Watford midfielder Imran Louza believes the team has the grit to overcome their struggles away from home, starting with their Tuesday evening clash against Ipswich Town. Louza, who is set to make his 100th league appearance for Watford, credits manager Javi Gracia's return for uniting the squad and instilling a renewed fighting spirit.
Following a dominant 3-0 victory over Middlesbrough at Vicarage Road, Louza emphasizes the importance of addressing their poor away form. “Away games are our problem at the moment,” Louza told BBC Three Counties Radio. “If I can talk about the last game in Coventry we missed an opportunity I think because we played well, but something is missing away and we have to manage that.”
Watford has yet to secure a win on the road in the Championship this season, managing only two points from a possible 18. Louza suggests the team needs to exert even more effort when playing away from home. "When we are going away we have to maybe put 10% more in than at home. We have a game away on Tuesday and it is the best time to win."
Louza highlights the positive impact of Gracia's arrival, stating that he has brought a much-needed positive atmosphere to the team. “Since the new manager has come in he has brought some good spirit. It's what we missed maybe the last few months or few years. Everyone is fighting for his team-mates. We look like a family on the pitch,” said the Morocco international.
He concludes by emphasizing the team's focus on winning games and their ambition for promotion. “I think we can feel something altogether at this moment. It's all about winning games now. That's the most important thing if we want to be promoted at the end of the season.”
Can Watford turn their away form around against Ipswich?
The game against Ipswich Town will be a crucial test of Watford's resolve and their ability to translate their home form into success on the road. Fans will be eager to see if Gracia's influence and Louza's determination can inspire a much-needed victory.