Watford manager Roy Hodgson has told his press conference that he has been impressed by Leeds United and new manager Jesse Marsch, ahead of Saturday’s clash between the two relegation rivals at Vicarage Road.
In what is a crucial weekend in terms of the race to avoid relegation, Everton face Manchester United – while Leeds take on Watford away from home and Norwich play against Burnley, 18th against 20th.
Leeds come into the match in solid form. It will be American gaffer Marsch’s sixth in charge and after two initial defeats to Leicester and Aston Villa, the new boss has won seven points from the next possible nine.
Wins over Norwich and Wolves – brilliant comeback victories – was followed up by a solid point at home to Southampton. A clean sheet is still lacking, but Marsch has made Leeds more solid. Hodgson had his say.
“We’re playing a good Leeds side who are organised and have had some good results since the new Head Coach has come in. They’ll want to win, but so do we and we believe we have the capability to do so,” Hodgson said.
Hodgson on Leeds: Watford clash is absolutely crucial, for both sides
On a weekend where, given Everton’s current form, they are expected to drop points given they face Manchester United – Leeds facing Watford, as is Norwich facing Burnley, is enormous. A massive weekend.
For Watford, it is a game Hodgson must absolutely win. For Leeds, avoiding defeat would not be the end of the world – but Burnley have two games in hand with six points the difference. A win for Leeds would see them safe.
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