Muñoz: “The Focus Has To Be The Game”

Xisco Muñoz is not looking beyond Saturday’s match against Millwall, insisting that any distractions from the task at hand could hinder Watford’s chances of returning to the Premier League.

The Lions will arrive at Vicarage Road hoping to spoil a potential promotion party and proved with a goalless draw at Brentford in their last away game that they can be a tough nut to crack.

“If we don’t keep our focus on the game, we could lose,” said Muñoz.

“It’s most important we focus on the game and give our best performance. We must give 100 per cent in all the situations, with high intensity, a good mentality and lots of ambition to win the game. This is very important to me.

“The focus has to be the game, and not what happens in the other games. The objective is Millwall, to give a good performance, continue with our style, try to give important things with the ball and always play in attack.”

Muñoz always wants his players to enjoy their football, however, and has issued a similar message to supporters. The Head Coach is urging Watford fans to relish the challenge of competing at the top of the table and continue providing support from afar.

“This is an important game for everyone. Everyone has full energy, very good energy for this game,” said the Spaniard.

“It’s important everyone gives very big support. The most important thing is to enjoy this moment, because I’m sure if the fans could be in the stadium, it would be a very good mood.

“But why not enjoy it with your family at home, enjoy the situation and give this energy, because we need to feel this from our fans. We need to feel our fans, feel them happy with the team, because our team has given their best in recent months for our fans.”

The Hornets have been relentless in recent months to reach this position, where one more win would secure promotion. In fact, no Championship team has picked up more points than Watford (48) in 2021. The team has answered every setback with an immediate response and Muñoz credits this form to the experience and character in his squad.

“When we have players with experience, it’s better in different situations and moments in the Championship,” said the 40-year-old.

“We understand what the important moments are, and the team are very good in the most important moments. When you have experienced players, clever players, it’s important to listen to everyone and enjoy working with these players.

“Troy [Deeney] is one of many captains in the team. We have [Ben] Foster too and a lot of players with big experience, and this is very important for our dressing room. Everyone has the same team spirit. Everyone gives 100 per cent on the pitch and off the pitch for the squad.”