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Following a terrible start to the season, many had written off Watford’s chances of avoiding relegation, but the Hornets have now gone six matches unbeaten under Nigel Pearson. Fans at Vicarage Road are now more confident as they have a three-match win ahead of their London rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

How have Watford turned things around so drastically?

Watford’s fantastic 3-0 win at Bournemouth means that they now sit one point above the relegation zone, with just five points in 11 matches in November. The appointment of Pearson in early December undoubtedly had a major impact as 50% of the Watford’s points have come from their last four matches. After Quique Sánchez Flores departed the club for the second time, many eyebrows were raised when Pearson was named as his replacement until the end of the season.

Despite losing to Liverpool under his watch, Watford gave the champions one of their sternest tests to date. The improvement within the team didn’t stop there as the Hornets have now scored an impressive 14 goals in just six matches. The performances of the Ismael Sarr and Captain Troy Deeney will have pleased fans at Vicarage Road, so it will be no surprise that online betting apps taking wagers on teams not being relegated have improved their odds.

Some of the statistics surrounding Watford’s recent upturn are surprising, with their possession and passing accuracy having gone down, while the number of goals scored per game has risen from 0.6 to 1.1. While their style of play may not win them plaudits from football purists, the coach has an emotional attachment to the club and it shows, giving them a good chance of survival.

Watford’s FA Cup Replay against Tranmere on Tuesday evening was postponed due to heavy rainfall, meaning Pearson must get the team prepared for a run of four matches over nine days. This run includes a proverbial six pointer against fellow strugglers Aston Villa, who are currently just a single point adrift of the Hornets. Watford have finished 17th, 14th and 11th over recent seasons, Pearson will be hoping he can lead the club to a more stable place.

The former Leicester City boss will be more confident by the arrival of new signing Ignacio Pussetto, who joined for around £6 million from Udinese. While the 24-year-old winger is unlikely to force his way into the team immediately, but perhaps he could unnerve some the team members. Pussetto’s arrival could well see Isaac success depart the club, having made just one start since Pearson took charge.

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