Boothroyd seeking remedy
9:39am Monday 28th January 2008
Comments (95)
By Kevin Affleck »
AIDY BOOTHROYD is hoping to bring in two new players this week in a bid to help solve his team's dismal home form.
Watford have won just one home game in three months - and that was against a weakened Crystal Palace side in the FA Cup - and are without a home league win since Saturday, October, 20.
They have also shipped an alarming 25 goals at Vicarage Road this season.
Things hit rock bottom on Saturday when the Hornets were trounced 4-1 by a rampant Wolves side, and Boothroyd knows he needs to address the home form sooner rather than later otherwise Watford can forget about automatic promotion.
The manager feels a deep-lying midfielder, who can pull the strings from the centre of the park, could be the answer.
Asked if he was alarmed by Watford's home form, Boothroyd replied: "I'd be concerned if I didn't know what to do about it.
"Fortunately I do, it's just whether I can do anything about it. I need a couple of players that might be slightly different to what we have got."
The manager will be hoping to have a centre-half and a new midfielder in place by the time Wolves return to Vicarage Road on Saturday. He is sure to use the FA Cup defeat as a source of motivation as the Hornets seek revenge.
"I wanted to win both games," said Boothroyd. "I said to the players before the game that if we win this one and get a Premiership team then we could have use the experience we picked up from last year and prepare for next season, with a bit of luck.
"Perhaps in hindsight I wouldn't have made so many changes but one or two were forced upon me. It's very important to get the points in the league and I will have to use this to get us fired up for the game on Saturday."
How did the players perform against Wolves? Have your say by clicking here.
Your Say YourWatford
Emperors new clothes, watford says...
10:48am Mon 28 Jan 08
How about apologising to the fans for last saturdays display aidy. I have a season ticket as do my sons, I asked them if they wanted to go on Saturday, it pains me to say that they preferred to stay at home,as they are sick of watching rubbish football, the eldest said he doesn't want to get promoted as we would be annhilated in the prem, and that's from a twelve year old. So we didn't bother, and boy am I happy we didn't. I wonder how many other fans did the same?
Spike Mirringtoon., says...
10:51am Mon 28 Jan 08
Will Lord Fergie loan Pauly Scholes out? I doubt it.
pete, oxhey says...
10:52am Mon 28 Jan 08
You're right - i didn't go either. I'm a season ticket holder in the rookery and have attended every home game, but i'm just not prepared to pay to go and watch something that not only puts me in a bad mood, but is not entertaining to watch.
pete, Guildford says...
10:53am Mon 28 Jan 08
Whilst we might need players "slightly different to what we have got" Rinaldi was sat on the bench not playing and he is definetely different to what we have playing. He can pass the ball well along the ground! We would see much more of Priskin with Rinaldi as the means of supply. (like Man City game last year).
barry, watford says...
11:03am Mon 28 Jan 08
Priskin has been given one too many chances if you ask me!
Now that we have CJ on the payroll let's get him, NE and DH rotating up front and ship out the dead weight.
Kabba was nothing special on saturday either. We didn't miss JS in defence, MM was a huge error, at least common sense would say pick youth and speed over slow, clumsy, has-been.
AB had better get his team choices right soon, personally i'm getting tired of all the "we can take positives from this" and "this'll be the best result of the season".
I find myself getting more and more angry each week, less and less capable of getting the team going again after concedeing and increasingly frustrated at trying to justify the errors to fans of other teams.
With this current form and team we would be an absolute laughing stock in the premiership. We're getting to be laughing stock now!
Now that we have CJ on the payroll let's get him, NE and DH rotating up front and ship out the dead weight.
Kabba was nothing special on saturday either. We didn't miss JS in defence, MM was a huge error, at least common sense would say pick youth and speed over slow, clumsy, has-been.
AB had better get his team choices right soon, personally i'm getting tired of all the "we can take positives from this" and "this'll be the best result of the season".
I find myself getting more and more angry each week, less and less capable of getting the team going again after concedeing and increasingly frustrated at trying to justify the errors to fans of other teams.
With this current form and team we would be an absolute laughing stock in the premiership. We're getting to be laughing stock now!
Will, Bushey says...
11:09am Mon 28 Jan 08
When Rinaldi was at his best last year, in my opinion, was in a 3-man centre midfield formation when Darius played alone upfront. The few times i've seen him in a 4-4-2 he seems lost so i guess Aidy isn't going to change the team just for him. Maybe it was how he was used to playing in his previous team, maybe he can't adjust to 'the English game', whatever that is - i'm sure other countries use a pitch, a ball, they pass and tackle. The rules aren't different! Or maybe he, his wife and child just cannot adjust to living in a foreign land and it really has affected him more than we, on the outside looking in, realise?
