We face Watford tonight in what really should be a home banker. However, the Hornets will be a difficult team to break down initially. Javi Gracia is a conservative coach, and you can guarantee they will have all eleven men behind the ball.
So, what should we expect from this evening’s encounter at Wembley?
1) Slow Start Before Wearing Down Our Opponents
There may be a hangover from the semi-final defeat to United. I doubt confidence will be that low, but it may take a while for us to find our rhythm again.
The opposition have one point from their last 10 away games and haven’t scored away from Vicarage Road for seven matches. It could be attack against defence for the most part, and I would back the likes of Eriksen and Dele to create openings.
2) Some Fresh Legs Named In The Starting Line Up
We looked jaded and lacking in ideas during the second half in the FA Cup loss. This home game is a perfect opportunity to freshen things up and give a few others a run-out.
This is an ideal chance to give Lucas another start. His speed and energy could be vital against a packed Hornets defence, with very little space in behind. It’s good to have players like the Brazilian who can beat a man one-on-one to create space.
Victor Wanyama is another who has been mostly used as a sub recently. He started the last league game against Brighton but was left out for both games against the Manchester clubs in recent weeks. His energy and dynamism from the middle of the park would be a good asset against Capoue and Doucoure.
3) Keeping Focus At The Back
Most of the Hornets attacking threat will likely come from set pieces and the occasional cross into Deeney. We were sloppy allowing Sanchez a chance to score a header last time out. Keeping the Watford no.9 shackled is vital.
He may not be prolific, but he will capitalise on any mistakes we make. We have to keep our concentration, especially in the opening stages so we don’t put ourselves under pressure by conceding early.
If we don’t give them any ball, and press them high, their defence is likely to buckle eventually. Heavy away defeats to Liverpool and Arsenal suggest they are there for the taking, especially as they are all but safe. If we are professional, it should be a comfortable three points for us.