Watford - Norwich

Watford have lost three games in a row (‘Boro, Coventry and Hull) and seems already gave up from a play-off spot. They are on my black list, simply they win when nobody wants them to win. And this is game just like that, they have no real motivation, but can play fully relaxed and score. When we talk about scoring, Watford at home have unreal average of 3.2 goals per a game (36-28 goal difference at 20 games). No injury concerns for boss Malky Mackay.

Norwich, on the other hand, are fighting for a direct promotion. They’re second with a point more than Welsh duo Cardiff and Swans. In the previous round, they suffered a heavy defeat at Swans 0-3 and ended a run of nine games without defeat. Interesting fact is, under Paul Lambert (since August 2009), they haven’t made a two defeats in a row. On the other hand, they have bad record against tonight’s hosts. Norwich won just once in last seven occasions (both at home and away) and lost five of them. Midfielder Wes Hoolahan is rated as in doubt.

I expect from Norwich to bounce back and they should be closer to win. And when Watford are losing (same when winning) they do it in series. But, also expect an open game with both sides scoring. Over for me.

Bet: Over 2.5
Odd: 1.80 various
Stake: 8/10
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FA Cup - 29.01.

Some interesting games in FA Cup. Post will be updating with new picks.

Burnley - Burton

Burnley are very strong home side (5th in Championship considering points at home) and probably they’ll be in chase for promotion (through play-off). New boss Eddie Howe, started to improve away record winning at Portsmouth (at the same beat terrible record against Pompey). This is first home game and he’ll probably try to keep the momentum.

Guys from Pirelli Stadium are fighting for their lives in League Two (58 places lower than Burnley) with probably the worst away record in English football (6 points of 9 games). They started to improve under new boss Peschisolido and in previous round shocked ‘Boro at home, but don’t think they’re even close to surprise here.

I’ll try with two bets. The Clarets are strong favourites in my opinion (despite it’s a Cup) and I expect at least two goals margin (with one, half stake is back). Other one is gamble in hoping players will continue to impress new boss. Pure instinct.  

Bet 1: Burnley -1.25
Odd: 1.74 Canbet
Stake: 8/10
 

Bet 2: Burnley -3ah
Odd: 5.75 bet365
Stake: 1/10
 

Watford - Brighton

Watford are the highest scorers in Championship with 52 goals(!) in 26 games and their last eight games (seven in league) went in over 2.5 (five were over 3.5). Last weekend’s defeat at Cardiff ended their run of seven consecutive wins (six in league)! Malky Mackay rotated players in previous round vs. Hartlepool and will probably do that again. Skipper Eustace is rated as doubtful and will probably be saved for the league.

Brighton are flying high in the League One and it seems they’re sure for direct promotion (six points more than 3rd Hudders and game in hand). They’re playing nice, passing game that usually produces goals. In 2011. (last six games), The Seagulls scored 15 times. They won five of the last six league and cup encounters, in previous round they eliminated Pompey and as Hornets they shouldn’t be lacking in confidence.

I guess both sides are hoping for progress. Wouldn’t dare to predict a winner, but I think we’ll be watching an entertaining game and goals on both sides.

Bet: Over 2.75
Odd: 2.04 188bet
Stake: 8/10

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Cardiff - Watford

Home side are promotion contender, currently two points behind rivals Swansea (with a game in hand). Pressure on Dave Jones is growing recently as they won only two of their last nine league games. He has signed on loan Arsenal’s Aaron Ramsey and striker Jay Emmanuel-Thomas. Both will be available for the game. Bothroyd returned to training and will have some role today. Bellamy should start.  

Before the start Watford were one of my favourites for relegation (as ‘Boro were for promotion), but they’re currently holding 6th place and have noticed seven wins in a row (six in league), having scored the highest number of goals (50, two goals per game in average)! Malky Mackay also has strengthened his squad with signing winger Townsend and striker Weimann on loan. Despite skipper Eustace and midfielder Cowie are sidelined, I’m sure they won’t be lacking in self-confidence.

