When Sir Elton John implored the Watford players to play with “more f***ing passion” during his concert at Vicarage Road on Sunday night, head coach Rob Edwards was sat in the stands.

“What Elton said about us caring and the players needing to show more passion, and giving everything for the team, that was all very fair,” he said.

“If the fans see the team and staff giving everything they’ve got, reacting well to setbacks and being passionate, then we have a good base.”

Edwards admitted that while he knew the rock star was a big Hornets fan, the concert made him realise he was even more devoted than he thought.

“I learned a lot that night. I knew Elton was passionate about the club, but I didn’t realise exactly how passionate.

“A lot of the players went to the concerts, and I believe it has helped them understand what Watford is all about too.”

Edwards had the chance to chat with Elton before Sunday’s show.

“I went down to meet him for 10 minutes before the concert, and it was a real privilege to do that. I really enjoyed being in his company.

“Then walking from the dressing room to our seats, the support I felt from the fans in the stadium was incredible. That was amazing for me to experience.”

The whole experience of being in the crowd for the concert clearly left a mark on Edwards.

“What Elton said and the chants you could hear from the crowd in between songs, it was unlike other concerts. There were so many Watford fans there,” he said.

“I felt quite emotional at hearing his words. It meant a lot to hear because he has a powerful voice. I could tell the fans wanted to get behind us.

“We need that togetherness. If we’re going to achieve things, we need the fans on our side. The atmosphere at the concert felt like a really fresh start, like everyone wanted to move forward together.

“It was an incredible event to be part of, and a tremendous atmosphere. We have 23 league games in the same stadium and possibly some cup games too. Hopefully we can enable the same atmosphere to be recreated for those.”