With 37 points from 32 games, Watford are in no danger of relegation this season but have very little to play for, in the business end of the current campaign. Javi Gracia will be pleased with the way his side has performed recently but will want to finish the season on a high, starting against Burnley this weekend.
After the 2-2 draw against Bournemouth last weekend, the Hornets will look to break into the top half of the table with a win in this game but the Clarets have been hard to beat and have accumulated nine more points than Gracia’s side this season. Sean Dyche’s side have now won each of their last three league games and will surely test Watford this Saturday. But playing at home, the Hornets will believe that they can take more than a point from this game and here is the predicted lineup Gracia might field for this tie:
Team News:
In early team news, Watford are still without the services of Nathaniel Chalobah, Gerard Deulofeu, Tom Cleverly, Younes Kaboul and Christian Kabasele, all of who are out injured. Miguel Britos is however back in training and could even be pushed into the first team straight away.
Expected lineup (4-2-3-1):
Defence:
Gracia has stuck with Orestis Karnezis in goal even with Heurelho Gomes back in action. The Greek international is expected to keep his place in the side this weekend. Adrian Mariappa did not complete the 90 minutes against Bournemouth but should start at the back alongside Sebastian Prodl, who has been effective recently.
Daryl Janmaat is expected to keep his place at right-back while Jose Holebas, who had a tough game in the last round, should start at left-back.
Midfield:
The Hornets have a plethora of options for the two roles in the midfield. However, Gracia has stuck to a partnership of Etienne Capoue and Abdoulaye Doucoure, adding balance, creativity and mettle to the midfield for his side.
Attack:
Troy Deeney remains the best option to lead the line for Watford. He is expected to start just ahead of Richarlison, who only came off the bench in the previous game. Roberto Pereyra scored in the draw vs the Cherries and should keep his place on the left flank while Kiko Femenia, who also found the back of the net in that game, is expected to keep his place on the right flank in attack.
Here is how they might line up:
