It was the season that was to mark the end of the golden era in Watford’s history. The Hornets finished ninth in Division One but the summer of 1987 was to end with Graham Taylor bringing down the curtain on his historic ten years at the helm by moving to Aston Villa, while John Barnes also left Vicarage Road to join Liverpool.

That was all in the future though, and in July of the previous year Watford stepped up their preparations for the forthcoming campaign by travelling to Sweden for a pre-season tour.

It was a busy trip as the Hornets played five games in a little over a week – beating Jarbo (3-1), Norrstrands (1-0), Nora (1-0), Krylbo (8-0) before signing off with a 1-1 draw against Vasteras.

Watford Observer: John McClelland watches on as Worrell Sterling clips the ball forwardJohn McClelland watches on as Worrell Sterling clips the ball forward (Image: Watford Observer)

These pictures from our archive capture the action from one of those friendlies – along with what appears to be an unusual form of pre-match or half-time entertainment featuring a rally car being driven on two wheels next to the pitch.

Watford Observer: Luther Blissett controls the ballLuther Blissett controls the ball (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Some of the Hornets fans who made the trip to ScandinaviaSome of the Hornets fans who made the trip to Scandinavia (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Not what you usually see at a pre-season friendly...Not what you usually see at a pre-season friendly... (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: ...as the driver shows off his balancing skills...as the driver shows off his balancing skills (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Gary Porter looks to break forwardGary Porter looks to break forward (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: An opponent tries to hold back Wilf RostronAn opponent tries to hold back Wilf Rostron (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Kenny Jackett on the ballKenny Jackett on the ball (Image: Watford Observer)

Watford Observer: Neil Smillie in conversationNeil Smillie in conversation (Image: Watford Observer)