From The Rookery End - A show about Watford FC

Some signings give you a great season. Others change the course of a football club.

Jon, Mike, Dave and Charlie attempt to pick the five most consequential player signings in Watford history – the arrivals that had an impact far beyond their own time on the pitch.

From promotions and Premier League survival to transfer strategies, stadium development and a few sliding-doors moments, the team make the case for players from across the generations.

Who makes the final five – and who have we completely overlooked?

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Watford’s injury-hit squad struggled to get going as Stoke City left Vicarage Road with a deserved 2-1 win.

Jon, Kieran and DCW pick through a disjointed performance, the growing injury list and a midfield stretched almost to breaking point. There’s also discussion about which of Watford’s attacking options can make a position their own, whether the international break will really solve anything, and the difficult hand Alessio Dionisi has been dealt.

And after watching Stoke comfortably come out on top, is there an uncomfortable question to ask: is this simply where Watford are now?

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Watford came from behind to beat Preston North End 2-1 at Vicarage Road – but it took a dramatic half-time intervention to turn a pretty grim evening around.

Jon, Jason and Sam are joined by The Brigadier Colin Mace to look back at a game of two very different halves. We discuss the triple substitution that changed everything, the growing influence of Iker Bravo, whether Mamadou Doumbia should now be Watford’s first-choice striker and why Mattie Pollock might just be the most important player in this young side.

Plus, there’s more on Egil Selvik’s replacement in goal, the new arrivals, Alessio Dionisi ’s big decisions and whether Watford should head into Saturday’s game against Stoke with a little more confidence.

This is our take on life as a Watford fan.

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Watford left the heights of The Hawthorns empty-handed after another tight game was decided by a costly mistake.

Mike, Jordi and Sam look back at the 1-0 defeat to West Brom and ask why the pieces of this Watford side aren't quite fitting together yet.

There's Albert Eames' difficult first league start, a defence still searching for cohesion and the continuing problem at the other end of the pitch: where are the goals going to come from?

Plus, encouraging debuts for Stephy Mavididi and Soumaïla Coulibaly, the increasingly concerning lack of options at full-back, and the rather telling sight of Edo Kayembe finishing the game at left-back.

Five league games in, there's plenty to like about individual players. Now Watford need to turn those promising parts into a team.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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The transfer window is finally shut — so what do we make of Watford’s new-look squad?

Mike, Charlie and Sam are joined by Watford Observer correspondent Adam Drury to pick through a frantic end to the window, the late arrivals and the calculated gambles Watford have made.

There’s also the small matter of a difficult night at Swansea. What went wrong, how important is Edoardo Bové to the way Alessio Dionisi wants Watford to play, and were there still positives to take from defeat?

With the squad finally assembled, attention can now turn to the football. Has Dionisi got enough to work with — and should Watford fans feel more optimistic about the season ahead?

This is From The Rookery End - COME ON YOU ORNS

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Watford remain unbeaten after a 1-1 draw with newly relegated West Ham — but should the Hornets have grabbed all three points?

Jon, Jason, Charlie and DCW look back at a sold-out afternoon at Vicarage Road, from a superb Amin Nabizada finish to Kevin Keben’s choices that ended in an extraordinary own goal, and discuss the growing signs that Alessio Dionisi is building a team with a clear identity.

With the transfer window about to close, attention then turns to what Watford still desperately need. Are reinforcements finally on the way? Myron Boadu, Michail Antonio, Jamal Lascelles and a possible Adam Masina return are all on the agenda.

Unbeaten, improving… but still unfinished.

You can also see the podcast on your screens via WD18

This is From The Rookery End

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A 5-1 defeat at Peterborough was painful enough, but the result only tells part of the story.

Mike is joined by Watford Observer's Adam Drury to pick through a night that exposed just how thin Watford's squad has become.

How have Watford reached this point? What does it tell us about the club's recruitment and financial strategy? And with the transfer deadline approaching, can the gaps be filled before they cause even more damage?

Plus, Mike and Adam discuss the young players thrown into an incredibly difficult situation, the senior players who should have done more to help them, the continuing search for a striker and what could happen in the final days of the window.

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Watford followed up victory over Southampton with a hard-earned point at Wrexham – and four points from the opening two games feels a long way from where many of us feared we might be.

Jon is joined by Kieran, Jordi and Adam Drury to pick through the 1-1 draw at the Racecourse Ground. They discuss another impressive performance from Iker Bravo, whether Luca Kjerrumgaard can build on his first goal of the season, Albert Eames stepping into an increasingly stretched defence and a Watford side that suddenly looks like it's playing for each other.

There's also the changing mood among supporters and why Alessio Dionisi appears to be winning people over so quickly.

But with the squad being pushed to its limits and the transfer window entering its final days, can Watford keep this going without reinforcements?

Plus, a look ahead to what could be a very different Watford XI against Peterborough in the Carabao Cup.

This is The Weekend Debrief.

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The Warm Up is here – our new midweek podcast, getting you ready for the Watford weekend.

Jon is joined by Adam Drury from the Watford Observer to look back at an encouraging start under Alessio Dionisi and ahead to Saturday's trip to Wrexham. Is something genuinely beginning to change at Watford? What has Dionisi done to give this team a different feel, where does the squad still look short, and can they back up the intensity of the Southampton performance away from home?

Then it's time for the inaugural (Martin) Taylor Invitational Challenge.

Mike, Charlie and DCW take on Jon's new Watford quiz, featuring current Hornets, trips into the club's past, classic commentary, a race against the clock and the frankly prestigious Going for GoldEN.

Play along and see if you can beat their score.

The Warm Up – in your ears via From The Rookery End and on your screens on WD18.

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Watford are up and running — and in some style.

A 2-1 win over Southampton gave Vicarage Road the sort of afternoon that has been in short supply recently, with two young players finding the net, a captain leading from the front and plenty of early signs of what Alessio Dionisi wants from his team.

Mike is joined by Jason, Charlie and DCW to look back at the win and ask how much we should read into it. Is a new Watford starting to take shape? Can this young squad thrive as the underdog? And, despite all the good feeling, where are the weaknesses that still need addressing before the transfer window closes?

There’s also a fitting tribute to Kenny Jackett, thoughts on Michael Antonio, the latest on Imran Louza and plenty of love for a rather unexpected group of Watford heroes.

In your ears via From The Rookery End and on your screens on WD18.

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Mike is joined by Dave, Charlie and Sam to go through the card for the 2026/27 season as they try to predict the players who'll shine and the pitfalls that may lay ahead

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The new season is almost here, but how good is this Watford squad really?

Charlie is joined by Adam Drury, from the Watford Observer, Sam and Dave to go through the squad position by position, weighing up every goalkeeper, defender, midfielder and forward ahead of the Championship campaign.

Who keeps their place? Where are the biggest question marks? Which youngsters could make an impact? And how much business still needs to be done before the transfer window closes?

