Ex-Reading And Stoke Midfielder Joins Watford Backroom Staff

Watford have added a former Reading and Stoke City midfielder to their coaching setup, as Tom Cleverley continues to reshape his backroom team. A former Portsmouth defender has also been linked with assisting the recently dismissed manager.

Backroom Reshuffle Vicarage Road

The Hornets have moved swiftly to bolster their coaching department following a period of instability. The midfielder in question previously made over 150 appearances in the Championship and Premier League combined, bringing a wealth of experience to the role.

Cleverley, who took over as head coach in March 2024, has emphasised the importance of blending youth with experience in his staff. The new appointment is expected to focus on midfield development and set-piece organisation.

Former Pompey Defender Involved

Alongside the midfield addition, a former Portsmouth defender has been assisting the now-fired Watford boss. The defender, who played over 200 games for Pompey, has been working on defensive shape and game management. However, with the managerial change, his role may be reassessed.

Impact On Watford's Season

Watford currently sit 12th in the Championship, eight points off the play-off places with ten games remaining. The club's board expects a strong finish to the season, and these appointments are designed to maximise points from the run-in.

From a tactical perspective, the former Reading and Stoke man is known for his ability to link defence and attack, which could improve Watford's transition play. The Hornets have struggled to control midfield in recent matches, losing possession in dangerous areas.

What This Means For The Squad

The new coach will work closely with midfielders Tom Dele-Bashiru and Ryan Porteous, aiming to improve their passing accuracy and defensive positioning. Watford have conceded eight goals from counter-attacks this season, the worst record in the top half of the table.

  • Improved midfield structure could reduce counter-attack vulnerability.
  • Set-piece routines may see an overhaul, with Watford scoring only nine from dead balls this term.
  • Player morale could boost with fresh coaching, impacting performance in final stretch.

History Of Such Moves

This is not the first time a former player has returned to Watford in a coaching capacity. In 2022, ex-Hornet Abdoulaye Doucouré was rumoured for a similar role before joining Everton. The club has a tradition of hiring from within or from past squads, valuing familiarity with the culture.

Comparatively, Stoke City have previously appointed former players like Steven Schumacher to their staff, showing a trend across the Championship.

Looking Ahead

Watford face Derby County at home on Saturday, a must-win fixture if they are to keep play-off hopes alive. The new coaching additions will have little time to make an impact but could influence preparation and in-game adjustments.

The former Pompey defender's future remains uncertain, but his brief involvement suggests Cleverley valued his input. The club may decide to offer him a permanent role if results improve.

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