On 5-3-2/3-5-2, i think most of our centre mids would benefit from 3 in the middle but i don't think it would help the defenders or wide players that we have so i doubt Aidy will change.
On 5-3-2/3-5-2, i think most of our centre mids would benefit from 3 in the middle but i don't think it would help the defenders or wide players that we have so i doubt Aidy will change.
dave watts, exeter says...
11:54am Mon 28 Jan 08
CJ is a tall lad so its MORE of the same - WHOOOOSH. No point in buying a ball playing midfielder cos it will only be launched over him. Supported WFC since 1969 and have never been so depressed (other than under Bassett)
CHANGES AT THE TOP ARE NEEDED - AND NOW
CHANGES AT THE TOP ARE NEEDED - AND NOW
STEVE MAGUIRE, Chorleywood says...
11:55am Mon 28 Jan 08
I know one player does not make a team but Watford's results started to go downhill once Adam Johnson went back to Middlesborough . Perhaps we can loan him again??
Last season we coped better at home agains much better opposition though we had Ashley Young down the left wing. So , is it a winger down the left side who we need ?
Priskin keeps getting slated but if the service he receives is rubbish what do you expect
Last season we coped better at home agains much better opposition though we had Ashley Young down the left wing. So , is it a winger down the left side who we need ?
Priskin keeps getting slated but if the service he receives is rubbish what do you expect
James, Watford says...
12:00pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Season ticket holders who don't bother going to the games are a disgrace. Let me guess the only reason you have got a season ticket this year is so that you will be guaranteed to get one next season if we get promoted. People like this cannot be classed as fans and the club is better off without you. If all you care about is watching premiership football, go and support Arsenal or Chelsea.
JOHN, says...
12:21pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Maybe I should have been a football manager myself.
After last season it seemed very apparent to me that in order to survive in Premier we would need to change our style of play a bit and would need to recruit a new midfield. None of our midfield (except GM)could control and pass a football. There were also certain defenders who needed replacing.
I am pro AB. Having been a fan for 40 yrs his promotion year was one ofthe higlights.
I am struggling to understand however how he left his defence and midfield untouched in the summer.
Now he says he needs a holding midfield player!!! His players are all the same. Lots of effort no guile. Of course he needs some skill. That is why AJ made such a difference.
After last season it seemed very apparent to me that in order to survive in Premier we would need to change our style of play a bit and would need to recruit a new midfield. None of our midfield (except GM)could control and pass a football. There were also certain defenders who needed replacing.
I am pro AB. Having been a fan for 40 yrs his promotion year was one ofthe higlights.
I am struggling to understand however how he left his defence and midfield untouched in the summer.
Now he says he needs a holding midfield player!!! His players are all the same. Lots of effort no guile. Of course he needs some skill. That is why AJ made such a difference.
Beaco, Isle of Dogs says...
12:21pm Mon 28 Jan 08
James wrote:Oh dear. Here we go again. "Why don't you go and support Chelsea etc etc". Season ticket holders used to get cup vouchers included in their book until the money grabbers at the club decided to reward that loyalty by removing them and forcing them to pay more. I don't go to cup games in protest at that. Loyalty works both ways. Plus, who wants to go and watch Steve Kabba and Nathan Ellington play?
Season ticket holders who don't bother going to the games are a disgrace. Let me guess the only reason you have got a season ticket this year is so that you will be guaranteed to get one next season if we get promoted. People like this cannot be classed as fans and the club is better off without you. If all you care about is watching premiership football, go and support Arsenal or Chelsea.
Jamie, Brum says...
12:30pm Mon 28 Jan 08
James you're a joker. If someone parts with their cash for a ST and then decides they don't want to go thats totally up to them. I live in Sutton Coldfield and havent used my season ticket for nearly a month. The standard of football being played at the moment is nothing short of disgraceful. I choose to vote with my feet and save the £50 petrol it costs me getting there.
The biggest disgrace is the style of play Watford have adopted in the past 3 months.
CLUELESS
The biggest disgrace is the style of play Watford have adopted in the past 3 months.
CLUELESS
Jim, London says...
12:36pm Mon 28 Jan 08
In defence of Steve Kabba: not withstanding that it was a poor all-round team performance, he was probably our best player on Saturday - at least til Tommy Smith came on.
Hexham Hornet, Hexham says...
