How did Watford get on last season?

Last season was very successful season for Watford. Although they tailed off towards the end, as they have a tendency to do, they managed to get their most ever Premier League wins, hit their highest ever Premier League goals tally and reach their highest ever points total in the division.

This coupled with an FA Cup run that took them all the way to the final made following the Hornets a mostly positive experience. We’ll just ignore the result of the final.

Who have Watford signed?

Watford have made some very exciting moves during the transfer window, not least by smashing their previous club transfer record by forking out north of £30million for Ismaila Sarr.

They have also brought in free agent Danny Welbeck, who could prove to be shrewd business if he can maintain his fitness.

Craig Dawson was acquired to shore up the defence, while former Manchester City youngster Tom Dele-Bashiru was also picked up on a free.

However, Watford’s transfer window business can also be measured by the number of key players retained.

Only Dodi Lukebakio departed the club for any serious price, while two big money offers for Abdoulaye Doucoure were quickly rebuffed, ensuring Javi Gracia held onto his strongest assets while strengthening his side throughout.

Where will they finish?

They looked destined for a top half finish last season before their FA Cup exploits, a three-match suspension for captain Troy Deeney and some unfortunate injuries contributed to a nose dive in form towards the end of the campaign. He always talks about only focusing on the next game, but Javi Gracia would be disappointed if his side weren’t threatening the lower end of the top half. Anywhere between 11th and eighth would be seen as a good season. Below that, questions would be asked.

Who will be a player to keep an eye on this season?

Sarr will undoubtedly be watched like a hawk following his big money move. He’s got a lot of speed and has been known to win penalties as a result. He also has an admirable goals and assists record. Gerard Deulofeu is a player who can cause anyone problems on his day. His only real problem is his inconsistency.

Who is missing for Watford?

Welbeck won’t play and Sarr is highly unlikely to start. Other than that, Nathaniel Chalobah and Domingos Quina are the most notable omissions.