For only the second time this season, Watford have to bounce back from a home defeat in their lunchtime tie away to Coventry City. Anticipation is rising following suggestions that Head Coach Xisco Munoz is planning to tweak his game-plan, particularly with full-backs Adam Masina and Kiko Femenia potentially unavailable.

Jeremy Ngakia and Marc Navarro deputised on Monday, struggling to cope with Queens Park Rangers' intensity. Ngakia, forced onto his unfavoured left side, played fairly well, but given Todd Kane's relentless driving runs from Right-Back, he struggled to cope at times. If he is to be deployed on that side again, it may be wise for the left centre-half or wide midfielder to offer more support defensively, something Ken Sema would be no stranger to. This change in system prophesised by the Head Coach hasn't been publicly discussed, but as mentioned in his Thursday Press Conference there is an urge to improve the attacking play. For the full breakdown from his Pre-Coventry presser, read our article here: http://www.vibe1076.co.uk/news/local-vibes-news/key-quotes-coventry/ 

The Opposition

Officially in the second half of the season as of last week, we now know a little about every side Watford have to face, having seen them earlier on in the season. The reverse tie to this fixture is arguably a highlight of the 2020/21 campaign so far, a thrilling 3-2 home victory which saw all 5 goals come in the second half, including a headed goal from outside the box, two goals in one minute, and a late Ismaila Sarr winner from the penalty spot. Following that narrow defeat, Coventry went on to enjoy an unbeaten streak of 8 games. They're currently in quite turbulent form, and interestingly sit in 18th - exactly where QPR were prior to their win at Vicarage Road on Monday. They typically play in a formation with three attackers, either a 3-4-3, or 4-3-3 depending on the personnel at Mark Robins' disposal.

Who's the Threat?

Coventry City: Gustavo Hamer

I'm a huge fan of Gus Hamer. Last time out, I predicted him to cause Watford problems, pick up a yellow card, and perhaps get on the scoresheet too. He did exactly that, and if Watford can't handle the energetic Dutchman, could do it again.  

Watford: Philip Zinckernagel

Surely he gets his first league start? The Dane lit up the Norwegian Eliteserien last season, but we haven't yet had the opportunity to see him properly display his qualities. Be it on the left, right, or through the middle, I'd back Zinckernagel to perform.

Elliot's Score Prediction:

Watford have improved their away performances, but if they can't get three points at St. Andrews, it's back to square one. Picking up maximum points is crucial at this stage, and I think they'll just edge it this time. Perhaps this change of system will be the turning point in what has been a slightly underwhelming Watford season.

Coventry City 1-3 Watford

Referee - Graham Scott

Kick-Off - Saturday, 12:30pm, St. Andrews

Televised? Yes, on Sky Sports.