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Watford team news: Predicted 4-4-2 to face Man City in FA Cup final - Deeney leads line
WATFORD face Manchester City in the FA Cup Final this afternoon and will be looking to end the Premier League champion's hopes of creating history.
A win at Wembley will see Pep Guardiola's side become the first male English team to win the domestic treble.
Unsurprisingly, Watford go into their first FA Cup final in 35 years as huge underdogs.
In fact, City haven’t lost to Watford in over 30 years, their last defeat to the Hornets being a 1-0 loss at Vicarage Road in March 1989.
Watford will have their work cut out for them to end Manchester City’s hopes of domestic glory, but will be fully equipped to do so.
Javi Gracia will be able to call on his strongest starting XI today following the rescinding of the red Jose Holebas received against West Ham last Sunday.
Gracia will also be able to call on the services of Watford’s Player of the Year, Etienne Capoue.
Capoue returned to the starting XI last weekend as is expected to play alongside Abdoulaye Doucoure in the heart of midfield.
As ever, Troy Deeney will lead the line for Gracias’ men, who go into this afternoon’s match without a win in their last six matches.
Javi Gracia will be able to call on his strongest starting XI today
Gerard Deulofeu, the hero of Watford’s semi-final win over Wolves, is expected to partner Deeney up front.
Watford predicted starting XI to face Manchester City (4-4-2) - Gomes; Femenia, Kabasele, Cathcart, Holebas; Pereyra, Doucoure, Capoue, Hughes; Deulofeu, Deeney
Despite having beaten Watford twice this season, Guardiola is refusing to take the Hornets lightly.
"It is a cup final, anything can happen like a red card," said Guardiola, who will be looking to lift his FA Cup trophy.
"In one game, anything can happen.
"Normally the better team wins but a decision of the referee could make the difference.
"In the Premier League you have another chance and can be more relaxed, but this is completely different."
FA Cup final kick-off time: What time does Manchester City vs Watford start today?