31), and victory at Vicarage Road could lift them to fourth in that table behind Burnley, Sheffield United and Leeds United.
Pollock, 22, began his senior career at Grimsby Town and quickly became a promising defensive talent. He made his professional debut at 17 and turned heads with mature performances that earned him a move to Watford in 2021. Loan spells at Cheltenham Town and Aberdeen helped his development, and he has since emerged as a reliable Championship defender. He scored his first goal for Watford in the EFL Cup in August 2024 and was named in the EFL Team of the Week twice this past March.
Morris, a former Southampton youth product, signed permanently for Watford in 2021 following a successful trial. He made his senior debut in an FA Cup tie against Leicester City and has since earned a contract extension through to 2026. The 23-year-old has become a dependable presence in the squad, featuring regularly across the back line.
Writer’s View
With neither team having much at stake in terms of league position, this could be an opportunity for younger or fringe players to step up — but Sheffield Wednesday will undoubtedly smell blood. If Watford are without both Pollock and Morris, the defensive reshuffle could be pivotal.
Danny Röhl’s side, already strong on their travels, may have the motivation and momentum to finish their season on a high against a weakened Hornets back line.
