Mazzarri: Hornets aren’t safe yet

Watford boss Walter Mazzarri has warned his players they are not safe from relegation after a dramatic 4-3 defeat to Southampton left his side just nine points clear of 18th-placed Middlesbrough.

The Hornets’ poor defensive display at Vicarage Road saw them concede two late goals which proved decisive.

And Mazzarri admitted his disappointment at taking just a point from the Hornets’ last two home games against Southampton and West Ham.

Watford are now preparing for what could be a pivotal game with Crystal Palace and Mazzarri has reiterated to his players that there are no easy games in the Premier League.

(Photo by Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)

“I am not happy because I was convinced that with more attention in the last two games we could have made another step towards safety,” said Mazzarri.

“Now we have to look ahead prepare for the game against Crystal Palace and the next home game after that.

“I don’t want my players to think we’re already safe from relegation.

“We saw that no game in the Premier League game is easy, anything can happen.

“We have to pay more attention and not commit any mistakes when we get the advantage.”

Depsite the disappointing loss, Mazzarri praised his skipper Troy Deeney, who netted his 100th league goal for the Hornets.

“It’s a pleasure for Troy, for sure, and we’re happy for him,” he said.