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Football

Watford Manager Rob Edwards talks about match with Sunderland

Rob Edwards expects great energy and passion from his Watford team as they attempt to rebound from a midweek setback when Sunderland visits Vicarage Road on Saturday (September 17).

Edwards was unhappy by the 2-0 setback to Blackburn Rovers on Tuesday night (September 13), but the Head Coach has seen a positive reaction from his players in training, with one-on-one chats and film analysis aiding preparations for the Black Cats meeting.

Consecutive away games earned one point against Rotherham United and Rovers, but Saturday sees a comeback to home comforts, where Watford has won three of four Sky Bet Championship games this season.

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“We weren’t thrilled with the performance as a group,” Edwards said. “We’ve always stated that you can’t guarantee victories, but you can manage your effort and work rate, and I accept responsibility for that. That is, without a doubt, what we are striving for against Sunderland.”

“We want energy and optimism in our play, which we didn’t have enough of in the first half. We discussed it after the game – if we don’t have it, it doesn’t matter how talented you are. We need to witness a struggle, and if we do, the greatness will shine through. The players have been excellent; they understood that they weren’t good enough, and there has been a positive response. When you play so rapidly, there is a chance to try and improve things, but there isn’t much possibility in training, so it’s talking and watching movies. They are aware that we want an answer by tomorrow.”

Sunderland have recovered after Alex Neil’s resignation as Head Coach last month, and are presently sixth in the standings under new manager Tony Mowbray.

Wearside are full of confidence after a 3-0 away win against Reading on Wednesday. Edwards and Assistant Head Coach Richie Kyle have scouted their opponents and anticipate a difficult challenge at The Vic.

“I was pleased with them in midweek,” Edwards remarked. “Richie went to the game; it was also on TV, and we watched it back.  They performed admirably and are currently riding a wave of confidence. They’ve gotten off to a good start.”

“They’ve gone through some changes and handled them well.  A very experienced manager has been brought in, and Tony has been able to keep things moving and build on the trust they already had.  He’s a highly seasoned and competent manager and coach, with a wonderful career and a lot of success. When I was at Wolves, I used to play against his West Brom club. Putting your wits against these folks is brilliant.”

Prior to kickoff, a minute’s silence will be observed in honour of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who died last week. Edwards wants Watford fans to be courteous during the tribute and to rally behind the team throughout the game.

“It’s a distinct event, and we need to commemorate that with our respects tomorrow. I’m confident that our audience, being as courteous as they are, will observe the minute’s quiet. They know they can be a tremendous assistance to us once the game starts, and we know we have to give them something to yell about,” Edwards concluded.

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