12:52pm Mon 28 Jan 08
I must say there is quite a lot of sense spoken here. Priskin, when he first came, looked like he had great potential, but has been seriously under used. He has had very poor service from a not very effective midfield. Rinaldi looked like he could see a pass and stretch the opposition but he has not been used. I can't understand why he is here if he is not being used. The skillful central midfielders are Williamson, who is out for the rest of the season and Rinaldi. The hard workers are Bangura and Williamson and O'Toole is showing promise. Francis is also hard working but has atrocious first touch. Smith and McAnuff are starting to work as a pair of wide men. Up front we have enough strength in depth, but none of the players are particularly match sharp and Henderson seems to hit another bad patch. Where was Jackson on Saturday. We are weak at centre back - Mariappa is not up to it at the moment - a bit like Doyley 3 years ago. I would like to see good cover for Doyley and a good centre back come in, as well as a creative midfielder that Aidy is willing to use. He then needs to look at who he has on the books that will never get a chance and either loan them out or move them on to get them off the wage bill. Also when he is going to get a good replacement for Burkinshaw - our poor form seems to have coincided with the start of the troubles that have led to him leaving. Maybe Don Howe could do for Aidy what Bertie Mee did for GT years ago.
Brian White, Leighton Buzzard says...
12:52pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Please note "James or is it "self righteous of Watford" - I am a season ticket holder who did not go to the game on Saturday. I attended my first Watford game in 1953 and bought my first season ticket when I could afford it. I worked overseas for many years and often retained my season ticket, e.g. 3 Years in Aberdeen and more recently five years on the west coast of America. I paid my dues in support of my club and I hope I speak for many "supporters", who like me, feel that the football we are being expected to watch is unacceptable. If I am not enjoying the football then I'll choose to stay away. By the way I paid extra for my cup ticket too. I wait expectantly to hear from Watford FC that they think I am a disgrace and that they don't need my support any more! I dont expect to see any more pompous postings from James of Watford!
Rob, Living in Hell says...
1:02pm Mon 28 Jan 08
FOR F**** SAKE!!!
When Sky tell you to "Press the Red Button", you lot REALLY go to town don't you? When did they start giving out Sky remotes with the word "PANIC" written on them!! Seriously, how the hell are we meant to even expect the team to show up and perform with all the negativity about. It's shocking!!! Let Aidy make his signings, and give the lads a break. One thing I will say...Priskin = Shocking. Lightweight, Lazy and uninterested. Lose him or farm him out on loan like the others.
When Sky tell you to "Press the Red Button", you lot REALLY go to town don't you? When did they start giving out Sky remotes with the word "PANIC" written on them!! Seriously, how the hell are we meant to even expect the team to show up and perform with all the negativity about. It's shocking!!! Let Aidy make his signings, and give the lads a break. One thing I will say...Priskin = Shocking. Lightweight, Lazy and uninterested. Lose him or farm him out on loan like the others.
chris, says...
1:23pm Mon 28 Jan 08
We should get Martin Taylor from Birmingham and then hope that Nigeria don't get through to the 2nd round.
WFCM, London says...
1:24pm Mon 28 Jan 08
James wrote:Our football is the disgrace. Why should we subject ourselves to a long journey to the Vic in some cases, to watch 11 players give 50% effort and lose to average teams? It's my ticket, i've paid for it (as I have for the past 10 years) don't presume to tell me what I should do with it. It's only through sheer force of will that I haven't tossed it onto the pitch after some of our recent showings.
Season ticket holders who don\'t bother going to the games are a disgrace. Let me guess the only reason you have got a season ticket this year is so that you will be guaranteed to get one next season if we get promoted. People like this cannot be classed as fans and the club is better off without you. If all you care about is watching premiership football, go and support Arsenal or Chelsea.
The club won't care anyway as they already have my cash and have spent it on 1 day's wages for a reserve team player. Probably.
I did part with £20 for Saturday's embarassment and was less than content.
James, Watford says...
1:26pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Why can't everyone stop whingeing! Ok fair enough supporters who live miles away have a fair point. The point I'm making is that we are not Arsenal or Chelsea we are Watford. Fans have been spoilt recently because we have exceeded expectations. All of a sudden we are playing badly everyone is having a good old moan. It does go both ways but we need to support the team to help them get out of this situation. Aidy is looking to address the problem with bringing players in, which will obviously help. People who are slating Kabba & Ellington have no right because they were our best 2 players on Saturday, anyone at the game will agree!
Andy, Riverside says...
1:35pm Mon 28 Jan 08
did you hear this one - 5ft9 pocket rocket Kim Do Heon is hopeful of securing a move to Watford after joining the Hornets on trial last week, according to various sources.
The South Korean international midfield playmaker, who is also being tracked by West Brom and Derby, had been at Vicarage Road training with Watford with a view to move and Aidy Boothroyd is believed to be impressed with what he saw in the 25 year old`s technical ability
The South Korean international midfield playmaker, who is also being tracked by West Brom and Derby, had been at Vicarage Road training with Watford with a view to move and Aidy Boothroyd is believed to be impressed with what he saw in the 25 year old`s technical ability
Fan for 29 years, Northwood says...
