Cleverley’s Unlikely Triumph: Watford Fans Can’t Believe Their Eyes

Watford fans are celebrating their lofty Championship position, thanks to their successful management. That’s the opinion of former Republic of Ireland striker Clinton Morrison.
The Hornets are presently sixth in the table, within striking distance of the play-off places, and despite a glitch in the week with a 1-0 defeat at Swansea, Morrison believes Tom Cleverley, who has been in charge permanently since April, has done an excellent job.

“I can’t believe it, usually managers don’t last this long!” Morrison laughed. “He’s done an excellent job, Cleverley, and they clearly had a big win against Sheffield Wednesday [last week]. They did not have a fantastic outcome on Tuesday, but the results are coming in thick and fast now, and he deserves a lot of praise.

“I believe he did a great job, and it’s kind of nosebleed territory. I haven’t been there in a long time, so credit must go to Tom Cleverley. He just goes about his business, and they’re starting to produce shows now.”

Watford have been a surprise package so far this season, but their away form has been a source of concern, with Cleverley’s team being a little leaky in defence. On the plus side, scoring goals has not been an issue.
“Listen, go and watch a Watford game, because they’ll concede loads and they’ll also score loads,” Morrison told the crowd. “However, they are currently outscoring other clubs. The number of goals they’re surrendering right now is probably something Tom Cleverley will have to consider. It could be the way they play expansively.

“I bet Watford fans are pinching themselves, and no one is running away with the Championship.” I believe it’s an open league. I believe Leeds will win it, but when you look at teams like Sunderland, who are soaring right now, it’s clear that the division is wide open. If you put together a string of games, you have a good chance.”

Oxford United are the visitors at Vicarage Road on Friday night, and like Watford, Morrison has been pleasantly surprised by their success in the Championship this season.

“I think Oxford will be fine.” I believe they have brought in pretty talented players through their recruitment efforts, and they recently had a good win in midweek. They have been fantastic.

“All credit must go to Des Buckingham; he’s doing an excellent job. I believed Oxford would struggle at the start of the season, but they’ll be fine around mid-table. I think the squad is good.

“They’ve got players that they brought in, in particular Dane Scarlett on loan from Tottenham who’s found it hard to get game-time, but recently he’s come on, and he’s been making a difference.”

 

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