Watford have made a remarkable return to life in the top flight, with Quique Sánchez Flores' men sitting up in seventh place heading into Monday's game at home to Tottenham Hotspur. They've won four in an unbeaten run of five matches, and it would take the most catastrophic of post-Christmas collapses for them to be relegated from here. The Hornets will look to keep their run going at home to Mauricio Pochettino's Spurs, who they trail by only three points.
Watford vs. Tottenham Hotspur 2015 live stream: Time, TV schedule and how to watch EPL online
High-flying Watford will look to extend their unbeaten run at home to Tottenham Hotspur on Monday.
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However, the North Londoners have impressed so far this season, too, having lost only twice all season. They've drawn a few too many games to be closer to league leaders Leicester City, but with Manchester United in free fall, they'll be fancying their chances of finishing in a Champions League spot. Indeed, if all results go their way on Monday, they could find themselves only three points off top. They've still got everything to play for.
Key player: Harry Kane (Tottenham Hotspur)
Harry Kane made a slightly slow start to the new season, but the England international has now netted six goals in his last seven games in all competitions. The youngster is certainly no one-season wonder, and is presently on course to beat the 21 Premier League goals he scored in his breakthrough campaign. Watford’s defense will be most eager to keep Kane quiet.
Key factor: How will Spurs’ defense cope with Watford’s varied attack?
But while Spurs have one excellent forward, Watford have two of them. Odion Ighalo and Troy Deeney have scored a combined total of 19 Premier League goals so far this season, together forming a ferociously powerful and clinical strike force. The former is the real star, and despite his tall frame he’s as good with the ball at his feet as attacking it in the air. It means the Hornets can play with real variety, and Spurs’ defense certainly won’t have an easy afternoon.
Watford injuries and suspensions
Out: Joel Ekstrand (knee). In doubt: None.
Tottenham Hotspur injuries and suspensions
Out: Clinton N’Jié (knee); Alex Pritchard (ankle). In doubt: Mousa Dembélé (knock).
Watford’s only absentee is defender Ekstrand, who continues his recovery from a long-term knee problem. Spurs’ sole first team concern is Dembélé, though he should be fit after shaking off a knock sustained in the Boxing Day win over Norwich City. N’Jié and Pritchard are both out, though that won’t prove too much of a concern for Pochettino.
Match date/time: Mon., Dec. 28, 10 p.m. ET, 3 p.m. local
Venue: Vicarage Road, Watford, England
TV: TSN4 (Canada)
Online: NBC Sports Live Extra (US), TSN (Canada)
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