1:44pm Mon 28 Jan 08
The thing that disappoints me most about this season is the style of play - we were relegted last year because we hoofed the ball upfield to a striker hoping for knock downs and lucky bounces - its not good enough for the P League. This season we're doing the same again - why ? I dont want to go up because we wont survive. I'm not saying we need to go back to the dark days of Vialli, but in the P League, possesion is everyting and that leads to goals. Aidy, come on, lets not go for territory from a kick off; lets not hoof it hopefuly forwards, lets play it on the ground to the wings and lets change the way we play - were not good enough to go up, and thats from both a share holder and season ticket holder.
doublecarpet, says...
1:48pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Season ticket holder in Warwick - Only been once since the WBA farce. I've had enough.I won't line Ashton and Simpson pockets anymore.
chris, says...
1:49pm Mon 28 Jan 08
All the people who say you have to play football to survive in the Prem - what about Everton, Wigan and Reading ?
chris, says...
2:12pm Mon 28 Jan 08
James,
Stop whingeing, are you really being serious.
People who pay their hard earned money, sometimes travelling great distances, have every right to have a go at WFC at present.
WFC have a duty to play their best eleven players available and to entertain their crowd. They did neither on Saturday.
They have not provided their home crowd with any sustained or proper entertainment for the best part of two seasons and yet the club have had the massive boost of the Prem money plus the transfer funds from AY and HB.
We the paying public are constantly being ripped off by a club being run by a triumphrate in GS, MA and AB. How much did they vote themselves in bonuses in getting relegated? The list of complaints against the way the club is being run is endless, so don't you complain when people speak their minds through this excellent site. (Better than the club's which GS closed down)
Just because by some miracle we are third in the division doesn't make everything all rosey. There is an increasing ground swell of dissatisfied supporters and their complaints are genuine.
If it was just down to the happy clappers there would be crowds of less than 5000 each week rather than the 17000 - 18000 that have been going (away support included)
Enough of this dreadful Hoofroyd Hoofball. Entertain us please.
Stop whingeing, are you really being serious.
People who pay their hard earned money, sometimes travelling great distances, have every right to have a go at WFC at present.
WFC have a duty to play their best eleven players available and to entertain their crowd. They did neither on Saturday.
They have not provided their home crowd with any sustained or proper entertainment for the best part of two seasons and yet the club have had the massive boost of the Prem money plus the transfer funds from AY and HB.
We the paying public are constantly being ripped off by a club being run by a triumphrate in GS, MA and AB. How much did they vote themselves in bonuses in getting relegated? The list of complaints against the way the club is being run is endless, so don't you complain when people speak their minds through this excellent site. (Better than the club's which GS closed down)
Just because by some miracle we are third in the division doesn't make everything all rosey. There is an increasing ground swell of dissatisfied supporters and their complaints are genuine.
If it was just down to the happy clappers there would be crowds of less than 5000 each week rather than the 17000 - 18000 that have been going (away support included)
Enough of this dreadful Hoofroyd Hoofball. Entertain us please.
The Chitster, woburn says...
2:13pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Watfords results for the last 15 league matches. W4 - D4 - L7.
Points total 16 from 45.
Prestons results for the last 15 league matches. W4 - D1 - L10.
Points total 13 from 45.
Over the last 15 matches we have only managed to score three more points than Preston. That my friends as has been said before is relegation form.
The next 4 games will in my view, indicate whether we could get promoted or be looking at mid-table.
Question for you. If we finish outside of the top six will AB be our manager next season?
Points total 16 from 45.
Prestons results for the last 15 league matches. W4 - D1 - L10.
Points total 13 from 45.
Over the last 15 matches we have only managed to score three more points than Preston. That my friends as has been said before is relegation form.
The next 4 games will in my view, indicate whether we could get promoted or be looking at mid-table.
Question for you. If we finish outside of the top six will AB be our manager next season?
WatfordKev, Watford says...
2:18pm Mon 28 Jan 08
I think it's a disgrace when clubs field deliberately weakened sides in any competition they enter - especially the FA Cup.
We have a good record in the Cup, certainly in my experience from the late 60's to now. During this time Cup runs have been a notable feature of WFC's history, and are among my most cherished WFC-related memories.
A manager can often take (justifiable) refuge behind the argument that once the players cross the white line, it's largely down to them. However, Saturday's debacle was at least partly down to the manager's eccentric selection. I am trying to choose my words carefully, but I strongly believe this disrespected the competition, the Club's history, and the supporters.
I'm sure my view is going to be seen and read as the ramblings of an old and out of touch supporter. And I know the Cup has been endlessly frigged around with by various influences in recent years, but I had hoped WFC would have been above that.
PS
Do Everton, Wigan and Reading kick it out from the kick-off? When I see that, my heart sinks. It's like raising a white flag to the opposition, saying we can't gain 30 yards with the ball in possession from the centre-spot - woeful !!
