The Dugout Discussion – Watford vs Man United

As we bid farewell to international football for the next four months, Watford’s home tie against Manchester United signifies the return to domestic action. The former head into this fixture off the back of a 2-1 road defeat to Leiciester City, while United are in the midst of a four-match unbeaten streak.

Watford’s success this term had been predicated on a solid base – only today’s opponents United (one) have conceded fewer home goals (four) than the Hornets. That being said, only four sides surrendered more big chances (eight) in the last four Gameweeks, which serves as encouragement for Louis van Gaal’s ailing attack. Exposing their relative lack of threat at the other end, Watford rank second-bottom for shots on target (37).

In the last four Gameweeks, no team managed fewer attempts (34) than the Red Devils. In fact, over the course of the campaign, Van Gaal’s men place last for shots inside the box (63). On the flip side, United lay claim to the best defensive record (eight goals conceded) and have notched the most clean sheets (eight). Furthermore, they chart in the bottom three for big chances conceded (13).