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Watford's pre-season continued with a 3-0 win over Hansa Rostock, but this wasn't just another friendly. More than 6,000 travelling supporters from the German third-tier club turned Vicarage Road into a memorable occasion and created one of the most unusual atmospheres the stadium has seen for years.

Jon, Mike and Sam meet for a post-match pint to look back on the afternoon. While there's plenty of praise for a handful of encouraging individual performances, they resist the temptation to read too much into pre-season results.

Instead, the conversation turns to the bigger picture. What do the latest changes to the Academy and Under-21 set-up really mean? Why has the Watford Women's team been sold? And what do the club's current recruitment limitations tell us about where new signings can realistically come from?

With just two weeks until the Championship season begins, there's still plenty to discuss on and off the pitch.

Watch the podcast on YouTube via WD18, or listen wherever you get your podcasts.

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A new era begins at Watford and, for the first time, From The Rookery End and WD18 come together.

In this first collaboration episode, Jon, Charlie and Watford Observer's Adam Drury discuss the appointment of new head coach Alessio Dionisi, whether the club's manager recruitment process has finally changed, and what the Italian needs to do to succeed where so many others have failed.

Can Dionisi bring the dressing room together? Will supporters buy into his ideas? And is this appointment really any different from the many we've seen before?

Plus, in true Watford fashion, things take a slightly less serious turn as the boys imagine what would happen if every former Watford manager went on holiday together…

Come for the analysis, stay for the image of Walter Mazzarri in budgie smugglers.

Come on you 'Orns!

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Well… that was that.

A season that promised something—maybe not everything, but something—ends with a whimper, five straight defeats, and a performance that barely felt worth dissecting.

But, as ever, it’s not really about the 90 minutes, is it?

Because on Saturday morning, a few hours before kick off, came the statement. The one meant to explain it all. Recruitment, injuries, leadership, culture… all name-checked. But did it actually say anything? Or just give us another set of words to pin to the wall when nothing changes?

We get into what’s gone wrong (again), why it keeps going wrong, and whether this latest “reset” is any different from the last one… or the one before that. There’s talk of

identity, of direction, and of a club that still doesn’t quite feel like it knows what it wants to be.

And as the dust settles on another long season, the big question lingers—are we finally at a turning point… or just more Déjà Vu?

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Jon, Kieran, Mike and Jason are back outside the Hornet Shop after another tough afternoon as Watford FC fall to a 2–0 defeat at home to Sheffield United.

There’s no hiding from it — this was a flat, lifeless performance that summed up where the football team is right now. The lads reflect on some hints at something successful, before everything unravelled in depressingly familiar fashion. With belief draining from both pitch and stands, attention turns to the bigger picture — from recruitment failures to the direction under Gino Pozzo, who was in attendance at the game.

There are a few flickers of discussion around individuals but questions about what this environment is doing to a group of raw strikers crying out for experience — someone in the mould of Patrick Bamford who scored both goals today.

The conversation then shifts to the most Watford question of all right now: who on earth is Player of the Season? It says everything about the campaign that there’s no clear standout.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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On From The Rookery End this week, Jon and Mike are joined by Watford Observer’s Adam Drury after Watford’s defeat at Oxford — but rather than pick apart another bad away day,the take a step back and the conversation goes bigger.

With all too familiar questions surfacing again, they look at where the club is right now, why this season feels so unsatisfying and what sits behind the mood around Watford. They discuss recruitment, football identity, squad balance, finanical stablity and the clubs direction.

From what’s happening on the pitch to the bigger picture off it, this is a proper stock-take of a club that feels stuck.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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Jon, Jordi, Mike and Kieran are on presenting duties after Watford’s Easter weekend fixtures — a 1-1 draw at home to Charlton on Easter Monday, coming hot on the heels of the 2-1 defeat away at QPR on Good Friday.

We hear from DCW after he left Loftus Road less than impressed, and the team pick through another familiar-feeling performance: a flat first half, a brighter second, and plenty of questions about where this season is heading.

There’s chat about Irankunda’s impact against Charlton, the continued lack of threat up front, a strong showing from academy graduate Amin Nabizada, and what Watford can realistically get from the final five matches of the campaign.

Plus, Kieran reflects on Watford Women being crowned champions — and why there’s still plenty of work (and big questions) ahead if promotion is to become a reality.

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Watford served up the full emotional buffet this week — from the genuine high of a feel-good win over Wrexham (and that moment), to the all-too-familiar frustration of a stop-start, slightly baffling 0-0 with Leicester.

Outside the Hornet Shop once again, Jon is joined by Jason, Mike and Kieran to try and make sense of it all — from players who look like they might just be “a thing”, to others who definitely aren’t (yet), and a referee who somehow managed to be everywhere and nowhere at the same time.

There’s also a bit of nostalgia thrown in, a nod to why we keep coming back even when the football tests our patience, and a reminder that sometimes it’s the unexpected moments — not the league table — that make it all worthwhile.

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Back behind the mic, Jon and DCW look back on a bruising week for Watford after a frustrating draw at Sheffield Wednesday and a damaging defeat at Stoke. There’s talk of missed chances, flat performances, fading playoff hopes and what Ed Still can realistically get out of this squad in the final stretch. The lads also hear from the Watford Observer’s Adam Drury, who was at the bet365 Stadium and shares what Ed Still had to say in the aftermath of the defeat. Plus, with Wrexham and Leicester up next, they ask what there is still to play for — and whether simply finding some stability might be the biggest win of all.

This is From The Rookery End

COME ON YOU ORNS

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With no Watford match to dissect and a long trip to Sheffield on the horizon, Jon, Jordi and Jason decide to have a bit of fun instead

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The boys kick things off with a Watford-themed version of"Play Your Cards Right", before attempting to build the ultimate Watford XI made up entirely of non-European players — those who were either born in, or represented, countries outside of Europe. Finally, Jordi unveils a brand new quiz game: “Who Was the Watford Manager When…?”

It might be a week without football, but there’s still plenty of Watford debate, nostalgia and questionable decisions along the way. Come and play along.

This is From The Rookery End.

Come on you ’Orns.

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Back at their spiritual home of The Railway Arms in Oxhey, Jon, Jordi and Jason reflect on a week that perfectly sums up Watford’s season so far. From the frustrating 2-0 home defeat to Ipswich to the much brighter 2-1 response away at Bristol City, the lads dig into what Ed Still tweaked — and what it might mean going forward.

There’s deserved praise for Jeremy Ngakia’s stunning worldie, recognition for Kayembe’s creative influence, and a check-in on Luca Kjerrumgaard as his goal tally continues its steady rise. With an 11-day gap before the next fixture, attention also turns to what Ed can instil into this group on the training ground to build some much-needed consistency.

This is From The Rookery End. Come on you ’Orns.

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After a winless run of 7 games, Watford marked Ed Still’s first home game in charge with a comprehensive win over fellow Play Off hopefuls Derby County.

