Preview: Watford – Town

By Aston
February 16 2007

STB brings you team news, manager previews, betting odds and officials ahead of Towns game against Watford tomorrow (KO 3:00pm).

Watford’s one and only doubt for the game is former Norwich defender Malky Mackay who has a calf problem, so Aidy Boothroyd will be able to use a full strength squad and he is promising to do so.

 

Boothroyd: “We are putting out our strongest team against Ipswich.

 

“We don't take any game slightly. We want to get on a winning run so we will be coming out the traps looking for a win.

 

“We want to carry on from the win over West Ham because winning gives you confidence. At the same time I saw Ipswich's result last Saturday and I knew straight away they will be right up for it, so it is funny how football works.

 

“I have come across Jim before and I know what he is like. I know he is a winner.

 

“A couple of weeks ago I may have thought ahead to Wigan but now my thoughts are very much to win the next game.

 

“Ipswich are to be respected but it is a game we must win, then we look at the next match. Ipswich are a tough team. I have watched them a few times this season and I know what we can expect.”

 

Town are with out Alan Lee and Owen Garvan who are suspended, Jon Walters is cup tied and Gavin Williams who has a pelvis injury while Jason De Vos and Richard Naylor are both doubts. George O’Callaghan could lead Town’s attack with either Billy Clarke or Danny Haynes alongside him.

 

Town squad: Bowditch, Bruce, Casement, Clarke, Currie, De Vos, Harding, Haynes, Legwinski, O'Callaghan, Peters, Price, Richards, Roberts, Sito, Supple, Trotter, Wilnis, Wright.

 

Town manager Jim Magilton: “We are short in areas but it's a chance for players to come in and show what they can do, the prize is a massive one. A place in the Quarter-Finals of the FA Cup and whatever team we put out, we will be going out to win the game.

 

“It's a chance for most of our players to reach the last eight for the first time in their careers and I know they will give everything to get there.

 

“I'm not expecting Watford to be playing anything but their best team. They had a great win at West Ham last week and I'm sure they will be looking to build on that. It will be a tough game for us, of course but we are going to Vicarage Road with confidence and determined to put on a good show for the fans.”

 

Singing The Blues would like to remind all Town fans making the trip to Vicarage Road tomorrow to bring a scarf and hold it above your head as the players come out of the tunnel at kick off.

 

Betting Odds (found using Sportsnetwork Odds Checker):

Watford: 8/11

Draw: 5/2

Town: 9/2

 

Referee: Steve Bennett (Kent)

 

Sources: EADT and Ipswich Town - the official website

 

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