Watford v Liverpool: Predicted starting XIs for both sides
By Tom Bogert
Watford (4-5-1): Gomes; Janmaat, Prodl, Kaboul, Holebas; Amrabat, Chalobah, Hughes, Cleverley, Richarlison; Gray
Watford’s defense looks susceptible, but their new look midfield and attack is the stuff of FIFA manager mode or Football Manager dreams. But such is the new money in the Premier League: like a video game.
Hughes, Chalobah and Richarlison have huge potentials. On top of their potential, the first two have a safe floor. Chalobah has played on loan for a host of different clubs in recent years since signing his first professional contract at Chelsea. Hughes had been dubbed “next Steven Gerrard” for years at Derby as Liverpool were always linked with the midfielder.
Both Hughes and Chalobah will be exciting in the center of the park for Watford behind Cleverley, a Premier League proven midfielder.
Richarlison, who has the biggest potential, is just 20 years old and has represented Brazil at most youth levels, an impressive coup for the club. It’ll be interesting to see how he fares in English football against Liverpool should he make his debut.
Watford punctuated their summer business by signing Gray just in time to be registered for the first match of the season against Liverpool. Gray will score double digit goals in the league if given enough opportunities. He scored nine goals in 26 starts at Burnley, a more defensive side than Watford.
It’s almost as if Watford are Liverpool-lite: questionable defense, enticing attack. Could this mean an abundance of goals Saturday?