Elton still tuned in to developments

By satellite television, via Watford's own radio station or even for 90 minutes on the telephone, Elton John follows the fortunes of his beloved club.

Even after all these years, the enthusiasm of Watford's most famous son remains undimmed.

He rings manager Ray Lewington every couple of weeks to keep updated on developments at Vicarage Road. "He is very informed about the club," said Lewington. "He won't ask who played or who scored the goals. He knows that already.

"He'll say, 'I hear so and so played, how did it go?' Or, 'when is so and so back from injury?'" He has someone who goes to all the games. He usually phones a day or two after the games."

Watford's president-for-life will not be at tonight's game but is certain to be following the action. "He is such a busy man," said Lewington. "I know he watches us on TV. He is constantly working, so he hasn't watched us live for a while."

John is scheduled to be in concert in Las Vegas the night before the Carling Cup final. A transatlantic flight to Cardiff the next morning from Watford's most famous fan would be like old times.