Ed Still was appointed Watford head coach on a two and a half year deal after the resignation of Javi Gracia back in February.
Speaking to the media on Wednesday, the Englishman outlined his ambitions beyond this season, saying he is “100%” planning to take the Hornets into next season.
The former Charleroi Coach hasn’t found the exact form Watford need to be in as they look to challenge for play-offs; however, his side do find themselves in ninth, seven points behind play-off placed Southampton.
Still has managed three wins, three draws and two defeats in his first eleven games in charge, tallying up a total of 12 points; out of a possible 24 available.
Mixed performances have occurred with impressive wins against Derby County and Wrexham; however, many lacklustre ones against Ipswich Town, Stoke City and relegation-threatened Leicester City.
Watford managers are renowned for not having much time to impress owner Gino Pozzo, with the club having 26 different managers since 2012.
Tom Cleverley is the longest-serving manager to last in the past five years, lasting a whole season before being sacked as head coach a few days after the season ended.
The final seven games could be crucial for Ed Still in order to try and show Gino Pozzo why he can lead the Hornets into next season.
These games consist of tough tests against the top two, Middlesbrough and Coventry City, as well as teams such as Charlton and Oxford United in the bottom half.
Roughly, if the English manager can pick up ten out of a possible twenty one, with impressive performances, Gino Pozzo may look to keep him at the helm ahead of next season.
Speaking to the media, Still is “100%” ready to lead the Hornets into next season and help the Pozzos’ aim of returning to the Premier League.
Still Said “What’s happening now is the foundation of pre-season and how we build for next season”
He continued by saying he wants to give the club “stability” and conversations about pre-season have already begun.
Tactical decisions have been questioned at times; playing a 5-3-2, which didn’t work out, however, his 4-2-3-1 formation has worked well for the Hornets with three victories and three draws.
Watford have been better defensively, still with two clean sheets so far in eight matches, with only eight goals conceded.
A full pre-season may help the former Charleroi coach to understand more of his squad, and which positions need strengthening and which players will be used in his system.
Still will be hoping he can impress owner Gino Pozzo in the final seven games, starting at QPR away tomorrow afternoon.
