U’s V Watford: Preview

Colchester United pulled off a shock win against Sheffield Wednesday and Watford fell foul of Bristol City last weekened; the teams are both looking for a win, with the league-leaders still odds-on for three points.

Vital Quotes:

‘We`ll turn this around, I`m convinced about that and we`ll get to winning ways. There are enough things in that performance today [Saturday] to suggest this is only a blip’ – Watford manager Aidy Boothroyd.

‘It can`t be second-season syndrome – because for a lot of these lads, it`s their first season at the club.’ – Geriant Williams, U’s boss, rules out the dreaded syndrome as the reason for Colchester’s stark form this season.

Colchester Team News:

Colchester United are without Kevin Watson and Bela Balogh for tonight`s game against Championship leaders Watford.

Kem Izzet is available, however, despite picking up a fifth booking of the season last Saturday. He will sit out the weekend’s trip to Ninian Park instead. Matt Connolly (Concussion) & Danny Granville (hamstring) are both ready for selection once more.

Player to watch: Teddy Sheringham

The 41-year-old used his ‘pace’, says his manager, to beat the Sheffield backline and score after 50 seconds at the weekend. Gave a masterclass on his first start since October and will be a threat if he is involved tonight.

Watford Team News:

Watford remain unchanged despite losing at the weekend, and Damien Fracis may be involved on the bench after seven months with a knee problem.

Player to watch: Marlon King

Has nine goals to his name so far this season and was a threat when the U’s went to Vickarage Road as he scored a stunning over-head kick to atone for a penatly miss during the recent 2-2 draw between the sides.

Shame that injury prevented us from seeing him in the top flight for any length last term.

Match Facts & Stats

Colchester will be looking to win for the first time in three home games.

Watford’s away form, however, is impressive – they’ve taken just one defeat in their last six, Those games have seen the Hornets score 14 goals.