Tom Cleverley: Watford boss says team have ‘blinkers on’ in play-offs race

Watford suffered a downturn immediately before and after the turn of the year, winning only once in 10 games and losing seven.

Since then, however, they have taken seven points from the last three games, including a 2-0 home win the M1 derby against Luton Town.

“You want to be as consistent as you possibly can as a coach,” said Cleverley.

“We went through a period of doing what we thought was best for short-term results but now we are starting to see a consistent shape, a consistent way of playing and some additions in January have helped us get to this place.

“I feel the players are in a good place and are ready to build on this recent run of form.”

Cleverley said his squad understood that they would not win every league game, but were competing at a “high technical level” and giving themselves the best chance possible, whether or not they are able to dominate possession.

He added: “It’s not the reason why you win games, by dominating the ball, but it’s certainly how I see my teams playing.

“We are controlling the ball well but it has to turn into chances and final-third entries and ultimately goals. I don’t want a team that dominated the ball but looks a bit toothless, it’s all got to have a purpose to it.”