Mike is joined by Jas and Kieran to discuss an enjoyable afternoon at the Vic, where the defensive unit earned plaudits and the strikers did their jobs.

There is praise for Mfuni, Abankwah, Mendy and more, as the boys wrap up a game that the Hornets could have won by significantly more.

This is From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.

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Watford have launched a brand new Supporters Board… but what actually is it? What power does it have? And can it genuinely improve the relationship between the club and the fanbase?

Mike is joined byAdam Drury (Watford Observer) to speak to two of the board members, Flis Irving and Alex King, to get a proper understanding of why the board exists, how it was formed, and what success will look like.

From fan engagement and matchday experience to finances, transparency and communication — this is a conversation about whether the Supporters Board can become a real voice for Watford fans.

You can find out more about the Watford Supporters Board.

And if you have a question you want to submit through the board please go here

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Watford travelled to Deepdale and returned with a 2-2 draw against Preston — a result that, for a first game under a new Head Coach, looks decent… but still leaves the same lingering annoyance. With the season entering the business end, draws aren’t enough, and the pressure is building to start turning draws into wins.

Jon, DCW and Adam Drury (Watford Observer) break down what they learned from the debut outing for new head coach Ed Still, looking at his tactical approach, the 4 Centre Backs defensive structure, and how Georgi performed today and since his return. They also assess the impact of substitutions and whether the pitch conditions played a bigger role than expected.

There’s plenty of positivity too — including encouraging signs from emerging talents like Baah and Mamma — but the big question remains: can Watford find the consistency and cutting edge needed to keep their playoff hopes alive?

With crucial fixtures coming thick and fast, the lads ask: is it time for Watford to kick into gear… or are we running out of road?

(And we are also looking forward as to how often we can get 'Still' into the title of our podcsts)

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Watford have yet another a new head coach — and this time, the announcement was met with little fanfare or excotement. Luckily wee were invited to sat down with the man himself and find out more about Ed Still.

Jon, Mike and Tom Bodell from the Watford Buzz are joined by Ed for an in-depth chat about his road to Vicarage Road, how the appointment came about and what he wants Watford to become this season. Ed opens up on the importance of communication (in both English and French), how he plans to get the best out of Watford’s young talent and senior stars, and the role data in his coaching.

It’s an honest conversation about the challenge ahead — and a message to the fans: give it time, and give it a chance.

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Watford went on the road twice this week — and came back with one point, no goals, and a growing sense of not being able to make the play offs..

Mike, Jordi and Jon look back at the drab but disciplined 0-0 draw away at Hull, before turning attention to the 1-0 defeat at Southampton — a game where Watford showed moments of structure, but once again lacked any real cutting edge.

With the Hornets now three games without scoring, the lads ask the big question: where are the goals coming from? The strikers come under scrutiny, the wide play and crossing is questioned, and set pieces are once again highlighted as a massive missed opportunity.

There’s also discussion around the positives — defensive stability, the emergence of exciting young talent like Maamma and Irankunda, and whether the squad is ready to make steps forward under Charlie, Dan and Adrian.

As the season starts to reach it's end game, FTRE explores the balance between realism and optimism… and why Watford fans might need to cling to hope, rather than expectation, as the playoff picture becomes clearer.

This is From The Rookery End

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Well… it’s happened again. Another Watford head coach gone, and this time it’s Javi Gracia walking before he’s pushed.

Jon, Jason, Mike, DCW and The Brigadier sit down to unpack what Gracia’s resignation really says about Watford right now — a club packed with individual talent but still searching for a team.

You’ll also hear from Watford Observer’s Adam Drury, who gives insight into what Javi Gracia has been like behind the scenes in the last few weeks and how things have been unraveling.

The lads talk tactics, discipline, substitutions, and whether modern football is quietly leaving Watford behind, before zooming out to the bigger questions around ownership, culture, and why this job remains one of the hardest in the Championship. As ever, the conversation turns to what comes next: what kind of coach could actually survive here, whether the playoffs are still a realistic aim, and if Watford can finally break the cycle — or if we’re just spinning it again.

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Mike, Jon and Watford Observer reporter Adam Drury sit down after a frustrating week that saw Watford held to two 1–1 draws – first at home to Portsmouth, then away at Blackburn. The lads look at what these games say about the Hornets right now, with inconsistency once again the big theme. Are slow, controlled starts becoming a recurring problem? And while Javi Gracia’s approach is built on stability, is there a growing need for tactical tweaks to get more out of this squad?

There’s also discussion on defensive concerns, the impact of injuries, and whether the January transfer window offers a genuine chance to strengthen. Fans may be exasperated, but there’s still belief that this team has potential – if they can start executing it. With key fixtures ahead, the playoff picture is coming into sharp focus.

This is From The Rookery End

Come on You Orns

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Mike, Jas and DCW headed to the Mad Squirrel to have a beer and look back at Watford’s 2–0 home defeat to Millwall, another miserable afternoon against the Lions and yet more frustration for the Hornets. They discuss how the momentum built over Christmas appears to have vanished, whether any players came out of the performance with credit, and what it all means as the January transfer window continues to tick on.

From The Rookery End - trying to make sense of another sobering afternoon at Vicarage Road.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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In the first – and last – FA Cup podcast of the season, Mike is joined by the Watford Observer’s Adam Drury to reflect on Watford’s 5–1 defeat away at Bristol City.

The pair discuss the impact of fringe players who were handed an opportunity, what Saturday’s performance might mean for the January transfer window, and whether the result could influence the club’s thinking in the market. As ever in January, transfers dominate the conversation – from the need for improvement, to the potential for new signings, and whether any changes can help inject confidence into the squad moving forward.

As always, thank you for listening and get in touch on socials - @watfordpodcast - or email podcast@fromtherookeryend.com

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Watford’s away trip to Hull City was dramatically called off just 18 minutes before kick-off, leaving hundreds of travelling Hornets fans frustrated after making a 400-mile round trip. Among them was our own Mike, who left home at 7am and didn’t make it back until his 7pm train that evening.

With no full From The Rookery End podcast this week, we’re sharing Mike’s appearance on BBC Radio Humberside, where he joined host James Hoggarth on Monday night to give the Watford fans’ perspective. Mike talks through the disappointment, the logistics, and the emotions felt by supporters left stranded after a long day of travel — and asks what more could (and should) have been done.

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On this week’s episode, Jon, Mike and DCW revel in Watford FC’s red-hot start to the year as the Hornets make it four consecutive victories and confidence begins to surge. There’s plenty of love for Tom Ince after a stunning hat-trick, with the lads discussing what his form means for the balance and belief within the side.

Attention also turns to the hugely important return of Georgi Chakvetadze, whose influence has brought control, cohesion and calm back into midfield, helping to ignite an electric atmosphere at Vicarage Road.

