As Watford have their backs against the wall when it comes to the threat of relegation, they need every boost they can get. An Ismaila Sarr return after missing out on all of the Hornets’ matches since their memorable 4-1 victory over Manchester United will provide a huge one.
Ismaila Sarr Return Strengthens Watford’s Battle for Survival
Performances in Latter Stages of Africa Cup of Nations Suggest Return to Full Fitness
After picking up an injury in the clash against the Red Devils, Sarr was sidelined for a contested period of time, with doctors at Vicarage Road suggesting he would not be able to travel with Senegal for the Africa Cup of Nations, while the international team deemed he should still accompany them to Cameroon and give him a separate examination.
The English Club’s assessment was right for the most part: he spent most of the tournament recovering from injury. However, he eventually returned to full fitness before the tournament ended as Senegal made it all the way to, and won, the final.
The 23-year-old was only available from the quarter-finals onward, but his impact was instant. He scored 21 minutes after coming off the bench in his first competitive fixture in over two months. He appeared from the bench in the semi-finals as well, providing an assist and playing a big role in winning Senegal’s ticket to the final (as they scored all three of their goals after he was thrown into the fray). He started in the final against Egypt, showing how he has returned to full fitness and that his explosiveness and creativity have not been lost.
Watford Need Ismaila Sarr Healthy in Bid for Premier League Survival
The club-record signing has played a big role in Watford’s successes ever since joining. His memorable brace against the previously-invincible Liverpool in the 2019/20 campaign gave the Hornets continued hope of safety before a narrow relegation. He was their top scorer in their promotion campaign. In 12 Premier League appearances this season for Watford, he has found the back of the net five times, with only Emmanuel Dennis finding the goal more times for the Hertfordshire club.
In the 11 matches since Sarr was sidelined, the Hornets have lost nine matches and drawn two. It is impossible to ignore how much of a boost Sarr’s return will be for new boss Roy Hodgson.
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