Watford manager Alessio Dionisi has admitted his squad remains short of options ahead of Saturday’s Championship meeting with West Ham United at Vicarage Road.
Dionisi has been operating with only four fit senior defenders for much of the summer and does not expect reinforcements to arrive before West Ham visit.
Speaking after Watford’s 5-1 Carabao Cup defeat to Peterborough United, Dionisi told the Watford Observer that completing his squad remains a priority before the transfer window closes.
“We need new players to complete the team,” he said.
Watford short of options before West Ham
Centre-back appears to be the biggest area of concern for Watford.
Dionisi has only had two experienced senior centre-backs available, while injuries elsewhere in defence have further reduced his options during the opening weeks of the campaign.
The Watford boss suggested it is unlikely that situation will improve before facing Nuno Espírito Santo’s side.
He said: “Probably nothing will arrive before the [West Ham] match.”
Watford’s lack of depth was highlighted on Tuesday night when Dionisi made 11 changes against Peterborough.
A youthful Hornets side was subsequently beaten 5-1, with Watford’s official match report confirming four debutants were named in defence.
Dionisi had clearly prioritised Saturday’s league fixture, protecting a number of senior players ahead of West Ham’s visit.
The Hammers should arrive considerably more encouraged after their own midweek cup assignment.
Nuno also rotated heavily at Southampton but watched his side win 4-1, with Joshua Ajala scoring twice and several academy players pushing themselves into contention for Saturday.
Lewis Orford was another to impress, leaving Nuno with a fresh midfield selection decision before the Watford game.
Supporters planning to follow Saturday’s fixture can also find full UK television and live coverage information for Watford v West Ham here.
Watford have made an encouraging start to their Championship campaign, but Dionisi’s admission makes their lack of defensive depth an issue West Ham will be hoping to exploit.