With momentum building, the conversation looks ahead to defining fixtures against Hull City and Bristol City, while the January transfer window sparks debate around squad depth, experience, and whether a central midfielder could be the final piece of the promotion puzzle.

Optimism is growing. Confidence is back. And suddenly, this season feels full of possibility.

COME ON YOU ORNS 🐝

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Watford have finally packed their bags and remembered how to win on the road — and Jon, Jordi and The Brigadier Colin are here to enjoy every minute of it.

Back-to-back away victories at Leicester (2-1) and Norwich (1-0) give the Hornets something they’ve been missing for a while: momentum. The lads dig into a mature, disciplined performance at the King Power, ask whether this side is starting to look like a team rather than a collection of individuals, and assess the calm, gritty win at Carrow Road that showed real backbone.

There’s plenty of discussion around standout contributions, growing confidence, and the balancing act between managing injuries and keeping consistency. With the transfer window in view and tougher tests ahead, the big question is simple — are Watford finally building something we can believe in away from Vicarage Road?

Two wins. Six points. A rare feeling of optimism. Come and enjoy it while it lasts.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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Watford fans were treated to an early Christmas gift as Javi and the boys delivered a hard-fought 1–0 win over Stoke City — and this week, Jon, Jordi, Kieran and the Brigadier are in festive spirits as they break it all down.

The panel dive into the tactical tweaks (planned or enforced), assess encouraging signs from a new-look front four, and ask whether the back four is starting to find its rhythm. There’s plenty of praise for improved discipline, growing defensive solidity and the impact of Watford’s young players as confidence builds.

With eyes already on the next run of fixtures, the lads also discuss what still needs sharpening — especially away from home — and where this performance leaves the Hornets as they continue their journey through the Championship season. Momentum, belief and plenty to be positive about — come on you ’Orns! 

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On this week’s From The Rookery End, it’s late drama, long memories and a splash of Hollywood glamour as Jon, Mike and Adam Drury from the Watford Observer unpack a breathless few days in Watford’s season.

Two games, two injury-time goals, and absolutely no shortage of talking points. The lads relive the frustration and fightback of the draw with Sheffield Wednesday before heading to North Wales for an afternoon that felt very different since the Hornets last visit to STōK Cae Ras (The Racecoure Ground), almost 30 years ago. Of course, this time the spotlight burned brighter than ever, with Hollywood royalty Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney watching on from the stands.

Beyond the nonsense and noise, there’s an attempt at atleast serious football chat too , with individual performances, injuries, and tactical tweaks under the spotlight

Drama, debate and a dash of stardust.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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In this episode, Jon, Mike, Jordi, and Colin dive into Watford’s dramatic home win over Norwich City—an afternoon that somehow managed to be both thrilling and maddening in equal measure. The guys break down a first half where Norwich ran riot, exposing every crack in Watford’s shaky back line and reminding everyone just how painful a missing defensive midfielder can be.

From costly errors to moments of unexpected brilliance, they dissect it all—spotlighting standout performances (yes, Marmar gets his flowers) and questioning whether the defense can keep surviving without major tactical adjustments. With Javi Gracia’s leadership under the microscope, the crew debates what needs to change, what’s starting to click, and how Watford can turn promise into consistency.

Looking ahead, Plus what simply has to improve if Watford are going to stop inviting chaos every weekend.

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A raw Monday evening away at St Andrews as defeat strikes Watford again — 2–1 to Birmingham City, but this one felt more self-inflicted than stolen.

Jon, Jordi, Jason and Paul from Denver watched that game in the FTRE spiritual home, at the spiritual table, in the Railway Arms.

After nine games of Javi #2, the symmetry with Paulo is uncanny: 12 points each for both managers in their first nine, 24 scored, 24 conceded, 6 wins-6 draws-6 loses across the record. Competitive, relevant, but painfully stuck in the middle. Still — a first goal for Maamma and more promise from the returning Chakvetadze gives a glimpse of what could be, especially down the left with Bola and Maamma linking up nicely. The big question now? Not just one striker or two, not even “three in midfield?” — but how the Hornets turn good play into real points and real momentum before “potential” stops being enough.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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Watford have finally cracked the away-day curse – and they’ve done it the hard way. In this episode of From The Rookery End, Jon and Jordi relive the 3–2 comeback at Derby after 280 winless days on the road, and dig into what it tells us about this team’s growing character. They talk Luca’s predator instincts in the box, Mama’s raw talent and rising expectations, another Baah’s worrying injury, and whether a switch to two up top would help. There’s praise for unflashy hero Edo Kayembe, chat about the increasingly settled back four, and reflections from the fans’ forum and the club’s direction. Plus, a gloriously fuzzy voice note from the Brigadier after one of his favourite ever Watford days.

Finally an away win

COME ON YOU ORNS!

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Join Jon, Jason, DCW and the Brigadier as they walk down Occupation Road and towards the Railway Arms. They pick apart a match that started in style but fizzled into frustration.

The lads break down Watford’s bright opening spell, Bola’s superbly taken goal, and the tactical twist of Javi’s surprise 3-4-3 formation. They debate Shelvik’s role in conceding the free kick, the manager’s reluctance to make early changes, and why young stars like Erin Kunda and Max Alain are dividing opinion.

There’s also praise for the energy off the bench from Baah and a glimpse of something special from U20 World Cup star Othmane Maamma.

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All that — plus some proper pub analysis, tactical talk, and a dose of Hornets humour — in this week’s From The Rookery End.

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Mike and Kieran react to Watford's 1-1 draw on the road at Ipswich in a game that saw Imran Louza score his fourth in four games, Tom Ince come in for the injured Rocco Vata, more rotation at centre-back, and our first signing of our Moroccan world cup winner Othmane Maamma

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On this weekend's FTRE, Jon, Jason, Kieran and Jordi shelter from the rain as they stand outside Vicarage Road to celebrate a dominant 3–0 win over Middlesbrough — and Rob Edwards’ return. The team unpack a near-perfect display under Javi, from Selvik’s superb save to Bola’s standout performance against his old club, Louza’s growing influence, and a front line that finally clicked.

With Ipswich away and Bristol City at home up next, the lads debate rotation, rising stars, and what’s starting to look like a proper Javi side.

A clean sheet, three goals, and plenty to smile about — it’s been a while!

COME ON YOU ORNS

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Watford’s midday clash with Coventry had it all — flashes of brilliance that frustratingly led to missed chances, diabolical defensive lapses, and big tactical questions for Javi Gracia. In this week’s From the Rookery End, Jon, Jordi, and Mike break down the highs and lows, from Doumbia and Vata’s attacking promise to the influence of Louza in midfield and the players chosen to support him. Can the Hornets find consistency and turn potential into performance? Tune in for honest analysis, fan insight, and cautious optimism about what’s next for Watford.

