Neither Leicester City nor Watford were in a rich vein of form before the season’s suspension. Both sides had won just one of their previous five games. As a result, they will both teams will be hoping that they can start afresh, as they chase their two different aspirations in the Premier League.
Watford Host Champions League Chasing Leicester City
Safety the Priority for Watford
Nigel Pearson has done an excellent job at Vicarage Road so far, having taken over the Hornets when they were in dire straits.
However, the job is not done yet. Pearson’s side are only just outside of the relegation zone on goal difference, as they are level on points with 18th placed Bournemouth.
As a result, it is important that they get off to a quick start as the top-flight returns. Sealing another season in the Premier League is the utmost priority for Watford ahead of their next five games.
While one eye will be on the future, they will be firmly focused on earning three points against the travelling Leicester. It will set them in good stead for the remaining fixtures, with five of their last nine coming at home.
Return to Early Season Form a Must for Leicester City
Brendan Rodgers and the Foxes have not quite had the 2020 that they had hoped for. They have just six wins to their name so far this calendar year, three of which came in the FA Cup.
The Premier League restart will give the Foxes a chance to start afresh. Rodgers will be hoping that they can turn around the rut they were in before the suspension, and comfortably finish in the top four.
Injury Update
The Foxes may be without Belgian midfielder Dennis Praet for their trip to Vicarage Road.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Brendan Rodgers confirmed that he had a slight injury problem.
“Dennis Praet is a doubt, but we’ll see tomorrow (Friday) if he’s going to make the squad or not,” he said.
“If he doesn’t then he should be fine for Tuesday. It’s just a slight tightness on his calf so we’ll see how that is over the next 24 hours.”
Watford will be without three players for their first game back. Isaac Success, Gerard Deulofeu and Daryl Janmaat all picked up long-term injuries before the season was halted.
What to Expect?
Both Watford and Leicester still have plenty to play for in the Premier League. A win for either side could prove pivotal in the long-run.
However, with the strength in-depth, the visitors are likely to be the favourites at Vicarage Road.
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