Valérien Ismaël spoke to the media ahead of Watford’s away clash against Preston North End in the Sky Bet Championship on Saturday (December 16, 3pm KO), with the Hornets looking to bounce back to winning ways following defeat in midweek.
Covering a range of topics, including coping with a hectic schedule, team news for the game and his thoughts on the Lilywhites, read what the Head Coach had to say below…
On the feeling within the camp after Tuesday’s game:
We performed well on Tuesday, so the mentality within the squad is good. It’s clear that on one hand we were disappointed, but on the other we are full of belief, and looking ahead to the games coming up. We know what we need to do, and we’re ready to go again.
On team news:
There’s nothing new to report after the Ipswich game. Everyone was out there in the last training session, so we’re ready to go.
The games dicate whether we make changes. Tomorrow is our third game in a week, so it’s about assessing the players and their readiness. We always work closely with our medical department, so when we’ve spoken to them we’ll make our decision.
On the threats posed by Preston:
Preston are good side in the Championship, so it’s going to be another tough game. They have a good manager, a good team and another way to play that we will have to adapt to. We need to focus on our performance again, learn from the last game and take our chances when they come.
On improved away form:
We’re just taking the games one by one, and focusing on the belief and clarity we’ve developed throughout the season. We’re almost at the halfway point now and there’s still lots to improve, so now it’s about the fine details, especially in the final third. We know what we have to do, and now we have another chance to go again and get another positive result away from home.
On Imrân Louza:
It’s always the case that the players are picked on merit, based on performances. I think we’ve dealt with the squad in the same way all season - Jake Livermore was out of the squad early on, and Edo Kayembe as well. It never means you’re completely out. We expect a reaction, and then it’s up to me and my staff to make the decision about whether to change things.
On Rhys Healey:
We always try to find the right solution for the team, and so far I think we’ve found a good solution for Rhys to play as one of two strikers or more behind a main striker. We know he is able to be effective in both of those roles.
On the January transfer window:
We are always working behind the scenes with the new Sporting Director. At the minute though the focus is on the games - we have a lot in the next couple of weeks until the new year, and our job is to make sure we’re performing. After that, we will have a clearer picture.
On working with set-piece specialist Gianni Vio:
It’s something that a lot of top clubs are doing. We’re working on some patterns and clear pictures for the players, both defensively and offensively. In the end I make the final decisions, but for sure he brings some new ideas, and when you have more ideas you can make better decisions. We’re always trying to evolve as a club, and this is one way we think we can improve.
On the Under-18s’ upcoming FA Youth Cup clash against Manchester City:
It’s a great occasion for the young players, and we send all of our support to them. Hopefully they can put in a great performance, and come away with a good result.
Follow Live!
Domestic and overseas supporters can access live coverage of Preston North End v Watford, via the Hornets’ Hive Live streaming service.
Click HERE for more information on how to follow the Sky Bet Championship clash from home.
