Watford should try to emulate Stoke, says Flores

Scott Anderson
Quique Sanchez Flores: Will make changes against West Ham

Quique Sanchez Flores: Will make changes against West Ham

Watford manager Quique Sanchez Flores believes Stoke are the type of club the Hornets need to base themselves on as they continue to grow in the Premier League.

The Potters have successfully stayed in the division for eight years since being promoted and the Watford boss is keen to emulate their success over the coming years.

Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Flores said: “Now into their eighth season as a Premier League outfit, Stoke City are the perfect example for any club looking to succeed in establishing themselves in the top flight.

“Stoke City are a good example, like other teams are, how it is possible to establish yourselves in the Premier League, how it is possible to grow and to think well.

“Now we have the opportunity to grow because this is a really ambitious club.

“We are happy to be here, we are happy with the idea to be even more competitive in the future.”

The London club face Stoke at Vicarage Road on Saturday after beating Arsenal 2-1 at the Emirates Stadium last weekend to make it into the FA Cup semi-final, and the Hornets boss believes the fans are an important part of their success.

“We need their support every time,” said the Spaniard. “We need to create this kind of magic atmosphere to decide our objective in the next match.

“I don’t have words to explain how pleased we are with the fans.

“I realise that everyone is happy and they are happy because we are living something special together.

“That is why I am a coach. I like to go to clubs where I can make the fans and the players happy. The feeling I have here, I can’t compare it to anything.

“In Watford’s history they have had a lot of good seasons for many different reasons.

“But this season is one of the most important in the club’s history.”