We have a good record in the Cup, certainly in my experience from the late 60's to now. During this time Cup runs have been a notable feature of WFC's history, and are among my most cherished WFC-related memories.
A manager can often take (justifiable) refuge behind the argument that once the players cross the white line, it's largely down to them. However, Saturday's debacle was at least partly down to the manager's eccentric selection. I am trying to choose my words carefully, but I strongly believe this disrespected the competition, the Club's history, and the supporters.
I'm sure my view is going to be seen and read as the ramblings of an old and out of touch supporter. And I know the Cup has been endlessly frigged around with by various influences in recent years, but I had hoped WFC would have been above that.
PS
Do Everton, Wigan and Reading kick it out from the kick-off? When I see that, my heart sinks. It's like raising a white flag to the opposition, saying we can't gain 30 yards with the ball in possession from the centre-spot - woeful !!
Clark Kent, Hythe says...
2:19pm Mon 28 Jan 08
No, James, that isn't the point you were making.
The one you were making was that ST holders who are choosing not to go to games right now are "a disgrace" and should "go and watch Arsenal or Chelsea".
You utter, UTTER plum.
Well done, though, for noticing that we're playing badly "all of a sudden" (translation of all of a sudden: since August, even when we were winning games).
The one you were making was that ST holders who are choosing not to go to games right now are "a disgrace" and should "go and watch Arsenal or Chelsea".
You utter, UTTER plum.
Well done, though, for noticing that we're playing badly "all of a sudden" (translation of all of a sudden: since August, even when we were winning games).
hertshorn, herts says...
2:20pm Mon 28 Jan 08
For those of you who wish to see 'changes at the top'. How much dosh have you got to put into the club? If not a lot, get behind the team, led by GS who was key to saving the club. Also, look up the word 'support' in the dictionary.
Peter Riley, Watford says...
2:31pm Mon 28 Jan 08
If you add up all the ST holders and what we bung in I think Homer and Co. would be found wanting - especially given that for Homer and Co. it's not exactly one-way traffic, is it?
GS may well have been key to saving the Club. Fair play if so. But there would be no Club to save were it not for the paying supporters, who are the 'proper' lifeblood.
A couple of the definitions I found for 'support'
1. Serve as a prop for.
2. To undergo or endure.
OK that's selective, but appropriate in many people's eyes at the moment.
GS may well have been key to saving the Club. Fair play if so. But there would be no Club to save were it not for the paying supporters, who are the 'proper' lifeblood.
A couple of the definitions I found for 'support'
1. Serve as a prop for.
2. To undergo or endure.
OK that's selective, but appropriate in many people's eyes at the moment.
Clark Kent, Hythe says...
2:33pm Mon 28 Jan 08
3rd definition of "to support" on www.dictionary.com:
'to undergo or endure, esp. with patience or submission; tolerate'
Oh, hang on ... that's not quite what you meant is it?
'to undergo or endure, esp. with patience or submission; tolerate'
Oh, hang on ... that's not quite what you meant is it?
johnny b, bushey says...
2:47pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Aidy,
Don,t waste the clubs money if your just going to get your new players to hoof and hope..
If i was simpson,i would be warning A.B.
Hoof it and your sacked..
Iv,e been told by people in the know,that players get a bollocking if they try playing a bit of football in training..
The fella was a bit tongue in cheek,but you know what he means..
If we don,t manage to get promoted this season,then it,s a dead cert that half the squad will have to go,due to wage costs,cos theres no way our chairman is going to foot the bill..
The parachute money will be gone and what will we have to show for it..
Don,t waste the clubs money if your just going to get your new players to hoof and hope..
If i was simpson,i would be warning A.B.
Hoof it and your sacked..
Iv,e been told by people in the know,that players get a bollocking if they try playing a bit of football in training..
The fella was a bit tongue in cheek,but you know what he means..
If we don,t manage to get promoted this season,then it,s a dead cert that half the squad will have to go,due to wage costs,cos theres no way our chairman is going to foot the bill..
The parachute money will be gone and what will we have to show for it..
Simon, London says...
2:48pm Mon 28 Jan 08
There are many things that people have written, both on this thread and others, with which I agree, predominantly in relation to the running of the club. I do think that the club has suffered horribly from a lack of openness which has helped to create the mistrust among the fans and I would like to see a rather different brand of football played.
To pick up on a few comments that seem prevelant, however
"I'm fed up paying to watch us lose to average teams like Wolves". Saturday was dreadful, granted, but I've seen comments like this after many of the games this season such as those against Burnley. This is borne out by the booing at half time if we're not 3-0 up against such sides. What is it that makes so many of our supporters apparently believe that after one season in the premier league, we have the divine right to beat solid Championship sides. I remember, when Boothroyd first took over, seeing an away win at Stoke being lauded as a minor miracle.
