3 key battles as Watford host Liverpool in the Premier League this evening

Etienne Capoue v Lucas

Etienne Capoue has been one of Watford’s standout performers this season, and they’ll need another solid display from him against Liverpool this evening.

The France international has scored six goals and laid on one assist in 32 Premier League starts for the Hornets this term, including the crucial winner in their 1-0 victory over Swansea a fortnight ago.

But it’s also his all round midfield play, notably his reading of the game and defensive efforts, which will be integral in attempting to win the midfield battle with Liverpool’s Lucas this evening.

The 30-year-old has been deputising in Jordan Henderson’s absence and looks likely to remain in that central midfield spot for the remainder of the campaign as Klopp’s men look to secure a top four finish.

The former Brazil international has started ten times in the Premier League this season, with ten other substitute appearances, yet has been in the line-up on the last four occasions, grabbing assists at home to Everton and in the narrow victory at West Brom.

Although his future looks to be away from Anfield, Lucas is still doing a decent job in the midfield area, and he’ll need to look to dominate Capoue both on and off the ball if the Reds are to have control of the middle, and thus push on to get a vital three points this evening.