Cardiff should be favourite here, but I’m not sure does it worth at 2.00. Games between these two sides are usually high scoring affairs, last nine(!) ended with three or more goals and I’m going on over.

Bet: Over 2.5
Odd: 1.87 188bet
Stake: 8/10

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Watford - Leeds United

Watford made a decent start, with an opening win at Norwich (3-2) and two draws (Coventry at home and Hull away). They’re hard working, fighting team, but beside that in my opinion they don’t have to offer too much and still remains as main contenders for relegation. Boss Malky Mackay has a headache about some of his key players. Striker Danny Graham has a groin problem and he’s doubtful. Skipper Eustace, Lee Hodson and Martin Taylor have some injuries, but are expected to play. Watford have won only two of the 10 previous league matches between these clubs.

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After shocking defeat vs. Derby in the first round, Leeds bounced back with a draw at Nottingham and a home win vs. Millwall. Simon Grayson has a decent squad and personally wouldn’t be surprised to see them in play-off, eventually. Biggest problem is back four and Kasper Schmeichel is usually forced to cover all the holes (he’s doing it great btw.). Good midfield and very strong attacking potential. Paynter and Snodgrass will be out for a while, but club signed excellent Ross McCormack from Cardiff and he could have his debut. Leeds have only lost once at Vicarage Road, 0-1 in March 1990.

 

This will be surely a tight affair. I’m surprised with these odds (expected same for both sides). I think Leeds will win this one, but leave some space for a draw.

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Bet: Leeds +0.25ah
Odd: 2.09 188bet
Stake: 7/10
 
That's it for today, lads. Good luck!
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it's a nightmare - sorry to followers

Coventry 1 - 1 Plymouth

Michael McIndoe scored the equaliser as Coventry made it four games without defeat to continue their play-off push in the Championship.
The hosts had the better of the chances in the first half but went in trailing after Kari Arnason headed home Damien Johnson's free-kick before break. 
McIndoe wasted no time in drawing the home side level after the break when he coolly converted a Carl Baker pass. 
Sammy Clingan had a shot deflected wide as the hosts pressed for a winner. 
Plymouth had their first attack when Jamie Mackie drove the ball wide of the upright from the edge of the area. 
Keiren Westwood was then forced to make a fantastic save from Mackie after he drilled a strong drive towards the top corner. 
Clinton Morrison saw his shot from inside the area go harmlessly wide before a weak Clingan shot was watched wide by Plymouth goalkeeper David Stockdale. 
As the first half drew to a close Baker found himself free in the area but Plymouth's Yannick Bolaise made a last-ditch tackle to clear the ball behind for a corner. 
The Pilgrims took the lead with the final attack of the first half when Arnason glanced a header into the net from Johnson's free-kick. 
Sky Blues manager Chris Coleman made two changes at the break with Gary Deegan and Marcus Hall replacing Aron Gunnarsson and Stephen Wright. 
The changes spurred the hosts into life and after just four minutes of the second half Baker chipped the ball through for McIndoe to race onto and he slotted low into the bottom corner to level the scores. 
Coventry continued to push forward and Jon Stead almost gave them the lead with a turn and shot from the edge of the area. 
Plymouth substitute Gary Sawyer almost made an immediate impact with a long-range effort that drifted wide. 
In the closing stages Pilgrims midfielder Carl Fletcher had an effort blocked by Hall and a Chris Clark cross almost caught Westwood out.
Bolasie almost snatched the points in injury time but his volley was blocked en route to goal by Coventry's defence.

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Watford 0 - 1 Peterborough

Relegation-threatened Peterborough saw off fellow strugglers Watford to claim their first away win of the season.
Brighton loanee Liam Dickinson sealed the points for the Posh with an audacious 35-yard lob over England Under-21 goalkeeper Scott Loach. 
Adrian Mariappa went close for Watford with a deflected shot, as did Danny Graham and substitute Will Hoskins. 
But the Hornets were fortunate not to concede a late second when Martin Taylor headed against his own crossbar. 
Victory gave Jim Gannon's side back-to-back wins for the first time this season. 
But a fourth successive defeat did Watford, who barely threatened before the break and were only roused once Peterborough had scored, no favours. 
And only the defiance of Loach, whose early double save denied Craig Mackail-Smith and Dickinson, and a stroke of luck, when Aaron Mclean hit the post from range, saved Watford from a heavier defeat. 
The goal came six minutes after the break when Loach, scrambling to clear with Mark Little advancing, saw the ball fall to Dickinson, who sent a calm finish over the stranded goalkeeper. 
Watford manager Malky Mackay: "We're down in that relegation area but we've got to make sure that between now and the end of the season we win as many games as possible.
"We were frustrated today, the players were frustrated but they were giving everything they had for the jersey today. 
"We've got to make sure that we stick together, which they are doing, and go out there and keep working hard on the pitch."
Peterborough manager Jim Gannon: "It's great for the fans and players because it's been a long time coming for them.
"With 11 or 12 games remaining we've got to double our points average. It's an incredible mountain for that group of players to achieve, especially if the squad's being depleted and you've got so many injuries. 
"All I'm asking them to do is go from game to game and do themselves justice and in the last two games they've certainly done that."

www.bbc.co.uk

Watford - Peterborough

Watford have noticed just one point of last four games and they’re now just two points far from relegation zone. Good thing is their performances at Vicarage Road are actually good. Their last two loses came from very strong sides. First, Newcastle took all three points (1-2), but the truth is they scored after only two serious treats. In the last round, Hornets were unlucky against Swansea (0-1), dominating most of the game, but conceded after big error of defense line. Even more encouraging than a home shape is return of midfielder Tom Cleverley (loaned from Man.Utd.) after 3 games suspension. Interesting is Watford lost all those 3 games and lost 5 out of 6 when Cleverley didn’t play. No injury concerns for boss Malky Mackay.

 

Peterborough are on bottom without a real chance to avoid relegation. While at home fighting spirit supported with disaster pitch has been bringing some results, their away shape is scandalous. Only four draws in 17 games and nine goals scored is the far worst record in Championship. The Posh have lost their last seven away games and failed to score in the last four of them. Manager Jim Gannon has been trying to motivate players to fight till the last game, but my impression is they all know they’re already relegated. Gannon can not count on midfielder Lee Frecklington and winger Chris Whelpdale.   

 

Watford’s home displays, return of Cleverley and Peterborough on the road are main reasons. I expect a home win with two-three goals margin.

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Saturday's epilogue

Bolton 3 - 3 Man City

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Carlos Tevez scored twice to salvage another draw for Manchester City in a thrilling game against Bolton.
Ivan Klasnic opened the scoring despite appearing to be offside before Tevez levelled with a deflected strike. 
Gary Cahill's curler put Bolton ahead before Micah Richards equalised - but Klasnic's swivelling shot made it 3-2. 
Craig Bellamy was controversially sent off after being booked for diving, but Tevez's long-range effort claimed a late draw in a memorable game. 
The result means City have now drawn their last four away matches and ensures questions remain as to whether Mark Hughes' side can produce the consistent form necessary to challenge for a top-four finish. 
Bolton, meanwhile, will feel frustrated that they failed to take all three points after an often-dominant display in which they took the lead on three occasions.
The hosts were much-improved from their loss at Wolves last week but that will come as little comfort to manager Gary Megson who is increasingly facing a relegation battle.

Bolton manager Gary Megson:
"We're delighted given how both football clubs are run. It's a decent result because of that but on the other side of the coin we took the lead three times.
"But in terms of what's been going on for us it's a great point. They've got quality all over the pitch and on the bench. Our lads played well and gave it everything. 
"Kevin Davies was right back to his best and I don't think we would have got that result without him. Zat Knight was excellent and so was Paul Robinson." 
Manchester City manager Mark Hughes:
"The first goal was clearly offside and how the hell the official couldn't see that was beyond me.
"I thought the officials were in general very poor. The decision to send Craig Bellamy off was quite honestly laughable. 
"My assistant has been in to ask and he thought Craig had tried to deceive him. I've known Craig for 15 years and I've never seen him dive. 
"If Mr Clattenburg feels he knows my players better than me then I would disagree."

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Watford 0 - 1 Derby

Substitute Chris Porter's second-half header earned Derby their first away win since April at Watford.
Lee Hendrie and Paul Connolly had Derby chances early on before Danny Graham went close for Watford following a poor clearance by Stephen Bywater. 
But the keeper made amends just before half-time, saving Heidar Helguson's shot through a crowded penalty area. 
Replacing DJ Campbell was a surprise move but it paid off when substitute Porter headed in Hendrie's free-kick. 
Watford manager Malky Mackay told BBC London 94.9:
"It was a disappointing afternoon for us. I think we need to make sure that we come here and do the basics. 
"There are going to be games were you go and break a team down and you have to do those basics properly, and Derby came here today and did that. 
"I think there is a patience needed at times, you've got to keep your decision making and your quality up." 
Derby manager Nigel Clough:
"It's been a long, long wait for it (a first away win) but for the three performances we've put in this week we've deserved to win at least one of those games. 
"We look solid, we restricted an extremely good attacking side to very few opportunities and then we looked relatively dangerous ourselves. 
"We just felt if we kept it at 0-0, put the ball in the right areas then on a very difficult surface we might just get some reward today."

www.bbc.co.uk

Newcastle 2-0 Watford

Ten-man Newcastle extended their lead at the top of the Championship after a tough win over a spirited Watford team.
Newcastle went ahead in the 20th minute when Craig Cathcart's weak backpass allowed Marlon Harewood to set up Peter Lovenkrands for a simple opener. 
But the hosts lost Kevin Nolan when he was shown his second yellow card for a foul in the 49th minute. 
But as Watford pushed forward, Fabrice Pancrate sealed the win with a stunning left-footed strike in the 83rd minute. 
Although not one of their most convincing performances of the season, Chris Hughton's side managed to earn their sixth successive victory of the campaign.
Newcastle manager Chris Hughton:
"There will be bad times to come, I am sure, but we have shown a lot of resilience and that is the mark of any side which is doing well, that resilience resulting in clean sheets. 
"I am absolutely delighted with that. 
"What we do know is we are going to have good days and bad days, and what we have so far shown is a resilience to cope with the bad days and, at times, get something from them. 
"There are times when you can't speak highly enough of the group of lads you have, and that applies today. 
Watford boss Malky Mackay:
"Being clinical is maybe the difference. 
"Their guy gets a chance with a couple of minutes to go and puts the ball in the top corner. 
"But that's where we are at and that's the group we have got."

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Blackpool 1 - 2 Barnsley

Derby County 2 - 2 West Bromwich A.

How I tipped

Crystal Palace 1 - 0 Derby

A second-half strike from Darren Ambrose gave Crystal Palace their first home league win of the season.
Ambrose's decisive intervention came when he drove home a Sean Scannell header from the edge of the area. 
Johannes Ertl almost stretched Palace's lead when he shuddered the bar with a header, while Rob Hulse missed a chance to level for Derby from 12 yards out. 
Palace goalkeeper Julian Speroni escaped with only a yellow card after handling outside the area early on.
Crystal Palace manager Neil Warnock:
"All the talking (Clough on the penalty call) is trying to cover the cracks. Look at their bench. They've got a better side there than we have been able to put out. Let's complain about that.
Derby manager Nigel Clough:
"I thought we created the two best chances of the game and thought we had an absolute blatant penalty in the 92nd minute."
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Watford 3 - 3 Leicester
An injury-time equaliser from Leicester's Dany N'Guessan denied Watford their third straight victory in an enthralling match at Vicarage Road.
Two goals from Matty Fryatt - a 19th-minute penalty and a 30th-minute strike - put the visitors 2-0 up at half time. 
The Hornets responded through Danny Graham on 57 minutes before on-loan striker Heidar Helguson scored twice in 17 minutes to put them in front. 
But N'Guessan grabbed a late point when he headed home Martyn Waghorn's cross. 
Watford boss Malky Mackay:
"At half time I would have definitely taken the point, I was disappointed to be 2-0 down at half time.
Leicester boss Nigel Pearson:
"It's disappointing. It's two points dropped and the fashion in which we conceded the goals was very disappointing."
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Nottm Forest 0 - 1 Blackpool
Charlie Adam's fourth goal in five games brought Blackpool their first win in 45 years at the City Ground.
Tangerines' goalkeeper Paul Rachubka smothered a shot from Nathan Tyson before Adam topped a mazy run with a composed finish past Lee Camp. 
Tyson, David McGoldrick and Rob Earnshaw went close as the hosts attempted in vain to hit back. 
But Jason Euell could have doubled the lead for Ian Holloway's side as Camp diverted his well-struck shot. 
Nottingham Forest boss Billy Davies:
"I think we had 19 opportunities to score but we weren't clinical in front of goal."
Blackpool manager Ian Holloway: 
"I felt as though we've nicked something, put it in the bag and got out of here with a win."
www.bbc.co.uk

Watford - Leicester City

The Hornets made an impressive run of five league games without a defeat. Two draws against Blackpool (2-2 at home) and Swansea City (1-1 away), while they beat Nottingham Forest (4-2 away) and in last two round Barnsley at home and Plymouth Argyle on the road, 1-0 both. It seems the departure of some their key players (the biggest was their talisman and key striker Tommy Smith to Portsmouth) haven’t made any serious impact to team’s shape. Club’s board returned striker Heidar Helguson (who already was playing for the club 1999-05.) and brought three on-loan players from Premier League. Under the leadership of Malky Mackay (who btw. is living his debut in manager business) everything looks fine, so far. But, on the second view, it can be seen their mentioned run of good results have been made against the teams from bottom half of the table. And last two wins were against Barnsley and Plymouth, clubs that belong to group of main contenders for relegation. And the true is, Watford simply don’t have enough quality for top-half, especially their short bench is a problem in a long season like in Championship. So, I expect their drop sooner or later. Sooner more probably. However, mentioned Helguson and another loan, defender Craig Cathcart are included in the squad for the game. Skipper Jay DeMerit should also be available after missing the last two matches with a groin injury.

Leicester made an impressive start in their returning season in Championship and already announced a battle for a play-off spot. Only defeat in seven opening games came from the most expensive club in the league – Newcastle (0-1 on the road). Players gathered a large amount of self confidence, being absolutely dominant in League One last season and at start of recent campaign in second tier, and already managed to underestimate somebody. In previous round against Peterborough at Walkers, visitors were absolutely dominant in the first half and took a lead. Matty Fryatt equalized from penalty kick in second part, couple chances were created, but only 1-1 draw at the end. Pale display didn’t make serious impact to dressing room atmosphere and Foxes go to Vicarage Road, hunting down their first away win. I think their displays so far warranted another good game and their hope for good result against Hornets has a reliable coverage. Experienced defender Wayne Brown has a shoulder injury and will be assessed before the Foxes line-up is decided, while another defender, Bulgarian Aleksandar Tunchev, needed 10 stitches in a head wound but he is expected to be passed fit. The Foxes have won five and drawn three of their last nine games at Vicarage Road.

It seems Watford’s run of five unbeaten games impressed the bookmakers that offered more than decent odd against them. Watford have been playing over their real capabilities, haven’t faced any team from the league’s top (except Sheff.Utd., 0-2 defeat) so far and they’ll surely face a drop at the table very soon. On the other hand, Leicester are play-off favorites from the shadow and I expect very good games from them through the season and following Foxes with bets should bring a nice income. Away win today should be considered as a gamble. I suggested a safer option with covering a draw, but odds arround 2.05 for dnb 2 are still high.

Maybe one more shorter analyze later. Cheers.

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Leeds United - Watford

After another disappointment in play-off and missed opportunity for promotion (lost vs. Millwall in semi-final 0-1), Leeds remain as one of the biggest favorites for promotion. New start looks impressive, four games, three league wins and one in cup. Before the transfer market started, major concerns were can club keep their young stars Fabien Delph and Jermain Beckford. Delph left the club and signed for Aston Villa, but Beckford, scorer of 34 goals last season in all competition and four goals in recent one stayed. All in Leeds take every opportunity to point they don’t belong in the third tier, accept it as a shame and tonight will have a nice opportunity to show it on the pitch against the opponent who comes from the league where Leeds should be. Also, all in the club certainly remembers their last meeting with the Hornets in Championship play-off final (2006). Leeds were looking for immediate return to Premier, but lost totally unexpected 0-3 and seems then the things definitely go wrong for them. Next season, team relegated to League One and stayed till these days. They’ll be fully motivated and I expect the best available eleven on the pitch. Boss Simon Grayson will once again be without left-back Ben Parker, who has missed the last four games because of a hamstring injury, while centre-back Richard Naylor (back) remains a long-term absentee. Leeds have been knocked out in the second round just once in last 14 years.

New season brought the same problems for the lads from Vicarage Road. Excellent manager Brendan Rogers left the club to take a charge in Reading and his replacement is Malky Mackay. Team also lost a striker Tamas Priskin (15 goals last season), while star striker Tommy Smith looks likely to be on his way out from the club before the transfer window shuts. Club signed few new players, worth of mentioning are striker Danny Graham (from Carlisle United) and loan duo Henri Lansbury and Tom Cleverley from Arsenal and Manchester United. I think, in the best case, team is equal with that from the last season. Which means tough battle to save the status in the second tier. And start in Championship doesn’t look too promising, as Watford have won only one of their four league games so far. So, they have bigger worries (saturday’s clash against Swansea, for example) than progress in cup competition. Mackay will probably rest his keys and give a chance to some fringe players. Mentioned Lansbury and Cleverley will have a debut as they have been given permission to play in the competition by parent clubs. The Hornets will surely be without key midfielder Jobi McAnuff (back injury) and striker Nathan Ellington (knee). Watford were last knocked out by lower league opposition two years ago when League One Southend eliminated them in the second round, while they needed extra-time to see off Barnet in the first round this year.

Leeds like to play against strong opponents. For them, it is the way to show the superiority. And for this encounter will have revenge as the additional reason. Top of the third league against bottom of the second. I think Watford need something really special if want to resist at Elland and see Leeds as the favorites here. Pinnacle offer 2.14. Home win.

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Nottingham Forest - Watford

After the previous “rollercoaster campaign” which eventually resulted in Championship survival, club management decided to open a check book and re-built the squad which should be capable to involve into fight for a play-off. Boss Billy Davies brought even nine players in the club. Dexter Blackstock - QPR's top goal scorer last season, David McGoldrick - Southampton's top goal scorer last season, Dele Adebola another excellent striker, Chris Gunter – excellent Welsh defender and international, Paul McKenna - long time Preston captain and key midfielder in this Forest team, Lee Camp - good goalie and couple more. Forest started this season, it can be said, tragically unlucky. Opening game, against Reading at Madejski, passed in too cautious play by Forest and though they could get all three points (Reading had zero shoots on goal!), noticed just a goalless draw. At the second game, they hosted always strong WBA and were even more unfortunate. They were dominating side for the whole 90 minutes, missed a couple of very good chances, wasted a penalty kick and at the end lost by an own goal! Beside the bad luck, they’re fighting against big injury problems in defence line. Three regular defenders are injured, James Perch (shin), Julian Bennett (knee) and Kelvin Wilson (ankle), while fourth Luke Chambers is suspended! Winger McCleary is carrying a knock and he’s in a doubt. Nottingham Forest are seeking their first win and first goal of this league season and probably couldn’t get a better rival for that.

After very turbulent previous season which is ended in the middle (13th place), Hornets come into new campaign expecting a tough battle to avoid relegation. Excellent manager Brendan Rogers who was meritorious for pulling the club from the bottom, went to take a charge in Reading (got the job with a recommendation from Jose Mourinho). His replacement is Malky Mackay and that is his first managerial job. Club also lost key striker Tamas Priskin (15 goals scored last season) who signed for Ipswich. They still have a few well known and quality players, like goalie Scott Loach (England U-21 international), excellent defender and US international Jay DeMerit, striker Nathan Ellington, new signing from Carlisle United - striker Danny Graham, but it is obvious in the long run they simply don’t possess enough quality. Recent season started in their well known manner, with a home draw (1-1) against Doncaster Rovers and defeat on the road against Sheffield United (0-2). Midfielder Don Cowie has a hamstring injury and will require a late fitness test for tonight’s encounter. Additional problem for a team harmony is possibility of losing key forward Tommy Smith who is interesting for a number of clubs. Defeat at the City Ground would mean the Hornets only had one point after the first three games for the third time in five seasons and I haven’t found anything that could prove me they can get something from this game.

After two times where they were desperately unlucky, Forest will have a nice opportunity to finally start a good run of results against, I can say, weak Watford. Hosts have six top strikers and great midfield. Big problems in defence can only suggest on possibility of over 2.5 goals, but not on final winner. I’m confident in a home win and even a –1.5 handicap should be a nice bet. Pinnacle offer 1.86. Home win.
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Tuesday's gossip column

TRANSFER GOSSIP

Valencia striker David Villa will decide on a move to either Real Madrid or Chelsea this week. (The Sun) 
Aston Villa owner Randy Lerner has backed boss Martin O'Neill's attempts to outgun Everton and Roma in the battle for Newcastle striker Michael Owen. (Daily Mirror) 
Villa will also compete with Liverpool in trying to sign Portsmouth defender Sylvain Distin (on photo). (Daily Mail) 
Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez, meanwhile, says he is not interested in signing striker Ezequiel Lavezzi from Napoli. (Daily Mail) 
AC Milan may have lost Kaka but they have overtaken Arsenal and Manchester City in the race to sign Wolfsburg striker Edin Dzeko.(Daily Mirror) 
Blackburn could move for Austria striker Marc Janko if they sell Roque Santa Cruz, who is again a target for Manchester City. (Daily Mail) 
Meanwhile, Rovers are ready to sell defender Zurab Khizanishvili to Turkish outfit Galatasaray. 
(Daily Mirror) 
West Ham's takeover will result in manager Gianfranco Zola renewing his attempt to sign Inter Milan's £15m-rated attacking midfielder Luis Jimenez. (Daily Mirror) 
The Hammers also want Rennes right-back Rod Fanni and Middlesbrough defender Matthew Bates. (Daily Mirror) 
But defender Matthew Upson could be sold by Zola after he was told by the club's new owners that he would have to generate his own transfer funds by selling players. (Daily Mail) 
Manchester United striker Dimitar Berbatov and defender Nemanja Vidic will not be leaving the club, according to their agents.(Daily Star) 
Tottenham could make a £4.8m loss by offloading striker Roman Pavlyuchenko to Italian side Roma for £9m. (Daily Mirror) 
Birmingham will have to battle it out with Bolton for the signing of defender Danny Shittu, while the Midlands club have also set their sights on Newcastle defender David Edgar. (Daily Star)
Wolves are to sign centre-back Ronald Zubar from Marseille for £2.5m. (Daily Mirror) 

OTHER GOSSIP

Andorra coach David Rodrigo believes his side can frustrate England in their World Cup qualifier on Wednesday and get the fans booing rival boss Fabio Capello. (Daily Star) 
Former Liverpool team-mates John Barnes and Jason McAteer are rivals to become the next Tranmere boss but could end up working together. (The Sun) 
Manchester United winger Cristiano Ronaldo will have tests to see whether he needs a hernia operation after pulling out of Portugal's friendly against Estonia. (Times) 
Watford are to appoint former defender Malky Mackay as their new manager. (Daily Star) 
Celtic will have to pay West Brom £2m in compensation if they want Baggies boss Tony Mowbray. (Daily Mirror) 

AND FINALLY

Newcastle owner Mike Ashley has had offers of £10, Oasis tickets and a Curly Wurly after inviting offers for the Tyneside outfit by e-mail. The Magpies have been given a £100m price tag. (The Sun)
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