Team News: West Ham United

By: Watford FC Staff

Troy Deeney’s eagerness to make his mark on the pitch despite an ongoing injury demonstrates exactly the kind of commitment needed during this make or break period of the season, according to Nigel Pearson.

The Head Coach also confirmed he is waiting on the fitness of ‘a few’ players ahead of tomorrow night’s trip to West Ham for the 16th versus 17th fixture.

“We’ve got a few players we’ll assess today and tomorrow, and we’ll go from there,” said Pearson.

“Generally speaking, we’ve been okay, so there’s nothing really new, but it’s more of a check on players today and then tomorrow.”

A knee injury kept Deeney out of the team for three months at the start of this season and he has been managing it ever since to ensure he’s available when required.

The 32-year-old demonstrated just what he can offer the side by showing incredible coolness under pressure to smash home not one but two penalties last weekend.

“Troy’s got an ongoing problem like a lot of players have, so I suppose the choice is whether you want to play or not, but he’s very keen to play and we want as many players available to play as possible,” said Pearson.

“I think when you get to this stage of the season, especially with the types of pressures we’re under, when players show a keenness to be a part of it, I think that’s really good.

“We’ve all got different pain and discomfort thresholds. I think the point is that he’s aware of his knee, his situation, and he wants to play. For me, that’s a very positive sign and we need players with a positive mindset for sure.”

Pearson is also pleased to have Danny Welbeck, who missed 15 weeks of the season through injury, back available as an attacking option.

“I’m really pleased that he’s available for us, he’s worked tremendously hard to get himself back to fitness and not just physical fitness, but mentally he’s in a good place as well,” he said.

“He’s really up for the challenge and very motivated, and that can only be positive for us, that we’ve got a player with quality, with a quality pedigree and lots of experience.”

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