Liverpool face Watford this weekend as The Reds face a side that has been one of the surprise teams in the league this season.
Liverpool haven’t quite hit top form this season but still remain second in the table and Man City’s most likely challenger for the title.
Watford on the other hand, have made a blistering start to the season and along with Bournemouth, are one of the form teams of the league.
Troy Deeney
An ever-present at a club that is constantly changing managers, Troy Deeney had one of his worst years at Watford last year.
This season, he looks back to his old self and although he’s only scored two goals, he is a huge part of Watford’s fate. With Andre Gray ahead of him, Deeny has transformed himself from a pure target man to a player that creates goals, can score at times and leads the press for the side.
He isn’t a glamorous player but he’s integral to how Watford play. His England career is probably over but at 30, it’s impressive how Deeny has changed his game and has become a completely different player.
Signed in a potential £500,ooo deal, Deeney might just go down as one of the best players to ever play for the club, and also one of their best deals.
TT Grade: B
Roberto Firmino
He may not be in the best form this season but Roberto Firmino remains one of the most integral players for Liverpool.
Since joining from Hoffenheim, Firmino’s game has developed massively and as it stands, he might just be one of the most complete forwards in world football.
He can score goals, create them and also is a huge part to Liverpool’s press off the ball. Last season he scored 15 goals and grabbed seven assists while also having a hand in 18 goals in the Champions League.
The Brazilian represents a huge culture shift in football as nowadays, a striker does so much more than score goals. Signed for £29 million, Liverpool pulled off some superb business.
TT Grade: A
The Verdict
Troy Deeney has been a brilliant player for Watford over his long tenure at the club. His game has evolved and at 30, he’s just as important as he was four years ago.
Roberto Firmino, however, is probably one of the most underrated players in the league. His impact on Liverpool is huge and although he isn’t having a great season, he still remains key to Liverpool’s title hopes this season.
