Chievo Verona - Match Preview

Last updated : 13 August 2006 By Gary Calder

Five days after securing a meritorious draw with Italian Champions, Inter Milan at Vicarage Road, Aidy Boothroyd's newly promoted outfit complete their pre-season programme with an attractive looking fixture against Chievo Verona.

The Italians, coached by Giuseppe Pillon, came seventh in Serie A last season, before becoming one of the main beneficiaries of the match-fixing scandal that engulfed Italian football during the summer.

The expulsion by UEFA of Juventus, Lazio and Fiorentina from European competition this season allowed Watford's opponents on Sunday a route into the Champions League, although a two goal reversal at Bulgarian Champions, Levski Sofia in a Third Qualifying Round tie last Wednesday evening has left them with much to do in the second leg back in Italy on August 23 if they are to secure a place in the lucrative group stages.

The busy Italians have since shared a goalless pre-season draw with Middlesbrough this afternoon (Saturday), so will arrive at Vicarage Road in need of some goals to bolster their confidence.

Watford meanwhile welcome back popular goalkeeper, Ben Foster between the sticks, the 23-year-old returning from Manchester United on another year long loan having just been selected in Steve McClaren's first-ever England squad.

New £1.6m signing Danny Shittu, impressive during his non-competitive debut against Inter last Tuesday, is also likely to play some part in proceedings as he continues to build towards full match fitness, and there are probable starts for a number of players expected to feature in Watford's opening Barclays Premiership fixture against Everton next Saturday.

Tickets for the game are priced at just £15 for Adults and £5 for Over 65's/Under 16's so why not come along tomorrow afternoon to cheer on the Golden Boys as they prepare for life in the Premiership - you know it makes sense.

Come on!