Tom Cleverley is motivated to help Watford put an end to their turgid run of results against Manchester City when they go head-to-head this evening.

The Hornets have not won a game against City since 1989 and have not picked up a point against them since 2007.

The last three results have seen the current Champions score 18 goals and concede none, with Watford finding the net just three times overall in the last nine encounters.

Speaking to the club website, Cleverley said that he wants to be a part of the team that eventually puts a stop to the unenviable record.

“The thought of playing City isn’t too exciting but these are world-class superstars and we relish the challenge of competing with them,” he said. “Since I’ve been here our record against City is absolutely terrible so it’s a big motivation of mine to correct that.

“Let’s give it a crack, no-one will give us much of a chance, but why not clinch our first clean sheet against Man City?”

Cleverley has taken some encouragement from recent performances, with Watford looking noticeably sharper in attack.

The midfielder said it is the type of football he enjoys playing.

“I think we can take heart that we’ve been competing in the last four games against teams that finished in the top seven or eight last year," he said. "Historically our results against Manchester City don’t give us much of a chance but we’re really growing into the gaffer’s style of play, and getting better every game.

“His style suits me, I like high energy, high intensity football. The old school! Being direct and taking the fastest route. I’m listening to him and enjoying it.”

“I feel like we’re exciting, entertaining.

“As a player you feel solving the problem of keeping clean sheets is an easier one to solve than not scoring, so that’s a positive. We know we need to tighten up at the back but as far as things are concerned going forward, it’s very positive at the minute."