John Barnes: Thriving on instability has brought Watford unlikely success – but Manchester United test will prove too tough

EXCLUSIVE
Man in charge: Walter Mazzarri
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Sam Long10 February 2017

Watford thrive on instability but Walter Mazzarri's side will have a 'difficult time' against Manchester United, according to Hornets legend John Barnes.

Watford currently occupy 10th place in the Premier League table and appear to be comfortably clear of trouble, courtesy of a 10-point buffer between themselves and the relegation zone.

The club are on course to beat last season's points tally of 45, which was not enough to save Quique Sanchez Flores from the sack in the summer.

The Spaniard's exit raised eyebrows throughout the game and it remains unclear what will be considered a success by Watford's owners at the end of their second season in England's top tier.

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Mazzarri claimed earlier this week that results are "in line" with the Pozzo family's expectations and Barnes, who spent six years at Watford as a player, is adamant his former club's methods defy logic but somehow still produce results.

John Barnes, ambassador for Bonus Code Bets, told Standard Sport: "Watford are a unique club - it shouldn't be a success but it is.

"No settled squad and the changing of managers but it works. They seem to thrive on the instability of changing managers."

Meanwhile, Watford's outlook was far from rosy following a run of seven games without a Premier League victory over the festive period.

But Mazzarri's men have solidified their position in the table with back-to-back victories over Arsenal and Burnley.

Up next is a trip to face Manchester United, who are unbeaten in 15 top-flight fixtures and Barnes is wary of Jose Mourinho's side.

"Watford have had a good couple of games against Arsenal and Burnley but Manchester United look very strong.

"It looks too far for the title but they will challenge for the top four. Watford will have a difficult time of it at Manchester United," he added.

United have occupied sixth place for several weeks but could leapfrog rivals Liverpool, who host Tottenham on Saturday night, with victory over Watford.

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