Tom Cleverley explains unwanted change in Watford tactics for ‘significant’ Middlesbrough win.

Watford manager Tom Cleverley delivered his verdict following the 2-1 victory over Boro, and he had positive things to say about Michael Carrick’s team.

Tom Cleverley feels Watford’s win over Middlesbrough was vital and demonstrated their top-six potential, as he revealed the unpopular tactical move he took to secure the three points.

After seeing Boro’s midweek triumph over West Brom, Cleverley put Watford up to be a counter-attacking side, which paid off as they rallied from behind to win 2-1 at Vicarage Road, moving them into the play-offs.

Cleverley’s assessment of the victory’s significance was a tribute to Boro and how excellent he thinks Michael Carrick’s team is. However, this is not the first occasion this season that an opposing manager has spoken about a favorable outcome after allowing Boro to enjoy possession.

The Watford manager remarked afterwards: “Competing against the quality of the opposition is really promising. You are aware that against Middlesbrough, you may experience periods without possession of the ball. To me, that was the ideal way to respond [after Preston’s midweek setback], and we demonstrated our credentials tonight.

“We knew we’d have to be sturdy because they’re a team that likes to attack through the middle of the pitch with two midfielders and two number tens, with Hamilton going in beside Azaz. So if you lose discipline once, it’s like a knife through butter. It requires 95 minutes of concentrate, which is taxing on the legs. But the players did it flawlessly.

“We don’t want to be a counter-attacking club, but if we have to be, we have the skills to do so, and I felt the guys were great. We played against a fantastic team today, and sometimes you have to absorb when the competition is so strong.

“I’m very happy for the boys. We had to be patient; we stayed in the game despite being down one, and then our substitutes came on, had an impact, and won us the game. It’s a big win, and I’m incredibly happy.”

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