Watford host Liverpool at Vicarage Road this afternoon in Claudio Ranieri's first game in charge.

While it may not be simple to predict exactly what the new boss will do with his squad, he is known to favour a more simplified 4-4-2 or 4-4-1-1 formation, which we might expect to see today.

Here's how I think the Hornets could line up.

GK: Ben Foster

The veteran goalkeeper is one of only two members of the Watford squad to have been born when Ranieri was given his first managerial position at Vigor Lamezia, with the other being fellow goalkeeper Rob Elliot.

The Italian could favour that experience at the back as he tries to tighten up a leaky defence.

RB: Kiko Femenia

Hopefully the international break will have given Kiko the chance to get back to full fitness after struggling to complete recent matches.

CB: Craig Cathcart

Injuries mean that Ranieri's central defensive pairing more or less picks itself. Cathcart will come in straight from international duty.

CB: William Troost-Ekong

The Nigerian returned to training a couple of days earlier than some of his other teammates and will start today's match.

LB: Danny Rose

The strongest option at left back, will be looking to build on some encouraging performances.

CM: Juraj Kucka

Will need to be at his best today to break up Liverpool's fluid attacks.

CM: Moussa Sissoko

His remit today, should he start, will be getting back to defend, then dragging the ball out from the back and starting counter attacks.

RW: Ismaila Sarr

Has to start if he's returned from the international break unscathed.

LW: Emmanuel Dennis

Perhaps a wider role than we saw under Xisco Munoz, but one that would still allow him to come inside and contribute in front of goal.

ST: Joao Pedro

Possibly a first start for the Brazilian today, who should be more than ready after the break.

ST: Joshua King

There was some encouraging news regarding his fitness during the week and if he's available, he's likely to be the man leading the line.

Watford Observer: