Cleverley Expects Watford to Create “Uncomfortable” Match for Oxford United

Tom Cleverley, who assumed the role of Watford boss in March 2024, anticipates his team will ensure a challenging evening for Oxford United when they play at Vicarage Road on Friday. The Hornets have maintained an unbeaten record at home in the Championship this season, achieving five wins and one draw. “They’re coming to a place which is getting a bit of a reputation as our fortress so we have to make it as uncomfortable as possible,” Cleverley stated to BBC Three Counties Radio. Watford’s 1-0 defeat at Swansea on Tuesday came after securing two consecutive victories, but a win against Oxford would elevate them to fourth position in the league standings before the rest of the weekend’s matches. Cleverley also commented, “The players will have to look after themselves, especially the ones who’ve had to play all three games this week.” Watford will be missing suspended defender Francisco Sierralta, but Ryan Porteous is expected to take his place after serving a one-match ban.