Serial manager sackers Watford travel to the bet365 stadium with newly appointed Slavan Bilic in charge, he’s the latest manager trying to last a seasons worth of games at the Hertfordshire based club.

Stoke have welcomed the international break for two reasons, one being to get some of the injured players back, two, too allow Alex Neil time to implement his philosophy into the squad as well as some much needed fitness training.

In the games under Neil we have seen a vast improvement in a togetherness on the pitch as all players seem to know there role better and each other’s allowing us to press with more intensity and belief, thus meaning we are intercepting the ball and transitioning into attack.

Ben Wilmot surely is one of the first players on the team sheet following Alex Neil’s appointment, he has shown more than most an improvement into the player we knew he could be. 

How have we faired in previous meetings.

Sundays fixture will be the 40th meeting between the two sides

Stoke wins 16

Draws 7

Watford wins 16

The last meeting 

The last time Watford visited ST4 they ran out 2-1 winners. The result could of gone either way but once again Stoke just couldn’t finish the chances they did create where Watford and Troy Deeney could.

Our last meeting though saw the Potters beat Watford away 3-1 in the League Cup. Stoke played well that day and were clinical with their finishing, combined with Adam Davies having a stormer in goal made the result easier than it should of been. Powell, Clucas & Tymon scored that day sending them into round 4.

Who’s the threat

Watford have a plethora of talent among there side, quiet a lot with Premier League experience. Top of the list though is Ismailia Sarr

Form

Stoke

Blackburn 0-1 Stoke

Stoke 1-1 Swansea

Reading 2-1 Stoke

Hull 0-3 Stoke

QPR 0-0 Stoke

Watford

Watford 2-3 QPR

Watford 2-1 Middlesbrough 

Rotherham 1-1 Watford

Blackburn 2-0 Watford

Watford 2-2 Sunderland 

Watford are yet to win a league game away from home this season. Let’s pray the inevitable doesn’t happen.

How could Stoke set up for the game.

Josef Bursik returned from international duty early due to the death of his father. Bursik is believed to want to play. Alex Neil must adjudge whether his mindset is right. Bursik not playing causes issues as there are  questions over Bonham too which could mean Frank Fielding making his debut for the Potters. Alex Neil has given any news on any other players whether they are fit or not, keeping his issues close to his chest. 

What is your score Prediction?