Watford drew with fellow strugglers Brighton and Hove Albion 1-1 to sink to 19th in the Premier League, though Norwich City, West Ham and Aston Villa around them all have a game in hand. While the result was not what Nigel Pearson’s side required to escape the bottom three, there were a few fine individual displays for the Hornets, and chief amongst them was Etienne Capoue.
The French defensive midfielder was at his bustling best, providing exquisite cover for his defence by making a team-high five tackles. There was also no other Hornets player who contributed more interceptions than the 31-year-old’s four, highlighting his outstanding ability to read the game and cut out opposition moves. Additionally, the Frenchman made one clearance to top off an excellent defensive performance, though he was unable to prevent the Seagulls from levelling proceedings after Watford had taken the lead.
Capoue, valued at £5.85m (Transfermarkt), was instrumental in starting the Hornets’ attacks and attempted 38 passes throughout the match, again the highest of any of Pearson’s players. Furthermore, of any player to play more than 20 passes, Capoue had the second-highest success rate, 76.3 per cent, beaten only by Craig Cathcart’s 88.5 per cent. While in possession the Frenchman also attempted seven long balls, of which four found a fellow Watford player, highlighting the 31-year-old’s superb passing range. To top a commanding display with the ball at his feet, Capoue also provided the assist for Abdoulaye Doucoure’s goal, though admittedly his compatriot did most of the hard work himself, running from the halfway line to score.
Aside from his one key pass, Capoue did not have an overwhelming attacking influence, failing to attempt a shot. However, the 31-year-old did twice dribble the ball around opposition players, bettered only by Gerard Deulofeu’s three. Furthermore, he was fouled more than any other Watford player, with Brighton players infringing Capoue on three occasions.
It was not a flawless performance from Watford’s defensive midfielder as he conceded possession on three occasions via one unsuccessful touch, as well as being dispossessed twice. Overall though Capoue provided a vital contribution in ensuring that Watford left the Amex Stadium with a point, but it was not enough to see his side escape the relegation zone.