"Where has the money gone". This does need much more explanation from the board but no-one seems to have taken into account that both tranfer money and even premiership cash is temporary (transfers are, of course a one off hit, and prem money ends after next year). Wages, on the other hand, are ongoing for the length of the contract. It's all very well saying we should pay the players less but we appear to be paying the going rate and players will not hang around for long if they can double their wages elsewhere (and, if we are paying significantly lower wages then they wo't be able to attract players either. I would like to hope (although, sadly, I'm far from certain) that the club is ensuring that the situation post-Taylor/Vialli's high spending doesn't rematerialise.
For Saturday, I agree Boothroyd made too many changes but, for example, I've been saying Smith has needed a rest for a while, Henderson has also looked in need of a rest, O'Toole has been in the side anyway and Bangura looked not bad v Charlton (and half the people on this site seem to have dismissed Francis/Williamson as being rubbish anyway so surely those folk would have been pleased they didn't start???).
As for kick-offs. That actually strikes me as common sense as the KO is a strange situation that sees the oppo fully lined up to challenge you when you have backwards only as a route with the ball. I've seen loads of goals over the years conceded by giving away possession from KO so this doesn't bother me too much (most sides actually give the ball to the GK who lumps it anywhere - this just leades to an lottery on half way which doesn't strike me as much more exciting).
Things are far from rosy in many areas but some of the complaints strike me as a little odd.
To pick up on a few comments that seem prevelant, however
"I'm fed up paying to watch us lose to average teams like Wolves". Saturday was dreadful, granted, but I've seen comments like this after many of the games this season such as those against Burnley. This is borne out by the booing at half time if we're not 3-0 up against such sides. What is it that makes so many of our supporters apparently believe that after one season in the premier league, we have the divine right to beat solid Championship sides. I remember, when Boothroyd first took over, seeing an away win at Stoke being lauded as a minor miracle.
"Where has the money gone". This does need much more explanation from the board but no-one seems to have taken into account that both tranfer money and even premiership cash is temporary (transfers are, of course a one off hit, and prem money ends after next year). Wages, on the other hand, are ongoing for the length of the contract. It's all very well saying we should pay the players less but we appear to be paying the going rate and players will not hang around for long if they can double their wages elsewhere (and, if we are paying significantly lower wages then they wo't be able to attract players either. I would like to hope (although, sadly, I'm far from certain) that the club is ensuring that the situation post-Taylor/Vialli's high spending doesn't rematerialise.
For Saturday, I agree Boothroyd made too many changes but, for example, I've been saying Smith has needed a rest for a while, Henderson has also looked in need of a rest, O'Toole has been in the side anyway and Bangura looked not bad v Charlton (and half the people on this site seem to have dismissed Francis/Williamson as being rubbish anyway so surely those folk would have been pleased they didn't start???).
As for kick-offs. That actually strikes me as common sense as the KO is a strange situation that sees the oppo fully lined up to challenge you when you have backwards only as a route with the ball. I've seen loads of goals over the years conceded by giving away possession from KO so this doesn't bother me too much (most sides actually give the ball to the GK who lumps it anywhere - this just leades to an lottery on half way which doesn't strike me as much more exciting).
Things are far from rosy in many areas but some of the complaints strike me as a little odd.
hertshorn, herts says...
2:49pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Endure, patience, tolerate would certainly do! If you can't do that, you either put your hand in your pocket and take control, or support Man United, Real Madrid, etc.
angry fan, anywhere but here says...
2:52pm Mon 28 Jan 08
if hoofroyd does not get a result against sheffield ,we must let are feelings known against wolves on saturday,
HOOFROYD OUT
HOOFROYD OUT
Graham Norton, says...
2:54pm Mon 28 Jan 08
And if things werent bad enough, I notice on this website that Watford ladies got dicked at the weekend too...
Get Real, Watford says...
2:59pm Mon 28 Jan 08
angry fan wrote:Good plan! And if we don't then we should at the game after or the game after...whenever we lose a game.
if hoofroyd does not get a result against sheffield ,we must let are feelings known against wolves on saturday, HOOFROYD OUT
Then when Mourinho and all the other world'class managers who want to manage Watford are watching and sees how fickle Watford fans are, they'll be queuing up to manage us.
Clark Kent, says...
3:08pm Mon 28 Jan 08
"Endure, patience, tolerate would certainly do! If you can't do that, you either put your hand in your pocket and take control, or support Man United, Real Madrid, etc."
James earlier suggested: " go and support Arsenal or Chelsea.
Hertshorn now says: " or support Man United, Real Madrid, etc."
Are you two related by any chance?