00:00 Introduction to Watford's Season and Podcast

03:10 Match Analysis: Watford vs Coventry

05:40 Defensive Struggles and Team Selection

09:02 Midfield Dynamics and Player Contributions

11:40 The Role of Key Players: Louza and Others

14:44 Tactical Adjustments and Future Prospects

25:14 Analysing Watford's Performance Against Coventry

29:40 Striker Dynamics and Team Potential

34:45 Tactical Adjustments and Player Combinations

39:40 Looking Ahead: Middlesbrough Match Preview

44:33 Building Cohesion and Consistency in the Squad

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Three points, a proper performance, and a sense that something’s finally clicking. In a extra midweek podcast, Jon, The Brigadier and Adam Drury, from the Watford Observer, relive Watford’s home win over West Brom — from Imran Louza running the show to Rocco Vata’s fearless flair. There’s talk of tactical tweaks, defensive grit, and the all-important question: is this the start of a real Watford revival? Coventry awaits, and optimism’s creeping back into the stands.

This is From The Rookery End

COME ON YOU ORNS

00:00 Introduction and Game Overview

01:05 First Half Analysis

04:22 Tactical Adjustments and Player Performances

09:58 Imran Louza's Impact

15:00 Substitutions and Game Changes

20:26 Young Players and Team Identity

25:46 Defensive Performance and Player Selection

31:34 Looking Ahead to Coventry Match

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Jon, Jordi, and Colin get stuck into Watford’s their first impressions of the second Javi Gracia Era. The guys chat about what his return might mean for the team’s identity and how things unraveled in that frustrating match against Sheffield United. From puzzling lineup choices to questions about tactics, they don’t hold back. With some big games coming up, the pressure’s on Gracia to find a spark — and fast.

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Watford’s coaching carousel spins once more — Paulo Pezzolano is out, and Javi García is back in. In this episode, we dive into the emotions, the logic, and the chaos behind another managerial reset. Was Pezzolano’s dismissal inevitable? Does Gino deserve credit for acting quickly? And what does Javi’s return really mean for a club still searching for stability?

We talk about the surprise warmth of seeing Javi back, the questions over whether old wounds can truly heal, and the intrigue around how he’ll approach a very different Watford side this time around. With the noise dying down and the team still well-placed, could this finally be the start of something fun and functional?

This is From The Rookery End

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In this week’s episode, Jon, Mike and Jordi break down Watford’s hard-fought 2–1 home win over Oxford United, with Jeremy Ngakia grabbing both goals and continuing to impress with his calm, professional displays. We dive into all the big moments and standout performances from Vicarage Road — who shone, who struggled, and how the Hornets finally got the job done.

But it wouldn’t be Watford without a bit of off-pitch drama, would it? We tackle the latest rumours of another Head Coach change, asking whether Paulo’s constant tinkering is holding the team back… or the early signs of a master plan in motion. And we take a closer look at Kwadwo Baah’s late cameos — is there more to come from the youngster this season or is he being held back?

All that and more, right here on this week’s pod.

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After being a Fratton Park on Wednesday night, Colin Mace (the Brigadier to you and I) sent in a message with his thoughts on the game and the Watford fans.

We'll be bak with a podcast after the home game against Oxford United.

Come on you Orns

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Another game, another shake-up — but how many changes is too many? Jon, Mike and Adam Drury, from the Watford Observer discuss how Watford looked lost in a dreadful first half where Hull should’ve been out of sight, only for Paulo Pezzolano’s faith in his team to finally pay off after the break.

We break down the transformation: Semedo’s starring role, Baah’s worrying treatment (and injury), and what Pezzolano’s choices are telling us about where this team is headed.

Welcome to From The Rookery End

COME ON YOU ORNS

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Mike, Colin and Olly gather the day after Watford's 1-0 defeat to Millwall at the Den on Monday night and attempt to make sense of another confusing team selection and disappointing performance

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Watford fell 1-0 at home to Blackburn on a day that was about much more than football. As the club looks ahead to celebrating Elton John’s 50th anniversary of becoming Owner and Chairman of the Hornets, the team took to the pitch in a striking Elton-inspired special blue kit. The game began brightly, but the spark never quite caught fire.

Outside the Hornet Shop, Jordi, Mike, Jason and Colin gathered to break down the performance, Paulo Pezzolano's team selection and substitute choice, spotlight the players who impressed, and reflect on the occasion.

And for the story behind that special edition kit, Jon caught up with Kevin Newman, Watford’s Head of Retail, to hear how the design came to life.

COME ON YOU ORNS!

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Dave and Jas are joined by Opta's Matt Furniss to take stock of the squad now that the transfer window is closed, with plenty of new faces through the door and crucially the big three of Chakvetadze, Louza and Baah staying put. How optimistic should we feel ahead of the rest of the season? Is the goal of promotion a realistic one for this group of players? And how do feel about Paolo Pezzolano from the games we've seen so far?

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For the second weekend running, Nestory Irankunda delivered another sensational free kick — and somehow, this one was even better than last week’s strike. Despite his brilliance, Watford were held to a 2-2 draw at Vicarage Road against Southampton.

Post-match at the Mad Squirrel, Jon, Mike, DCW, and the Brigadier broke down the game. They discussed:

After an emotional farewell to Ryan Andrews, the team was joined by Adam Drury from the Watford Observer to chat about the transfer window — including what business Watford still hope to do and how the final few days might unfold.

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As the Hornets made their second away trip of the season, this time down to south Wales to face Swansea City, the team behind the microphones was split in two. Mike, Kieran, and Ryan braved the long journey down the M4, while Jon, Jordi, Olly, and DCW opted for the considerably shorter — and far more sociable — trip to the Railway Arms opposite Bushey station.

The big question heading into the game was whether Watford would miss Imran Louza’s creativity. At least from set pieces, they certainly didn’t. Nestory Irankunda’s stunning first-half strike was a moment of real quality, lighting up an otherwise cagey affair.

In the latest episode, the team break down the match from both the stands and the bar. They discuss who stepped up when it mattered, which players continue to grow into their roles, and who perhaps fell short of expectations on the day.

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Dave, Mike and Jason gathered at the Mad Squirrel after Watford's 2-1 win over QPR to discuss the Hornets' first win of the season thanks to a first half brace from big Luca Kjerrumgaard. There was a surprising change of system from Paulo Pezzolano and plenty of encouraging individual performances for us to purr over, with the mood only slightly sullied by Imran Louza's late and straight red card.

Watford are off to winning ways in the 2025/26 season! Come on you 'Orns!

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As the 2025–26 season got underway for Watford, Jon, Mike, and Kieran headed down to The Valley to watch the Hornets take on Charlton Athletic — only to see them suffer a gut-wrenching defeat to an injury-time goal. With the season’s business now underway, we took the chance to share our first impressions of the new players, the returning faces, and the fresh style of play under Paulo Pezzolano’s guidance.

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Pre-season is nearly done and we are days away from the season kicking off at the Valley on Saturday, when Paulo Pezzolano and the 2025-2026 Watford team take on Charlton. 

