Head coach Tom Cleverley has told his Watford players that Leeds United would aim to “suffocate” them of possession at Vicarage Road tonight.

The Hornets meet the Championship leaders, hoping to end a four-match losing streak and get their promotion campaign back on track.

Despite their terrible recent showing, Watford is still only three points out from the play-offs. Cleverley stated, “The best teams usually bring out strong performances from us, and we rise to the challenge.”

“We’ve had two really terrific football games against Leeds since I’ve been in charge, and I expect another. They are without a doubt the most in-control squad in the division. They aim to suffocate you in possession, and they have excellent ball control and quality.

“To lose what he did in the summer and maintain this level is a really impressive job from Daniel Farke.”

United rested nearly their entire squad on Saturday as Millwall knocked them out of the FA Cup. As the Whites want to expand their lead at the top of the table, Farke is expected to field his best XI tonight.

Cleverley, who has confirmed Rocco Vata’s availability for selection after recovering from sickness, seeks to continue on their good performance in Saturday’s exciting draw against Sunderland. “I’m wanting us to ride a bit of a wave of the performance from Saturday,” Cleverley noted.

“I told you earlier in the season that it doesn’t always work that way, even if we had the fresher legs. This time, the shoe is on the other foot, and we must accept that things do not always work out that way.

“Rhythm can be quite strong in football, and while we don’t yet have a rhythm of outcomes, I believe we are developing consistency and a rhythm of performance that will ultimately lead to results. So I’m not reading too much into Leeds’ decision to rest so many of their players.

“Leeds are a well-seasoned club with solid leaders, plenty of skill, and Premier League experience, which brings consistency and stability, so they are what we aspire for.

“We do have a real young, talented group, and it is about doing those details on a consistent basis that brings you long-term success.”

Read more on sportupdates.co.uk