Hornets’ Mazzarri ecstatic with Amrabat and Prodl progress

Watford manager Walter Mazzarri believes the way Nordin Amrabat and Sebastian Prodl have stepped up to the mark is a huge testament to the character of the pair.

The Italian has given a new lease of life to both Amrabat and Prodl, their performances key in the Hornets’ current eighth-placed position in the Premier League having been used infrequently at Vicarage Road by former manager Quique Sanchez Flores.

Prodl has already made 13 appearances for the Hornets in all competitions this season, becoming the mainstay of a settled defensive unit that kept clean sheets in three successive games in October.

It’s a journey baring many similarities to that of Amrabat, with the Moroccan getting a new lease of life having signed from Malaga back in January – a season that saw the midfielder fail to find the back of the net.

Sebastian Prodl has found his feet under Mazzarri (Photo by Catherine Ivill – AMA/Getty Images)

“When I arrived, Amrabat was one of those who was not considered previously,” said Mazzarri.

“This can only prove the work that we have done up until today, which has helped him improve not only mentally but also as a player.

“I can make another example – it’s the same with Prödl.

“He has improved massively as a player this season. This gives us a lot of satisfaction, because it proves that my work, together with my staff, has been very positive.”