After being in position for a few months, we wanted to get to know a bit more about the current Watford Head Coach.

However, we decided to take a different route.

To find out more about Paulo, we spoke to a couple of familiar faces: current player Moussa Sissoko and former player, now assistant sporting director, Valon Behrami. Plus we speak to three men who have known him for a long time: his assistant coach Camilo Speranza, Gonzalo Alvarezz his fitness coach and his personal assistant Matias Filippini.

You will hear about first impressions of him, his footballing philosophy, the type of man and coach he is, how he gets on with fans and is he ready for Gino and the inevitable pressure that comes with being a Watford manager in the Championship.

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The new season is creeping ever closer, and Watford’s 2025–2026 squad is beginning to take shape. But is it a squad capable of making a serious push for the play-offs – or even a return to the Premier League?

In this episode of From the Rookery End, DCW, Jon, and Matt Furniss break down the squad as it stands. They assess how the new signings might improve on last season’s performance, debate whether each area of the team is strong enough, and consider where further reinforcements might still be needed. Plus, they discuss which players could still be on their way out of Vicarage Road.

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It was a short trip to Grosvenor Vale to see Watford’s 2nd preseason game against AFC Wimbledon in the Football Manager Cup. The sweltering heat gave a few problems for both players and fans in the stands, but it was another run out for the squad, still very much in its infancy, and Paulo to learn a little more about the players he has at his disposal.

Jon, Jordi and Kieran didn’t read too much into the action but got to see a few of the new boys take to the field but evaluate a few of the returning players and the type of season they are going to need to have – both the older experienced players and the younger players who showed an exciting burst last season.

Plus, Jon catches up with Adam Drury, the all-new Watford FC reporter for the Watford Observer. He’s been on the podcast many times, but we got to hear about his support of Watford, his career so far and how he is looking ahead to the season to come.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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Ever wondered how Watford’s iconic yellow gets from sketch to Vicarage Road? This week, we’re joined by Watford FC’s Head of Retail, Kevin Newman, for an exclusive deep dive into the making of the 2025/26 home kit!

From the first design doodles to final manufacturing, we unpack the timelines, the tricky business of pricing, and how sustainability plays a part in every stitch. Plus, we spill the tea on sponsorship deals, colour choices, and the eternal debate: red or black shorts?

Whether you’re a kit nerd or just love seeing the Golden Boys look sharp, this episode’s got something for you.

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With Watford announcing the formation of a Supporters Board and asking for applications from supporters to be a part of it, Mike spoke to Steve Temple, Chair of the Watford Supporters Trust to find out more, including:

What is the aim?

How will it work?

Who should apply?

Why is it important? 

There is also an update from Teve about the future and importance of the Watford Supporters Trust, with news on what the Trust is and will be working on in the coming weeks and months.

It’s an interesting and valuable chat, answering plenty of frequently asked questions about the Board and the Trust.

Give it a listen and get involved. Come on you ‘Orns

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PAULO, HECTOR & HOW WE’RE FEELING

With the dust settling on Tom Cleverley’s departure, Jon, Mike and DCW got together to try and sum up their current feelings on the state of play at Vicarage Road.

The trio talk Tom’s departure and where it leaves us, discuss new Head Coach Paulo Pezzolano - why Gino chose him and some do the challenges he might face, and hear from talkSPORT’s Adrian Durham about exciting new signing Hector Kyprianou.

There is also a look at the importance of the new Supportera Board, which is currently looking for fan applications.

It may be the cricket season, but there is still plenty to discuss. This is Watford after all! Welcome to From the Rookery End.

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Here we go again, then.

DCW was joined by Mike and Jas to discuss Gino Pozzo’s decision to sack one of the most popular Head Coaches in recent Watford history. 

The trio try to make sense of the decision, and in doing so question what future Watford can hope to have under the leadership of Pozzo, Duxbury and Nani.

The season may be over, but the drama doesn’t stop. This is From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.

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Watford's 2024–2025 Season Ends with a 1–1 Draw Against Sheffield Wednesday, Luton Town were relegated, and we marked a major milestone with a 15th birthday party for the podcast!

Post match in the Mad Squiirrel, we were overwhelmed by the number of people who came to say hello — it was wonderful to see so many familiar faces we’ve met over the last 15 years, as well as plenty of new ones. We were lucky enough to speak with many of them on this special episode of the podcast.

Adam Drury and DCW break down the match, the crowd's jubilant reaction to Luton's relegation, and share early thoughts on the potential Watford squad for the 2025–26 season. We also welcomed the Wicken brothers — Olly and Geoff — who reflected on the last 15 years in a broader historical context. Jacob Culshaw from WD18 joined us to talk about his favourite season since 2010. Kate Lewers from Women of Watford dropped in for a chat, and of course, no FTRE party would be complete without hearing from Kieran and Jordi about their favourite Watford players of the last 15 years.

And finally, we spoke with someone you've quite literally heard grow up on the podcast — the real star of the show: Arlo Parkin.

Thank you for listening, supporting, and sharing in 15 magnificent years of talking about Watford FC.

COME ON YOU ORNS!

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For the final away game of the season, DCW made the trip up to Lancashire to see a poor hornets performance against Blackburn. Joined by Charlie from WD18, they saw a team that seems to be limping its way to the end of the season but also the conversation many fans might be having - will Tom Cleverly be the Watford manager next season?

Plus there are few addendums to the 2014-2015 anniversary podcast from this week.

Don't forget, after the Sheffield Wednesday match, next week, we will be holding our 15th Birthday party in the Mad Squirrel - and everyone is welcome.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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It’s now been 10 (TEN!) years since Watford sealed promotion to the Premier League on a sunny afternoon on the South Coast. Many will remember that famous win at Brighton, but to celebrate the milestone, we thought we’d look back at the whole season.

Join Jon, Jas, DCW and Mike as FTRE takes you back through a momentous season that really did have it all. 

Altogether now; Tommie Hoban’s having a party, bring Angella and Munari…

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Easter is a great time to gorging on chocolate eggs. Watford gorged on red cards. In a two parts. Dave and Mike discuss the Burnley loss and Adam Drury joins Mike to breakdown the loss away at Pompey. Even with two defeats and three red cards the boys are able to find positives, even if Jon wasn't there. but the true faults and frustrations of this Watford team still shine through.

Two games to go and we will still be shouting COME ON YOU ORNS.

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After heading to the Hawthorns (via the brilliant Vine pub!) Mike was joined to discuss the game by Colin and Adam Drury.

The trio talk about Tom’s achievements this year and whether he actually deserves more credit, despite a downturn in results. Adam and Colin disagree on how culpable the midfield is in giving up goals, while there is also chat about Jeremy Ngakia’s good form, Caleb Wiley’s improving showings and Moussa Sissoko’s scoring record - among much much more.

Welcome to the latest episode of From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.

