Watford have many defence options despite Ogbonna injury
The consistently impressive form of Mattie Pollock is evidence of what can happen when a head coach shows faith in a player.
The big defender has already played more minutes this season than he did in the whole of the 23/24 campaign, during which he came very close to leaving Watford.
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Now he’s one of the first names on the teamsheet and has been a stand-out performer.
“Mattie has been really consistent and is a big leader among the group,” said Tom Cleverley.
“Like I’ve said before, age doesn’t really mean much when you have leadership qualities like he does.
“I’ve been really pleased with his consistent performances, and he has really improved his on-the-ball qualities.
“We all know how much he likes defending, and the art of defending, but on the ball he has really been composed.
“It’s amazing what a bit of belief from your manager does.
“He is one of many that I like to think we’ve improved and we will continue to put a lot of work into all the squad to make sure they all improve.”
With Angelo Ogbonna ruled out for some time with a hamstring injury, the return of Francisco Sierralta has been very timely and the Hornets have another defensive option waiting in the wings in the shape of Kevin Keben.
