Dean Smith: Aston Villa must be wary of Watford's Troy Deeney
Boss Dean Smith has warned his players they must be on their guard to prevent Watford’s Troy Deeney continuing his remarkable scoring streak against Villa.
Deeney, a lifelong Blues supporter, has scored five times in three career appearances against Villa, including a brace in the Hornets’ 3-0 win at Vicarage Road last month.
The 31-year-old is well known to Smith, who was heading up Walsall’s academy when the striker made his senior breakthrough with the Saddlers a decade ago.
But he is eager to ensure his old friend does not enjoy another prolific outing against Villa.
“Is Troy my kind of guy? No, he’s a bluenose,” quipped Smith. “In all seriousness, he’s all right Troy. I get on well with him, he is a good guy.
“Walsall sold him for about £300,000 a long time ago, and he’s been at Watford ever since. He’s had ups and downs within his career, but he’s bounced back every time and he continues to do that.
“He epitomises the character and application to make it at the top.
“He can certainly be a threat, if we play like we did at Watford. If we play better than that, then hopefully not. It’s down to our players to be on the ball.”
Deeney has scored four times during a six-match unbeaten run which has seen Watford climb out of the relegation zone at Villa’s expense.
Winger Ismaila Sarr, who netted the Hornets’ other goal in last month’s win over Smith’s men, has been ruled out of tonight’s game through injury.
“Villa will want to reverse the last result and because we are both in a difficult situation they will be up for the fight. There is no doubt about that,” said Watford boss Nigel Pearson.
“Whenever you play sides in and around your own situation, the benefits of a win are huge and we go into the game with every intention to try and win.”