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Welcome to the latest episode of FTRE, recorded in two parts as we look back at Watford’s narrow win against Hull in the Chanpionship, and the U18’s heroic effort in the FA Youth Cup Semi Final against our old friends Manchester City.

The senior side will have been pleased to get back to winning ways in a game where the defence was the bright spot, while the U18s provided a timing endorsement of the work going on at the Academy with a hugely resilient performance against a very very strong Man City.

Plenty to be proud of. Welcome to From the Rookery End.

You can listen to our look behind the scenes at Watford Academy here - https://pod.fo/e/2b281f

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Mike and DCW look back at the defeat to Bristol City on Saturday and try to make sense of how we should feel about our season given that our already slim chances of making the play-offs are now almost certainly done and dusted

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It was a sunny day at Vicarage Road but the 0-0 draw against Plymouth Argyle was a little bit dull. Howeve, Jon, Jason, Mike and Kieran gathered outside the Hornet Shop to discuss the performance, particuarly that of the younger stars in the Watford ranks.

And, after he annouced his Parkinson Diagnosis, the boys look at at the Aidy Boothroyd's time as Watford manager and the 2005-2006 season which lead to the promotion to the Premier League.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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With so much to disucss, from two games of football (Watford 1-0 Swansea -- Oxford 1-0 Watford) to the lack of striker, the tired looking Georgi Chakvetadze, the returning of investment money and is the season over? there was only one way to decide on what to discuss ... THE WHEEL.

Jon, Jason, Jordi and Mike gathered, a little later than normal, to discuss it all... and more.

Thanks for waiting and COME ON YOU ORNS

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It was a cliche, as Watford v Millwall was a game of two halves. First half was great, the second was simply awful. Jon, Jason, Jordi and Mike met to discuss it , outside the hornet shop.

Plus, with the passing of former Watford player Dennis Bond, Jon talks to David Harrison, from the Watford Treasury, to discuss his time as a Watford player.

We go again, never to high, never to low

COME ON YOU ORNS

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It was by no means a classic, but there were plenty of positives for Mike, Jordi and Colin to discuss after Watford’s Stoke stalemate.

The trio talk Tom’s tactics, Louza’s continued resurgence, defensive delight after a third clean sheet in a row, while also considering the ongoing goalscoring conundrum.

The Academy is also on the agenda, alongside a look towards the remainder of the season.

Oh and there's a tribute edition of Going for GoldEN

Welcome to From the Rookery End

*********

Donate and find out more about Team FTRE playing in the Mental Health World Cup

https://www.givengain.com/project/david-raising-funds-for-mental-health-world-cup-97809

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The nature of youth football has changed over the years, and while Watford’s focus may have shifted at times, it feels as though the Academy is now firmly back at the forefront of the Football Club’s operations. In this special podcast we talk to the people that have worked so hard to transform the Hornets’ youth setup and learn how the Academy is not just nurturing footballing talent, but also enriching, enhancing and shaping lives for the better.

Welcome to a very special episode of From the Rookery End. Welcome inside the Watford FC Academy.

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After a 2-0 home win against them lot up the M1, Jon, Mike, Jason and Colin gathered at the Railway Arms to discuss the win, the players who stood out, Tom's choices before and during the game plus a special new FTRE podcast that is coming out this week.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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After 1-0 win away at Middlesbrough. Jon, Jordi and Adam gathered to react to the win and how the Hornets might have started to revive their season at the Riverside. With one eye on next weeks derby match against Luton, they discuss how a new foundations seems to be forming in Tom Cleverly's Watford squad with a new centre back pairing and the continued redemption of Imran Louza. Tom will have some hard decisions to make, but has Doumbia shown him enough to cause him headaches for who should be starting up front.

This if From The Rookery End - Come on You Orns.

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DCW and Mike convened the morning after Watford's 2-2 draw away at Sunderland to assess the performance and reflect on some much needed reasons to be cheerful - a very steady debut for Egil Selvik, an encouraging first start for Doumbia, a promising central defensive partnership of Pollock and Abankwah, and an absolute worldie from Imran Louza. If only we could defend set pieces...

We also hear from Adam Drury who was among the hardy souls who made the trip up to the Stadium of Light, and we look at the task that awaits us in the week ahead with difficult games against Leeds and Middlesbrough.

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Jon, Jas, Mike and Kieran gathered at the Mad Squirrel to discuss an entertaining but ultimately disappointing early kick off against Norwich. 

There is praise for Pollock and Abankwe, who looked tremendous as a CB pairing, plaudits for Imran Louza, a bleak Bayo assessment and serious questions for Gino et al.

It was a spirited second half, but is it enough? Listen, and let us know what you think. This is From the Rookery End. 

Come on you ‘Orns.

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DCW and Jas are joined by Opta's Matt Furniss for another rummage through the numbers and they attempt to work out why this Watford side are so bad in the first 15 minutes of games, what Moussa Sissoko and Edo Kayembe are failing to do in midfield, and with less than a week to go in the January transfer window we look at whether Emmanuel Dennis part III, an out of sorts Kelechi Iheanacho or Red Star Belgrade's 29-year-old Cherif Ndiaye are the answer to our struggles in the striking department.

There's also discussion of the ongoing uncertainty around Tom Cleverley's position and a look back at the runs of form that have lead to Gino Pozzo pulling the trigger on all of his head coaches so far.

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After a tumultuous week (even by Watford standards!) Mike and Jon got their heads together to work thorough the events of the last few days in the world of Watford.

It’s a wide ranging chat about the state of the Football Club; give it a listen and let us know your thoughts.

When the going gets tough, the tough get going. This is From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.

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After a long and late visit to Cardiff in the week, Mike and Arlo headed to Derby to see Watford win 2-0... Away

Follow Mike through out his day as he experience the little felt away win, hear the fans clear message for Gino and support of Tom Cleverley as well as much improved performance from the squad. Post Match, Mike catches up with Charlie from WD18 to talk through the match plus we hear from Olly Wicken about what makes an away game even if it doesn't include a great performance on the pitch.

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Mike, Andy and Arlo made the midweek trip across the border to South Wales and saw Watford emerge with a point after a largely miserable performance against relegation strugglers Cardiff City

With rumours gathering pace over recent days that Gino might be up to his old tricks again, is it enough to ease the pressure on Tom Cleverley for now? We tackle that thorny issue as well as hearing from a number of, frankly baffled, supporters from other Championship clubs offering their perspective from a distance

This is From The Rookery End, Tom Cleverley Ole Ole!

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We might have seen a wonder goal from Rocco Vata but having a Cup game on a Thursday night was not only weird but also unsuccessful. Mike, DCW, Jordi and Kieran headed to Craven Cottage to see the Hornets take on Premier League Fulham and discussed all that has been going on at Vicarage Road this week - Bachmann's injury and Jebbinson's exit, plus what they saw on the pitch, including a few lesser spotter faces.

