Watford Head Coach Rob Edwards is relishing the challenge of the Sky Bet Championship, ahead of the Hornets’ curtain-raiser against Sheffield United this Monday (August 1, 8pm KO).
The 39-year-old, who joined the club in May, is hungry to get started against the Blades and take his seat in the Vicarage Road dugout for the first time.
It has been a busy pre-season for Edwards’ Hornets, with five games played and a tour to Austria. The Head Coach believes that the preparation has been extremely important in setting expectations for the fast-approaching campaign.
“I want to see a team that plays with passion, with energy, with commitment and with bravery,” said Edwards, in his first press conference as Watford boss.
“Those are the words I have used a lot, and the words that we talk about at the training ground on a daily basis.
“We want to have a great connection with our supporters, and the very least they want to see is that desire, that passion and that will to fight. Our fans have their heads screwed on - they will forgive mistakes if they see reactions, people trying really hard and giving everything, they will give us more time.
“It’s been great, and the lads have bought into what we are trying to do. They want to be successful as much as we do, and to do that we have to be together as a group.
“That’s probably been our biggest focus as a group so far in pre-season, and it’s been great to get to know the players as footballers and as people.”
Edwards acknowledges the trials that lay ahead for his side in a competitive second-tier, and is certain that his team will rise to the occasion.
“I’m well aware that there are a lot of strong teams in the league,” he said. “I have a lot of respect for the clubs in this league, and there are a lot of strong managers and coaches that we will be up against.
“The Championship is always difficult. It’s going to be a challenge, and every game will bring different challenges.
“I’m expecting it to be tough for us, but also for anyone playing us. I think it will be competitive and it will be exciting to watch.”
Walking out at Vicarage Road come Monday night can’t come soon enough for Edwards, as he begins a new chapter at Watford following his League Two title-winning success at Forest Green Rovers last season.
“Me, the staff and the players have an opportunity to start a real journey because, okay things didn’t go well last season, but forget that, it’s done and let’s move on,” said Edwards.
“It’s the way I want to be as a person in a leadership position; I’m having conversations, giving people ownership, being honest with people and being inclusive – that is how we try to be on a day-to-day basis.
“First and foremost, it’s about being decent people, and that’s really important to me and us as a group. That helps to bring people together. Obviously, the fun stuff is great as well - the great barbecues, the kayaking and being together for five or six days always helps.
“But let’s concentrate on the here and now because I’m really looking forward to it. We have a few more days to wait, but I’m really looking forward to it.”
