There has been much praise for the Watford players from opposition managers this season, and the media covering those sides have generally spoken with some jealousy of the names on the Watford team sheet.

However, reputation and envy count for nothing on the pitch, and the Hornets have generally not lived up to their billing as one of the favourites for promotion.

Head coach Rob Edwards said that he, and his players, know they must start giving performances that match the expectations.

READ MORE

A new set of eyes looking at how Watford work

Ngakia out for lengthy spell with hamstring injury

“We keep saying we have good players, we know they are good players, but they have to start showing it. That’s what we intend to do tomorrow,” he said.

“I can’t control what people think or expect, all I can try and control is ourselves and what we do. I know there was a lot that needed turning round and changing. Last year was difficult for the club, and it’s hard to just flick a switch and change a mindset to turn a lot around.

“There have been a lot of good things the players have been able to do, and they really are a together group. But ultimately this is a results business and that’s what people look at. We’ve been inconsistent in that so far.

“Yeah at times we’ve looked like there is a team that can get going and achieve something, and there are also moments – like the other night – where we’ve not competed well enough.

“We have to get that consistency and, yes, we have to get it quickly. I’m really confident in this group and that they can do that – I see it every day in training. But we have to make sure we back that up. It’s all well and good me saying it, we have to deliver.”

While the Hornets have taken just six points in their last six league games, the likes of Norwich (18 points), Sheffield United (16), and even tomorrow’s visitors Sunderland (9) have all fared much better.

“Other teams will pick up points and wins but we have to focus on ourselves – that is the only thing we can affect. We have to do our job, that’s the most important thing,” said Edwards.

“There’s been a lot written and said about Watford because we were in the Premier League last season. I don’t know if that provides opponents with extra motivation but, if it does, then we have to embrace and face that challenge. Be ready if teams up their game, and more than match that.”

While there has yet to be a solid 90 minutes of impressive play from the Hornets, Edwards admitted he is more concerned with getting points on the board tomorrow.

“Without performances you generally don’t get the results, so we need a performance,” he said.

“But then sometimes, the result is the be all and end all. At times this season we’ve got the result when I’ve probably been a bit frustrated that we’ve not performed the way I know we can.

“I would certainly take three points tomorrow, and not playing great.”