A bulked up João Pedro feels well equipped to tackle the demands of the Championship and build on the lively cameo he produced off the bench against Arsenal on the final day of the season.
The Brazilian forward used lockdown and the short break wisely to add muscle to his teenage frame and he now has the power to add to his obvious talent.
“I think lockdown was a really important time for me,” said the 18-year-old signed from Fluminense.
“I gained 7kgs. I bulked up. It is important to be able to be strong on the pitch, protect the ball, and hold the ball. So, quarantine was fundamental. It wasn’t great having to stay at home, but I was in the position where I could focus on bulking up.
“The 7kgs have helped me in every sense. They gave me more strength on the pitch and stability, the ability to hold the ball and keep possession.”
João Pedro saw the benefit of his hard work against Arsenal and looked lively when he came on as a late substitute, producing one coruscating run down the left flank that almost resulted in a goal as the Hornets threw the kitchen sink at the Gunners.
“When I was coming on against Arsenal, all I was thinking about was trying to keep Watford in the first division,” he said.
“It was my main objective and what I cared most about at the time. Unfortunately, we didn’t manage to [stay in the Premier League]. I was able to contribute and I think I was really aggressive coming on the left. I managed to get right up there.
“But again, unfortunately, it wasn’t enough to get a win. All the players were devastated. Some of them cried. We were so disappointed, but we were in the wrong and we had to face that.”
João Pedro made five appearances after joining the club in December and now feels ready to make his first league start for the club after getting to grips with English football and the way of life in this country.
“I think the South Americans have helped me a lot, particularly Domingos, Tucu (Maxi Pereyra),” said João Pedro.
“They have helped with everything I’ve needed. Adam Masina, too. I think everyone has helped me, even those that don’t understand what I am saying. They have all helped me. I feel settled now, I’ve adapted.
“Gomes is a man with a big heart that helped me in every way possible. He treats me like his own (child). I’m going to miss him. He is a guy who I will always remember for the help and kindness he showed me. I will remember him forever as you do when a person adds something positive to your life. I care a lot about him.”
