FAC: Watford v Bristol City preview

Watford v Bristol City preview

Marco Silva could do with a victory to arrest Watford's recent form against Bristol City in the FA Cup third round.

The Hornets lost just one of their opening eight league games but have suffered defeat in six of their last seven.

Despite their wobbly form in the Premier League, Watford have won their last four FA Cup games at Vicarage Road, without conceding.

 

Bristol City boss Lee Johnson says he will definitely make changes for Saturday's game with one eye on the midweek Carabao Cup semi-final clash with Manchester City.

"I've got to be smart now and there are players that I want to give a go to," he said.

"The likes of Cauley Woodrow, Matty Taylor and Niclas Eliasson will definitely start and I'm looking forward to giving them that opportunity.

"I want to see a few of our players for the future and hopefully our supporters will understand that we need to give some of our senior players a rest."

 

Troy Deeney should return for Watford after serving a four-match suspension.

The striker has completed his ban for a red card against Huddersfield, and is expected to return to the Hornets' squad.

Kiko Femenia, Will Hughes (both hamstring), Younes Kaboul (foot), Miguel Britos (ankle), Craig Cathcart, Nathaniel Chalobah and Isaac Success (all knee) all remain out injured.

Cauley Woodrow, Matty Taylor and Niclas Eliasson are among the fringe players who will start for Bristol City.

But Milan Djuric (groin), Famara Diedhiou (knee), Callum O'Dowda (ankle) and Gary O'Neil (knee) are all set to be absent again.