The academy question-and-answer series shines a light on some of the best upcoming talent at Watford, quizzing a selection of young Hornets about their journey inside and outside of football.
Shaq Forde, who is next to take on the questions, was born in Watford and joined in 2012. The forward has impressed this season, spending time with both the Under-23 and Under-18 squads.
In January 2022, the 17-year-old made his debut for the first team against Leicester City in the third round of the Emirates FA Cup.
How would you describe your playing style?
Creative, powerful and always looking to go forwards. I don’t have a preference where I play if I’m honest, I just try to help out the team.
Favourite current Watford footballer?
I really like Ismaïla Sarr and João Pedro especially.
Biggest influence?
My brother and my parents have been important. They are always supporting me no matter whether I’ve had a good game or a bad game. Even when things are good, they keep me level-headed, keeping my spirit up.
Favourite football kit?
I’d say the Brazil away kit when they won the World Cup in 2002, the blue one. For Watford I really liked the red away kit from the 2017/18 season with the black and white stripe.
Favourite boots?
Adidas F50s are my favourites. They are quite old now and they don’t sell them anymore, but I’m looking to get hold of them soon.
Favourite footballing memory?
Scoring against Cardiff City in the FA Youth Cup is always nice, and so was my Under-23s debut last season against Millwall where I got a goal and an assist in the second half. Also making my first-team debut away at Leicester.
Most talented teammate?
Ryan Andrews and Adian Manning are great. With Ryan I like the fact that he is always looking forwards or to play into the midfield. He’ll support the attack making overlapping runs which can make it easier for me to cut inside when I play on the right. He can keep clean sheets as well. With Adian, when me and him play together, we have great chemistry on the pitch and we understand what we are good at and what we’re going to do. We don’t even have to speak about it, it just flows together naturally.
Favourite things to do when not playing football?
Chilling at home or going to places like the cinema. I really like watching Money Heist on Netflix – I finished that all in one day! I listen to American rap as well.
Best footballing advice you’ve received?
Even now my parents just tell me to enjoy playing football because when you enjoy something that is when you’re at your best. Just enjoy it, work hard and the right things will happen to you.
