footballspectator

Watford beat Leeds United 3-0 in the final of the Championship play-offs today to gain promotion to the Premiership. They dominated what is probably the most valuable game in football (promotion is said to be worth £35 million) from start to finish. It marks a remarkable turnaround for a club which only a year ago was close to relegation. Ironically the architect of their success is former Leeds coach Aidy Boothroyd.

How will they fair next year? They are likely to go the way of Sunderland unless they bring some quality players to the club. Relying mainly on meticulous planning and organisation may be sufficient in the Championship, but in the Premiership, a large amount of inspiration is also necessary; Marlon King may have scored 20 goals this season, but the likes of John Terry and Rio Ferdinand are unlikely to be losing any sleep over him.