Tom Cleverley Challenges Pessimistic Predictions and Eyes a Brighter Season for Watford
Tom Cleverley is resolutely dismissing the widespread pessimism surrounding Watford’s prospects for the upcoming season. Despite a wave of negative predictions from pundits and fans alike, Cleverley remains optimistic about the Hornets’ potential and is focused on the positive strides being made behind the scenes.
Many forecasts have placed Watford in the lower echelons of the Championship table, with some even predicting a relegation battle.
These forecasts are largely based on the team’s underwhelming performance last season, coupled with the current struggles to reinforce the squad adequately and the loss of key players. However, Cleverley’s outlook contrasts sharply with these predictions.
“We all recognize that we underachieved last season,” Cleverley acknowledged. “Since then, we’ve lost Kone, and there’s a chance we might lose Asprilla too.” Despite these setbacks, Cleverley remains hopeful. “But we have brought in some quality players, and we are working hard to add even more,” he stated. “I have confidence that we will do that.”
Cleverley’s optimism stems from his daily interactions with the squad and the training ground. “My predictions probably don’t align with those of others because I see the players every day in training,” he explained. “I witness the hard work that Scott and Gianluca are putting in to secure quality players.”
For Cleverley, the disconnect between his positive outlook and the prevalent negativity from external sources is understandable. “Those suggesting a long, hard season can only judge based on what they see,” he admitted. “They don’t have access to what I witness and know firsthand. I don’t expect people to fully understand or share my perspective.”
The Watford boss is aware that public skepticism and criticism are part of the job. “Fans and pundits want to see results from the hard work we’re putting in, and rightly so,” Cleverley noted. “They invest their money and time to see good performances. It’s my responsibility to ensure we deliver those results.”
Acknowledging the pressure on his shoulders, Cleverley emphasized, “If results don’t come, I am accountable. I can understand some frustration, but all we can do is continue working hard to enhance the squad’s quality.” He stressed that his current focus is on making the most of the players already in his squad and building confidence in their abilities.
Cleverley is aware of the negative predictions circulating about Watford but chooses not to dwell on them. “I don’t pay too much attention to these predictions,” he said. “If I do hear about them, it just motivates me and the team even more.”
The Watford manager believes that using the negativity as fuel can be beneficial. “We have some talented players in the squad, and if people are pessimistic about our chances, we’ll use that as extra motivation,” he explained. “These predictions do not reflect my own views or the type of team we are striving to be.”
Cleverley is adamant that Watford is not preparing to merely survive the season or scrape by with a few results. “We’re not approaching the season with a mindset of just surviving or nicking results,” he affirmed. “That’s not our preparation or the culture we’re fostering at the club.”
Instead, Cleverley and his team are focused on building a squad capable of achieving more than the critics expect. “We’re setting ourselves up to be a competitive and ambitious team,” he added. “Our goal is to exceed expectations and deliver performances that our fans can be proud of.”
As Watford gears up for the new season, the confidence and determination from Cleverley and his staff will be crucial. Despite the external doubts, Cleverley’s belief in his squad and his refusal to be swayed by negativity could well prove to be the driving force behind a successful campaign. With the right mindset and continued effort, Watford may very well defy the odds and make a strong statement in the Championship.