Heres the thing: for every one person I see moaning just for the sake of it, I see another who clearly shares my undying passion for 'my' club, but also shares the same, very real, concerns, and certainly isnt bloody prepared to sit back and tolerate the anti-football being played, or the Stalinist regime running my club's affairs off the pitch.
In turn, here are some words and terms for you to look up and inwardly digest, Hertshorn: "myopic"; "lemming"; "can't see the wood for the trees", "the lights are on, but there's no one at home", etc., etc., etc.
James earlier suggested: " go and support Arsenal or Chelsea.
Hertshorn now says: " or support Man United, Real Madrid, etc."
Are you two related by any chance?
Heres the thing: for every one person I see moaning just for the sake of it, I see another who clearly shares my undying passion for 'my' club, but also shares the same, very real, concerns, and certainly isnt bloody prepared to sit back and tolerate the anti-football being played, or the Stalinist regime running my club's affairs off the pitch.
In turn, here are some words and terms for you to look up and inwardly digest, Hertshorn: "myopic"; "lemming"; "can't see the wood for the trees", "the lights are on, but there's no one at home", etc., etc., etc.
drwatford, watford says...
3:14pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Kim trained with the Hornets last week before returning home to report for national team duty.
He also spent time at fellow Championship side West Brom in December but it was thought any potential transfer had fallen through due to the 25-year-old's inability to gain a work permit.
However, Kim insisted he was still hopeful a deal could be worked out.
"It is not over with West Bromwich and Watford is another possibility that has materialised," the Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma player said.
"Nothing has been decided yet. If a decision is made then it will be time to sort out the work permit issue."
Kim, who was also linked to Premier League strugglers Derby, is likely to play in South Korea's friendly with Chile in Seoul on Wednesday.
teamtalk.com
and we are getting an Arsenal player on loan
He also spent time at fellow Championship side West Brom in December but it was thought any potential transfer had fallen through due to the 25-year-old's inability to gain a work permit.
However, Kim insisted he was still hopeful a deal could be worked out.
"It is not over with West Bromwich and Watford is another possibility that has materialised," the Seongnam Ilhwa Chunma player said.
"Nothing has been decided yet. If a decision is made then it will be time to sort out the work permit issue."
Kim, who was also linked to Premier League strugglers Derby, is likely to play in South Korea's friendly with Chile in Seoul on Wednesday.
teamtalk.com
and we are getting an Arsenal player on loan
Peter Riley, Watford says...
3:16pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Clark Kent wrote:With particular reference to 'submission' then yes, it is not at all what I want - I think you'll find that not being submissive is sort of one of the main points of football.
3rd definition of "to support" on www.dictionary.com:
'to undergo or endure, esp. with patience or submission; tolerate'
Oh, hang on ... that's not quite what you meant is it?
However, I am sure the Board will be glad to read that submissiveness is a quality coursing through the veins of its' fanbase!
WatfordKev, Watford says...
3:56pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Clark Kent. You might not be able to see it, but fans, as paying customers, are effectively investors in the Club.
While I loathe booing and unconstructive criticism, there is a lot of concern about the way things are going. Sure, a few trolls and crazies are probably involved - but most comments, I suspect, are from people who really care, and who will be supporting WFC while Boards, Managers, Players etc. come and go.
While I loathe booing and unconstructive criticism, there is a lot of concern about the way things are going. Sure, a few trolls and crazies are probably involved - but most comments, I suspect, are from people who really care, and who will be supporting WFC while Boards, Managers, Players etc. come and go.
Jamie, Birmingham says...
4:10pm Mon 28 Jan 08
doublecarpet wrote:Exact same situation as you. Live just off the Spag Junction and havent been back since the West Brom farce.
Season ticket holder in Warwick - Only been once since the WBA farce. I've had enough.I won't line Ashton and Simpson pockets anymore.
Just not enjoying it anymore
ROB, herts says...
4:20pm Mon 28 Jan 08
As Wise departs Leeds for Newcastle Adrian Boothroyd favourite to take the Leeds job
Dave, Hemel says...
4:30pm Mon 28 Jan 08
James. I am a season ticket holder who lives locally in Hemel. I didn't go to the game on Saturday as I have a wife & child to support & didn't go as I would had have to pay which I personally disagree with (anyone remember when you used to get 3 cup tickets included in your season ticket?). So what I am trying to say it is not always down to so called glory hunting fans not going but also down to circumstances and priorities, perhaps you will understand this when you grow up!!!
stuart, watford says...
4:37pm Mon 28 Jan 08
AB for Leeds anyone. massive club AB take it mate go home.!
johnny b, bushey says...
5:07pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Graham Norton wrote:I watch them every week mate,and their a lot more entertaining than our mens team at the moment...
And if things werent bad enough, I notice on this website that Watford ladies got dicked at the weekend too...