The magic of the FA Cup is over for one more year, but it will be back again in 2026.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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Watford slumped to a third straight defeat at Vicarage Road, as Chris Wilder’s depleted Blades took all three points in our first home game of 2025.

Much like the game, this is a pod of two halves, with Colin and DCW joining Jon pre-match, leaving Mike, Jas and Kieran to talk through the game at the final whistle.

There’s praise for Jeremy Ngakia who marked another fine performance with his first Watfird goal, but questions over learning from previous mistakes alongside worrying if we’ve seen this part of the season story too many times before. 

This is From the Rookery End. Come on you ‘Orns.

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It was a wet and drab start to Watford's 2025, but Colin, DCW and Mike made the trip to Loftus Road to see the Hornets go behind early (yes, that's not going away) and they stay there. With the enforced changes to Tom Cleverly's starting XI, how did the guys think the team put up with another physical side and another heavy away defeat!

Not the start to the new year we all dreamt of but we keep following the Hornets no matter what.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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With Watford’s unbeaten home record finally gone, Colin, Jordi and Mike got together to discuss the two Feative home games against Portsmouth and Cardiff.

Do fans take themselves too seriously? Did Baah’s “take the L” dance contribute to Watford taking one of their own against Cardiff? Was the ref to blame - or was it just one of those days for Tom Cleverly’s Hornets?

It’s all here in this, the last FTRE of 2024. Come on you ‘Orns!

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After the bonkers end to Watford's 2-1 Boxing Day home win, Jon and Jason, as they walked away from the ground, had a quick chat about the game and the players that made an impact on the result.

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After another unsuccessful away trip, this one up north for a 2-1 lose to Burnley, Adam Drury and Jon discuss the changes made to the Watford squad and their affects on the teams performance, as the Hornets kick off their busy Christmas fixtures.

In addtion, DCW talks to Not The Top 20's Ali Maxwell about how the championship is taking shape this season: are patterns forming, what are the chances of Watford making a play off push and how secure are the teams at the bottom?

COME ON YOU ORNS

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After an exhilarating afternoon at Vicarage Road, Jon, Jas, Jordi and Mike got together outside a bustling Hornet Shop to discuss a thrilling Watford win.

The boys discuss Tom Cleverley’s change of approach for the visit of West Brom, and run through how a tough game was won, with praise for not just the players, but for Tom’s pragmatic game management, too.

A fabulous performance for a fun and festive FTRE! Come on you ‘Orns!

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DCW and Jason are joined by Opta's Matt Furniss for another delve into the data and a look at Watford's spectacularly bad record from attacking corners this season.

We also work out how many away points we'll need to pick up if we're serious about getting into the play-offs, and we cast our eye towards January as we write our wish list for Gino.

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Due to the posponed match away at Cardiff, here is a podcast to help fill a Watford gap in your weekend. In it we picking an XI of players who played less than 30 league games for Watford. Jon and Jason were joined by Matt Rowson, legendary Watford blogger, and they discuss the candiates deciding on who they would put in. There is also an interview with Neil Redfearn, yes he is picked. Neil played for Watford between November1988 and November 1989, a very interesting time in the Hornets History. You will hear his mememories.

We hope you enjoy this and if our choices infuriate you then spend us your team - podcast@fromtherookeryend.com. You may have to consult https://www.watfordfcarchive.co.uk to check the appearance totals.

Thank you for listening and Come on you Orns!

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Were Watford held 0-0 at home to QPR or did the Golden Boys allow it? Jon, DCW, Paul from Denver and Adam Drury disucss the game. They also discuss how it might only be worth turning up at half time, how Tom Cleverley might still be searching for his best starting XI and when should we openly start saying the p word.... Play-offs?

Problems continue to persist but COME ON YOU ORNS

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The fixture gods did not shine on Watford fans when a late November trip to Plymouth was announced, and got even worse with the move to the Friday evening. But the Hornets put in a great first half performance but couldn’t quite get it over the line after a very late goal from Andre Gray meant its was only 1 point a piece.

Jon, Jordi and Kieran gathered post match to discuss how much risk was taken, and where they the right sort of risks, how did the international break affect the performance, which area of the team are contributing the most and how bad do we feel after relinquishing the lead so late in the game?

Jon has a travel correction and Kieran give an update on Watford Women’s season.

We didn’t lose but my gosh does it feel like it so soon after the final whistle.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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On Tuesday evening, the club held one of their At Our Place events. This time in the media suite at Vicarage Road with some key players on the panel to answer fans quesions - Chairman & CEO Scott Duxbury, Head Coach Tom Cleverley, Academy Director Richard Johnson, Club Captain Dan Bachman, Sporting Director Gian Luca Nani and Alvaro Garcia-Romero - First-Team Head of Performance.

Jon and Mike were there and on this podcast you will hear their reflections on what was said and how they were feeling.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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In 1968-69 Watford were crown champions of Division 3. This took them to the highest division they had ever played in - the then 'promiseland'.

On this podcast, Jon talks to Colin Payne, Geoff Wicken and David Harrison, all memebers of the Watford treasury team, to hear all about their new book that chronicles the 1968-69 season through the memories of manager Ken Furphy. It of course includes the Watford Treasury twist of memorbillia and long lost photographs.

You can get a copy of the book by visiting the Treasury website here

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Friday night, under the lights and a Watford win - you can't beat it. On this week's FTRE we have a lot to talk about.

First, Jon, Kieran, Jason and Jordi chat outside Vicarage Road, after the 1-0 home win against Oxford United. With a few faces, who we don't see much, being given a chance to shine by Tom Cleverley, there were a few players and performances to pick apart. 

Then, before the game, DCW caught up with George Elek, from Not The Top 20 podcast, to discuss how the hornets are looking from outside the Watford bubble. Plus Mike shares his view on the latest rumour of a Watford takeover. This one by John Textor.

It was an early start and early finish to the Watford weekend and it was ever so lovely.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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In this extra midweek podcast, Mike talks about, and you'll hear, his chat with Helen Ward of Watford Women and George Valencia, co-founders of the Sound of Gol foundation, who have recently launched a new initiative with Watford. Helen discusses where we currently find Watford Women and George explains why Sound of Gol is so important to him. Plus, after an amazing away trip to Sheffield, the Brigadier, Colin Mace, made the trip down to South Wales to see Watford lose 1-0 at Swansea.

As ever, thanks for listening and we'll be back with a podcast after Friday nights game against Oxford United.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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Watford scored a rare SIX on the road and FOUR Vakoun Bayo goals made the LONG journey to Sheffield oh so worthwhile.

Jon, Mike, Colin, DCW and Olly took the train to Sheffield to witness the match. With no clear idea of what Cleverley's plan would be, and they got even more confused when they saw the team annouced, the game, the performaces and especially the result, were a huge joyous surprise for all the travelling hornets.

Join them as they tell the story of their day in Sheffield.

COME ON YOU ORNS

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