Michael, Berkhamsted says...
5:10pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Aidy Boothroyd was a football genius!
Dave, burgess hill says...
5:27pm Mon 28 Jan 08
As Graham Taylor always said everyone knows how to take winning it's how you take losing that defines you. It seems that too many cannot take losing. After 30 games we are third in the league on merit and need to re-assess where we are after 46 games in planning for next season. The trouble for AB is that we overperformed in his first season. If we had finished half way we would have been satisfied and we would have looked to build on that. As for long standing supporters like myself suggesting that this is the worst they have ever seen they must have missed a hugh number of games under the likes of Steve Perryman, Dave Bassett, Steve Harrison etc. etc. One reason for my optimism for next season is that after losing my seat virtually on the half way line in the Upper Rous and having to move to opposite the corner flag I should be able to move much more centrally again next season with all these people giving up their season tickets!!
Mark, Bushey says...
5:31pm Mon 28 Jan 08
stuart wrote:great suggestion - BIG SAM for WATFORD
AB for Leeds anyone. massive club AB take it mate go home.!
Luke, Watford says...
5:32pm Mon 28 Jan 08
Rumours abound today which have made their way Down Under that Watford could make a surprise move for little known Aussie attacking midfielder Mark Bridge.
The Australian version of 4-4-2 magazine is speculating that 22 year old Bridge, who plays for Hyundai A-League side Newcastle Jets, has a 'Euro` release clause written into his contract and the Hornets are tracking his progress.
Bridge was linked to fellow A-Leaguers Sydney FC and Central Coast Mariners in recent weeks, has an impressive strike rate for the Australian U23 side and netted 9 in 9 games for the U20 Young Socceroos side.
Yet its widely reported across the world wide web that his club form of late has been hit and miss and a return of 12 goals in 46 games against the ludicrously named likes of Queensland Roar and Wellington Phoenix has hardly set the world on fire.
Typical Aidy kind of signing then really
The Australian version of 4-4-2 magazine is speculating that 22 year old Bridge, who plays for Hyundai A-League side Newcastle Jets, has a 'Euro` release clause written into his contract and the Hornets are tracking his progress.
Bridge was linked to fellow A-Leaguers Sydney FC and Central Coast Mariners in recent weeks, has an impressive strike rate for the Australian U23 side and netted 9 in 9 games for the U20 Young Socceroos side.
Yet its widely reported across the world wide web that his club form of late has been hit and miss and a return of 12 goals in 46 games against the ludicrously named likes of Queensland Roar and Wellington Phoenix has hardly set the world on fire.
Typical Aidy kind of signing then really
Lee, B/wood says...
6:00pm Mon 28 Jan 08
I know the answer!
Just re sign tommy mooney back hell play for half the wages.. and hell bloody work hard too!
Anyone for a coach to a walsall home game?!
Just re sign tommy mooney back hell play for half the wages.. and hell bloody work hard too!
Anyone for a coach to a walsall home game?!
true fan, says...
6:46pm Mon 28 Jan 08
so all you season ticket holders state your RIGHT to attend/not attend etc..Fine but dont bother spouting your views on our team to us true fans who attend through thick and thin. you dont attend, but think you're qualified to bad mouth all and sundry on here. go away!!!!!!
Darren, Canada says...
6:52pm Mon 28 Jan 08
I think if I were Adie and I kept reading the negativity on this site (yes fans are entitled to opinions, but some of the comments as usual are too personal) I think I would consider my options. Leeds Utd are looking for a new manager, and as he came from there and is highly respected throughout the football league, maybe he would like a change of place - and some fans that get behind their manager!
Mitch, Kings Langley says...
6:59pm Mon 28 Jan 08
True Fan
If everone who didnt enjoy this seasons home games went away, there wouldnt be any one left apart from you.
You TIT
everyone when spending their hard earned money watching this **** has a right to an opinion.
If everone who didnt enjoy this seasons home games went away, there wouldnt be any one left apart from you.
You TIT
everyone when spending their hard earned money watching this **** has a right to an opinion.
Augustus, Watford says...
7:05pm Mon 28 Jan 08
If Aidy DID go to Leeds wouldn't that just sum up the outpourings of drivel from our club regarding five year plans, 2010 and so on? So, if Marlon's head was turned, so might Boothroyd's be. However, the best scenario here would be US getting compensation and then getting Chris Coleman on board. It could be a lot worse...
Darren, Canada says...
7:18pm Mon 28 Jan 08
After all, we are in Sheffield tomorrow night....Leeds is pretty close!! Just throwing out a theory, but I do wish fans showed a little more gratitude.
James, Watford says...
7:26pm Mon 28 Jan 08
True Fan. Spot on mate!
pete, oxhey says...
10:47am Mon 28 Jan 08